While visiting La Conner, you will be surprised by the number of cool things to do in the small town with about a thousand people.
There are several museums, various art galleries, and several restaurants within walking distance.
That’s not all; there are also lots of B&Bs and inns in and around La Conner. One of these is a channel-side lodge, a wonderful place to stay while visiting the area.
In this article, you will learn about the various engaging things to do in La Conner, WA, whenever you’re in the town!
Where is La Conner, Washington?
La Conner is a town in Washington State’s Skagit County and part of the Mount Vernon-Anacortes Metropolitan Statistical Area. According to the census of 2020, there were 965 people in La Conner.
The town is known for hosting various events during the tulip season, such as the annual Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. The Hill, located in the city’s center, is also a historic district.
According to the US Census Bureau, La Conner has a total area of about 0.51 square miles.
The land area is around 0.41 square miles, while the water portion is approximately 0.10 square miles.
Fun Things to Do in La Conner, WA
La Conner, Washington, is home to several historical landmarks and fun activities. Below are some of the most amazing things to do in La Conner, Washington.
1. La Conner Rainbow Bridge
The Rainbow Bridge, which spans the Swinomish Channel in Massachusetts, is a bright red steel structure constructed in 1957. It spans La Conner and connects to the mainland.
It spans a total length of 240 meters and has a clearance of 23 meters. It’s considered to be the longest bridge in Washington.
It received an honorable mention from an organization focusing on the design and construction of steel structures (American Institute of Steel Construction).
Before it turned 50 years old, it was placed in the national register of historic places. The views from both sides of the bridge are impressive.
Address: The La Conner Rainbow Bridge is located at Rainbow Bridge, La Conner, WA 98257, United States.
2. Pacific Northwest Quilt and Fiber Arts Museum
The Museum is located inside the Gaches Mansion, which was constructed in 1891. This Victorian home has a total area of about 4,500 square meters.
The Museum’s interior features 11-foot-high ceilings ideal for displaying textiles and quilts. The collection of the Gaches Museum features items from the Pacific rim.
The Museum’s various exhibitions are usually open for several weeks. In addition, it hosts workshops and lectures. The Museum also holds an annual event for fiber arts and quilt lovers.
Address: The Pacific Northwest Quilt and Fiber Arts Museum is located at 703 South Second Street, La Conner, WA 98257, United States.
You may want to see the things to Do in Bainbridge Island (WA) if you plan on visiting other parts of Washington.
3. Hellam’s Vineyard
In 2004, Jeff Hellam traveled with his father to the Northwest to look for local wines for his new business venture.
He and his father then opened Hellam’s Vineyard in the Limedock Building, which overlooks the Swinomish Channel.
The establishment has become one of the state’s largest wine bars and stores. They sell their products in multiple states.
He also regularly tours wine-producing regions such as Spain and Croatia.
In addition, Hellam’s offers various activities such as wine tasting and music evenings at home. The establishment additionally sells beer from its 25-foot bar.
Address: The Hellam’s Vineyard is at 109 North 1st St. #101, La Conner, WA 98257, United States.
4. Skagit Cellars
Skagit Cellars started as a hobby and has since grown to include a shipping company that distributes wine across the country.
Gloria and Mark Hulst started their company by sourcing their grapes from sustainable farms.
Their wines are made from organic grapes harvested without artificial additives.
The winery’s tasting room is near the Swinomish Channel. Unfortunately, it’s open on weekends only.
The facility also has a second location in Manson, and the winery holds various events throughout the year, such as concerts and dinners.
Its wine club members receive a selection of four different types of wine twice a year.
Address: The Skagit Cellars is at 106 S 1st St La Conner, Washington, United States.
5. Pioneer Park
The Pioneer Park park is a short distance from the railway bridge. This area features various hiking trails and a bandstand that can be used for outdoor performances.
The railway bridge also has stairs that reach 75 feet above the ground.
The picnic area is covered and has drinking water. The trail across the Rainbow Bridge leads to a village and a tribal park. It also features murals.
The other side of the bridge leads to a different area.
Address: Pioneer Park is at 1200 S 4th St, La Conner, WA 98527, United States.
6. La Conner Seafood and Prime Rib
The establishment was founded in 1986 inside a building that used to be a gambling hall and a smuggling operation.
Its former general manager, who was also known as Kari Vanden Bosch, left the restaurant in 2002.
In 2008, the restaurant was purchased by a couple from Massachusetts. The couple’s goal was to establish a restaurant that would be sustainable.
They also promote local vendors and recycle whenever possible.
The restaurant can accommodate up to 500 people at its various external functions. It also has three different areas that can be used for other functions.
Address: The La Conner Seafood and Prime Rib is at 614 South First Street, La Conner, WA 98257, United States.
7. Hope Island
Located between La Conner and Whidbey Island, Hope Island State Park is a popular spot for people who want to spend time in nature. This park also features various hiking trails.
The park, officially called a marine park, has over 180 acres of land. It also has campsites and various other facilities for people.
In addition, one of the hiking trails that runs through the park cuts through the island.
People can access the island by boat or by canoeing from La Conner. Those who want to camp on the island can set up tents or a fire pit.
Those who want to spend their time relaxing can also build a fire.
Address: Hope Island is located at Hope Island Ln, Washington 98257, United States.
8. Museum of Northwest Art, La Conner
The Art Hupy Museum was founded in 1981 by commercial photographer Art Hupy.
It was initially housed in a building that used to be known as the Gaches mansion.
In 1995, it was relocated to a larger space and featured multiple exhibitions showcasing the works of Northwest Pacific artists.
Various art forms are featured in the Museum, such as paintings, ceramics, and quilts. It also hosts an annual auction and an artists’ award dinner.
It is usually open seven days a week and is free to enter. The Museum’s gift shop is additionally well-stocked.
Address: The Museum of Northwest Art, La Conner, is located at 121 First Street, La Conner, WA 98257, United States.
9. Nasty Jack’s Antiques
The store was initially established in 1972 by two individuals known as Diamond Jim Reynolds and Nasty Jack Wilkins.
Unfortunately, Jack passed away in 1994. His daughter and son-in-law took over the business.
The store has a space of about 12,000 square feet. It sells various novelty and American furniture, tin signs, and other memorabilia.
The store carries a wide selection of magazines from the Saturday Evening Post and LIFE archives. It’s also open seven days a week.
The magazine delivery service is additionally available in areas such as Tacoma and the Canadian border.
Address: The Nasty Jack’s Antiques is located at 103 East Morris St., La Conner, WA 98257, United States.
10. Skagit County Historical Museum
The Museum was established in 1968 to exhibit artifacts that relate to the history and culture of Washington’s Skagit County.
It has over 200,000 items on display, which include farm equipment, clothing, and dolls.
The Museum also has a reference library equipped with various tools and equipment for preserving heirloom items.
Various programs and workshops are also available on the Museum’s premises.
The store additionally sells books about regional and local history. It additionally offers guided tours and lessons.
Address: The Skagit County Historical Museum is located at 501 4th Street, La Conner, WA 98257-0818, United States.
11. Kukutali Preserve
Through a collaboration between the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community and Washington State Park, a 93-acre preserve known as the Kukutali Preserve was established.
It features hiking trails that go through the area. The trails are located on Kiket Island.
The preserve’s primary goal is to provide educational programs and conservation efforts.
Several fishes and other aquatic plants can be found in the area. There are also several endangered and threatened species that live in the preserve.
The Kukutali Preserve is also home to a delicate meadow ecosystem. It’s open from dawn to dusk.
Address: The Kukutali Preserve is located at Kiket Island Rd, La Conner, WA 98257, United States.
12. Skagit Crest Vineyard and Winery
In 2008, a couple of individuals named Chuck and Donna started a small wine business.
Ten years later, the couple expanded their operation by building a house and a winery.
The couple’s tasting room can be found in Gilkey Square. It overlooks the Swinomish Channel and is open to the public.
Their products are also sold through various local stores and restaurants.
The Wine Club, a subscription service, provides its members with a selection of four bottles of wine every three months.
The couple hosts various events such as barrel tasting and food pairing.
Address: The Skagit Crest Vineyard and Winery 105 North First St., Suite 1 La Conner, WA 98257, United States.
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13. The Oyster and Thistle Restaurant and Pub
The La Conner Inn is a traditional English inn located on a hill overlooking La Conner’s downtown area.
It was founded more than 20 years ago by Thomas and his wife, Danielle.
Their restaurant’s lunch, dinner, and pub menus feature various types of oysters.
Their restaurant’s lunch, dinner, and pub menus feature various types of oysters. Other food items include duck breast, seafood, and paella.
The establishment also has an extensive wine list. It’s additionally open on weekends.
Groups are additionally welcome to the restaurant. A visit to this restaurant is worth it. The seafood available in this restaurant is to die for.
Address: The Oyster and Thistle Restaurant and Pub are at 205 E. Washington St., La Conner, Washington 98257, United States.
14. La Conner Pub and Eatery
The Tavern is a family-friendly establishment that serves American food and views the Rainbow Bridge from its outdoor dining area.
It also features a variety of comfortable chairs and a large outdoor deck. In addition, the site is home to several animals, such as bald eagles and otters.
The establishment features pool tables, a jukebox, and various games for customers.
The business owner, Gene, and other regular patrons are honored in the establishment through plaques.
His two daughters and his granddaughter have taken over his role as the restaurant’s operators.
Address: The La Conner Pub and Eatery 702 S 1st St., 98257 La Conner, Washington, United States.
15. Tulip Town
Take a ride in the tractor-pulled wagon and explore the tulip fields. Then, stop by the gift shop and see the covered gardens.
The windmill at Tulip Town is a replica of the one made by the family in Holland. This is a fun thing to do in La Conner, Washington.
Address: The Tulip Town 15002 Bradshaw Rd, Mount Vernon, WA, United States.
16. Roozengaarde Display Garden
The gardens are three and a half acres and feature various flowers and vegetables.
The café and food are also available. The Blue Mountains and windmill provide a backdrop for photos.
Address: The Roozengaarde Display Garden is located at 15867 Beaver Marsh Rd, Mt Vernon, WA 98273, United States.
17. Schuh Farms
Schuh Farms is a family-owned farm that’s located in the Skagit Valley. It’s open from April to December and sells a variety of fruits and vegetables.
Address: The Schuh Farms is at 15401-15143 Memorial Hwy, Mt Vernon, WA 98273, United States.
18. Deception Pass Tours
A variety of tour packages are available in the area, including historical tours of Deception Pass.
These include whale watching tours, charter boats, and group rates.
You’ll also learn about the area’s attractions, such as the prison rock quarry and the bridge.
Address: The Deception Pass Tours is at 160 E. Cornet Bay Rd, Oak Harbor, WA 98277, United States.
19. Skagit River Guide Service
River guides offer tours and packages, such as group and small-group fishing trips.
They also provide overnight trips and sport fishing excursions. In addition, the boats are equipped with heaters and warm beverages.
Address: The Skagit River Guide Service is located at 52921 Rockport Park Rd, Rockport, WA, United States.
20. Bay View State Park
This state park has various picnic areas and beaches. It also features a coin-operated restroom facility and a large grass area for playing.
This is another exciting thing to do in La Conner, Washington.
Address: The Bay View State Park is at 10901 Bay View-Edison Rd, Mt Vernon, WA, United States.
21. Des Fountain Horse Training
The Des Fountain Horse Training facility is on 80 acres and features various features.
Some of these include an indoor arena, a large outdoor arena, and gated pastures. It also offers horse training sessions.
Address: The Des Fountain Horse Training is at 2326 N Happy Valley Rd, Oak Harbor, WA 98277, United States.