Anacortes

I returned to Anacortes last summer, and couldn't believe how much it had changed in the last 10 years!  On an earlier visit, my husband and I had struggled to find a good restaurant in downtown. Everything seemed tired and depressed.

Fast forward to our latest visit, and wow! There were so many vibrant restaurants to choose from along bustling Commercial Avenue.

The historic Majestic Inn and Spa had also undergone a major extension with a stunning rooftop deck. To add to the fun atmosphere, there was a huge Saturday market that runs from April to October. This old fishing and lumber town was buzzing with people and energy!

Anacortes is at the top of Fidalgo Island, and has always been seen as a gateway and ferry port to the San Juan Islands.  However, after my last visit I think it's a destination worth visiting in its own right. The annual Waterfront Festival in June and Anacortes Arts Festival in August are also big drawcards for visitors.

Where is Anacortes?

It takes me about 1.5 hours to drive to Anacortes from Seattle. It's at the top of Fidalgo Island, and can be reached by a bridge across the Swinomish Channel.

Is there enough to do in Anacortes?

Between it's two free museums, a snagboat to tour, and stunning natural surroundings, Anacortes is packed with activities!

My favorite activities are driving up to Mt Erie for soaring views over the San Juan Islands. I also love driving the 2.2 mile coastal loop road around Washington Park, or taking in the Mt Baker views at Cap Santa Park. This is a beautiful area with large tracts of forest, and eight freshwater lakes. There's so much hiking and exploring to do. I also enjoy the short drive out to Deception Pass State Park.

10 best things to do in Anacortes

1. Historic Anacortes Downtown.

I'm so impressed by Anacortes's invigorated downtown area along Commercial Street. I spent hours exploring art galleries, bookshops and boutiques, and had my pick of restaurants and cafes

There's so much outdoor dining in summer.

I loved the fun atmosphere at Dad's Diner a Go-Go with comfort meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Highly recommend its cocktail menu. Check out the vintage photos and collectibles on the walls.

I really enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere at Union Tavern. The meatloaf burger was amazing, and I also explored their extensive hot dog menu.

My sweet tooth was sated at cute Sugar Mama Cafe. It's tucked away off the main street in a quirky, purple cottage. Indulge in delicious desserts like raspberry cream cake and four berry butter crumble. There's also ice-cream, coffee and wine, so all bases are covered!  The weekend brunch includes buttermilk pancakes and breakfast quesadillas.

2. Majestic Inn and Spa.

I'm so impressed by the renovation at this historic 1800s hotel along Commercial Street. They actually added a second building, and upgraded all the rooms. I enjoyed a cocktail at the elegant bistro and bar, then took myself up to the rooftop lounge with a firepit and amazing 360 degree views. Blankets are also available for cooler nights.

4. Anacortes History Museum.

I visited the free Anacortes History Museum housed in the elegant Carnegie Library Building. It's always great to get a sense of place when visiting a town, and read up on the local history. I could walk to here from downtown Anacortes (check hours).

5. Anacortes Maritime Heritage Center.

Anacortes once had a thriving fishing and boat building industry. I learnt all about this at the free Anacortes Maritime Heritage Center (check hours). 

6. W.T. Preston Snagboat.

The W.T. Preston Snagboat is next door to the Anacortes Maritime Heritage Center, so I visited both. It's pretty cool to step onboard an authentic steam powered sternwheeler. I learned that the snagboat was used to remove logs from local waterways, and was operated by the US Army Corp of Engineers (check hours & admission).  

7. Anacortes Farmers' Market.

I loved the atmosphere at the Anacortes Saturday Market, that runs April through October. It stretches for blocks with fresh produce and offerings from local artisans.

8. John Storvik Playground.

Families are always in search of a good playground, and the John Storvik Playground fits the bill. It's 1-mile from downtown Anacortes, and has climbing towers and a splashpad.

9. Washington Park loop drive.

The spectacular Washington Park 2.2 mile loop drive is a highlight of any visit to Anacortes. It's on a coastal headland just west of Anacortes, so very easy to get to. Along the way I took advantage of the many pull-outs with views of the San Juan Islands.  I could also walk or bike along this stretch. The sunsets along here are incredible!

I've also heard there's a 1.5 mile trail for hikers, known as the Fidalgo Head Loop Trail, but haven't tried this out yet.

10. Mt Erie viewpoint.

The best views in town are from Mt Erie.  At 1,273 feet, it's the highest spot on Fidalgo Island. I drove to the top of this mountain, then walked from the parking lot to some incredible viewpoints. I'd recommend finding the viewpoint next to the radio tower, with soaring views of Deception Pass and Whidbey Island.

11. Cap Santa Park viewpoint.

The Cap Santa Park is another great viewpoint park and a lot easier to get to. It's just a stonesthrow from downtown Anacortes, and has soaring views of Mt Baker, the Cascades and marina.

12. Deception Pass.

I also drove 20-minutes south of Anacortes to Deception Pass. This is Washington State's most popular park, and for good reason! It overlooks a dramatic straight between Whidbey and Fidalgo Islands. From here I can explore Whidbey Island.

13. Heart Lake & Whistle Lake.

Anacortes is fortunate to be close to some beautiful lakes, like Whistle Lake and Heart Lake. It's a 1-mile hike to Whistle Lake from a parking lot, a popular swimming hole in summer. I could also see the Heart Lake Road before turning off to Erie Mountain.

14. Whale Watching, Boat Charter or Kayaking Tour.

I can't wait to book a private boat charter or kayaking tour from Anacortes. Perhaps next trip!

15. Waterfront restaurant.

I've dined multiple times at Anthonys at Cap Sante Boat Haven, and highly recommend it.

Where do Anacortes ferries go?

Check the Anacortes Ferry Schedule for trips to Orcas Island, Friday Harbor and Sydney BC.