La Conner is one of Skagit Valley’s most charming and walkable waterfront towns, a perfect complement to your tulip‑field adventures. It’s just a short drive from the festival gardens and fields.
This timeless harbor town offers scenic views, local art and regional flavors to round out your spring getaway.
Festival visitors love stopping in La Conner to explore its quaint downtown, enjoy waterfront dining and soak up small‑town vibes after a day among the blooms. It’s a great destination for couples, photographers and relaxed weekend tulip-season trips.
Make a visit part of your spring itinerary with our guide to six things to do in La Conner.
Purchase tulip garden tickets early to secure your spot among the blooms.
1. Stroll Along the Historic Waterfront Boardwalk
Start your La Conner experience with a walk along the Swinomish Channel waterfront. The walk is perfect for enjoying a morning coffee before heading to the tulip fields or snapping sunset photos to finish off your day.
Follow the path south to walk under the iconic Rainbow Bridge for the best view of passing boats.
Make your way through First Street’s welcoming mix of storefronts and remarkable traditional architecture. Boutiques, galleries and museums line the town’s storied streets, inviting you to pause and enjoy the view. Fortunately, downtown La Conner is easy to explore on foot.
Discover places to stay in Skagit County, from high-end hotels to outdoorsy RV parks.
2. Savor Fresh Seafood and Regional Craft Brews
Refuel after your garden visit at one of La Conner’s delicious dining spots. Enjoy fresh seafood on the channel-front deck at the La Conner Pub & Eatery. This family-friendly spot offers classic waterfront fare with a front-row seat to the harbor.
For handcrafted brews, stop by La Conner Brewing Company on Washington Street. Savor wood-fired pizza and small-batch beers by their cozy brick fireplace. These local favorites offer a true taste of La Conner for every traveler.
Whether you want a casual bite or a laid-back drink, these spots deliver.
Find places to eat and drink in Skagit Valley.
3. Discover Local Art and the Annual Tulip Parade
Explore La Conner’s creative spirit in its vibrant galleries and historical museums.
During spring, you can join us in La Conner for the Annual Tulip Festival Parade. Presented by Savi, powered by Harborstone Credit Union, this tradition flows right down First Street. From school marching bands to vintage cars, it captures the region’s community spirit.
La Conner is home to a variety of museums that celebrate art and its creative legacy:
- Museum of Northwest Art (MoNA). Browse contemporary masterpieces in the heart of the heritage district.
- Pacific Northwest Quilt & Fiber Arts Museum. View intricate textiles inside the historic Gaches Mansion.
- Skagit County Historical Museum. Step back in time at the “top of the hill” for local history and panoramic views.
Together, these venues make La Conner a premier culture stop during your Skagit Valley Tulip Festival journey.
Explore more Skagit County museums.
4. Experience Scenic Views and Channel-Side Walks
Take in the natural beauty of the Skagit Valley from the town’s scenic viewpoints. La Conner’s waterfront boardwalk offers perfect spots for photos, gentle strolls and birdwatching.
Enjoy views of the channel after immersing yourself in the tulip fields. The contrast between floral landscapes and water vistas is unforgettable.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, grab a local map at the La Conner Visitor’s Center. Explore the wooded trails at Pioneer Park to make the most of the spring weather.
Watching the local fishing fleet move through the harbor adds a wonderful natural dimension to your journey.
Don’t let cloudy PNW days deter you: See our guide to rainy-day Skagit County visits.
5. Shop for Unique Finds in Downtown Boutiques
Browse one-of-a-kind treasures in the boutiques and artisan shops along First Street. You’ll find plenty of locally curated gifts, home accents and handcrafted goods.
Many of these shops are inside beautifully preserved historic buildings and within walking distance of the waterfront. These unique finds echo the creative energy blooming across the entire Skagit Valley.
Browse the local shops to discover handcrafted jewelry and Northwest-inspired decor. This is a wonderful way to support the small businesses that make La Conner so memorable.
Pick up a special souvenir to remember your tulip season getaway. Whether you’re looking for fine art or a simple keepsake, the downtown district offers something for every visitor.
Find places to shop in Skagit Valley.
6. Plan a Romantic Date Night by the Water
Plan a romantic date night by the water to cap off your day among the tulips. La Conner provides an ideal setting for a relaxed evening with seasonal Pacific Northwest flavors.
Enjoy a cozy dinner at Nell Thorn Waterfront Bistro for local farm-to-table dishes and channel views. Visit the Skagit Crest Vineyard & Winery Tasting Room on First Street to sample local estate-grown wines.
Later, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the time-honored downtown or catch some late-night live music. Finish your evening with a decadent dessert and coffee before heading back to your local stay.
The combination of salt air and soft lighting makes the downtown district truly magical after dark. This is the perfect way to reflect on your favorite blooms from the festival gardens.
Whether you stay for the evening or the weekend, La Conner offers a timeless escape in the heart of the valley. Next, let’s look at resources that help you finalize your Skagit Valley Tulip Festival plans.
Plan Your Visit to La Conner: Embrace the Charm of Waterfront Living
Whether you visit for a quiet lunch or a weekend stay, La Conner offers a quintessential Skagit Valley experience.
This landmark harbor town serves as the perfect complement to your tulip-field adventures. It’s a place to relax, eat and connect with the community after you’ve wandered among the blooms.
Planning to attend the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival? Use our helpful resources before you pack your bag:
- View the event calendar, and find the date for our Annual Tulip Parade, art exhibits and more.
- Visit our FAQ for answers to all your tulip festival-related questions.
- Consult our interactive map and festival guide to get around Skagit Valley with ease.
- Check the official Bloom Status tracker to see the tulips’ current status.
- Browse our Plan Your Trip page for essential festival planning information.
Whether you visit La Conner, Burlington, Anacortes, Mount Vernon or another welcoming Skagit County town, we’re excited to see you!
Purchase Garden Tickets for the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival
Reserve your tulip garden tickets before you go, and enjoy fast access to the blooms.
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