Sedro-Woolley offers a quieter, more relaxed alternative for Skagit Valley Tulip Festival visitors who want to explore beyond the region’s busiest towns.
Located about 20 minutes from the tulip fields, it’s an easy addition to your itinerary, whether you’re visiting the tulip gardens or staying nearby.
Rich in history and bathed in natural beauty, Sedro-Woolley blends small-town charm with outdoor adventure. Known as the Gateway to the North Cascades, the town features museums, heritage sites and architecture that reflect its early logging and railroad roots. The town also boasts scenic routes that lead east toward forested foothills and mountain views.
Thinking about visiting this quaint destination? Let’s explore things to do in Sedro-Woolley during the tulip festival.
Book your garden tickets in advance to secure your spot among the blooms.
Tour Historic Downtown Sedro-Woolley
Historic downtown Sedro-Woolley reflects the town’s deep ties to the timber and railroad industries, with preserved buildings and landmarks that highlight its past. A stroll through the downtown core reveals classic storefronts, welcoming wood benches and a community-focused atmosphere that feels entirely unhurried.
Here are a few outstanding activities to try:
- Spot the wood carvings. As the Chainsaw Carving Capital of Washington, Sedro-Woolley features life-sized, entirely hand-carved cedar statues throughout downtown.
- Discover renowned murals. Pick up a walking tour map at the Sedro-Woolley Chamber of Commerce on Metcalf Street to find hidden murals and rustic visuals.
- Browse the Sedro-Woolley Museum. Step back in time to see restored vintage logging trucks and miniature exhibits that showcase the region’s 19th-century frontier roots.
Throughout the year, downtown hosts local events, seasonal celebrations and community gatherings that showcase the town’s character.
Explore the events calendar to find countywide celebrations during the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival.
Eat and Drink Like a Local in Sedro-Woolley
Sedro-Woolley’s food scene is casual, comforting and proudly focused on Pacific Northwest flavors. Whether you’re grabbing a quick coffee or settling in for a relaxed meal, you’ll find plenty of dining options to refuel between festival activities.
Here’s how to eat and drink like you live around the block:
- Dine at Double Barrel BBQ. Experience authentic Southern-style pit BBQ slow-smoked over oak and fruit woods, served in a hearty, laid-back atmosphere.
- Visit Willowbrook Manor. Make reservations for “Tea and Tulips” to enjoy homemade scones and tea served in a storybook English teahouse setting.
Cap your Sedro-Woolley visit with a meal or tea at one of these local favorites. You’ll leave feeling as invigorated as you are inspired by tulip season.
Find places to eat and drink in Skagit Valley.
Experience Arts, Culture and Community Events
Arts and culture thrive in Sedro-Woolley through historic landmarks and lively community gatherings that celebrate the town’s personality. While the region has a long lumber tradition, its cultural offerings include events and modern architectural sites with refreshing perspectives alongside the tulip fields.
Here are a few things to do to embrace that Pacific Northwest cultural spirit:
- Explore the Sedro-Woolley Library. Visit this state-of-the-art facility to admire modern Northwest architecture and rotating local art exhibits in a welcoming community space.
- Examine the 1922 steam snubber. View this 97,000-pound industrial artifact that hauled massive locomotives up steep logging grades (inside the museum).
Community events and cultural offerings add depth to the town’s small size. It’s a rewarding stop when you’re looking for something a little different.
Explore more art galleries, exhibits and attractions in Skagit County.
Hike the Ghost Town Trails and Scenic Routes
Sedro-Woolley is famously the Gateway to the North Cascades, offering immediate access to wild river landscapes. From town, scenic drives head east into the forested foothills, offering a refreshing contrast to the flat farmlands of the tulip fields.
Embark on these adventures to immerse yourself in nature:
- Explore Northern State Ghost Town. Walk the easy 5-mile loop trail through the Northern State Recreation Area to see traditional, abandoned dairy barns and buildings.
- Follow the Cascade Loop. Drive east on State Route 20 to witness the dramatic transition from valley farmlands to the Cascades’ rugged peaks.
- Relax at Riverfront Park. Stroll along the banks of the Skagit River to enjoy panoramic views of the distant mountains (keep an eye out for bald eagles).
Whether you’re planning a short drive, a photo stop or a longer day of exploration, the scenery adds another layer to your Skagit Valley experience.
Discover lodging, from high-end hotels to cozy RV parks, in Skagit Valley.
Find Unique Gifts at Local Artisan Shops
Shopping in Sedro-Woolley is personal and community-driven, featuring small businesses that reflect local pride and craftsmanship. You can find everything from high-quality pet supplies to handmade local art as you wander through the classic storefronts.
Here are two local shops you’ll certainly want to browse:
- Support Pet Wants Skagit. Visit the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival’s preferred dog food provider for fresh nutrition for your four-legged traveling companions.
- Check out The Local Shop. Discover a thoughtfully curated collection of Washington State goods, gifts and home decor in a friendly atmosphere. Don’t forget to grab a cup at its adorable coffee counter.
Round out your Sedro-Woolley visit by pairing these stops with a slow stroll through downtown. Many shops are locally owned and family-run, so every purchase supports the community that helps make tulip season unforgettable.
Discover more places to shop in Skagit Valley.
Plan Your Visit to Sedro-Woolley This Tulip Season
Sedro-Woolley is a perfect complement to your Skagit Valley Tulip Festival itinerary, offering history, scenery and small-town charm just beyond the fields. Whether you’re visiting for a few hours or making it part of a longer stay, it’s a destination that rewards curious travelers.
These resources help you maximize your Skagit Valley visit, from getting here to settling in:
- Use the Plan Your Trip page for all things Skagit, from events to lodging to dining.
- Monitor the Bloom Status tracker to catch tulips at peak color.
- Consult the tulip festival FAQ for answers to your most important questions.
- Check the events calendar to find countywide celebrations during the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival.
- View our interactive map and guide to plot your course to Sedro-Woolley and the festival gardens.
We’re thrilled to see you at the festival, whether you stop by Sedro-Woolley, Mount Vernon or another inviting Skagit Valley town!
Get travel tips to reach the valley with ease, and learn essential things to pack for the festival.
Purchase Garden Tickets for the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival
Buy tickets individually to one or more of our four tulip gardens.
Booking early helps you avoid lines and get straight to the floral spectacle. We also recommend booking accommodations beforehand to land your dream stay.
Want more festival details? Sign up for our newsletter to receive festival guides, local highlights and insider tips throughout tulip season.
