Skagit County, just a short distance from Whatcom County, offers a year-round blend of nature, art, and local charm.
Skagit County, just a short distance from Whatcom County, offers a year-round blend of nature, art, and local charm. Whether you’re a bird enthusiast, art lover, or foodie, this region has something special to offer. Here’s a guide to spending a day exploring the best of what Skagit County has to offer during your stay at Hotel Bellwether.
Kick off your adventure from Hotel Bellwether with a scenic drive down Chuckanut Drive, the only place where the Cascade Mountains meet the sea. This 24-mile stretch offers breathtaking views of the San Juan Islands and Chuckanut Bay.
Directions from Hotel Bellwether to Chuckanut Drive
Along the way, stop at Taylor Shellfish Farm for the freshest Pacific Northwest shellfish paired with a selection of wines, beers, and cocktails. If you’re in the mood for a hike, the nearby Teddy Bear Cove provides a trail with stunning shoreline views and tidepools to explore.
La Conner is a charming town known for its vibrant arts community and coastal vibes. A must-visit is the Museum of Northwest Art (MoNA), which showcases contemporary art from across the Pacific Northwest. For unique gifts, stop by Handmade La Conner, a shop offering home and body care products made with clean ingredients and sustainable packaging. When hunger strikes, head to Nell Thorn for farm-to-table cuisine with a waterfront view. This local favorite offers a fresh daily menu, craft cocktails, and fine wines.
A short drive from La Conner brings you to Bow-Edison, a quaint area at the foothills of Blanchard Mountain. Here, the Padilla Bay Interpretive Center offers educational displays on local ecology and the importance of the area’s intertidal mudflats. For art lovers, the Smith & Vallee Gallery features a range of artworks from Northwest Masters to emerging talent. If you’re visiting on a weekend, stop by Tweets Cafe for a farm-fresh meal or the Skagit Farmers Market on Saturdays to experience local agriculture, arts, and crafts.
No trip to Skagit County is complete without a visit to Fir Island, especially if you enjoy birdwatching. This area is home to over 180 bird species throughout the year, including snow geese, trumpeter swans, and bald eagles. The nearby Padilla Bay and Skagit Flats are also top birdwatching destinations, with thousands of species migrating through at different times of the year. Make sure to bring sturdy shoes, as the trails can get muddy!
Wrap up your day with a visit to Breadfarm, an artisan bakery in Bow-Edison known for its naturally leavened breads and rustic pastries. Every item is handcrafted from scratch, making it the perfect spot to pick up a treat before heading back to Hotel Bellwether for a relaxing evening.
Skagit County offers a rich mix of scenic beauty, local culture, and outdoor activities that make it a perfect destination for a day trip. Whether you’re exploring the coastline on Chuckanut Drive, indulging in local flavors in Bow-Edison, or immersing yourself in the arts in La Conner, Skagit County provides an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. For more adventures in Skagit County, download the full guide by filling out the form below.