Things To Do
in Anacortes
Anacortes is a picturesque coastal town located in the state of Washington, United States. It is known for its stunning views of the Puget Sound and the surrounding islands. The town has a rich maritime history and is a popular destination for boating and fishing enthusiasts.
Anacortes also offers a charming downtown area with unique shops, cafes, and art galleries for visitors to explore.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $60 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the scenic Mount Erie Park. Enjoy a hike that offers stunning views of the surrounding islands and waterways.
Head to the Anacortes Museum to learn about the local history and culture. Afterward, stroll through the charming downtown area for some shopping and lunch.
End your day with a waterfront dinner at one of the local seafood restaurants. Enjoy the sunset view over the ocean while savoring fresh catch.
Take a ferry from Anacortes to San Juan Island. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Salish Sea during the crossing.
Explore the charming town of Friday Harbor, visiting local shops and galleries. Don’t forget to visit the Whale Museum for an insightful experience.
Grab dinner at a local eatery before boarding the ferry back to Anacortes. Reflect on your day while watching the sun dip below the horizon.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including beaches and views of the San Juan Islands.
- Access to outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and fishing.
- A close-knit community with a friendly atmosphere.
- Rich history and cultural heritage with local events and festivals.
- Proximity to major cities like Seattle and Vancouver for additional amenities.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Higher cost of living compared to some other rural areas.
- Inclement weather during the winter months, including rain and cloudiness.
- Potential overcrowding during tourist season due to its appeal.
- Limited public transportation options for those without a car.
Best Activities in Anacortes
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning waters and beautiful landscapes of the San Juan Islands by kayaking. Rentals and guided tours are available for all skill levels.
Enjoy scenic hiking trails with breathtaking views of the bridges and surrounding waters. The park offers various trails suitable for all hikers.
Take advantage of the extensive network of mountain biking trails in the Anacortes Community Forest Lands, which offer different levels of difficulty and picturesque nature.
Join a boat tour to witness orcas, humpback whales, and other marine wildlife in their natural habitat. Tours typically depart from Anacortes and take you through the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
Try your hand at fishing in the local waters. Skyline Marina provides access to various fishing spots where you can catch salmon, halibut, and more.
Drive or hike to viewpoints around Fidalgo Island for stunning panoramas of the Puget Sound and Mount Baker. Popular spots include Mount Erie and Washington Park.
Experience the great outdoors by camping at one of Anacortes' city parks, which offer various amenities and beautiful scenery.
Tours
Uncover the best of Anacortes with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Anacortes
Visit one of these nice places.
Cap Sante Park offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding islands, the San Juan archipelago, and the Cascade Mountains. It's a perfect spot for photography and enjoying the natural beauty of Anacortes.
Washington Park is known for its scenic coastal views, wooded trails, and picturesque beaches. Visitors can capture beautiful sunset views and take memorable photos of the rugged coastline.
Deception Pass State Park features breathtaking views of the iconic Deception Pass Bridge, rugged cliffs, and the turbulent waters of Deception Pass. It's a popular spot for photographers and sightseers.
Food in Anacortes
Anacortes Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Anacortes is renowned for its fresh Pacific Northwest oysters, with the renowned Taylor Shellfish Farms offering a delightful selection. Visitors can savor oysters on the half shell, grilled, or prepared in traditional seafood dishes like oyster stew.
Must-Try!
Wild-caught salmon is a local favorite and can be enjoyed in various preparations at restaurants and seafood markets throughout Anacortes. Look for dishes featuring smoked, grilled, or pan-seared salmon for a true taste of the region.
Dungeness crab, a prized delicacy of the Pacific Northwest, is abundantly available in Anacortes. Visitors can indulge in freshly steamed crab, creamy crab bisque, or crab cakes at local seafood eateries.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Anacortes better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Anacortes Farmers Market is a vibrant hub of local flavors, featuring an array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and prepared foods. Visitors can sample everything from gourmet tamales to handcrafted chocolates while enjoying the lively market atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Anacortes is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes. Residents and visitors alike value protecting the environment, so it's important to respect nature by following local guidelines, such as using marked trails and properly disposing of waste.
Participating in local events and supporting small businesses is encouraged. Engaging politely with residents and showing interest in the community fosters goodwill and respect.
In Anacortes, like much of the Pacific Northwest, there's an emphasis on polite and friendly interactions. Using 'please' and 'thank you' goes a long way, and being open to conversations can create a warm atmosphere.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Anacortes with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Anacortes
Ensure a smooth experience
In Anacortes, as in many parts of the United States, tipping is a common practice in the service industry. It is customary to tip service workers such as waitstaff, bartenders, and taxi drivers 15-20% of the total bill. Tipping is seen as a way to express gratitude for good service. In some cases, tips may be included in the bill for larger parties, especially in restaurants.
Payment practices in Anacortes typically involve various options. Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, and cash remains a common form of payment. Mobile payment solutions, like Apple Pay and Google Pay, are increasingly popular as well. Restaurants and retail stores may also offer gift cards as a payment option.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Anacortes.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Anacortes as the weather starts to warm up and the flowers begin to bloom. The town comes alive with various outdoor events and activities, and you can enjoy the beautiful scenery around the area.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Anacortes, with warm and pleasant weather. It's the perfect time for outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and visiting the nearby islands. The town hosts various festivals and events during this time.
Fall in Anacortes brings cooler temperatures and beautiful autumn foliage. It's a great time for outdoor activities such as hiking and biking, and you can also enjoy the local harvest festivals and farmers' markets.
Winter in Anacortes can be chilly and wet, but it's a quiet and peaceful time to visit. You can still enjoy outdoor activities like birdwatching and beachcombing, and the town is decorated with festive lights during the holiday season.
Anacortes at Night
Hiking in Anacortes
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination offering stunning views of the San Juan Islands and the surrounding area. The park features multiple trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes.
Known for its dramatic views of the Deception Pass Bridge and surrounding waters, this state park offers a variety of hiking trails through forests and along the coastline.
Located on a peninsula, this park provides scenic views of the water and mountains, with several trails that wind through forests and along the shoreline.
A picturesque trail that encircles Cranberry Lake, offering a peaceful setting amidst an old-growth forest, suitable for hiking and birdwatching.
Accessible via the Deception Pass Bridge, Whidbey Island features numerous hiking trails with varying difficulty levels, along with beautiful coastal scenery.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Anacortes through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Anacortes by plane.
The primary international airport serving the Seattle metropolitan area, located approximately 80 miles south of Anacortes.
Located in Spokane, approximately 280 miles east of Anacortes, it serves as a major gateway for the eastern part of Washington.
Situated in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, about 130 miles north of Anacortes, it is one of the busiest airports in Canada.
Located in Portland, Oregon, around 205 miles south of Anacortes, serving as a major international gateway for the Pacific Northwest.
Located about 35 miles south of Anacortes, it is smaller than the others but offers some international flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Anacortes, comprising a significant percentage of the population.
A growing demographic group that includes individuals of various backgrounds characterized by Hispanic or Latino heritage.
Includes individuals identified as Asian, representing a smaller portion of the community.
A minority group that contributes to the cultural diversity of Anacortes.
Individuals identifying with two or more racial backgrounds, reflecting a trend towards multiracial identities.
A minority group representing indigenous peoples of the area.
A very small demographic group in Anacortes that includes individuals from Pacific Island cultures.
The Soul of Anacortes
Discover the essence of Anacortes through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is a popular sport in Anacortes, with various youth leagues and recreational teams promoting participation at all skill levels.
Basketball is widely played in Anacortes, with school teams and community leagues fostering competitive and recreational play.
Baseball has a strong presence in Anacortes, featuring youth leagues and local teams that engage the community in summer sports.
Running is a popular activity in Anacortes, with residents participating in various local races and utilizing scenic trails for training.
Given its coastal location, kayaking is a favored sport in Anacortes, attracting both locals and tourists to explore the surrounding waters.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Anacortes.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Anacortes caters to vegetarians and vegans with several eateries offering plant-based dishes, including flavorful salads, veggie wraps, and innovative vegan entrees. Restaurants like A'Town Bistro and Maryanne's Kitchen provide enticing options for plant-based diets.
Those seeking gluten-free dining in Anacortes will find accommodating menus at various establishments. From gluten-free pizza at Village Pizza to seafood-centric gluten-free dishes at 5th Street Bistro, visitors with gluten restrictions have appealing dining choices.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Anacortes with these cultural adventures.
