Get to know some of the smaller cities and towns in Northwest Washington, from the artistic hamlet of La Conner to the waterfront community of Blaine near the Canadian border. Discover a more laid-back alternative to bustling cities as you immerse yourself in local history, culture, and cuisine.
Small Cities and Towns in Northwest Washington
Blaine
Located near the border with Canada, Blaine offers easy access to Peace Arch Historical State Park and the shores of Drayton Harbor and Semiahmoo Spit. Slurp fresh oysters at Drayton Harbor Oyster Co. or sip craft cocktails in the basement speakeasy of Gateway 1890 Taphouse & Grill. In nearby Birch Bay, enjoy brews with views of the water, stroll along the beach, or take part in crabbing and other seafood harvesting experiences.
Bow-Edison
Tucked off Chuckanut Drive among the pastures and fields of the Skagit Valley, these neighboring tiny hamlets have become a haven for foodies. Snag pastries from The Breadfarm, enjoy local brews and pizza at Terramar Brewstillery, sample local cheese, or dine on upscale farm-to-table fare at Cob + Cork. The area is also known for bird watching.
Burlington
Known as the hub for shopping in the Skagit Valley, Burlington also boasts a robust dining scene and easy access to outdoor recreation. Enjoy stellar restaurants, including a new speakeasy, or enjoy the annual Berry Dairy Days festival. Held each year in June, the festival celebrates the region’s agricultural roots each June with a parade, salmon barbecue, and plenty of strawberry shortcake.
Concrete
This tiny town on Highway 20 is packed with surprises. Take in the looming silos—an eye-catching monument to an industrial past—or visit the historic Concrete Theatre, which was built in 1923 and is the oldest movie theater in Skagit County and supposedly haunted. Concrete was also a filming location for the movie This Boy’s Life.
Coupeville
Situated on Whidbey Island, Coupeville boasts fantastic architecture and a quaint downtown overlooking Penn Cove. In fact, the charming town was the primary backdrop for the village scenes in 1998’s Practical Magic. Explore the Island County Historical Society Museum, antique shops, art galleries, or the Coupeville Arts Center. The area is also known for its mussels, which come fresh from Penn Cove and can be sampled at local restaurants.
Also See: 10+ Iconic Filming Locations in Washington
Eastsound
The main village on Orcas Island in the San Juans, Eastsound is a hub for art, culture, and a thriving culinary scene. Nestled in a picturesque bay, the towns boasts boutique shops, galleries, and cozy cafés. Foodies can enjoy farm-to-table dining, fresh seafood, and seasonal farmers markets, while history buffs can explore the Orcas Island Historical Museum. Nearby hiking trails, watersports, and wildlife spotting opportunities also abound.
Ferndale
North of Bellingham, Ferndale offers a mix of small-town and outdoor recreation. Step back in time at Pioneer Park or explore Hovander Homestead Park, where trails wind through farmland and gardens. Nearby Tennant Lake Wildlife Area offers peaceful birdwatching opportunities, while downtown Ferndale boasts shops, cafés, and lively breweries.
Friday Harbor
The vibrant hub of San Juan Island and the entry point for visitors arriving by ferry, Friday Harbor charms with its walkable streets lined with shops, galleries, and eateries. Visitors can indulge in fresh oysters, sip locally roasted coffee and beer, or dive into history at The Whale Museum and San Juan Islands Museum of Art. The town also serves as the base for excursions like whale-watching tours, kayaking adventures, and more. Friday Harbor provides both a welcoming base and a quintessential island experience.
La Conner
Long a haven for artists, La Conner is home to multiple art galleries, two museums, and the annual festivals. Wildlife can be spotted throughout the year, from seals to wintering trumpeter swans. Each March, visitors flock to area for the La Conner Daffodil Festival, which features events and exhibits in addition to blooms.
Langley
Perched on a bluff on the south end of Whidbey Island, this is a quintessential seashore destination. Cedar-shingled shops mingle with art galleries showcasing local works and wares. Enjoy world-class dining at restaurants like Prima Bistro or sample wines at one of the nearby tasting rooms.
Lopez Village
The commercial hub of laid-back Lopez Island in the San Juan Islands, Lopez Village offers visitors a grocery store, bakery, and a variety of shops and galleries. The island’s flat landscape is great for cyclists who want to explore on two wheels.
Lynden
Nestled in farmland north of Bellingham near the Canadian border, Lynden charms visitors with its Dutch heritage and picturesque downtown lined with boutiques. Enjoy year-round agricultural experiences, from U-pick fruit to local festivals.
Roche Harbor
The tiny village of Roche Harbor on San Juan Island invites visitors to slow down. Wander the beautiful grounds of the Roche Harbor Resort or explore the nearby hiking trails, outdoor sculpture park, or disc golf course. Waterfront restaurants pair great food with prime views of the 377-slip marina and glistening waters.
Sedro-Woolley
Billed as the Gateway to the North Cascades, Sedro-Woolley’s compact and charming downtown gives way to farmland and easy access to nature, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives. North Cascades National Park sits to the east, and the surrounding Skagit Valley beckons visitors to explore farms and agricultural experiences.