La Conner is a small, charming waterfront community located along the Swinomish Channel in southwest Skagit County on the western edge of Skagit County's mainland. La Conner is about one hour north of Seattle and 15 minutes southwest of Mount Vernon. The Swinomish Channel, a saltwater passage from Padilla to Skagit Bay, separates Fidalgo Island from the mainland. It is utilized by fishing boats, charters, pleasure boats and kayakers to access the nearby open waters.

 

In Spring, the daffodil, iris, and tulip blooms create a beautiful sea of color in the fertile farm fields near La Conner. Many tourists and photographers come to La Conner during the month of April for the annual Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. La Conner is a popular destination with its many unique shops, galleries and restaurants. The town offers a variety of accomodations for visitors to choose from. Other festivals for La Conner include the Smelt Derby, La Conner Arts Festival, the Classic Boats & Car Show and Art's Alive!

Three Skagit County museums are located in La Conner. The Museum of Northwest Art is located on 1st Street and features artwork of major Northwest artists and a variety of exhibits throughout the year. The La Conner Quilt Museum is located in the historic Gaches Mansion on 2nd Street. It is the only quilt museum of its kind in the Pacific Northwest and features new shows every 2-3 months. Located at the top of the hill, on 4th Street, is the Skagit County Historical Museum which features life-sized exhibits of the valley's past pioneer life. In addition to the exhibits, visitors can enjoy a great view of the valley below from the museum's deck.