Anacortes is a beautiful waterfront community on the western border of Skagit County. Located on Fidalgo Island, Anacortes is connected to the mainland and Whidbey Island by bridge. Anacortes is 18 miles west of Mount Vernon and about one hour drive from Bellingham to the north and Seattle to the south. The Washington State ferry terminal located in Anacortes provides regular service to the San Juan Islands and Vancouver Island, B.C. Anacortes also provides ferry service to Guemes Island from a much smaller ferry operated by Skagit County.

 

Anacortes has a population of 15,110. The community has over 12 miles of saltwater shoreline and is home to major oils refinery operations, boat building businesses and four marinas. Island Hospital is located in Anacortes and serves the local community as well as nearby island residents. Anacortes School District has an excellent reputation and serves approximately 3,000 students in the area.

 

Anacortes has an active arts community and hosts several annual festivals including the Anacortes Arts Festival, Anacortes Jazz Festival and the Anacortes Waterfront Festival. The city is home to the Anacortes Community Theatre, the Northwest Ballet Theatre and features live music on a regular basis at several downtown venues. The Depot Arts Center is located downtown and features a year-round art gallery. During the summer, the Anacortes Farmers Market is located nearby. Visitors to Anacortes will see many life-sized murals in downtown Anacortes. Anacortes resident Bill Mitchell has over 100 murals that he painted from historical photographs that are on display on buildings in the area.