The Anacortes center point is about the area of Downtown Anacortes and 2 miles east of Anacortes Airport.
Anacortes offers a delightful experience year-round, but the best time to visit depends on personal preferences and desired activities. Spring is perfect for hiking and exploring the scenic trails of Washington Park or Mount Erie. Summer is the most popular time to visit. Temperatures are pleasantly warm, averaging between 55 °F and 75 °F. This is ideal for outdoor adventures like whale watching tours, kayaking around the San Juan Islands, or attending lively events such as the Anacortes Waterfront Festival in June, which celebrates maritime culture with boat displays, live music, and family activities. The Anacortes Arts Festival in August also showcases local artists and crafts. Fall is marked by colorful foliage and cooler temperatures, ranging from 45 °F to 65 °F. The famous Oyster Run, a motorcycle rally held in September, draws enthusiasts from all over. Winter is relatively mild, with occasional rain, providing a cozy atmosphere for visiting the Anacortes Community Theatre or enjoying the Coastal Christmas Tree Lighting in December. Each season in Anacortes offers its unique activities, ensuring that visitors can find something enjoyable no matter when they choose to come.
Travelers heading to Anacortes, WA can make the most of their stay by taking advantage of special offers available through HotelPlanner. Solo adventurers can find exclusive promotions like last-minute deals and seasonal discounts, providing excellent savings on accommodations. Additionally, HotelPlanner offers attractive group discounts, perfect for family gatherings, weddings, or business retreats, allowing larger parties to enjoy reduced rates on block bookings. These group deals often include added perks, making them a smart choice for those traveling with friends or colleagues. Whether planning a short escape or a more extended visit, these lodging deals make Anacortes an affordable and unforgettable destination year-round. Enjoy the best of this area while maximizing the value of every stay.
For those interested in maritime history, the Anacortes Maritime Heritage Center provides fascinating insights into the area's nautical past. The city's charming downtown district is dotted with boutique shops, galleries, and restaurants offering fresh seafood and local flavors. Anacortes' proximity to the San Juan Islands makes it an ideal starting point for a ferry adventure or a whale-watching tour, where orcas and other marine life can be spotted. The nearby waters are home to various aquatic species, including three resident Orca pods. The Anacortes Community Forest Lands encompasses 2,800 acres with 50 miles of mountain biking and hiking trails. Nearby, Mount Erie Park is a favorite among rock climbers, while the 1273-foot peak of Mount Erie delivers stunning vistas. For cycling enthusiasts, Anacortes marks the western terminus of the Adventure Cycling Association's Northern Tier cross-country bicycle route. This route stretches all the way to Bar Harbor, Maine, making it a significant starting point for those embarking on this long-distance cycling adventure. Whether seeking outdoor thrills, cultural events, or a peaceful retreat, Anacortes promises a perfect blend of activities and relaxation. Its welcoming community and stunning landscapes make it a destination worth visiting, providing unforgettable memories for all exploring its shores.
Below are reviews of the city of Anacortes, WA from an actual visitor's perspective.
Downtown and able to take the ferry from Anacortes our main goal
We have family in Anacortes employed with the fire department and the hotel was recommended by them.
I was visiting Salish Boat Co looking to buy a new boat. Shawn the owner was awesome. He answered all of my questions and was very patient. No sales tactics whatsoever. Even suggested cheaper options that I hadn't thought about. Wow, trying to save me money not make money. I would highly recommend this place.
Anacortes was a neat town, clean, with lots of shops to browse in the downtown area. The first night of our trip on the way to the San Juans we stayed at a different hotel close to the ferry. It was our 40th Anniversary and we had dinner at Anthonys at Cap Sante Marina. Great food and ambience with all the beautiful boats. Also had gret lunch at Gere -a-Deli. Place was busy with locals and fun. Great service and awesome sandwiches, which are very large so order accordingly. Fun town!
Anacortes seems like a nice town. I was here for a quick work trip.
Anacortes is a fun town!
Deception Pass was absolutely amazing!
The casino is fun. Lots of great restaurants in Anacortes. The ferry is great to explore the other islands.
The room was comfortable and clean. Anacortes is an interesting seaside town with a wonderful walking and biking trail that crosses Fidalgo Bay on a jetty, a good library, good restaurants, and a lovely city-run public campground with trails and views of the islands.
All the views, and all the water
All the views and all the water!
All the views and all the water!
Great restaurants and charming town!
Warm and friendly people.
There's so much to see and do in Anacortes. Food was great. Overall good time.
There's so much to see and do in Anacortes. Food was great. Overall good time.
Love Anacortes. The shops, waterfront and restaurants are well worth exploring.
This was a one night stop over to get on the ferry to the San Juan Islands.
Anacortes is a nice little town. The harbor is quite large, with restaurants. Pleasant time.
Was in Anacortes for annual car show. I love the small town feel.
Clean hotel, walkable to stores and restaurants.
Ate at Anthony's seafood-5 stars. Drove through some beautiful neighborhoods-sweet places!
City is beautiful, as was the hotel!
Great atmosphere!
We had dinner at Adrift in town and loved it!