We're going to be staying one night at the Anaco Inn in Anacortes, WA and doing a whale watch tour with Island Adventures in a few weeks. Has anyone stayed at Anaco Inn or have recommendations on things to do, restaurants, etc. while we are in Anacortes?

Thank you!

The picturesque town of La Conner is not far away, and it is worth a visit. It offers many interesting shops and restaurants. We like the La Conner Brewing Company for reasonably priced, well prepared food.

We went to a wonderful restaurant in
Anacortes...can't remember the name, but it's directly across from the Post Office. (It's a very small town with only one post office, so it shouldn't be too hard to find.) They also sell books there.

There is also a very good chocolate shop where they make their own in Anacortes, but I can't remember the name. I'm sure someone can direct you, though. I agree with the recommendation to visit LaConner.

Don't just visit La Conner, stay in La Conner. The Channel Lodge or most any La Conner accommodation will be better than you'll find in Anacortes. Also, visit Deception Pass State Park and bridge while you're in the area.

Don't let anyone stop you from staying there. Anacortes is a great place for an overnight stay and you will enjoy the whale watching trip for sure! We like the Rockfish Grill for dinner(live music some weekends), Gere-a-deli is great for lunch, and Calico Cupboard for a big breakfast. All of these are located in the "downtown" area. Just head toward the water on Commercial (the main street that runs through town). Have someone at one of these restaurants point you in the direction of Cap Sante which is a great look-out spot overlooking town, the refinery, and the islands. This is a good spot to walk off some of that food you ate.

I forgot to mention that Washington Park is also a great place to visit. You can drive "the loop" through the park and stop and walk around in places. It's very beautiful! To find it follow the signs to the ferry and go straight past the turn-off for it. The park is located at the end of the road.

Thanks everyone for the wonderful information. We can't wait!

We stayed at Anaco Bay Inn in 2001, and it was fine. Very clean, large room. Able to soak in the hot tub with a view of the mountains. Since we had just flown in that day from the east, we grabbed a fast food dinner about 4 pm, but remember seeing several promising looking places.