Skagit Valley Arts Community
To say that Skagit Valley is Instagram worthy is an understatement. From Puget Sound to the Cascade mountains, colorful tulip fields, to the Skagit River, stunning landscapes are all around. Nature isn’t the only beauty to be found in Skagit Valley. Fine art galleries, makers markets, museums, and street art abound in Skagit. The Valley is bursting with a vibrant art culture that is worth stopping for. Here are a few must-see places on your next trip to the magic Skagit Valley.
Photo of Benjamin Swatez’s mural taken by the Mount Vernon Downtown Association.
Downtown Mount Vernon
Walking through adorable Downtown Mount Vernon, you’ll find murals and river views, local shops and delicious eateries. A variety of stores along 1st street show the work of local makers and artists. A few of our favorites are: elSage Designs, Perry and Carlson, Lido Collective, and Tri Dee Arts. You’ll find something a little different at each place, there really is something for everyone on 1st Street.
Once a month (April - September) at Riverwalk Park in Downtown Mount Vernon, join in the fun at Valley Made Market. Each event hosts 30+ local makers and artists. From potters to painters, jewelers to clothing makers, each market is filled with the best handmade finds for all ages. The first event of 2023 will be Sunday, April 16th during the peak of Tulip Festival – come for the market and stay for the tulips!
La Conner
Skagit Valley is incredibly lucky to have the Museum of Northwest Art (MONA) in downtown La Conner. MONA is a free art museum nestled in the heart of Historic Downtown La Conner. Stop by to view one of their rotating exhibits – you won’t be disappointed. While you’re in La Conner, head to Handmade La Conner (the cutest shop) and catch the HMLC team creating skincare in their in-store kitchen right behind the sales floor.
K. Paul Carvings by Kevin Paul, Swinomish Coast Salish Master Carver, is just down the road and well worth your time! The La Conner Quilt Museum is a hit with fiber art enthusiasts. La Conner Brewery displays the work of artists on their walls and La Conner Electric creates works of art out of vintage lamps. It’s an eclectic and dynamic mix of art and craft in La Conner, WA.
Photo by Smith & Vallee.
Edison
The tiny town of Edison, WA leads the art scene in Skagit Valley. Nestled along a slough and the foothills of the Chuckanut mountains, this creative community includes two galleries: Smith and Vallee, and i.e. gallery. Visit on the first Friday of the month and you’ll catch gallery openings and artist talks. A few shops featuring the work of local makers shine bright – Hedgerow and The Lucky Dumpster. If you make Edison a stop on your art adventure, be sure to check hours before your visit, many businesses are only open Friday - Monday.
Photo by Anacortes Arts Festival.
Anacortes
Anacortes, WA is a stunning town and the jumping off point for many of the San Juan Islands. The art scene here is charming and well established. You’ll see murals throughout town on your way in and many galleries in downtown. Plan your trip for the first Friday of the month and catch an art walk. Not to miss places include: Scott Milo Gallery, Ink & Wool and Watermark Book Co. Have more time? Plan a trip to attend the weekend long Anacortes Arts Festival (a massive open air market happening one weekend every August).
Skagit Valley’s robust art scene is not to be overlooked. Find a dynamic offering of art and craft along with small town charm, and natural beauty.