Shop ‘Til You Drop in Skagit Valley
Forget the mega-malls and online giants. For a truly unique and fulfilling shopping experience, escape to the Skagit Valley.
A little more than an hour north of Seattle find this verdant corner of Washington state, famed for its tulip fields, offering a surprising wealth of retail therapy, from charming boutiques and antique havens to bustling farmers markets and quirky vintage shops.
Escape to small towns connected by tulip fields and fertile farmlands. Whether you’re seeking handcrafted treasures, locally grown produce, or simply the thrill of the hunt, a shopping weekend in Skagit Valley promises a delightful distraction from the ordinary.
Imagine strolling through historic downtowns, unearthing a rare antique in a dusty shop, or discovering the perfect piece of art to adorn your home. Browse colorful farmers markets, where farmers proudly display their bounty and local artisans showcase their talents. In Skagit Valley, shopping is not just a transaction, it’s a home-grown experience.
This isn’t your typical shopping spree. It’s a chance to connect with the community, support local businesses, and discover the unique character of each town. From the maritime charm of Anacortes to the agricultural heartland of Mount Vernon, each corner of the valley offers its own distinct flavor.
Whether you’re a seasoned shopper or a casual browser, you’re sure to find something to pique your interest. So, pack your bags, grab your shopping list, and head to Skagit Valley. Here are a few of the best ways to shop while experiencing the magic Skagit.
Farmers Markets are a Taste of the Valley
No trip to Skagit Valley is complete without a visit to one of its many farmers markets. These vibrant hubs of community life offer a cornucopia of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local flavor. As the weather warms up, delight in sampling juicy berries, crisp apples, and vegetables straight from area farms. Did you know Skagit County grows over 80 crops?
The Mount Vernon Farmers Market, held in the heart of downtown along the riverside, is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike on a given Saturday. Browse the stalls overflowing with seasonal produce, sample delicious treats from local food trucks, and enjoy live music while you shop.
The Skagit Valley Food Co-op in Mount Vernon also offers a wide selection of local and organic products, perfect for stocking up your pantry or as a souvenir of your visit.
Additionally, discover notable markets in Anacortes, Burlington, and Sedro Woolley featuring handcrafted cheeses from vendors like Samish Bay Cheese Co., freshly baked bread from the Breadfarm, and delectable jams to pair with both.
Chat with the farmers themselves, learn about their sustainable practices, and leave feeling a little more connected to this bountiful region.
Street Fairs and Festivals
Throughout the year, Skagit Valley comes alive with a variety of street fairs and festivals, offering even more opportunities to shop and explore!
The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, held each April, is a spectacle of color, like the tulips themselves, and a celebration of the valley’s agricultural heritage. In addition to the stunning flower fields, the festival features a variety of craft markets and vendor booths, where you can find unique, handcrafted treasures.
At the Anacortes Arts Festival, find a juried art show showcasing the work of talented artists from across the region. Enjoy live music in Seafarers Park with stunning views of the harbor.
These events offer a chance to experience the vibrant culture of Skagit Valley and discover the talents of its local artisans.
Antique Adventures
For those who love the thrill of the hunt, Skagit Valley is a treasure trove of antique shops and vintage finds. Explore the charming towns of Conway and Edison, where you’ll find a plethora of antique stores brimming with cool trinkets. Start with the Lucky Dumpster, and browse through over-stuffed shelves filled with vintage items, retro clothing, one-of-a-kind collectibles, and unique souvenirs.
Like Predecessors in Anacortes, Alley Cat Antiques is a must-visit for any serious collector. Both of these shops specialize in a vast selection of antiques and collectibles from estate sales and local homes.
Whether you’re searching for a specific piece or simply enjoy the thrill of discovery, you’re sure to find something to pique your interest in Skagit Valley’s antique havens.
Sustainable Style Shopping
For those who are more sustainably minded and love a good find, Skagit Valley offers a variety of thrift stores and vintage shops. Discover groovy clothes, fashionable furniture, and homey household items that are gently used, one-of-a-kind, and repurposed. Explore the racks for retro finds at Chilly Rain Retro in Anacortes, browse the shelves at Valley Vintage in Sedro Woolley, or give new life to pre-loved items at Again Thrift in Mount Vernon.
Thrift stores not only offer a sustainable way to shop, but boutiques like the Thrifty Kitty in Anacortes also support local charities and organizations. Embrace the thrill of thrift store shopping throughout Skagit Valley.
A Shopper’s Guide by Town
Here is a quick guide to each town and where to begin your shopping spree!
Anacortes may be known as the gateway to the San Juan’s but it holds its own when it comes to shopping. Stroll along Commercial Avenue, the heart of downtown, or wander up a side street to find eclectic shops, art galleries, clothing boutiques, souvenir stores, and bookshops. Pop into Watermark Books for a whimsical read with a local flavor or if you are in need of a respite, cozy up with a warm beverage at Pelican Bay Books and Coffee House.
Mount Vernon serves as the commercial hub of Skagit Valley, offering a very diverse shopping experience. Explore this historic downtown along First Street, where you’ll find Jeka Plants to help you with your indoor fauna needs, and Skagit Running Company, where you will receive personal attention in fitting the perfect shoe to your feet. You don’t find that in a mall.
And to nourish your shopping spree stop in at the Skagit Valley Food Co-op for a quick treat. It is a must-visit for foodies. Spend a little time among the shelves at Tri Dee Arts, which offers a wide selection of art supplies and local artwork.
Edison holds the Quirky Little Town Award. It is a paradise for shoppers seeking unique and handcrafted items. Explore Smith & Vallee art gallery, browse the vintage shops, and sample local delicacies at the Breadfarm or Slough Food. Edison’s laid-back atmosphere and artistic spirit make it a perfect destination for a leisurely afternoon of shopping.
La Conner is the quintessential postcard town known for its charming boutiques and art galleries. Stroll along the boardwalk with a view of bobbing sailboats, grab a coffee from Hellam’s Vineyard and Coffee Bar and browse the shops filled with local crafts and souvenirs. Visit The Wood Merchant, where you will be in awe of their hand-carved bowls and sculptures—Meander along First Street toward Gilkey Square while soaking up all of this town’s artistic flair.
Sedro Woolley is more than just a “historic town” tucked in the Cascade foothills. It is a bargain shoppers haven for vintage and thrift stores. Explore the downtown streets of Ferry and State Ave, where you’ll find Ferry Street Antique Mall and retro stores like Shelley’s Shack. Sedro-Woolley is the perfect place for those seeking sustainable and stylish fashion.
A shopping weekend in Skagit Valley is much more than just a retail experience. It’s a chance to connect with the community, support local businesses, and discover the character, or what we call magic, of Skagit Valley.
MaryRose Denton
is a freelance travel writer who grew up in Seattle and now calls Skagit Valley her home. She enjoys writing about local culture, PNW history, and the state’s rich agriculture, along with sustainability and wellness adventures. Her work can be seen in Seatlle Refined, Edible Seattle, NW Travel & Life, State of Washington Tourism, Next Adventue Magazine, the Irish Independent, and her blog MerakiTravels.org