LaConner
Slough Down!

Getting There: By car: Traveling north or south on I-5, take exit 230 and head west.
By boat: Consult marine charts for Swinomish Slough.

The oldest community in Skagit County, La Conner is also certainly one of the most picturesque. Located on the banks of the Swinomish Slough, it is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places and is a great place in which to eat, shop and plain wander around.

Just a short jaunt off of I-5, La Conner offers a quaint and culturally-diverse experience to visitors. The town was founded in the early 1860s. John Conner ended up buying the trading post in 1869 to which he added a post office. In 1870, he renamed the town from Swinomish to La Conner in honor of his wife, Louise A. Conner.

The Slough separates the town from Fidalgo Island, connected by the Rainbow Bridge. It is a popular stopping off spot for boaters going to and from Whidbey Island.

The town is still home to farmers and fishers but the population has grown to include artists, writers and retirees. There are a number of inns and B&Bs. For food, check out the La Conner Brewery, or the Rexville Grocery just south on Best Road.

Don’t miss:
• The waterfall off the dock.
• The sculpture walk and then a glass of wine on the slough.