Anacortes: The New York City of the West
In the mid-1800s, a group of hunters, prospectors, soldiers, and trappers set camp in an area in the northern tip of Fidalgo Island. A few years later, railroad surveyor Amos Bowman came and named the area Anacortes after his wife, Anna Curtis. Incorporated in the late 1800s, Anacortes, WA is in Skagit County, Washington, United States. Bowman promoted Anacortes heavily, based on his vision to turn the town into the New York City of the West. This paid off when corporations like the Seattle and Northern Company started its rail line construction in the area, which in turn, increased the area's real property value. This real estate bubble, however, burst after Bowman's vision of a railroad terminus did not push through. Anacortes became a popular fishing and canning hub, instead. Today, Anacortes boasts of over 15,000 residents, grand hotels, numerous dining options, and commercial offices. The town can be easily accessed through the Bellingham International Airport just 19 miles away.
Best Time to Visit
A trip to Anacortes, Washington is most ideal between mid-May and late September when temperatures hover around the low 50s but accommodations are cheaper. Tourists flock Anacortes in July, which could mean exorbitant hotel prices and airfares for walk-in visitors.
What to Do & Area Attractions
Anacortes is a popular destination for connoisseurs of the arts as well as shoppers. People flock the town during the Anacortes Arts Festival and stop by the Anacortes Community Theater for its impressive plays. Guests looking for comfortable accommodations will love the amenities at the 4-star Nantucket Inn, while the budget-friendly Swinomish Casino & Lodge offers convenient access to Downtown Anacortes.