Go beyond tulips in Skagit Valley

Skagit Valley is perhaps best known for its magnificent Tulip Festival (more on that later) but its seasonal beauty and attractions make this picturesque area a year-round destination. Nestled in the northwestern end of Washington state between Seattle and Bellingham, each season unveils a unique charm and a variety of activities.

In winter, Skagit Valley transforms into a serene wonderland for those seeking tranquility and the beauty of untouched nature. The snow-capped Cascade Mountains offer breathtaking views and opportunities for winter sports enthusiasts. Skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing are popular activities in nearby Mount Baker and North Cascades National Park. Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoying birdwatching, as the Skagit River draws thousands of migrating eagles through February.

As winter fades, the region bursts into vibrant spring colors with the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, which runs April 1-30 (you’ll want to check the weather) and attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors from around the world. The festival spans multiple gardens including RoozenGaarde, Tulip Town and Tulip Valley Farms, to name just a few. Tulip Valley Farms also hosts the country’s only nighttime tulip event, Night Bloom, for an unforgettable, glowing experience for all ages.

Seeking more than a day trip? Unwind in one of Skagit Valley’s charming accommodations, from bed and breakfasts, a rustic cabin or a luxurious inn. The towns of La Conner and Mount Vernon come alive with farmers markets, art galleries and local festivals. In addition to the floral displays, hiking, cycling and kayaking are also popular pursuits. For the serious outdoorsy types, more than 40% of Skagit Valley land is designated National and State forest, perfect for camping.

Continue the exploration on Whidbey and up to Blaine

Keep in mind that early March in the Pacific Northwest offers mild temperatures and vibrant greenery as rainfall begins to decrease and blooming wildflowers herald the upcoming spring.

For starters, enjoy a culinary celebration of Mussels grown offshore from Coupeville at the Penn Cove Musselfest from 10:30 a.m. until 7 p.m. Saturday, March 8. Local and regional chefs participate in mussel cooking demonstrations, and restaurants also compete in a best clam chowder contest. Throw in a beer garden, live music, plenty of shopping, and even shuttles to chowder-tasting locations and you’ve got a quintessential Northwest weekend. Better yet, spend a night or two at the Captain Whidbey Inn and enjoy a meal at the famous Restaurant at Captain Whidbey.

Blaine is home to the Wings Over Water Northwest Birding Festival from March 14-16. Stay at Semiahmoo Golf & Country Club for a casual Northwest seaside experience. You can also enjoy the brilliant color and vibrant display of hot air balloons during the three-day Balloon Roundup in Winthrop from Feb. 28-March 3. It’s well worth the four-hour drive from Seattle.

If art is more your thing, make plans to attend the Whatcom Cultural Arts Festival in Bellingham March 15 and 16. The annual spring festival celebrates the diverse culture of the Pacific Northwest and features performances and food inspired by different cultural backgrounds. Stay at the Hotel Leo or Heliotrope Hotel, and be sure to hit Galloway’s Cocktail Bar and Amendment 21 for some late-night fun.