Oak Harbor, WA Tourist Attractions
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Located on the east side of Whidbey Island is the town of Oak Harbor. The downtown area is a pleasant place to walk through with many old buildings. Oak Harbor hosts several large scale festivals and events throughout the year, and has a beautiful display of tulips each spring.
Deception Pass State Park
Surroundings
Anacortes
The port town of Anacortes is located on Fidalgo Island, in the San Juan Islands. The downtown area of Anacortes promotes itself as a tourist area with shops and restaurants, and painted murals on buildings. The town hosts an annual Waterfront Festival in May and and Arts Festival in August that add some excitement to the town. The area also offers a variety of water based activities, including boating, kayaking, as well as hiking, biking, and more.
Anacortes History Museum
The Anacortes History Museum is housed in a building listed on the National Register of Historic Place. The collections features items related to the Native history of the area, the pioneers, initial industries that sustained the town, as well as a research library. Since 1982 the museum's collection has included the W.T. PRESTON, a sternwheeler and National Historic Landmark, noted for being the last of its kind to work in Puget Sound.
Whale Watching
Whale watching tours provide an opportunity for visitors to see killer whales, which are very prevalent in the area depending on the time of year, as well as gray, minke and humpback whales. Whale sightings are often guaranteed, if visitors do not see a whale they are offered another trip free. The best time of year is from March to October.
Coupeville
Located on Whidbey Island, the small town of Coupeville sits on Penn Cove. Visit the historic downtown with shops, art galleries, and restaurants or just enjoy the scenery.
Island County Historical Museum
The Island County Historical Museum explores the history of Whidbey Island, with a focus on the towns. The museum has changing displays so check ahead for current or upcoming exhibits.
Meerkerk Rhododendron Gardens, Greenbank
The Meerkerk Rhododendron Gardens in Greenbank are a delight in the spring when the park is in full bloom. The garden is pleasant throughout the year and hosts events such as concerts during the summer.