San Juan Islands
Known more for their scenery than their history, the San Juans nonetheless hide one of the 19th century's oddest political confrontations, the so-called 'Pig War' between the USA and Britain. This curious standoff is showcased in two separate historical parks at either end of the island, which once housed opposing American and English military encampments.
Staffing shortages mean the center may be closed December to February; call ahead.
22.35 MILES
Far more than just another pretty flower arrangement, Butchart is a national historic site and a triumph of early-20th-century gardening aesthetics. With…
16.95 MILES
Arguably the finest museum in British Columbia and carrier of a ‘royal’ prefix since 1987, Victoria’s flagship sight mixes the cream of BC’s provincial…
15.84 MILES
More ostentatious country mansion than fortified castle, Craigdarroch, with its turrets, stained-glass windows and palatial interior, looks like it might…
8.18 MILES
Spencer Spit State Park is one of only four state parks on the San Juan archipelago. Two sand spits have formed a marshy lagoon that is a prime spot for…
27.86 MILES
Halfway between La Conner and Mt Vernon, this renowned bulb producer has color-drenched fields of blooms as well as a truly spectacular display garden…
16.81 MILES
In 1911 Robert Moran donated 7 sq miles of his property to create this park on the eastern saddlebag of Orcas Island. The park is dominated by 2409ft Mt…
17.08 MILES
This dramatically handsome confection of turrets, domes and stained glass is British Columbia's working legislature and is also open to visitors. You can…
16.87 MILES
It’s not big, nor are its resident critters (although some of them are alarmingly colossal by insect standards); however, this diminutive indoor ‘zoo’ is…
1. San Juan Island National Historical Park (American Camp)
0.75 MILES
On the southern flank of the island, the American Camp hosts a small visitor center and is a good place to start your historical excursion. Among the…
2.08 MILES
At the south of the island, this is one of the best places to look for orcas from the shore.
2.88 MILES
A nice little walk through the forest leads to the shore and rocky reef. Expect to see lots of seals. The trailhead is easy to find: head to the airport…
4.94 MILES
In an 1890s farmhouse on the outskirts of Friday Harbor, the San Juan Historical Museum commemorates early pioneer life on San Juan Island. While the…
5. San Juan Islands Museum of Art
4.96 MILES
Housed in the most swanky, modern building in town. Visit to see rotating exhibits featuring primarily Pacific Northwestern artists.
4.96 MILES
If you have time for only one sight, visit the excellent Whale Museum, a small but cleverly arranged space dedicated to the life of the orca (killer whale…
5.05 MILES
Turn Island is a hit with beach campers and especially kayakers. The marine park is part of the San Juan Islands National Wildlife Refuge.
8. Lopez Island Historical Museum
5.85 MILES
This tiny museum exhibits antiquated farm machinery, early pioneer photos and various rotating exhibitions. What it lacks in scale it makes up for in…