Things To Do
in Mount Vernon

Mount Vernon, located in the state of Washington, is a charming city known for its picturesque landscapes and rich agricultural heritage. Nestled between the Skagit River and the majestic Cascade Mountains, it serves as a gateway to the beautiful Skagit Valley. The city is renowned for its vibrant tulip festival in spring and offers various outdoor activities year-round.

With a close-knit community and a blend of small-town charm and modern conveniences, Mount Vernon is an inviting destination for visitors seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Downtown and Parks
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, then stroll through the historic downtown area, visiting unique shops and art galleries.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a local diner, followed by a visit to Riverfront Park, where you can enjoy walking trails and scenic views of the Skagit River.

evening
:

Dine at a well-known restaurant in the area and wrap up your day with a movie at the local theater.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a hearty breakfast, then head to the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival if visiting in April, or explore the Skagit Valley Museum for a dose of local history.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a farm-to-table restaurant, followed by an afternoon of hiking at nearby scenic trails.

evening
:

Conclude your trip with dinner at a waterfront restaurant, enjoying views of the sunset over the water.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Fast Food Meal$8
Coffee$4
🍕Pizza$15
🛒Groceries (weekly)$60
🏨Budget Hotel (per night)$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities
  • Rich cultural events and festivals
  • Friendly and welcoming local community
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Occasional rainy weather
  • Less urban amenities compared to larger cities

Places to Visit in Mount Vernon

Visit one of these nice places.

Skagit Valley Tulip Fields

Famous for their stunning colors in spring, the tulip fields provide the perfect backdrop for breathtaking photos.

Mount Vernon Riverfront Park

Captivating views of the Skagit River and surrounding nature make this park an ideal photography location.

Historic Downtown Mount Vernon

The charming architecture and vibrant storefronts create a picturesque setting for street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Mount Vernon

Mount Vernon offers a delightful culinary scene that highlights local produce and flavors. Visitors can enjoy an array of dishes that reflect the region's agricultural bounty.

Mount Vernon Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Skagit River Salmon

Freshly caught salmon from the Skagit River, often grilled or smoked, is a must-try.

Must-Try!

Tulip Festival Tacos

Unique tacos featuring fresh local ingredients, celebrated during the tulip festival.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Skagit Valley Farmers Market

A vibrant market featuring local produce, artisanal goods, and street food vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Mount Vernon enjoys a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Average winter temperatures range from 30°F to 50°F (-1°C to 10°C), while summer temperatures can reach 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C). Rain is common throughout the year, especially in the fall and winter months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is important, especially for business meetings or social gatherings.

Respect for Nature

Taking care of the environment and leaving no trace while enjoying outdoor activities is highly valued.

Greeting Protocol

A friendly smile and a simple 'hello' are common when meeting someone new.

Safety Guide

Safety

Mount Vernon is generally considered a safe city for visitors, with a low crime rate. However, it is always wise to remain vigilant, especially in less populated areas at night. Travelers should also be cautious of wildlife when hiking and take appropriate safety measures.

Tipping in Mount Vernon

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip 15-20% in restaurants, while rounding up is appreciated for taxi drivers.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit cards, but having cash on hand for smaller vendors or markets is advisable.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring is the best time to visit for the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, with vibrant flowers blooming and mild weather.

Summer

Summer offers warm weather ideal for outdoor activities, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Fall

Fall brings beautiful foliage and harvest festivals; temperatures start to cool down.

Winter

Winter can be rainy and chilly, but the area is less crowded, offering a peaceful escape.

Nightlife Guide

Mount Vernon at Night

Mount Vernon has a modest nightlife scene with a few bars, pubs, and live music venues. The atmosphere is generally relaxed, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploring. Local breweries often host events, and there are occasional live music performances in downtown establishments.

Hiking in Mount Vernon

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Larrabee State Park

Located just a short drive from Mount Vernon, this park offers stunning coastal views and a variety of hiking trails.

Mount Pilchuck Trail

A challenging hike that rewards climbers with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Airports

How to reach Mount Vernon by plane.

Bellingham International Airport (BLI)

Located about 30 miles north of Mount Vernon, this airport offers regional flights and is a convenient entry point for visitors.

Getting Around

Walkability

Mount Vernon is relatively walkable, especially in the downtown area where shops, restaurants, and parks are close together. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and many attractions are within walking distance. However, some neighborhoods may require a vehicle for easier access to amenities.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Hispanic Community

A significant portion of Mount Vernon's population is Hispanic, contributing to the local culture, cuisine, and events.

Agricultural Workers

Many residents are involved in agriculture, particularly in farming and related occupations, reflecting the area's rich agricultural heritage.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is a popular sport in Mount Vernon, with local leagues and youth programs thriving.

Baseball

Baseball is also popular, with community teams and local parks hosting games throughout the summer.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Mount Vernon is generally light, but congestion can occur during rush hours. Public transportation options include Skagit Transit, which provides bus services throughout the city and surrounding areas, making it easier for visitors to navigate without a car.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Mount Vernon.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check menus ahead of time.

Gluten-Free Choices

Several eateries provide gluten-free options, beneficial for those with dietary restrictions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Mount Vernon includes several medical facilities, including Skagit Regional Health, which offers a range of services. Emergency care is available, and there are multiple clinics and pharmacies throughout the city. It's advisable for visitors to have travel insurance for any medical needs.

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