The most fun way to shop in La Conner is to simply meander through downtown, stopping for lunch or a beer and heading out again. Art galleries, gift shops (specializing in everything from olives to old fishing tackle), antique dealers, espresso places, and restaurants line 1st and Morris Streets. Most of these sell tourist claptrap, but there are several notable exceptions.

The Stall (712 1st St., 360/466-3162, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. daily) sells unusual folk art imports from all over the globe.

Also worth a look is Organic Matters (707 S. 1st St., 360/466-4012 or 800/843-9069, www.organic-matters.com, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Mon. –Sat., 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Sun.), selling organic cotton clothing and allergy-free wool bedding.

The Wood Merchant (709 S. 1st St., 360/466-4741, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. daily) has gorgeous wooden furniture, cases, games, and other delights.

The Next Chapter Books (721 S. 1st St., 360/466-2665, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. daily) sells books and espresso from its little shop on the east end of 1st Street.