Uniting voices, sharing ideas, and creating a vibrant future for Skagit Valley tourism.
Working Together for Skagit Valley: Insights from the Tourism Visioning Workshop
On October 1, 2025, I had the privilege of joining community leaders, business owners, tribal representatives, and tourism advocates from across Skagit County in La Conner for the Future of Tourism Visioning Workshop.
As the CEO of the Burlington Chamber of Commerce and a member of the Destination Steering Committee, I came into the day with one goal in mind: to ensure Burlington’s voice was part of the conversation about the future of tourism in our region. What unfolded was more than a workshop—it was a powerful reminder of what can happen when people come together to imagine a shared future.
A Room Full of Ideas
The workshop had the energy of a true think tank. Everywhere I looked, people were exchanging ideas, sketching possibilities, and sharing stories about what makes their communities unique. We discussed everything from preserving our agricultural heritage, historic sites, and farmlands to highlighting the rich heritage of our small towns, from creating bold strategies for economic growth to ensuring that visitors always experience the warm hospitality that defines Skagit Valley.
It wasn’t just brainstorming—it was vision building. Skagit Valley is a diverse region with so many identities: the art and culture of La Conner, the markets and festivals in Mount Vernon, the outdoor adventures of Sedro-Woolley, and, of course, Burlington, the welcoming crossroads where so many visitors stay and prepare for exploration. The challenge—and the opportunity—was to weave these stories together into one cohesive vision.
Burlington’s Role
For me, representing Burlington meant making sure our city’s unique role was recognized. Burlington is more than a stop along the way—it’s a gateway to the Skagit Valley. Visitors come here not only for a place to stay, but also to launch their adventures: exploring the tulip fields, discovering the Cascade foothills, or enjoying the waters of the Puget Sound. Right here in town, they can visit the Skagit River Playfields, access the Skagit River for fishing, boating, and riverside recreation, explore our local parks, admire beautiful historical buildings, or stop by the Burlington Visitor Information Center to plan the rest of their journey.
I want Burlington to be seen not just as a pit stop, but as part of the authentic Skagit Valley experience. When visitors spend time here, they’re not only fueling up for their journeys—they’re connecting with our small businesses, supporting local jobs, enjoying our recreational spaces, and becoming part of our community’s story.
Our Shared Commitment
As a member of the steering committee, I’ve committed alongside other leaders to a collective Statement of Intent. Together, we’ve promised to:
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Inspire meaningful connections that bring visitors back year after year.
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Protect the natural beauty and cultural treasures that make this region so special.
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Strengthen partnerships across communities, organizations, and businesses.
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Ensure inclusivity and hospitality so that everyone feels welcome.
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Be bold and creative in how we grow tourism responsibly.
During the workshop, these commitments came to life in real conversations. We asked ourselves tough but important questions: How do we grow tourism without overwhelming our small towns? How do we balance economic opportunity with environmental stewardship? How do we make sure the benefits of tourism reach every corner of the valley?
Looking Ahead
October 1 was just the beginning. This fall, the Skagit Valley Rural Tourism Support Program—developed by the State of Washington Tourism, the Skagit Tourism Bureau, and Crosscurrent Collective—will continue to bring us together to refine these ideas and build a roadmap for the future.
What I carried home from the workshop is this: Burlington’s voice matters in shaping this vision. By showing up, sharing our perspective, and listening to others, we ensure that our community remains an essential part of a tourism strategy that benefits the whole valley.
The conversation doesn’t stop here. If you’re a Burlington resident, business owner, or community member who cares about the future of tourism in Skagit Valley, I encourage you to join us at the upcoming visioning workshops this fall. Your ideas, your perspective, and your passion are what will make this plan truly reflect our region and ensure tourism benefits every community. Together, we can make sure our communities thrive while sharing the best of this incredible region with the world.
For details and to register for upcoming sessions, visit the State of Washington Tourism website—I hope to see you there!
With gratitude,
Stephanie Rees
President & CEO
Burlington Chamber of Commerce