For a smaller museum, taking only about 20 minutes to walk through, it is a fantastic museum,…read moreshowcasing Orcas Island history. The docent that greeted us was friendly and informative, telling us that the museum was at one time six separate one-room residences that were dismantled and rebuilt to make this current museum. Full of many early and late century household items, placard's describing the way of life on the island, and has loads of interesting artifacts, photographs, and materials showing Orcas Island early community and civilization.

There's so much to see in this little house. I'm particularly awed by the display of the submarine…read morecables which brought power to Orcas and the nearby islands. There are displays of cobblers and black smiths which are well preserved.

If you are looking for an usual experience on Orcas Island do not forego visiting this very special…read moreprivate museum that has over 800 works of art from 250 San Juan Island artists. It features the largest collection of HELEN Loggie's work and an extensive collection from James Hardman all in an exquisite architectural setting on the water with breathtaking views complete with follies. It is breathtaking and will provide you with inspiration and awe along with thanks that people like Leo Lambiel exist in this world.

Leo Lambiel's guided tour of his awesome home cum museum is awesome, and well worth the $20 fee per…read moreperson. His taste in art by San Juan Islands artists is eclectic -- inspiring, humorous, ironic, abstract, representational -- in a range of media. The house reflects his own craftsmanship in construction and decoration, and grew from its origins as a cabin to a mansion of many rooms, soaring ceilings, windowed walls, and outdoor stairways. Leo's folly is the grotto, which he continues to work on after 17 years. Wine also is his passion, and his wine room has patterned walls made of used corks. Altogether, a wonderful tour.

A lovely mansion to stroll along in the afternoon with the family. You get to read about the…read morehistory of the home of Bob Moran, who used to be the mayor of Seattle. It's well kept and I got to walk around and explore to my hearts content. Then, I went to the Lounge.

I am baffled as to why Orcas Island has such a low review on Yelp! Perhaps if you're visiting the…read moreisland expecting ample entertainment, shops, restaurants, nightlife and such then yes, this island will certainly not meet your expectations! But if you're looking for peace, solitude, a place to escape and get away from the hubbub of Seattle or wherever home is for you, then Orcas is perfect! Getting there by car can be a mission and since the island is quite small, consider just getting a walk on ticket at the Anacortes ferry terminal. You'll be glad you saved the money! There's plenty of stunning nature to keep you occupied for days, and when the busiest thing on the island is the occasional ferry turning up, you'll be able to relax, unwind and put up your feet!

Came to Orcas in July for a family event. The island overall is gorgeous. Eastsound, the main town…read moreis quaint and clean and has that 'Mayberry' feel. But the shops and restaurants open late and the town shuts down at 8pm. Be prepared to meet the most unfriendly people you'll ever come across, it's just who they are. Btw the only truly friendly merchant was the one without the pride flag hanging in the window. We don't ever plan to come back to Orcas, there are to many other beautiful places on earth to see.

Most people visit East Sound using the ferry. But for those who flew in will find the museum…read moreinteresting with old displays of past aviation. It's a good place to spend an hour or so.

This historic school house is beautifully restored. The volunteers, who offer personalized tours,…read moreare so knowledgeable and friendly. You can see items donated by previous students who came to this school once upon a time, and standing inside feels like you've traveled back in time. There are also many original items such as the oil cloth lesson board, the original chalk board, wall lanterns and more. In the summer they also feature a spooky story telling. Touring the museum is a must-see if you're staying on the island!

We stopped by the Crow Valley School on orcas Island and were delighted with how well preserved the…read moreschool was with original lesson plans and account books available to peruse, a headmaster's black dress displayed, some original school desks, and several enlarged old photographs of students. We received a personal tour of the school from Rebecca and were delighted to visit this historical spot on Orcas.

This is a gorgeous shop right on THE corner in Fremont (IYKYK). They sell from multiple local…read moreartisans, although the most well known, most recognizable is their ceramics with colorful designs. Valeri, who was running the shop on this day, and is one of the artists, (how cool is that?) was very helpful and informative. Told us all about the different items, how they are made, what they are made of, etc. In addition to their flagship ceramics, they have gorgeous paper art, cards, jewelry, bath&beauty items, kitchen items, and probably more. This is a new location - they are originally located in Orcas Island. They plan to have classes and/or a workshop in this location soon.

very beautiful artwork, but were steered away from purchase from lack of energy and engagement from…read morestaff. we did end up buying an item, and the staff member told us how paper receipts would give us cancer. fair warning