Orcas Island next week
 

Going to Orcas next week, anything special, something not to miss while there?

Two things I can think of... the Moran Mansion (AKA the Rosario resort and grounds).
Mount Constitution. I hope you have decent weather, the view from the lookout tower is terrific!

One out of two, we are staying at the Rosario Resort. I am sure we will try the mountain.

Thanks

There's a guy at the airport with a bi-plane who gives rides around the islands. This is huge fun. The Rosario concierge should have all the details.

Also, there used to be a tavern in Eastsound right on the water where I wasted a significant part of my youth. Not sure it's still there - but worth checking just in case.

There are also a couple of very good restaurants in Friday Harbour (on San Juan Island) that are worth the ferry trip across from Orcas. Again, your concierge should have the details.

BTW, we found the food at Rosario terribly overrated the last time we were there, and ended up eating at a couple of places in Eastsound and Olga.

Is a day trip to Victoria possible?

You'd have to check the Washington State Ferry Schedule (it's online somewhere) - but I kind of doubt it. There are not that many ferries to Victoria from the San Juan Islands.

Spending just a few hours in Victoria would be frustrating anyway, as there is a fair bit to do and see. If you do overnight in Victoria - I highly recommend the Hotel Magnolia - which is right in the best part of downtown, has brilliant rooms and is spectacular value for money.

Yep, but you need a car. The ferry coming from the San Juans lands about 20 miles north of Victoria. Ferry reservations are a good idea also. Can do under the Wa. State Dept. Tran. website: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries/schedule/

A fun way to get from Seattle to Orcas is via Kenmore Air: http://www.kenmoreair.com/content.php?content_id=37

Ah, Dottore beat me to it. It's an old Stearman biplane, and it's big enough to take two in the passenger seat. Open cockpit, flying just over the treetops. Unbelievable good fun.

If the killer whales are in the neighborhood, catch one of the tours out of Friday Harbor. Sometimes you'll get close enough to really kind of scare you, although there is nothing to be afraid of with them. Magnificent creatures, and a real privilege if you can spend some time with them.