Pretty soon, the SPU MFA will have its first post-pandemic residency at Camp Casey on Whidbey Island, which means a band of ink-stained scribblers is about to approach that blessed ground for the first time. Visiting new places can be tricky, so I thought I, who have had the good fortune to spend a good bit of time there, might offer some tips, that your joy may be complete. Here then are some things you won’t want to miss.

Madrona Supply

This cute little gift shop is right off the ferry, and I mean you’ll disembark, drive for less than one minute, and see this place on your right. Part of you will want to press on, having just made landfall; another part of you will say I’ll hit it on the way back off the island, wanting to get to Casey as quickly as possible, but you won't! This is the chance to stop and see it; on the way out, you’ll be too concerned about making the ferry time to stop in. That would be a shame because there’s some really unique local crafts here.

Langley

Langley is the other adorable beachfront town on Whidbey and is worth a stop. Don’t take the direct route from the ferry, but save the turn till you hit Bayview Road. That will bring you past Whidbey Doughnuts (which also makes good breakfast sandwiches) near a whole complex of buildings that are fun and worth exploring including one dedicated to Shakespeare paraphernalia. But this still isn’t Langley; we’re just on the way! The shops in the town proper keep changing, and it’ll be obvious what to see when you get there, but make sure to check out the Whale Museum and Langley Kitchen which has the best food on the island. Think colorful organic salads, high-end soups and sandwiches, and a good wine selection.

On the Road

Next you’ll probably make your way to Camp Casey, but on the way you might be tempted to stop at Whidbey Ice Cream (amazing concoctions), which is right by Rocket Taco (the best of that genre in WA), and Whidbey Distillery (award-winning blackberry liquors, etc). All of these would be profitable diversions.

Coupeville

This is probably a trip best left for after you’ve gotten to Casey and dropped off your things. It’s the closest town to where we’ll be staying and it features a lovely bookstore, a solid eatery Front Street Grill (weirdly-great burgers here and clam chowder) and plenty of cute gift shops. Insider tip: you may be tempted to buy memorabilia from the gift shop at the end of the pier. Do not do this. It’s cheaply-made overseas and only exists for tricking tourists. The shops along the high-street, or at the land-side of the pier are legit. One place you may miss unless you are looking for it: Red Hen Bakery. The gem of the island, for me. I love everything they do. No place to sit down, so prepare for a picnic. Bonus: the toy shop also has a great vintage-style candy selection.

Port Townsend

One of the best things about Whidbey is how easy it is to get to Port Townsend, which is my favorite place in Washington state. This is what I would do on your free day. There’s a walk-on ferry right near campus and it drops you off right in the action. Once you get there, it’s obvious where to go: beautiful shops, eateries, movie theaters, abound. Make sure to stop in at William James Booksellers, my pick for best bookshop in the state. Also, make sure your walk along Water Street takes you all the way down to the Wooden Boat Foundation where you can see restorations taking place and get a good coffee and nautical gifts besides. Those prepared to go a little further afield may wish to visit the beautiful publishing house Copper Canyon Press, nearby.

On the Way Out

Lastly, those who have time and the transport option may wish to drive off the island rather than ferry back if only to stop by Deception Pass. The state park is immense and beautiful, with a nice display from the Conservation Corps, but even just stopping roadside and walking across the bridge is worth it. Hang onto your hat!

I hope you all enjoy your time at Casey, but make sure to enjoy the journey as well. See you soon!