May 2024 Project of The Month: Anacortes Inn

In the heart of Fidalgo Island, where the air carries the crisp scent of saltwater and the call of the seafaring adventure beckons, the Anacortes Inn stands as a testament to the vibrant spirit of the Pacific Northwest. This month, we are delighted to feature Anacortes Inn as our Project of the Month at our website's newsletter, celebrating not only its rich story and mission but also a significant enhancement to its charming premises through the addition of innovative signage solutions.

Nestled 80 miles northwest of Seattle and a gateway to the San Juan Islands, Anacortes Inn offers a unique blend of comfort and convenience, making it an ideal base camp for both long-time residents and transient adventurers. Its location is perfect for those looking to explore the Salish Sea, delve into the local culture, or simply enjoy a serene getaway from the urban hustle.

The mission of Anacortes Inn is clear: to provide a welcoming, comfortable, and inspiring environment for all who visit. With 44 rooms designed with the Pacific Northwest adventurer in mind, the inn caters to a diverse range of guests, from solo travelers to families, including those with canine companions. The design elements within each room, infused with local art and craftsmanship, reflect a deep appreciation for the area and a desire to share its beauty with others.

Anacortes Inn proudly embraces its roadside hotel heritage while infusing modern elements that resonate with today's travelers. The recent facelift in 2023 introduced an updated open-air design and an outdoor fireplace, enhancing the guest experience while staying true to the inn's rustic roots. The renovation retained the old-school architecture but introduced a twist of creativity, sustainability, and design, a nod to both its past and its future.

A standout feature of Anacortes Inn is its commitment to sustainability. Much of the wood used in the siding, lobby, and guest rooms was sourced from the owner’s farm on Orcas Island. This locally-sourced wood, hand-milled by islander artisans, not only reduces the carbon footprint but also adds an authentic, tactile element to the inn’s aesthetic. The use of raw, untreated wood ensures that the environment remains unharmed, highlighting the inn's dedication to eco-friendly practices.

This year, Anacortes Inn has elevated its visual appeal with a range of new signage that guides and greets guests from the moment they arrive. The comprehensive Wayfinding package ensures that navigating the inn’s amenities is both easy and enjoyable. The exterior boasts a variety of illuminated signs that capture the essence of the inn and its surroundings:

  • The Main double face LED Illuminated sign acts as a beacon, welcoming visitors with its warm glow.

  • A creative LED "Neon" Viking logo sign adds a touch of local folklore and charm.

  • Directional cues are stylishly marked by a Neon directional arrow sign, guiding guests smoothly around the premises.

  • The "Hangout" LED Sign and Neon "Lobby" sign blend functionality with design, enhancing both the usability and aesthetics of the space.

These signs not only serve practical purposes but also contribute to the storytelling of Anacortes Inn, reflecting its character and the community it serves.

We at Western Neon are immensely grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with Anacortes Inn on this exciting project. Our partnership has been a journey of creativity and shared values, focusing on enhancing guest experiences while respecting and highlighting the local culture and environment.

As Anacortes Inn continues to serve as a home away from home for many, and a starting point for numerous adventures, we are proud to have played a part in its journey. The new signage is just one of the many ways Anacortes Inn is moving forward, and we are thrilled to support them in this endeavor.

Anacortes Inn thrives under the meticulous management of Columbia Hospitality, whose commitment to excellence and community engagement significantly enhances our guest experiences. We are profoundly grateful for their partnership in revitalizing Anacortes Inn, which has been instrumental in implementing our latest project. Columbia Hospitality champions a culture of accountability, creativity, enthusiasm, honesty, inclusion, and respect. These core values not only guide their operations but also their philanthropic efforts, through which they actively contribute to the communities they serve. This approach informs their business relationships and hiring practices, ensuring that every interaction enriches both personal and professional experiences. Our successful collaboration on the Anacortes Inn project reflects Columbia Hospitality’s dedication to these principles, making them not just a manager of properties but a valuable community partner. We cherish this partnership and look forward to continuing our shared mission of delivering exceptional hospitality.

Anacortes Inn is more than just a place to stay; it is a destination that offers a deep connection to the Pacific Northwest's adventurous spirit and its commitment to sustainability and local artistry. We invite you to experience this magical place, whether you are starting a new adventure or seeking a peaceful retreat.

Visit Anacortes Inn, where every stay is an opportunity to explore, relax, and create unforgettable memories on Fidalgo Island.


Western Neon creates custom signage, interiors, and public art. With over 35 years of experience, we make your vision a success from the first idea to the finishing touch. Start a project today!

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May 2024 Topic of The Month: Sustainable Signage & PCC

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April 2024 Project of The Month: The Fantastic Four