Most visitors to Friday Harbor would probably be content with wandering the small town and island wilderness. The pleasant weather, view of Mt. Baker and Mt. Rainier and the Olympic Mountains, and the surrounding ocean offer sufficient distractions. However, it may be helpful to know some interesting and educational spots and historical landmarks.

San Juan Island Historical Museum is the main curatorial and archival institution in the San Juan Islands. It is situated on a campus of historical buildings. Visitors can tour the Milk House, Scribner log cabin, and the old jail. Several of the buildings are more than 100 years old.

The museum also supplies information on the emergence of the island communities and extensive familial archives. Photographs, lineages and letters are availabe for study by museum guests.

Several outdoor activities are located in or near Friday Harbor. Kayaking, hiking, scuba diving and cycling are popular for visitors. 

The  San Juan Islands are amidst a primary congregating and migration area for Orca whales, among other migrant whales. Although whale watching is not a bonafide physical activity, it is certainly a major attraction for visitors to the San Juan islands.

Visit the Whale Museum for tales of the uncanny abilities of Porpoises and the dietary habits of Whales. Cattle Point and Lime Kiln Point offer land based views. Tour outfitters provide actual shoreline, kayak, or boat views of the Orcas and other marine mammals and birds.

See also English and American Camps for hiking and exploring.