The Courtyard Quail is an old established business within the town open for decades and has been serving the community well under both its owners. It has seen a lot of changes in its long tenure in the Methow Valley, including two owners, lots of growth, new people coming into the community to take advantage of the wonderful Methow Valley Schools and the wonders of the natural world, and has always managed to turn a profit and keep its doors open to its beloved customers.

With nearly half a million visitors to the Methow Valley each year, many seeking out the incomparable Cascade Loop hikes and views, it has a year-round tourist draw. Recently, the area has also seen a great deal of growth in full-time residents as well, adding to the pool of local customers, both of which allow for year-round fun in Winthrop. People come from far and wide to play in the natural world, take advantage of our local Loup Loup Ski Bowl, the Winthrop Ice Rink, 400 km of Nordic skiing trails, as well as the kayaking, rafting, hiking, and other fun summer activities, many of which are walking distance or a short drive from The Courtyard Quail.

Because of its history of having something for everybody at prices anyone can afford, it has a great deal of flexibility and can play to the strengths or passions of its next owner. The current owner introduced toys and children's clothes in 2021 as a large part of her inventory, and the previous owner did a great deal with women's accessories and artisanal sauces. With home decor as a base, the rest of inventory can grow and change.

The daily operations are easy to learn, extremely fulfilling, and fun. It's a simple, straightforward business, great for those who are new to owning their own business and those who have more experience under their belt.

The town is resilient and the business is likewise. It has been through multiple fire summers in its decades of business as well as the complications of the Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent challenges and still managed to thrive. Our customers are loyal, returning year after year, often calling it "their favorite shop in town" and pausing to chat at the register with the sales clerk.

It is a wonderful location, important to the community, and a great place to get to know your neighbors. Whoever the next owner to take up the baton is, they will be lucky to get to experience the joy of this small business owning community downtown and the greater community within the Methow Valley.