Things To Do
in Port Townsend
Port Townsend is a picturesque Victorian seaport on the northeastern tip of Washington’s Olympic Peninsula, known for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture and strong maritime heritage. The town has a lively arts scene, with galleries, festivals, and artisan shops clustered around a walkable downtown waterfront. Fort Worden State Park, working boatyards, and sheltered bays make it an outdoor playground for paddlers, sailors, and photographers.
Visitors come for relaxed seaside charm, seafood and coffee culture, and access to hiking and marine experiences nearby.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the streets of downtown Port Townsend, where Victorian-era architecture tells the story of the town's vibrant history. Stop by a local café for a warm cup of coffee and a freshly baked pastry while enjoying the waterfront views. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Jefferson Museum of History to learn more about the region's past.
After lunch at one of the delightful bistros, head to Fort Worden State Park. Here, you can explore the old military fortifications, hike along scenic trails, or relax on the beach while watching boats sail through the Puget Sound. The park offers excellent opportunities for bird watching and photography amidst stunning coastal landscapes.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront boardwalk for picturesque views. Dinner at a local seafood restaurant will round off your day, with freshly caught dishes that highlight the region's culinary delights. Consider catching a performance at the Key City Public Theatre for a taste of local art and culture.
Begin your day renting a kayak from a local outfitter and embark on a morning paddle through the calm waters of Port Townsend Bay. Take in the stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and spot marine wildlife such as seals and eagles. The morning mist adds a magical touch to your journey, setting the tone for adventure ahead.
After an exhilarating paddle, enjoy a picnic lunch on one of the local beaches, dipping your toes in the water while soaking up the sun. Spend your afternoon exploring the nearby Point Wilson Lighthouse, where you can learn about its fascinating history and snap some stunning photos. The serene ambiance is perfect for unwinding and reflecting on your morning escapades.
Head back to town for a laid-back dinner at a gastropub, where you can savor locally crafted beers and hearty food. After dinner, meander through the local shops and galleries, many of which are open late for art walks. End the night with ice cream from a popular local creamery as you enjoy the lively atmosphere of downtown Port Townsend.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $3-5 |
| 🍺Local craft beer (pint) | $6-9 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $120-220 |
| ⛽Gasoline (per gallon) | $3.50-4.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful, well-preserved Victorian architecture and waterfront setting
- Strong arts and maritime culture with festivals and galleries
- Excellent access to outdoor activities: kayaking, hiking, sailing
- Compact, walkable downtown with independent shops and cafés
- Limited public transport and fewer services outside peak season
- Can be crowded and pricier on summer weekends
- Weather can be grey and rainy much of the year
- Fewer late-night entertainment options compared with larger cities
Places to Visit in Port Townsend
Visit one of these nice places.
Dramatic shoreline, historic battery structures, and an iconic lighthouse make for excellent sunrise and sunset shots; tide pools and driftwood add foreground interest.
Well-preserved late-19th-century buildings, colorful storefronts, and antique signage provide charming street scenes and architectural details.
Working boatyards, classic wooden boats, and reflections on calm water create strong maritime compositions, especially in golden hour.
Panoramic views over Admiralty Inlet and the Olympic Mountains on clear days; good vantage for wide landscapes and boats coming in and out of the bay.
Food in Port Townsend
Port Townsend Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Locally farmed oysters from nearby bays are a must-try — served raw, grilled, or in chowders at many waterfront restaurants and oyster bars.
Must-Try!
Wild-caught or locally sourced salmon is commonly on menus, prepared grilled, smoked, or in chowders and sandwiches at seafood restaurants.
Creamy seafood chowder featuring local shellfish and fish is a comforting, widely available dish — great on cooler days.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A seasonal market (typically spring–fall) featuring local produce, baked goods, cheeses, smoked fish, and prepared foods — an excellent place to sample regional flavors and meet producers.
Small food carts and seasonal stalls near the waterfront and parks offer tacos, sandwiches, coffee and sweet treats — good for quick, casual bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Residents value friendliness and politeness—greet shopkeepers and neighbors, keep noise levels reasonable at night, and be patient during busy tourist periods.
Be respectful around historic sites, working waterfronts and shoreline areas; acknowledge local Coast Salish history and avoid disturbing cultural sites.
Outdoor recreation is popular—pack out trash, avoid removing shells or flora from public beaches unless explicitly permitted, and follow posted rules in parks.
Safety
Tipping in Port Townsend
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in the U.S.: restaurants (15–20% before tax for good service), bartenders ($1–2 per drink or 15–20%), taxis and rideshares (10–15%), and tour guides (10–20% depending on length/quality).
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; small businesses may prefer card or contactless payment. Carry some cash for very small purchases, farmers markets or tips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cool, increasingly dry weather with blooming bulbs and fewer tourists; some marine wildlife activity ramps up and farmers markets begin. Pack layers and expect occasional rain.
The driest and sunniest time—pleasant temperatures, lively festivals, boat and outdoor activity season, and busy weekends. Book accommodations early and bring sun protection.
Crisp air, fewer crowds, dramatic light for photography and mushroom-foraging season in surrounding forests; expect more rain later in the season.
Cool, wet and windy with frequent rain and overcast skies; quiet town atmosphere, opportunities for storm-watching, and lower prices on lodging. Be prepared for chilly, damp conditions and shorter daylight hours.
Port Townsend at Night
Hiking in Port Townsend
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy walks among historic batteries, beaches and coastal bluffs—good for families and photography short loops.
A steeper forested hike with rewarding panoramic views over the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountains; suited to half-day trips.
Short coastal paths with viewpoints, picnic spots and birdwatching opportunities—great for sunset photography.
Rural trails and forested routes a short drive from town offering quieter hikes, wildlife viewing and seasonal wildflowers.
While a drive away, Hurricane Ridge and other park trails provide alpine hiking and old-growth forest experiences for day trips or overnight excursions.
Airports
How to reach Port Townsend by plane.
Major international airport serving the region. Ground travel to Port Townsend typically involves a 1.5–2.5 hour drive plus possible ferry segments, depending on route and traffic.
Smaller airport providing regional flights and general aviation; access to Port Townsend involves a ferry or drive across the Kitsap Peninsula and Admiralty Inlet.
A small local airport for general aviation near Port Townsend; convenient for private planes and charters but limited commercial service.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A notable community of painters, woodworkers, potters and gallery owners contributes to a strong local arts scene.
The town attracts retirees seeking a picturesque, quieter seaside lifestyle with cultural amenities.
Locals working in hospitality, boatyards, marinas and regional services are an important part of the workforce.
Long-term residents include families drawn to small-town schools, outdoor activities and community events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Sailing is a major recreational and competitive activity thanks to Admiralty Inlet and local yacht clubs; regattas and sailing schools are common.
Sea kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are very popular for exploring the bays and shoreline, with guided tours available for all skill levels.
Local hills and nearby Olympic trails attract hikers and trail runners seeking coastal and mountain scenery.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Port Townsend.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common (hearty salads, grain bowls, mushroom dishes, and vegetarian sandwiches). Many restaurants can accommodate requests—call ahead for special menus in small kitchens.
Vegan and gluten-free choices are available but not ubiquitous. Specialty cafés and bakeries may offer alternatives; always mention restrictions when ordering and check for cross-contamination in small kitchens.
Seafood is central to the cuisine; if you have shellfish or fish allergies, explicitly inform staff as cross-contact can occur in busy seafood-oriented restaurants.