One of only three American seaports on the National Register of Historic Places, Port Townsend, Washington, is a picturesque city whose Victorian architecture, beautiful beaches and top-notch dining make it a richly rewarding stop while cruising the Olympic Peninsula.
Things To Do
Start your exploration of the two dozen Victorian beauties of Port Townsend’s historic district at the Jefferson County Historical Society’s Museum of Art and History on Water Street. The exhibits chronicle the port’s importance during the timber boom and Klondike gold rush, and the resulting architectural legacy. The museum offers guided group walking tours during the summer, private tours year-round, and a self-guided walking tour booklet that visiting cruisers can purchase online. The town also hosts a Victorian Festival each spring.
It’s also possible to explore Port Townsend via the čičməhán Trail, which connects 18 historic sites important to not just the history and culture of the town’s European settlers, but also the S’Klallam people who have lived in the area for hundreds of years.
Among modern-day highlights, just a short walk down Water Street from the museum is the Port Townsend Marine Science Center, which features the creatures of the Salish Sea. There’s no missing Hope, the cherished orca skeleton suspended from the ceiling. On nearby Tyler Street, the Port Townsend Farmers Market is among the largest in the state with up to 90 vendors selling produce, crafts and other items every Saturday from April until mid-December.
Set aside a day to explore the many attractions of Fort Worden Historical State Park. The fort, bunkers, Battery Kinzie and Puget Sound Coast Artillery Museum showcase the installation’s importance as part of the “Triangle of Fire” protecting the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Point Wilson Light, built on Admiralty Inlet in 1914, has the highest lens on Puget Sound and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Stroll the park’s broad beaches to collect sea glass and spot eagles, ospreys and other bird species. The park’s grounds also have 11 miles of hiking trails.
Food and Drink
Port Townsend stands out for its stellar dining scene. The Blue Moose Café is a popular breakfast and lunch spot, known for its eggs Benedict and peanut-butter-and-banana pancakes. Finistère is a foodie favorite for such upscale fare as Parisian gnocchi with duck confit and summer truffle, and well-curated wine pairings. The Fountain Café earns raves for fresh, locally sourced seafood and pasta dishes. Alchemy Bistro and Wine Bar is known for creative cocktails and entrees. Café Tenby serves high tea on the weekends, and its delicious scones and clotted cream are available any time.
