A First-Timer’s Guide to Port Townsend (Things to Do & See!)

Wondering if Port Townsend is worth a stop on your Olympic Peninsula itinerary?

I spend a weekend in Port Townsend every August, strolling its historic streets, hiking coastal trails, and catching golden-hour views over the Salish Sea.

Its history—a once-booming maritime past, 19-century architecture, and WWII-era military bunkers—is only part of its story. Stay a little longer, and you’ll discover what makes it unforgettable: an art-driven community, miles of beaches, and a small-town friendliness that feels refreshingly real.

Keep reading to find out why this small coastal city is so captivating. I’ll also share my must-visit spots, insider tips, and the best things to do in Port Townsend.

A smiling woman at the Wooden Boat Festival, one of the best things to do in Port Townsend, WA. She wears a straw hat, sunglasses, and a green jacket while leaning on the railing of a wooden boat. The marina behind her is filled with sailboats, and a paddle boarder glides across the calm water. — Me at the Wooden Boat Festival

Quick Guide to Port Townsend

Location: A historic seaport on the northeast tip of Washington’s Olympic Peninsula, 1 ½ hours from Hurricane Ridge in Olympic National Park.
Historical Interest: Founded in 1851, Port Townsend was once envisioned as the “City of Dreams.” While the transcontinental railroad investors counted on never arrived to fuel its growth, its grand Victorian architecture remains, and Fort Worden—a key coastal defense fort during WWII—is now a popular state park.
Best Time to Visit: Summer and early fall bring the best weather and festivals like the Olympic Music Festival, making them the busiest seasons. Winter offers boutique shopping and holiday lights, while spring’s Rhody Festival brings music, parades, and blooms—making Port Townsend a great year-round destination.
How to Get to Port Townsend: Drive from Seattle (option to drive the entire way or take a ferry and drive from the Kitsap Peninsula) or take the Coupeville Ferry from Whidbey Island.
Outdoor Highlights: Visit Fort Worden & Fort Flagler State Park, Chetzemoka Park, and North Beach County Park, hike or bike the Olympic Discovery Trail or čičməhán Trail, or book a whale watching tour.
Where to Stay: I’ve stayed at the historic Waterstreet Hotel (now the Monarch Hotel), whose location can’t be beaten. At the Tides Inn, I only book water-facing rooms for the best views. I’ve included a section on Port Townsend accommodations below.

3 Best Things to Do in Port Townsend WA

If you have time, spending a weekend in Port Townsend before or after your national park tour is well worth it.

Below are the top three Port Townsend activities and attractions.

A lively street scene on historic downtown Water Street, with a grand, ornate red-brick building featuring arched windows and decorative trim, shows why Port Townsend is worth visiting. In the foreground, people are sitting at outdoor café tables, chatting and enjoying food, while others walk across the plaza. Overhead, string lights stretch across the blue sky.

★ Stroll Water Street for Victorian Architecture & Water Views

Port Townsend’s historic downtown is best experienced on foot. Walk along Water Street to Tyler Street Plaza, the city’s central outdoor gathering space, and sit at a table or on the beach.

Grab a bite beforehand—I love the hearty bowls at Owl Sprit Cafe—and watch ferries drift by as you take it all in.

★ Explore Fort Worden’s Beaches, Trails & Bunkers

Fort Worden State Park is an experience. Hike coastal trails, wander through WWII-era bunkers, and enjoy bluff views stretching across the Salish Sea toward the San Juan Islands.

Stop by Point Wilson Lighthouse or check out the Marine Science Center, where my niece got to touch and learn about local marine life.

★ Discover Artists & Independent Shops

Port Townsend is a city of creatives. On one visit, I caught the Artist Studio Tour, showcasing the art and workspaces of 60 artists, where I saw stunning paintings and woodcut prints.

Every visit, I stop at Aldrich’s Market, Washington’s oldest grocery store, to shop and visit Winter Texts, the small, independent bookstore tucked away upstairs.

Cozy and eclectic bookstore above Aldrich’s Market, with bookshelves, a red book cart filled with novels, and a rotating postcard stand in the foreground. A neon 'BOOKSHOP' sign glows above the entrance to a warmly lit reading nook where a woman browses. The space features whimsical decor, including a wooden giraffe structure and colorful lighting.

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What Makes Port Townsend Worth Visiting

As you drive in, you’ll read “Victorian seaport and arts community” on the sign and might wonder what that means in 2025. History is alive, but so is creativity, resulting in an aesthetic that’s fresh, modern, and constantly evolving.

Shops cater to tourists, but the city’s small-town charm and friendliness are so authentic that nothing about it feels like a tourist trap. It’s a place shaped by open-minded people, where conversations with strangers are the norm.

Walk into any shop, and you’ll see that community and curation matter here. Stop in a gallery, and you’ll be invited to a music night. Sit in the lounge at the Bishop Hotel, and you’ll feel Port Townsend’s cultured and unmistakably independent spirit.

Port Townsend’s culture is informed by its maritime history, but also by open spaces designed for people to come together. Whether you arrive by ferry or by car—driving through a tunnel of trees before cresting a hill where the bay opens up before you—you’ll know you’ve arrived somewhere special.

Things to do in Port Townsend, WA, include enjoying scenic harbor views filled with sailboats and a large green-and-white ferry gliding across calm waters. Several tall ships with white sails are in the distance, adding to the maritime charm. In the foreground, a tree-lined street with pedestrians and historic brick buildings overlooks the waterfront.

What to Do in Port Townsend

I visited Port Townsend twice last summer. On my drives into town, I stop at Sunrise Coffee Company, my go-to coffee shop, tucked beside docked boats and flag-covered masts—a fitting welcome to this maritime city.

My weekends were filled with good food from Finnriver Farm & Cidery and Khu Larb, wandering downtown streets, shopping in Uptown, and catching golden-hour views from a friend’s docked boat at the Wooden Boat Festival, one of the largest events of its kind in North America.

One afternoon, I grabbed an Italian ice from Elevated Ice Cream and walked the waterfront behind it. Squawking seabirds provided a soundtrack as I made my way along the boardwalk to the driftwood-strewn beach next to the Northwest Maritime Center.

I admired the totem pole in front of it, a gift from the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe and a reflection of the region’s seafaring Native peoples, the original wood boat artisans.

Exploring the Northwest Maritime Center, a modern yellow building with wooden siding and large windows, is one of the best Port Townsend activities. A tall totem pole at the entrance showcases Indigenous artistry, while visitors walk by and the waterfront peeks through in the background, emphasizing the center’s coastal location.

Later that day, after a stop at Soak on the Sound, a spa-like bathhouse with private soaking tubs, I made my way to Fort Worden State Park—a stunning place to enjoy late afternoon sunlight. There’s nothing quite like hiking along the grasses and wind-swept trees on the bluffs while overlooking the water.

Whether you’re planning a day trip or a weekend getaway, this list will help you experience the best of Port Townsend.

1. Stroll Downtown Port Townsend & Water Street

No visit is complete without a walk down Water Street, the heart of the city’s historic district, lined with Victorian-era buildings and waterfront views.

I met up with a friend who had taken the ferry from Whidbey Island. After lunch, we went to the Rose Theater to admire its vintage movie posters and black-and-white portraits of mid-century film stars.

To get there, we strolled past Tyler Street Plaza, an inviting courtyard framed by restaurants and shops like Waterfront Pizza and Better Living Through Coffee. Strung lights and a mural add to its charm, and water views offer a chance to watch passing ferries.

A scene at Tyler Street Plaza, waterfront plaza with outdoor seating, potted plants, and string lights overhead, creating a relaxed atmosphere. A café named 'Better Living Through Coffee' sits on the left, with people enjoying drinks on the deck. In the background, a ferry moves across the bay, while visitors sit by the water’s edge, soaking in the scenic coastal view.

Turn around, and you’ll see the Historic Fire Bell Tower perched above Water Street. Later in this post, I’ll share more about Port Townsend’s historic landmarks.

We passed by a pair of street poets who had set up a small table with vintage typewriters, offering to write poems on any topic for any price—a perfect snapshot of Port Townsend’s creative spirit.

A lively sidewalk scene where a street poet, dressed in a hat and earthy tones, sits at a small table typing on a vintage typewriter. A wooden sign reading 'STOP FOR A POEM – ANY TOPIC, ANY PRICE' invites passersby to participate. Around them, people stroll, chat, and walk their dogs, creating a vibrant and artistic atmosphere in this charming downtown setting.

2. Embrace Port Townsend’s Maritime Heritage & Marine Life

Just down the street from the Rose Theatre, we walked to Union Wharf, a historic pier first built in 1867 to support Port Townsend’s booming shipping industry.

Today, it offers panoramic views of Port Townsend Bay and serves as a stop on the čičməhán Trail—a self-guided route of 18 sites throughout the city that shares the history of the S’Klallam Tribe, the original inhabitants of this land.

The pier is also home to Gunther, a 42-foot-long gray whale skeleton. This striking display highlights the region’s deep connection to the Salish Sea and its marine life.

A scenic waterfront exhibit at Union Wharf featuring a large whale skeleton suspended under a wooden pavilion on a pier. A woman in a pink jacket reads an informational sign about 'The Eelgrass Meadow' in the foreground. Visitors stroll along the pier, taking in the coastal views of calm waters and distant boats under a partly cloudy sky.

The end of Water Street is where you’ll find the Northwest Maritime Center, a hub for sailing classes and events celebrating maritime adventure.

For years, I had wanted to attend their annual Wooden Boat Festival.

Last September, I finally did, and it exceeded my expectations. It’s an event for all ages, with live music, food vendors, and hands-on workshops.

Children play on a wooden boat-themed playground at the Wooden Boat Festival, decorated with colorful nautical flags at an outdoor festival. A girl in a polka-dot dress and pink headphones walks across the deck, while others climb and pretend to steer. In the background, a lively crowd explores booths, wooden boats, and maritime exhibits.

But what stood out most was the passion of wooden boat owners and the care they take in preserving this timeless tradition.

3. Explore Port Townsend’s Outdoor Attractions

Fort Worden is the city’s best outdoor destination, only eight minutes from downtown. Construction of this strategic fort began in 1897 to defend Puget Sound from naval invasion.

Today, its coastal trails, beaches, and campsites make it a must-visit for outdoor adventurers. My family spent a holiday weekend here exploring its highlights, from the Commanding Officer’s Quarters Museum and Marine Science Center to the Point Wilson Lighthouse at the park’s northernmost tip.

A tranquil beach scene at Fort Worden State Park, with driftwood scattered along the sandy shoreline. A woman walks near the water while a child crouches by the waves, enjoying the peaceful setting. In the distance, a historic Point Wilson Lighthouse and red-roofed buildings stand against a backdrop of rolling hills and a partly cloudy sky.

Fort Flagler State Park, a 45-minute drive away on Marrowstone Island, is another fantastic destination with a shared history and similar WWII-era forts, batteries, and attractions. It’s a quieter, more remote alternative to Fort Worden.

A historic concrete bunker, Battery Bankhead at Fort Flagler State Park, sits partially covered with grass, blending into the surrounding forest of tall evergreen trees. The structure has multiple dark openings and a sign above the entrance. Sunlight filters through the trees, casting shadows on the lawn, while a picnic table and informational board stand in front of the bunker.

If you’d rather stay closer to downtown, Chetzemoka Park is a peaceful retreat with landscaped gardens, winding pathways, and beach access to Admiralty Inlet.

North Beach County Park, just west of Fort Worden, is a favorite for beachcombing and is known to locals as Glass Beach.

4. Step Into Port Townsend’s History

On my last visit, a friend and I walked past the Haller Fountain after dinner, and seeing the goddess and her cherubs was so much more enchanting at night.

The Haller Fountain, at the base of the Taylor Street stairs, has been a Port Townsend landmark since 1906. Vandalism, a vehicle crash, and deterioration caused the original to be replaced by a bronze replica in 1993.

We walked up the stairway to Uptown, the quieter area above downtown with historic homes and tree-lined streets, and arrived at the Rothschild House Museum, built in 1868.

The side of the historic Rothschild House, a white wooden building with dark shutters, is bathed in warm golden light. A covered porch frames a stunning view of the blue waters of Port Townsend Bay, with sailboats anchored near the shore. Below, red-brick historic buildings stand against a backdrop of forested hills, capturing the charm of this coastal city. — Photo courtesy Jefferson County Historical Society

The Rothschild House offers a fascinating glimpse into 19th-century life, preserved almost exactly as it was when D.C.H. Rothschild, a Bavarian immigrant and successful merchant, and his family lived there for nearly a century.

Visit the first Saturday of the month when admission is free!

We turned left and continued through Uptown until we reached the Historic Fire Bell Tower.

This 75-foot wooden structure was built in 1890 to house a 1,500-pound brass bell that rang to rally the community to fight fires. It’s the last of its kind in the country, having withstood the elements and countless storms.

A vibrant downtown Port Townsend street scene framed by two ornate red-brick buildings with arched windows and intricate detailing. Lush green trees line the entrance to a narrow street leading uphill, where the Historic Fire Bell Tower, a red wooden structure, stands above the town. Pedestrians walk along the sidewalks and cross the street, adding to the lively, historic charm of the area. — Fire Bell Tower perched over Water Street

The Uptown district has a fascinating history as a refuge from the rowdiness that once marked downtown in the late 1880s. It’s where wealthy investors and business owners built their grand Victorian homes, creating a more refined, family-oriented community.

Uptown Port Townsend Highlight: Aldrich’s Market

Aldrich’s, originally built in 1896, is more than just a market to pick up essentials, it’s a beloved institution that’s survived two fires and multiple ownership changes to remain a cornerstone of the Uptown community.

Beyond the fresh produce and grab-and-go foods, you’ll also find a thoughtfully curated selection of accessories and gifts. It’s my favorite place to shop in Port Townsend! Whoever does the buying has impeccable taste.

Back downtown, the Jefferson Museum of Art & History, housed in the 1892 City Hall building, features a remarkable collection of 19th-century photos.

I highly recommend the museum’s walking tours, offered on Saturdays in July and August.

Legends and Lore of Port Townsend – Uncover the legends and mysteries of 19th-century Port Townsend on a tour that blends historical investigation with the town’s most infamous tales.
Vanishing Murals of Port Townsend – Discover Port Townsend’s ghost murals, faded advertisements painted on historic buildings that offer a glimpse into the town’s 19th-century commercial past.

Things to do in Port Townsend, WA, include exploring historic brick buildings with vintage murals. This weathered advertisement for a seafood restaurant and an uptown inn adds to the city’s charm as three pedestrians walk by, one pausing to admire the fading artwork.

5. Discover Local Art & Live Music

Last summer, I walked over to the Bishop Hotel, curious to try their delicious rose wine slushies. Before heading in, I noticed a yellow sign with black letters reading “Studio Tour” and an arrow. Intrigued, I followed it downstairs.

The exterior of the Bishop Block Bottle Shop, a wine bar and café housed in a historic red-brick building. A bright yellow 'Studio Tour' sign directs visitors to local artist studios, with a chalkboard listing 'Carricove Studio Suite E.' The sidewalk is lined with parked cars, decorative lampposts, and hanging flower baskets, adding charm to the bustling downtown street.

Two artists welcomed me into their space. We chatted as I browsed their work, and one of them invited me to return for Concerts on the Dock, a free outdoor music series at Pope Marine Plaza, on Thursdays in July and August.

I later learned that the Artist Studio Tour had returned after a five-year hiatus, and I just happened to be in town the very weekend of its comeback.

Held the weekend before Labor Day, this free, self-guided tour lets you step inside local artists’ studios, meet the artists, and experience Port Townsend’s creative community firsthand.

Port Townsend’s art galleries are open year-round, and Centrum, a world-class arts organization based at Fort Worden, hosts exhibits, festivals, and concerts throughout the year, including its beloved ukulele, jazz, and acoustic blues events.

A live performance at a Centrum event, one of the best Port Townsend attractions, with a musician singing into a microphone on stage. A pianist and guitarist accompany him, seated nearby. The audience watches attentively inside the open-air venue, with lush green trees visible through the large open entrance, creating a scenic and immersive concert experience.

Live music is woven into the culture here. The Bishop Hotel hosts weekly performances, including Live Jazz Thursdays, Piano Bar Fridays, and Live Music Saturdays.

Where to Stay in Port Townsend

Here’s a short list of places to stay.

Notable Hotels – Stay in a charming, historic setting at the Palace Hotel, The Bishop Hotel, or The Swan Hotel.
Waterfront Hotels – For a room with a view, consider The Monarch Hotel, or The Tides Inn.
B&Bs & Unique Stays – Enjoy a boutique experience at Ravenscroft Inn or People’s Inn.
Camping & RV Parks – If you prefer a more outdoorsy stay, Fort Worden, Fort Flagler, Jefferson County Fairgrounds offer camping and RV options.

Book months in advance if you’re visiting for the Wooden Boat Festival. Accommodations fill up fast.

Where to Eat & Drink in Port Townsend

I’ve mentioned a few of my favorite spots in the sections above, but Finnriver Farm & Cidery in Chimacum, just 15 minutes from downtown, deserves a closer look.

Why Stop at Finnriver Farm & Cidery

Their wood-fired, thin-crust pizzas are impossible to resist, and since they’re so light, you won’t feel bad about finishing a whole one yourself.

The salad I ordered with bratwurst, sauerkraut, and a drizzle of sauce was a standout. Every flavor worked, and I devoured it.

A plate of sliced sausage drizzled with a creamy green sauce, served over a bed of fresh greens and sauerkraut, accompanied by a crisp pickle spear. A glass of dark cider sits behind the meal on a rustic wooden picnic table. The outdoor setting at Finnriver Farm & Cidery provides a relaxed, farm-to-table dining experience with lush greenery in the background.

Cider is the star of the show here and options are plentiful. I always ask the staff about their current favorite. Last time, I tried the Black Oak, a dark, bold cider that paired perfectly with my meal.

Beyond the food and drinks, Finnriver’s setting is part of the experience. Their open space features Cornhole and a structure for kids to climb, inviting relaxation and a sense of play.

A lively outdoor scene at Finnriver Farm & Cidery, where families enjoy games and relaxation on a grassy field. A woman hula hoops while children play nearby, and a man participates in a game of cornhole. In the background, sunflowers bloom near an informational sign, with rolling hills and forests stretching into the distance, creating a picturesque farm setting.

Before leaving, I wandered through the garden, snapping photos of towering sunflowers and vibrant cosmos—just one more reason Finnriver is worth the stop.

Take a guided tasting tour through Finnriver’s orchard to learn about the farm’s history, cidermaking styles, sustainability initiatives, and more!

Other notable spots:

Owl Sprit – Get here early, or you may have to wait for a table. I assure you their bowls, burgers, and sandwiches are worth the wait!
Khu Larb – Hands down, the best Thai food in town.
Finistere – A treat-yourself or special-occasion spot that delivers, highlighting fresh, local ingredients in a refined yet relaxed setting.
Lila’s Kitchen – Off the beaten path with outdoor seating only, but the food was so good I savored every bite.
Siren’s – My go-to for a nightcap after festivals. THING Festival may be gone, but Siren’s still serves up excellent Brazilian Mules and craft cocktails.

Many restaurants close earlier than expected. Check hours ahead of time, especially in the off-season.

A group of deer, including fawns with spotted coats, lounge on the front lawn of a small white house with an American flag hanging by the porch. The peaceful suburban setting features a mix of greenery and neighboring homes, including a red building in the background. Overhead power lines stretch across the cloudy sky, adding to the quiet, everyday charm of this scene.

Wrap-Up: Port Townsend Activities & Attractions

Port Townsend’s history, art, and relaxed coastal charm make it one of the best cities on the Olympic Peninsula and worthy of a stop on your national park tour.

With each visit, I leave with a greater appreciation for its beauty and the art-minded community that shapes its culture.

Whether you stay for a weekend or just a day, you’ll soon be planning your next trip.