Port Townsend is a charming little town on the west coast of USA that truly offers lots to see and do than meets the eye! In fact, the old saying “good things come in small packages” couldn't be more true about Townsend, which despite its size boasts a myriad of historic homes, a rich maritime heritage, a lovely beach and plenty of annual events to keep one’s heart’s content!
Below are some great place not to miss while visiting Port Townsend:
Port Townsend Visitor’s Center
If you’re new in town it’s worth making Port Townsend Visitor’s Center your first stop in town, especially if you’re only visiting for a short stay.
You’ll be able to pick up free maps, buy tour tickets to visit the historic homes, and talk to the staff about events happening in town that day. The visitor’s center is located at 440 12th St at the Haines St. Park-n-Ride.
Fort Worden State Park
Fort Worden State Park is, undoubtedly, one of the most popular places to visit in Port Townsend since it is home to the Marine Science Center and the Coast Artillery Museum.
The Marine Science center boasts interesting exhibits and programs that teach about the local marine life; while the Coast Artillery Museum boasts pioneer and military artifacts on display such as uniforms, old gun emplacements and old photographs.
Besides this, you’ll be able explore the fort’s historic buildings such as the barracks, officer’s quarters and Alexander’s Castle (pictured), which the oldest building in Fort Worden State Park.
Port Townsend Historic District
Port Townsend’s historic Victorian homes are, without a doubt, the top attraction in town and the reason why most people come to visit Port Townsend in the first place.
Port Townsend Historic District boasts around a hundred homes built in the Victorian era, and the great thing is that many of this homes are open to the public for tours.
If you’d like to visit and tour a Victorian home, the Jefferson Healthcare Hospital Auxiliary allows self-guided tours of some of the historic homes, though only on Saturdays and Sundays, so you may want to organize your trip to Port Townsend over the weekend.
Kelly Art Deco Light Museum
The Kelly Art Deco Light Museum is another of the places to visit in Port Townsend, especially if you’re interested in vintage light fixtures.
The museum boasts a great variety of 1930’s light fixtures such as chandeliers and table lights that graced the homes of the wealthy back then.
The Kelly Art Deco Museum is located at 2000 West Sims Way, just a few blocks away from the Jefferson Healthcare.
Port Townsend Brewing Company
If you love your beer and fancy mingling with the friendly locals, Port Townsend Brewing Company is a nice place to spend a couple of hours tasting great local brews and find out a bit more about the town from a resident's perspective.
Port Townsend Brewing Company is located on 10th Street, just off West Sims Way.
Bell Tower
Bell Tower is another great historic landmark in town and it’s also a popular attraction to visit as it offers amazing views of the bay and downtown Port Townsend.
Bell Tower is located between Jefferson Street and the Bluff on Tyler Street
Port Townsend Farmer’s Market
If you enjoy visiting farmers’ markets, be sure to add Port Townsend farmer’s market to your list of places to visit in Port Townsend.
Besides being able to sample local foods and buy local crafts, Port Townsend Farmer’s Market is another great place to mingle with the locals and soak in a great atmosphere.
Port Townsend Farmer’s Market is held every Saturday between 9 and 2 pm at 103 Hudson Street (nearby Point Hudson ferry terminal).
Kah Tai Lagoon
If you enjoy observing wildlife and taking nature walks, another of the places to visit in Port Townsend is Kah Tai Lagoon, which is located right in the heart of downtown Port Townsend.
Chetzemoka Park
A visit to Port Townsend wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Chetzemoka Park, which is definitely one of the most stunning parks you’ll ever set eyes on!
The park not only boasts beautiful plant gardens and floral displays to look at, but also plenty of nice areas to enjoy a picnic. You can also enjoy amazing views of Admiralty Inlet and the Cascade Mountains from here.
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