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Port Townsend Travel Guide

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Fun Things to Do in Port Townsend
The Hastings Building in Port Townsend

The Hastings Building in Port Townsend

© Angela M. Brown (2008)
Perched on the northeastern tip of Washington's Olympic Peninsula, Port Townsend offers visitors an attractive combination of spectacular natural beauty and Victorian charm. A shipbuilding boomtown in the late 1800s, Port Townsend is home to grand historic buildings and residences, many which house the B&Bs and shops that make the city a popular tourist destination. Surrounded by water, its location and proximity to Olympic National Park and Olympic National Forest make it a haven for artists, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Fort Worden State Park
The Washington State Park department now operates the wide range of facilities on this turn-of-the-century military base, located within the city limits of Port Townsend. Visitors can take advantage of the park's vacation housing and meeting facilities, campsites, and picnic grounds. The park's Balloon Hangar pavilion hosts concerts, theater events, and festivals throughout the year. The charming and historic Point Wilson Lighthouse is located at the northeast tip of the park.

Historic Homes
There are dozens of well-preserved historic homes in Port Townsend. Their beautiful exteriors can be viewed on a walking tour, while driving through town, or on the annual "Historic Homes Tour". Many of the town's businesses occupy attractive historic buildings as well.

Jefferson County Historical Museum
Explore the heritage of the region, from Native American culture and early European exploration to Port Townsend's Victorian splendor and military history.

Port Townsend Marine Science Center
The Marine Science Center offers wildlife viewing cruises to Protection Island, summer camp programs for kids age 9 - 13, teacher training programs, and other education programs in its public marine exhibit and education facility.

The Wooden Boat Foundation
The Wooden Boat Foundation sponsors the annual Port Townsend Wooden Boat Festival and provides the opportunity to learn more about traditional maritime practices.

Art Galleries
Surrounded by so much natural inspiration, Port Townsend's artist community thrives. The town's many art galleries feature Native American handicrafts, watercolors, pottery, and jewelry.

Outdoor Activities in Port Townsend

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