Port Townsend is a beautiful year-round vacation destination perfect for winter relaxation and exploration. This historic city has a little bit of everything and is especially great for a weekend getaway. Here are some ideas for a wintry Port Townsend excursion.
Trails
Port Townsend has numerous trails that accentuate the natural beauty of the city and surrounding areas. The Larry Scott Trailhead is located in Boat Haven and is the beginning of the Peninsula-spanning Olympic Discovery Trail. It has gorgeous views of the strait before moving into beautifully forested and shaded sections. It is also ADA compliant for the first two-mile segment in Port Townsend. Another great trail for sight-seeing in the city is the číčməhán Trail. The trail is multi-modal, and the trail distance is customizable to each trail user’s taste and abilities. You can either enjoy a single stop or complete the 1, 3, 6 and 12-mile socially distant options that explore sites of historical significance to the S’Klallam tribe in Port Townsend. The distance is entirely up to you.
Shopping
Nothing says small town charm like the locally owned businesses lining Port Townsend’s downtown area. The shops feature a little bit of everything, from clothing to artwork, and sweet treats to nautical-themed treasures. Shopping in Port Townsend is the perfect way to bring home a tiny piece of this eclectic city.
Cozy accommodations
Looking for a quiet place to curl up on a chilly afternoon? Port Townsend features numerous options for overnight and weekend stays, or even longer. There are plenty of B&Bs in the city, not to mention historical hotels like The Palace, Manresa Castle, The Waterstreet Hotel or The Bishop. If you have a larger group that would like to experience the city, consider renting one of the Officer’s Quarters at Fort Worden. Some of these historic buildings feature six rooms or more and even have kitchen facilities, not to mention the beautiful views you can take in of the strait from the bluffs at Fort Worden.
Delicious Eats
Nothing wraps up a great day exploring like tasty local fare. This maritime community not only has freshly caught seafood, but also offers multicultural cuisine; there’s a little something for everyone. Stop at restaurants like the Silverwater Café or Old Whiskey Mill for delicious lunch and dinner menus. After eating, consider capping off the evening at Vintage by Port Townsend Vineyards for local wines and amazing sea views.
Even during the chilly days of winter, Port Townsend is a one-of-a-kind destination. Whether you like your activities indoor or want to enjoy the brisk seaside air, Port Townsend is the place to be this winter.
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