There are countless things to love about living in Washington and most likely the top item on your “it list” is the close proximity to places worth exploring. Whether it’s a day trip you crave or a weekend getaway, the historic waterfront town of Port Gamble has a little something for everyone. From cool shops and tree-lined streets to stellar views and New England-style homes, read on for the inside scoop on this quaint getaway on the Kitsap Peninsula.
photo: Port Gamble Guest Houses
Where to Play
Port Gamble Playground
Since playing at the playground is at the top of just about every kids’ fun list, checking out this new play area is a no-brainer. It boasts five slides, swings, a playhouse with lookout and is surrounded by soft mulch. There are picnic tables with umbrellas surrounding the play area, so feel free to grab some grub and let the kiddos burn off their energy. The playground is located directly behind the main street of town, you can’t miss it.
Downtown Port Gamble – off Highway 104
Port Gamble, Wa
photo: Allison Rasmussen
Port Gamble Historic Museum
If you have a history buff in the fam or you simply want to learn about the history of Port Gamble, be sure to take a tour of the Port Gamble Historic Museum. Here, you will learn interesting facts and see artifacts dating back to the 1800s; learn about the town’s founders Andrew Jackson Pope and Frederick Talbot; and see how it all began. Museum tours are a great price at just $4 for adults and free for tykes 6 and under.
32400 Rainier Ave. N.E.
Port Gamble, Wa 98364
Online: portgamble.com/visitin/museum
Hours: Oct. 1-Apr. 30: Fri.-Sun., 11 a.m.-4 p.m., closed Mon.-Thurs; May 1-Sept. 30: Sun.-Sat. 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
Olympic Outdoor Center
Port Gamble is an awesome place for those who love the outdoors and want to become one with nature. The Olympic Outdoor Center is located in the old fire station and is pretty much your one-stop shop for renting kayaks, mountain bikes and any other gear you may need. From water or land, you can behold views of the Olympic Mountains or hear the calls of the harbor seals.
32379 Rainier Ave. N.E.
Port Gamble, Wa 98364
Online: olympicoutdoorcenter.com
Hours: Times vary depending on the season; check their website for specifics.
photo: Allison Rasmussen
Where to Shop
Port Gamble General Store
What once served as a place for locals to purchase all their necessities has now turned into a historic store where you can purchase candy, ice cream, gifts, cards, souvenirs, home decor and local wine. Their candy aisle is top-notch and offers some old school favorites that will surely take you back in time. Also, don’t forget to head upstairs and check out the Of Sea and Shore Museum to view one of the largest collection of seashells.
32400 Rainier Ave. N.E.
Port Gamble, Wa 98364
Online: portgamblegeneralstore.com
Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Fri.-Sun., 8 a.m.-7 p.m.
photo: Allison Rasmussen
Quilted Strait
Whether you have a sewer in your midst or not, this colorful shop full of funky fabrics and other sewing supplies is a fun one to wander through. Take a look, they just may have that special fabric you’ve been searching for.
32280 Puget Way N.E.
Port Gamble, Wa 98364
Online: quiltedstrait.com
Hours: Sun.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
No.7 Books
For book lovers big (and small), be sure to peruse the book collection at No.7 books. They offer a large collection of books both old and new and we guarantee you will find something to add to your library.
32319 Rainier Ave. N.E.
Port Gamble, Wa 98364
Online: no7books.com
Hours: Varies; call 360-881-0489 for hours and events
Wish and Rainy Day Antiques
As you make your way down the historic main street, you will want to check out this gem of an antique store. There are several rooms filled with unique jewelry, gifts, decor and toys. Whether you want to pick up something for yourself or are in need of a gift, you’re sure to find something interesting.
32220 Rainier Ave. N.E.
Port Gamble, Wa 98364
Hours: Wed.-Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; closed Mon. & Tues.
photo: Allison Rasmussen
Where to Eat
Mike’s Four Star Barbeque
What once started out as a road-side stand, has now turned into a hugely popular restaurant for tourists and locals alike. Best known for their Carolina style BBQ, you can’t go wrong with their ribs, brisket or pulled pork. Also check out the Carolina Piggy and Old Mill pickle chips, because they’re delicious and fun to say.
4719 N.E. State Hwy 104
Port Gamble, Wa 98364
Online: mikesfourstarbbq.com
Hours: Thurs.-Sat., 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; closed Mon.-Wed.
photo: Gluten Free F. via Yelp
Port Gamble General Store and Cafe
Located in the back section of the General Store, this cafe serves up fresh, local and organic cooking. Here you’ll find a relaxed, sit-down, slow-cooked food kind of vibe, because after all, good food takes time. Right as you head into the cafe, you’ll see a display case filled with yummy desserts and pastries, so be sure to pick out what you’ll end your meal with or even start your meal with, we won’t judge!
32400 Rainier Ave. N.E.
Port Gamble, Wa 98364
Online: portgamblegeneralstore.com
Hours: Mon., 11 a.m.-8:30 p.m.; closed Tues. & Wed.; Thurs., 11 a.m.-8:30 p.m.; Fri.-Sun., 8 a.m.-8:30 p.m.
photo: Allison Rasmussen
The Tea Room at Port Gamble
It’s always tea time in Port Gamble. That’s the motto at this popular spot, and they mean it. Stop in for a cup of tea, hot chocolate or lunch. The Tea Room offers formal tea, light lunch and Sunday champagne brunch. And if handcrafted premium chocolates are your thing, they’ve got you covered. Check out their huge selection of decadent truffles—bet you can’t eat just one!
32279 Rainier St.
Port Gamble, Wa 98364
Online: tasteportgamble.com
Hours: Tues.-Sun., 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; closed Mon.
photo: Allison Rasmussen
Where To Stay
Port Gamble Guest Houses
If you are looking to make your visit a long weekend and need a place to set up camp, look no further than the Port Gamble Guest Houses. They offer guest houses that can sleep anywhere from 2 to 10 people and are situated on the hill overlooking the entrance to Hood Canal. All houses come with fully equipped kitchens, towels and linens. They also provide books, games, fire pits, kites, croquet, horseshoes and sand toys. Kick back on the front porch, while sipping your drink of choice, and watch as your wee ones engage in some good ol’ fashioned outdoor fun.
32440 Puget Ave N.E.
Port Gamble, Wa 98364
Online: portgambleguesthouse.com
photo: Port Gamble Guest Houses
Have you explored Port Gamble or do you plan to soon? What’s your favorite attraction? Let us know in a comment below.
— Allison Rasmussen
