Wander and Munch: Adventures and Bites in Port Orchard, Washington!
Starting a journey to find hidden treasures often brings pleasant surprises, and Port Orchard in Washington is no different. Just an hour from Seattle, this lovely town offers a perfect getaway with its historical charm, unique shops, and beautiful nature. Whether you're coming from Seattle or the airport, Port Orchard promises a fun adventure. Let’s go!
Starting a journey to find hidden treasures often brings pleasant surprises, and Port Orchard in Washington is no different. Just an hour from Seattle, this lovely town offers a perfect getaway with its historical charm, unique shops, and beautiful nature. Whether you're coming from Seattle or the airport, Port Orchard promises a fun adventure. Let’s go!
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Travel Tips
- For flights, Skyscanner is excellent for comparing the best airline deals.
- For accommodations, our family trusts Booking.com for reasonable prices.
- Organize your trips easily with a Travel Planner.
- For tried-and-true travel and hiking gear, check out our Amazon Storefront.
- From Seattle to Port Orchard: Approximately 1 hour (depending on traffic)
- From Seattle-Tacoma International Airport: Around 1 hour and 15 minutes
The Tacoma Narrows Bridge is a suspension bridge in Pierce County. It connects the city of Tacoma to the Kitsap Peninsula. If you're coming from the airport or Seattle, you'll take this scenic bridge to reach Port Orchard.
At the Airport
- Enterprise Rent-A-Car
- Address: South 160th Street, SeaTac, WA
Take the Airport Free Shuttle
If you're arriving at Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA), you can easily hop on the free shuttle to the car rental area. We really like Enterprise because we've rented from them for most of our trips in Canada and the U.S.
At Port Orchard
- Enterprise Rent-A-Car
- Address: 4800 Jackson Ave SE STE 3, Port Orchard, WA 98366
There’s a drop-off spot at Port Orchard, which is great if you’re meeting family or friends and no longer need the car. If you need a smaller car or have any issues, their office is ready to help.
Where to Park
We usually park behind Josephine’s Mercantile. It's a spacious, free parking area, and you can easily walk to the main street from there.
Reminders: Please follow the speed limit and slow down; you're in a lovely town where people respect each other. Remember to give way and be kind.
Where to Stay
We stayed in the Oyster Bay Inn & Suites for a more relaxing stay. It’s just a short 12 to 15-minute drive from downtown Port Orchard. The place had a big room and a nice breakfast option that could be delivered to our room, allowing us to enjoy it on our balcony with a beautiful lake view.
Things to do in Port Orchard, Washington
1. Explore Port Orchard's Historical Downtown
2. Discover Unique Finds at Josephine’s Mercantile
Where to Park
- Address: 701 Bay St, Port Orchard, WA 98366
Reminders: Please follow the speed limit and slow down; you're in a lovely town where people respect each other. Remember to give way and be kind.
Where to Stay
- Oyster Bay Inn & Suites
- 2 days 1 night: 142.66 USD
- Breakfast included
We stayed in the Oyster Bay Inn & Suites for a more relaxing stay. It’s just a short 12 to 15-minute drive from downtown Port Orchard. The place had a big room and a nice breakfast option that could be delivered to our room, allowing us to enjoy it on our balcony with a beautiful lake view.
The best part of staying at Oyster Bay Inn & Suites was the amazing view, and they kindly let us check out late at 12 noon instead of 11 a.m., which is really helpful for families with kids.
Things to do in Port Orchard, Washington
1. Explore Port Orchard's Historical Downtown
- The area has old buildings from the late 1800s and early 1900s, showing its beginnings as a shipbuilding town.
- Check out the Sidney Museum and Arts Association in a historic building from 1908 to learn more about the local history.
- See the Old Fire Station from 1924, which now shows what life was like back then with its restored interior and displays.
2. Discover Unique Finds at Josephine’s Mercantile
- Josephine’s Mercantile
- Address: 701 Bay St, Port Orchard, WA 98366
Find unique gifts and locally made items at Jo’s Mercantile, perfect for a special souvenir.
3. Sip your Favorite Brew at Café Elite
There are many cute standalone drive-thru coffee shops, but this one is my favorite. The coffee is delicious, the place is clean, and the drive-thru vibes is welcoming.
I've tried several coffee spots and have had some disappointing experiences. One time, I ordered hot coffee and received a cup at room temperature, suggesting it had been sitting out for too long. When we asked for a fresh one, they just microwaved it. On another occasion, the coffee tasted burnt, probably because the paper filter had been left in too long.
Finding a great drive-thru coffee shop can be difficult, but this place has truly exceeded my expectations.
4. Sweet Treats at Carter and Company
3. Sip your Favorite Brew at Café Elite
- Cafe Elite
- Address: 1905 SE Sedgwick Rd, Port Orchard, WA 98366
There are many cute standalone drive-thru coffee shops, but this one is my favorite. The coffee is delicious, the place is clean, and the drive-thru vibes is welcoming.
I've tried several coffee spots and have had some disappointing experiences. One time, I ordered hot coffee and received a cup at room temperature, suggesting it had been sitting out for too long. When we asked for a fresh one, they just microwaved it. On another occasion, the coffee tasted burnt, probably because the paper filter had been left in too long.
Finding a great drive-thru coffee shop can be difficult, but this place has truly exceeded my expectations.
4. Sweet Treats at Carter and Company
- Carter and Company
- Address: 707 Bay St, Port Orchard, WA 98366
This is a wonderful stop, a local shop to get ice cream, chocolates, pastries and more. Enjoy a scoop or two at Carter’s Ice Cream, featuring a range of classic and creative flavors.
They offer gluten-free and vegan cake donuts, along with coffee, providing you with a guilt-free indulgence.
- Dudes Donuts Coffee House
- Address: 632 Bay St, Port Orchard, WA 98366
They offer gluten-free and vegan cake donuts, along with coffee, providing you with a guilt-free indulgence.
5. Relax at Port Orchard Waterfront Park
- Port Orchard Waterfront Park
- Address: 933 Bay St, Port Orchard, WA 98366
After feeding your sugar cravings, enjoy a stroll and relax by the Waterfront Park, with views of the marina and boats. The park has a playground and picnic spots for summer fun.
They also have a Farmers Market held from April to October each year in the marina parking lot. Make sure to visit during Julefest in early December to enjoy the beautiful lights and festive decorations here.
- Dutch Bros Coffee
- Address: 3623 Bethel Road Southeast, Port Orchard, WA
Dutch Bros for unique beverages or captivating espresso-based creations. It's our favorite place when we're in the mood for something new with coffee. The staff here is consistently welcoming and friendly, taking their time with you without rushing, and the human connection is apparent. I greatly appreciate this, especially coming from Los Angeles, where it feels like no one has time to smile and chat.
7. Step Back in Time at the Museums
For history enthusiasts, here are some must-visit destinations.
- Veterans Living History Museum
- Address: 102 Sidney Ave, Port Orchard, WA 98366
Learn about veterans and see military memorabilia at the Veterans Living History Museum, which is great for history buffs.
- Sidney Art Gallery and Museum
- Address: 202 Sidney Ave, Port Orchard, WA 98366
Check out local art and discover the area's cultural history at the Sidney Art Gallery and Museum.
- Log Cabin Museum
- Address: 416 Sidney Ave, Port Orchard, WA 98366
Visit the Log Cabin Museum to experience life as it was for early Port Orchard settlers.
- Khao Soi
- Address: Bay Street, Port Orchard, WA
Known for its authentic Thai flavors, this spot offers Pad Thai and Green Curry that are absolutely delicious. The atmosphere is enhanced by traditional decor, creating a lovely dining experience right in the heart of downtown Port Orchard. They also have excellent customer service and a diverse menu catering to all spice preferences.
- Family Pancake & Dinner House
- Address: 1034 Bethel Ave, Port Orchard, WA 98366
This restaurant has been a favorite local spot since 1963. I ordered the Pepper Bacon Egg Benedict, and the Hollandaise sauce was fantastic! They also give kids a menu they can color on, which I really appreciate.
Unique Places to Visit in Port Orchard
If you're staying another day or coming back in a month, here are some unique places to visit in Port Orchard.
- Colello's Farm Stand Produce
- Address: 5003 Bethel Rd SE, Port Orchard, WA 98367
Before you go home, be sure to stop by this charming farm stand for fresh fruits and veggies.
In the fall, they have a lovely pumpkin patch. It's small, with no rides, free entry, free parking, no lines, and cute decorations. We loved it—it's the best!
10. Nature Hike at South Kitsap Regional Park
- South Kitsap Regional Park
- Address: 2841 SE Lund Ave, Port Orchard, WA 98366
Check out this beautiful park with beautiful walking trails, a big playground, and clean picnic spots. The Explorer Trail is an easy path with a few obstacles for kids, making it a fun way to enjoy nature. Best of all, it’s free to enter, and there’s free parking!
11. Train Ride with Kitsap Live Steamers
- Kitsap Live Steamers
- Address: 3101 SE Marbeth Ln, Port Orchard, WA 98366
- Located in: South Kitsap Regional Park
Don't forget to ride the miniature trains at Kitsap Live Steamers; they run from April to October. It's perfect for the family, young and old; everyone will surely have a smile on their face after the ride.
- Brothers Greenhouses
- Address: 3200 Victory Dr SW, Port Orchard, Washington, United States
If you're a fan of the Lord of the Rings movies, there's a surprise waiting for you in Port Orchard. Did you know there's a cute little hobbit house inside a greenhouse there? No need to travel to New Zealand—this is the spot!
13. September: Exciting Fall Activities at Miracle Ranch
- Miracle Ranch
- Address: 15999 Sidney Rd SW, Port Orchard, WA 98367
Enjoy outdoor fun and horseback riding at Miracle Ranch. In the fall, they offer exciting activities for the whole family. The entry fee is reasonable and includes parking. You also get free coffee and s'mores. They sell the best kettle corn popcorn I've ever tasted—freshly made and delicious! Plan to spend the whole day as there's plenty to do: horse riding, petting zoos, pumpkin carving, snacking on popcorn and hotdogs, sipping hot cocoa or coffee, relaxing by the fire, tractor rides, corn mazes, and more.
14. December: Witness the Christmas Lights Display
- Royal Wood Christmas Display
- Address: 3045 SE Royalwood Pl, Port Orchard, WA 98367
- Hours: Daily, 4:30 pm - 12 midnight
For the Christmas season, make sure to see the amazing walk-in light display. It's definitely worth the trip! Remember to drive slowly, follow the speed limit, don't pass other cars, and enjoy the ride.
Christmas Display
Address: 10634 Woodchuck Ln SE, Port Orchard, WA 98367
Address: 10634 Woodchuck Ln SE, Port Orchard, WA 98367
15. Participate in Annual Events
Visit the website for more info and updates.
Visit the website for more info and updates.
- April: Ladies Night Out – A special spring evening event for women, held near Mother’s Day.
- May: Mosquito Fleet Fest – Celebrates vintage steamboats.
- June, July, August, September: Night Market – A monthly summer event featuring local artisans and food trucks at the Port Orchard waterfront.
- October: Bay Street Ghost Hunt – A Halloween weekend event with costumes and various activities downtown.
- November: Small Business Saturday – Supports local shops in Downtown Port Orchard with special incentives.
- December: Holiday on the Bay – An all-day family holiday celebration with a tree lighting.
Port Orchard is a great escape from the city, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether you're visiting for a day or a weekend, this hidden gem will create unforgettable memories. Don't forget to sprinkle kindness on the locals, follow the speed limit, and soak up the charm of this delightful town!
Have fun and be safe ^__^
Explore Washington:
Do you want more adventure?
Where am I going next?
For my next adventure, we’ll be exploring Singapore’s Flower Dome - Guinness World Record Holder for the Largest Glass Greenhouse!
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