From its scenic lake and pristine meadows to its gun bunkers and time-honored buildings, Fort Worden Historical State Park is a treasure trove of nature and history. There is much to do and explore at the park, and Fort Worden's extensive features beckon to history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The park offers camping opportunities, a marine science center, a boat launch, and several other recreational activities. With summer music events, several different museums, and acres of trails, this park gets crowded on summer weekends.
Constructed in 1890, the Fire Bell Tower is regarded as a prominent historic fixture in Port Townsend. Towering over its surrounds at a height of 75 feet (22 meters), the tower once served the function of warning the area of heavy fogs and fires through the ringing of a brass bell incorporated into the structure. The signal resulting from this bell was transmitted to a string of fire alarm boxes set up across the city to announce the occurrence of a fire. Owing to its location, the bell tower offers picturesque views of the surroundings.
Sprawled along the shores of Port Townsend Bay, Fort Townsend State Park combines natural elements with historical features that delight all those who visit. Here, history buffs can peruse informative plaques to gain a deeper insight into the fort area's history, while outdoor enthusiasts can embark on hikes across its expanse. Explore scenic woodlands, cast a line and try your hand at fishing, go boating, or enjoy a picnic on lush lawns. You can also head down to the beach and soak in the sun on sandy shores. Additionally, the park features numerous campsites.
Northwest Maritime Center is located at the picturesque waterfront in Port Townsend, overlooking the shimmering bay. The center aims to engage visitors in the spectacular waterside culture of the town and educate them about maritime life. It features a unique wooden boat chandlery and a maritime thrift. Northwest Maritime Center is known to host exciting maritime events all year round, including the famous Wooden Boat Festival and Race to Alaska, along with training programs and workshops for kids and young adults. The center also offers spaces to host events like weddings and conferences.
Guiding vessels into the Puget Sound, Point Wilson Lighthouse was constructed in 1914. Standing at 51 feet (16 meters) the lighthouse is the tallest of its kind in the Puget Sound and was once the site of the horrible ship wreck of the S.S. Governor. Reportedly the keepers quarters are haunted by the ghost of a woman who has been seen rummaging around the house by the wives of the keepers stationed there. Come discover if its really haunted or not, or just enjoy the rich historic background, either way your visit to Point Wilson Lighthouse will be full of discoveries!
Nestled in a corner that intersects Franklin and Taylor Street, Rothschild House State Park Heritage Site features the eponymous house built in 1868 by David Charles Henry Rothschild, a German businessman who ran The Kentucky Store. The house was donated by the Rothschild family to the Jefferson County Historical Society in 1970, and was converted into a historic house museum. Exhibits primarily include handicrafts and textile materials. Visitors can not only embark on tours of the house but can also unwind amid the pleasant environs of the park which encompasses it.
The New Dungeness Lighthouse in Sequim has been aiding ships since 1857 when it was constructed. The current structure is a shorter version of its original self, standing at a height of 26 feet (7.9 meters). The lighthouse is still functional, which is why people from near and far visit it to witness something that has stood the test of time. Located on the famous Dungeness Spit in the Dungeness Wildlife Refuge, the imposing lighthouse is a splendid sight to behold. The journey to the site is adventurous as the lighthouse is encircled by a network of uneven rocks, so wear your hiking boots while visiting.
Constructed in 1890, the Fire Bell Tower is regarded as a prominent historic fixture in Port Townsend. Towering over its surrounds at a height of 75 feet (22 meters), the tower once served the function of warning the area of heavy fogs and fires through the ringing of a brass bell incorporated into the structure. The signal resulting from this bell was transmitted to a string of fire alarm boxes set up across the city to announce the occurrence of a fire. Owing to its location, the bell tower offers picturesque views of the surroundings.
Located at the heart of the picturesque Olympic Discovery Trail, the Railroad Bridge Park is a serene place to unwind, relax, and take in the town's pleasant atmosphere with your family. The centerpiece of this park is the archaic Dungeness Railroad Bridge that crosses the Dungeness River. Constructed in 1915, the bridge railroad bridge transported passengers and timber from Port Townsend to Port Angeles until it fell into disuse in 1985. Today, the carefully restored landmark is a popular recreational site. Visitors can stroll along the quaint river, admire the splendid bridge, and enjoy a leisurely picnic at the park.
Nestled on Whidbey Island, housed within the impressive Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve, Fort Ebey State Park is a fascinating parkland. Sprawled across an area of 651 acres (263 hectares), this gem of Coupeville is renowned among outdoor enthusiasts for its ethereal environs. Built around Fort Ebey, a defense fort dating back to World War II, this state park offers extensive mixed-use walking and biking trails, with striking views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca serving as the fitting backdrop. Home to the stunning Lake Pondilla, this state park packs in a rich array of exhilarating recreational activities such as hiking, fishing and camping.
Nature lovers, history buffs and culture enthusiasts are all in for a treat at the Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve. This magnificent and massive expanse of land comprises the Fort Casey, Fort Ebey and Ebey’s Landing State Parks. Given the boundless stretch of undulating terrain and fantastic verdure, it is no surprise that the reserve is a haven for thrilling recreational activities. Whether you’re looking to embark on a hike or comb a sun-kissed beach, this stellar reserve has got you covered. Apart from the noteworthy assortment of natural gems, Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve is renowned for its rich history. Established in 1978, this reserve was founded to protect and conserve a rural community that has inhabited Puget Sound since eternity and boasts an unbroken record of exploration, making this reserve the nation’s first-ever national historical reserve.
Sprawled along the shores of Port Townsend Bay, Fort Townsend State Park combines natural elements with historical features that delight all those who visit. Here, history buffs can peruse informative plaques to gain a deeper insight into the fort area's history, while outdoor enthusiasts can embark on hikes across its expanse. Explore scenic woodlands, cast a line and try your hand at fishing, go boating, or enjoy a picnic on lush lawns. You can also head down to the beach and soak in the sun on sandy shores. Additionally, the park features numerous campsites.