Overview
This 1880s seaport is blessed with abundant history and culture, breathtaking beaches and parks, a working waterfront, summertime festivals and intriguing shops and galleries. For Northwesterners weary of gray skies, it's also an oasis of drier, sunnier weather.
The Experience
Explore Fort Worden State Park, just north of downtown, is a retired military fort bustling with activity and dignified turn-of-the-century buildings. The Maritime Education Alliance and the Wooden Boat Foundation offer workshops as short as one day from April through October (360-385-3628). Or visit the Northwest School of Wooden Boatbuilding (360-385-4948) to see apprentices learning their craft. For collectibles and antiques, try April Fool and Penny Too (725 Water St.). The Green Eyeshade (720 Water St.) offers fine gifts and tableware at good prices. And don't miss Twigs (425 Water St.), a tiny venue brimming with hats, British military surplus items, tea and other anglophilia.