Travel Guide: Poulsbo, Washington

Population: 10,400.

Now that may be fairly small compared to larger cities on the Seattle side of the water, but the small town of Poulsbo has many great hidden gems in it that make it a great place for a weekend getaway, or even a place to settle down and have a family in. Here a just a few things that are musts to explore or experience in the Nordic town of Poulsbo, Washington.

1. Downtown Poulsbo Waterfront

The waterfront of Poulsbo is really the central part of the entire town. It has the most history and consists of various shops and restaurants that anybody can enjoy. The world-famous Sluys Bakery is located here, as well as the SEA Discovery Aquarium, which can be a lot of fun for those with kids. On every third of July, the city of Poulsbo puts on a fireworks show on the water which can be viewed perfectly from downtown. Every holiday season, the city puts on a tree lighting ceremony as well that is fun to attend as well! Downtown Poulsbo is very eclectic, which makes it a perfect spot to explore and find your new favorite restaurant/shop in!

2. Viking Fest

This Three-Day Weekend event is actually coming up in the month of May and it is a VERY big deal in Poulsbo. Everyone, and I mean EVERYONE comes together from either Poulsbo or neighboring towns to downtown Poulsbo for all the festivities of the fest. For young kids, Viking Fest is like the Disneyland of the Northwest. The fest includes carnival rides and games, and a Saturday parade. For foodies, the parking lots are cleared and food stands are stacked on top of another that come from many various different areas of Washington. Many citizens go all out for the fest, like all out, like I am talking traditional Viking clothing and animal blow horns. Overall, the event is something one should attend at least once and can be great fun for families, especially those with younger children.

3. Outside Recreation

For those that love nature or enjoy doing activities that involve being outside and being "one with nature", then Poulsbo is your place to be. During the summer, kayaking in Liberty Bay is very popular, as well as flyfishing in designated areas. Hiking trails are also in close proximity to the town, so it is not too hard to find something to do when the PNW weather is cooperating!

4. Neighboring Towns

Though this travel guide is on Poulsbo, Washington, the town itself has some great neighboring towns that are worth the time to explore as well! Port Gamble is a very historic little town, that has a very similar feel to Poulsbo but on a smaller scale. It has the Port Gamble General Store, that includes a mini-museum upstairs and a fantastic restaurant in the back that is worth a visit. Kingston is also right next door to Poulsbo and has a great little waterfront as well that is pretty to walk around when the weather is good. Every holiday season, the city of Kingston also puts on a great lighting display to walk around and view, which can be great family fun!