Things To Do
Bainbridge Island
Bainbridge Island can be reached via a walk-on or drive-on ferry from Seattle or by driving from the Port Orchard area. This quaint island is full of wineries, nature trails, and one of the famous Trolls, Pia the Peacekeeper. You’ll also find a charming downtown area with shopping and dining options — perfect for exploring before or after the wedding.
Poulsbo
Known as “Little Norway,” Poulsbo is a charming waterfront town located just a short drive from Port Orchard. It's full of quaint streets lined with shops, bakeries, and cafés, plus a scenic marina perfect for a stroll. Poulsbo is also home to Nordic-inspired architecture, local boutiques, and waterfront dining. One of our favorite stops there are Byrdie Coffee or Sluys Poulsbo Bakery.
Tacoma
FUN FACT: the groom grew up in this neighborhood — it’s one of our go-to spots for a sunny day in the Pacific Northwest. Ruston Waterfront is an area along the Puget Sound, offering scenic views, parks, and a growing collection of shops, restaurants, and outdoor activities. Just a short drive away is Point Defiance, which includes beautiful gardens, forested trails, beaches, and wildlife. Point Defiance also include the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, Five Mile Drive scenic loop (walking area), and several waterfront picnic spots. Check out for local events: https://www.visitpiercecounty.com/
Seattle
Sights: Space Needle – https://www.spaceneedle.com/ Pike Place Market Chihuly Garden and Glass – https://www.chihulygardenandglass.com/ Outdoor & Waterfront: Olympic Sculpture Park – Stroll along the waterfront with public art and scenic views. Kerry Park – A small hill with one of the most famous views of the Seattle skyline. Discovery Park – Seattle’s largest green space with trails, beaches, and forested areas. Museums & Culture: Seattle Art Museum – https://www.seattleartmuseum.org/ Museum of Pop Culture – https://www.mopop.org/ Unique Neighborhoods: Capitol Hill – Trendy shops, cafes, & nightlife Fremont – Known for quirky public art, shops, & the famous Fremont Troll Ballard – Scandinavian history, breweries, & the Ballard Locks
Other Towns Near Venue (west side of the Puget Sound)
Port Townsend, Gig Harbor, Port Gamble, Vashon Island
For longer/extended stay:
- Visit Mount Rainier: Paradise or Sunset corridor (plan ahead as reservations are needed in these areas); there are trails for all skills levels or many scenic drive areas that don't require any walking at all RESERVATION MAY BE NEEDED: https://www.nps.gov/mora/index.htm - Visit Olympic National Park: Hurricane ridge & Hoh Rainforest, famous moss-covered trees, creating a magical, fairytale-like forest. It receives about 140–170 inches of rain each year — making it one of the lushest temperate rainforests in the United States. RESERVATIONS MAY BE NEEDED https://www.nps.gov/olym/index.htm - Head to the coast: Rialato beach, Cape Flattery - Leavenworth: this is more of a commitment, BUT worth visiting if you have the time. It's about 2.5-3 hours from Seattle. It's a Bavarian-style village nestled in the Cascade Mountains. Known for its colorful architecture, European atmosphere, and mountain views, the town is packed with shops, restaurants, breweries, and bakeries.