Port Gamble - a taste of New England

Port Gamble – a taste of New England

Port Gamble is a charming waterfront town in the east of the Olympic Peninsula in Washington State, near the Hood Canal Bridge. Take the Bainbridge Island Ferry from Seattle downtown, then drive 30 minutes north to Port Gamble.

History of Port Gamble

The township of Port Gamble sprung up around a saw mill founded in 1853 by wealthy industrialists William Talbot and Andrew Pope.   Port Gamble was modeled on a New England style town back in Maine where both Talbot and Pope had grown up.  This influence is evident in the white picket fences, steeply sloping roofs and wood siding exteriors of buildings in the town. 

Port Gamble also has the unique characteristic of being a fully company owned town.   Talbot and Pope encouraged family and friends from back East to become part of this community, and provided them with company housing.  Over 150 years later, Port Gamble’s buildings are still company owned, but available for lease.  

Things to do at Port Gamble WA:

1. Visit the café or bar at the Port Gamble General Store:   The Port Gamble General Store is the hub of activity for locals and visitors.  The café is perfect for breakfast or lunch, or a relaxing drink at the bar.  The second floor of the General Store has an interesting collection of shells and sea-life  [32400 Rainier Ave]
2. Visit the Port Gamble Museum:  The Port Gamble Museum is in the basement of the General Store, and has been beautifully renovated.  Highlights include the reconstruction of the Master Bedroom of Admiralty Hall (1887-1940), and the lobby of Hotel Puget (1903 -1963).   A small cash entrance fee is required (no credit cards).
3. Visit the Port Gamble Tea Room:   Enjoy high tea at the Port Gamble Tea Room, including delicious tea sandwiches, scones, devonshire creams, French press coffee and a wide selection of teas.  Reservations are highly recommended (360) 297-4225  [32279 Rainier Ave]
4. Take a self-guided Walking Tour:   Take a self guided walking tour along Rainier Street.  All buildings of interest are clearly marked, providing information on the previous use and inhabitants of the dwelling.   One of the most beautiful buildings is St Paul’s Church, a replica of the First Congregational Church back in East Machias, Maine.
5. Go shopping:  Although Port Gamble is very small, there are some delightful shops to explore.  These include the Dauntless Book Store, The Artful Ewe, Attic Antiques, and Tango Zulu imports.
6. Book a kayaking tour at the Olympic Outdoor Center:  The Olympic Outdoor Center is along the main street of Port Gamble.  Rent a kayak for a few hours or take a guided tour, includiing sunset kayak tours, wildlife tours, and overnight cabin and camping tours.

Port Gamble Weddings – St Pauls Church & Vista Pavilion

Port Gamble offers two wedding venues that are often in high demand:

• Hood Canal Vista Pavilion is situated on a bluff and has superb water views.
• St Pauls Church provides a New England style church setting for your wedding, and also offers an adjacent reception area.

Port Gamble Guest Houses

Stay at the Port Gamble Guest Houses and choose from two beautifully renovated 3-bedroom guest houses, or a suite.  There is easy beach access from these guest houses.

Events

Popular Port Gamble events on the calendar include the Medieval Fair, Civil War Re-enactments, and adventure sports expos.  Check the Port Gamble washington Events Calendar.

Attractions near Port Gamble

• Port Townsend  28 miles north
• Fort Worden  29 miles north
• Dungeness Spit - Sequim  44 miles NW
• Olympic Game Farm  43 miles NW
• Hurricane Ridge  71 miles west
• Lake Crescent  74 miles west

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