10 Fun Things To Do Near Bremerton, Washington (Kitsap County)
If you’re looking for a laid-back Pacific Northwest escape that’s easy to reach from Seattle,
Bremerton, Washington in
Kitsap County is a great pick. It has waterfront views, Navy history, cozy coffee shops, and a slower pace that feels like a mini vacation.
Whether you’re visiting for a day trip or a long weekend, here are
10 fun things to do in and around Bremerton that show off the best of Kitsap County.
1. Stroll the Bremerton Boardwalk & Harborside Fountain Park
If you’re arriving by ferry from Seattle, your first stop is almost handed to you. The
Bremerton Boardwalk and
Harborside Fountain Park sit right next to the ferry terminal.
Walk along the waterfront and you’ll see:
- Views of Everett-class aircraft carriers and Navy ships
- Playful fountains that kids love to splash in on warm days
- Benches perfect for people-watching and sipping coffee
On a clear day, the mountains in the distance make the area feel almost unreal. I once sat here for nearly an hour with a cup of chowder just watching the ferries glide across the water. It’s simple, but that’s kind of the magic.
2. Tour the USS Turner Joy Naval Destroyer
Love history or ships? Don’t skip the
USS Turner Joy, a retired Navy destroyer turned museum, anchored right downtown.
You can:
- Walk the decks and see where sailors slept, ate, and worked
- Peek into the engine room and control centers
- Learn about Bremerton’s deep Navy roots
Some of the narrow passageways and steep ladders give you a real sense of what life at sea must have felt like. It’s a hit with kids, but adults usually end up just as fascinated.
3. Visit the Puget Sound Navy Museum
Right across from the ferry terminal, the
Puget Sound Navy Museum is free and surprisingly good. It’s not huge, which actually makes it easier to enjoy without feeling overwhelmed.
Inside you’ll find:
- Exhibits about the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard
- Stories from sailors and their families
- Hands-on displays that keep little ones busy
If you’ve ever looked at the big gray ships across the water and wondered what really goes on over there, this museum helps connect the dots.
4. Wander Through Downtown Bremerton’s Coffee Shops & Art
Bremerton’s downtown has a low-key, artsy feel. It’s the kind of place where you can stroll a few blocks and find:
- Local coffee shops with big windows and comfy chairs
- Murals and public art scattered along the streets
- Small galleries and vintage shops
Grab a latte, wander down Pacific Avenue, and pop into wherever looks interesting. It’s not polished like a theme park, and that’s exactly what gives it charm.
5. Explore Illahee State Park’s Forest and Beach
Just a short drive from downtown (about 10–15 minutes),
Illahee State Park is one of Kitsap County’s hidden gems.
Here you can:
- Walk through quiet old-growth forest
- Enjoy nearly 1,800 feet of saltwater shoreline
- Have a picnic near the water
At low tide, kids can search the beach for shells and small sea creatures. On a foggy morning, the park feels almost like a movie scene—misty, quiet, and peaceful.
6. Take the Ferry to Seattle for a Easy Day Trip
One of the best things to do
from Bremerton is actually the trip itself. The
Bremerton–Seattle ferry is like a mini cruise, especially if you ride outside on the open deck.
On the 60-minute ride you’ll get:
- Views of the Seattle skyline
- Snow-capped mountains on a clear day
- Chances to spot seals, porpoises, and bald eagles
Spend a few hours exploring Pike Place Market, the waterfront, or a museum in Seattle, then sail back to quiet Bremerton in the evening. It’s an easy way to blend big-city energy with small-town calm in one trip.
7. Enjoy the Waterfront Parks in Port Orchard (Just Across the Water)
Hop on the quick foot ferry or drive around the bay to
Port Orchard, another friendly town in Kitsap County.
Once there, check out:
- Port Orchard Waterfront Park with its marina views and playground
- Small local shops and cafes along Bay Street
- Events and markets that pop up in warmer months
Port Orchard has the kind of “everyone seems to know each other” vibe you don’t often find anymore. It makes for a relaxed half-day trip from Bremerton.
8. Hike, Bike, or Paddle at Manchester State Park
If you’re craving more nature, head over to
Manchester State Park, about 25–30 minutes from Bremerton in Kitsap County.
This park offers:
- Wooded trails for short hikes or trail runs
- Beach access with views of ships in Rich Passage
- Old military structures from a former coastal defense site
Bring a bike, a picnic, or even a kayak if you have one. The shoreline views are especially pretty at sunset, when the sky glows over the water.
9. Visit the Kitsap Historical Society & Museum
To really understand the area you’re visiting, stop by the
Kitsap Historical Society & Museum in downtown Bremerton.
You’ll find:
- Displays on the early days of Kitsap County
- Photographs of logging camps, early homesteads, and shipbuilding
- Rotating exhibits that highlight local stories
It’s the kind of place that makes you realize this isn’t just a ferry stop—it’s a community with deep roots, shaped by the water and the Navy.
10. Savor Local Food, Breweries, and Kitsap’s Craft Scene
After all that exploring, you’ll want to refuel. Bremerton and greater Kitsap County have a growing
craft beer and local food scene.
Around Bremerton and nearby areas you can:
- Try local beers at cozy taprooms and breweries
- Sample fresh seafood—think clam chowder, fish and chips, or salmon
- Find food trucks and casual spots that won’t break the bank
One of the best feelings is wrapping up a day of walking the waterfront, then settling into a booth with a pint of local IPA and a plate of hot, crispy fish and chips.
Planning Your Trip to Bremerton, Washington
Here are a few quick tips to make your visit smoother:
- Getting there: From Seattle, take the ferry straight to downtown Bremerton. From Tacoma or Olympia, you can drive around via Highway 16.
- Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall brings longer days and better weather. Winter is quieter and moodier, with that classic Pacific Northwest gray.
- Getting around: Downtown Bremerton is walkable, but a car helps if you want to explore more of Kitsap County’s parks and small towns.
Bremerton may not be as famous as Seattle, but that’s part of its charm. It feels real, local, and a little bit discovered-but-not-too-discovered—perfect if you like to explore places before they become crowded.
What Would You Do First in Bremerton?
Would you start with a ferry ride, a Navy ship tour, or a quiet walk on a forested trail?
If you’ve been to
Bremerton or Kitsap County before,
what was your favorite thing to do?
Share your thoughts in the comments—I love hearing real stories and tips from other travelers.
And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with a friend who’s planning a trip to Washington. It might inspire their next weekend getaway across the water.
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