27 Best & Fun Things to Do in Port Orchard (WA)

Port Orchard, the country seat of Kitsap County, is in the Puget Sound region of Washington, United States.

The city’s name is derived from the strait that disconnects Bainbridge Island and Kitsap Peninsula, bordered by Bremerton.

In 1854, Daniel Howard and William Renton, the first Europeans to settle in the region, opened a sawmill in modern-day Port Orchard.

In 1886, Frederick Steven platted the town known as Sidney, which emerged as the first incorporated town in Kitsap County.

In 1892, Sidney became the county seat and, in that same year, was renamed Port Orchard following a plea by the citizens.

There are many fun things to do in Port Orchard, which draws tourists from all over the World.

From museums to restaurants, antique stores, art theaters, and parks, this city has many attractions that will keep visitors of all ages entertained and engaged.

Wondering what to do in Port Orchard? Here are the best things to do in Port Orchard, WA.

Things to Do in Port Orchard, WA

1. Explore the Manchester State Park

One of the top things to do in Port Orchard, WA, is to check out the magnificent Manchester State Park.

The State Park is a 111-acre one-time harbor defense installation. It has a fire-fighting station for the US Navy and a fuel supply depot.

Today, you can still see remains of its past, with a previous torpedo house now operating as a picnic shelter.

The Manchester Park features lush greenery, with a forest full of maple trees and fir. The Park also has dunes, a beach, and flat grasslands for outdoor recreational activities.

Take advantage of the 1-9-mile hiking trail in the Park to watch birds or see wildlife.

The Manchester State Park’s unique blend of greenery and history makes it a must-visit destination.

Address: 7767 E Hilldale Rd, Port Orchard, WA 98366, United States

2. Sip a hot cup of Coffee at the Coffee Oasis – Bay St Café

The Coffee Oasis is a voluntary organization that helps the youth through outreach, mentorship, job training, and shelter.

This organization has four cafes around Washington; one is on Bay Street.

Their coffee is ethically sourced from their partner farmers and skillfully roasted in tiny batches in their Burwell Café.

All the earnings from the cafe go to their youth programs that provide housing, engagement, crisis support, and development services to youths ages 13 to 25.

Also, the Coffee Oasis offers on-the-job training and internships to youths interested in learning skills. Thus, by enjoying a cup of coffee at Coffee Oasis, you will be helping the youth have a brighter future.

Don’t forget to stop by this café during your trip to Port Orchard.

Address:807A Bay St, Port Orchard, WA 98366, United States

3. Go on the Kitsap Live Steamers’ Miniature Train

One of the best things to do in Port Orchard, WA, is to ride the Kitsap Live Steamer’s Miniature Train.

The Kitsap Live Steamers is a voluntary organization offering rides on its miniature railroad. Its mission is to teach the public about the legacy of railroads that helped build the nation and promote railroads.

The train rides, which last approximately 12 minutes, follow a 7.5-inch gauge scale road on SE Marbeth.

The trains will take you on an exciting and calming ride through the woods, where you will see various wildlife in their natural habitat.

The rides are available every 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month, from April to October. They also run during special Sundays and holidays.

Take your children on a unique adventure with Kitsap Live Steamers.

Address: 3101 SE Marbeth Ln, Port Orchard, WA 98366, United States

4. Catch a show at the Western Washington Center for the Arts

The Western Washington Center for the Arts is one of the best places to visit in Port Orchard, WA, especially for art lovers.

The Western Washington Center for the Arts was founded in 2002 to foster art in Kitsap County and the neighboring communities.

The building, which was constructed in 1918, was later refurbished into the 74-seat venue that is known to be today.

Today, the Western Washington Center for the Arts hosts productions starring local performers, so look out for their season schedule to reserve your ticket.

The Center also offers workshops for children as young as five and adults. By attending one of the Center’s productions, you will be helping the local theater community to grow.

Address: 521 Bay St, Port Orchard, WA 98366, United States

5. Grab a drink in Holy Water A Heavenly Lounge

Holy Water A Heavenly Lounge is a favorite attraction in Port Orchard. The church-turned-wine bar looks like an ordinary church on the outside. But the second you step inside, you will be welcomed to a cool, eclectic bar and restaurant.

Take a closer look, and you will discover some of the eccentric décor that acknowledges its past as a place of worship.

Grab tapas and drinks, or visit in the morning for mimosa flights and brunch. You won’t regret trying any sangrias, especially the Flirty Francis.

If the weather is lovely, sit out on the patio. It was practically created for warm nights and lovely sunsets.

Address:537 Dekalb St, Port Orchard, WA 98366, United States

6. Enjoy a picnic at the Port Orchard Waterfront Park

Spend your afternoon playing and relaxing with your kids while bonding with nature at Port Orchard Waterfront Park. Picnicking at this Park is one of the fun things to do in Port Orchard, WA.

The Park contains a children’s playground, a covered gazebo, picnic tables, and a pavilion used to host public events.

The well-maintained paved trail is suitable for roller skating, biking, and walking while hearing the sound of the waves.

You will discover patches of flowers in the park and see birds perched on the breakwater.

The area has local restaurants and shops, so you don’t have to fret when the children get famished after all the playing.

Address: 933 Bay St, Port Orchard, WA 98366, United States

7. Learn Port Orchard’s local history at Sidney Museum and Arts Association

The Sidney Museum and Arts Association was founded in 1970. It is a voluntary organization that aspires to preserve local history and promote local artists.

The association maintains the Log Cabin Museum and the Sidney Art Gallery.

The Sidney Museum and Arts Association is housed in a Masonic Temple constructed in 1908. It includes a doctor’s office, a hardware store, and a general store.

The Log Cabin Museum, constructed in 1914, displays the early stages in Port Orchard, featuring the “Orchard Family.” See the works of famous and budding artists in the gallery.

Also, the Museum hosts monthly exhibitions that bring Northwest artists to the limelight.

If you want a dose of local arts, history, and culture, visit the Sidney Museum and Arts Association.

Address: 202 Sidney Ave, Port Orchard, WA 98366, United States

8. Try the well-known biscuit and gravy at Uncle Dave’s Café

This local favorite located on the junction of Jackson and Lund avenues has assuaged the hunger of Kitsap County since 1993.

Uncle Dave’s Café is a home-style diner famous for its biscuits and gravy, but its sandwiches and burgers are also delicious.

The must-have delicacies on their menu are the Reuben, which contains house-made corners, and the Double Bacon Cheeseburger, made with burger patties.

Choose from Uncle Dave’s Café’s large selection of desserts to complement your meal; a great recommendation is the Caramel Pecan Cinnamon Rolls.

Address: 3280 SE Lund Ave # 10, Port Orchard, WA 98366, United States

9. Eat Italian dishes at Cosmo’s Ristorante and Delicatessen

Cosmo’s Ristorante and Delicatessen is an Italian restaurant that serves brunch, lunch, and dinner.

The chefs appreciate fine ingredients, fresh food, and a love for food. They are committed to lessening the carbon footprint of the restaurant.

Cosmo’s Ristorante and Delicatessen is about customer experience and inspiring anyone who enters the restaurant.

They are famous for their traditional and rustic Italian dishes, high-quality ingredients, and fresh seafood.

Address: 1821 SE Lund Ave, Port Orchard, WA 98366, United States

10. Get lattes from the cute Chug-A-Tug Espresso Stand

The Chug-A-Tug Espresso Stand is difficult to miss, with its peculiar exterior that looks like a boat.

This drive-through coffee shop offers affordable mochas, frappes, and lattes. Request their root beer float and caramel granita if you don’t like coffee.

Also, the Chug-A-Tug Espresso Stand offers cookies, bagels “onboard,” and muffins alongside your drink.

Don’t forget to drop by this Port Orchard coffee shop when you need a caffeine fix.

Address: 110 Bay St, Port Orchard, WA 98366, United States

11. Enjoy a seafood meal at Clubhouse Restaurant and Bar at McCormick Woods

Clubhouse Restaurant and Bar is a well-known establishment that faces the ninth green of the local golf club.

This establishment also has an abundance of dining rooms that can house groups and families.

The menu at Clubhouse Restaurant and Bar features different types of food, such as seafood, burgers, and pizza.

These dishes are served with American beef and made with fresh ingredients. The restaurant also has a full-service menu.

Address:5155 McCormick Woods Dr. SW, Port Orchard, WA 98367, United States

12. Have food and drinks at the Whiskey Gulch CoffeePub

This waterfront, established in 2011, offers signature roast coffee and espresso, tasty burgers, and a rotating beer and wine menu.

Enjoy food and drinks with a view facing the waters of the Sinclair Inlet at Whiskey Gulch CoffeePub.

Request the Gulcher burger topped with caramelized onions, sauteed with pepper jack, wild mushrooms, and horseradish cream cheese.

Vegetarians can order Good Earth, their house-made vegan burger topped with grilled red onions, zucchini, greens tossed in vegan ranch, and tomatoes.

Their street tacos are also quite famous, so try the cherry-smoked carnitas and seared ahi. Coffee cocktails, however, are Whiskey Gulch’s specialty.

Some of their bestsellers include the Gulch Spiked Cold Brew, the W. G. Espresso Old Fashioned, and the Espresso Martini.

Address: 2065 Bay St, Port Orchard, WA 98366, United States

13. Go on an exploration of South Kitsap Regional Park

Among what to do in Port Orchard, WA, is to explore South Kitsap Regional Park. It features many winding trails, making it a fantastic place for bike riding, mountain biking, skateboarding, and hiking.

Mountain biking is an excellent way to explore the trails if you are up for a little speed, challenge, and fun.

The trails at South Kitsap Regional Park are not very technical or steep, so it is fantastic for all ages and skill levels.

If you have little kids, allow them to walk on the Explorer Trail. It is designed to help children interact with nature, exercise, and learn about it.

Different areas, such as batting cages and playing fields, can be used for several activities. There are also many bathrooms and an expansive picnic area.

South Kitsap Regional Park also has another area that contains a skateboard ramp section, a couple of dog runs, and a gigantic pool.

Address: 2729 Jackson Ave SE, Port Orchard, WA 98366, United States

14. Check out the Log Cabin Museum

The Sidney Gallery and Museum manages the Log Cabin Museum. This cabin was built in 1914 by a Civil War veteran and a former Indian Agent.

The Log Cabin was abandoned for a while, and in 1970, the Port Orchard City officials declared it unfit for use.

The Sidney Museum bought the property, saving it from destruction, and began to work on restoring it.

Today, guests can visit the family of mannequins in the cabin, fondly called “The Orchard Family.” Here, they have the opportunity to see how life would have been at the turn of the 1900s.

The Log Cabin is open every season from May to December. Exploring this cabin should be on your itinerary of top things to do in Port Orchard, WA.

Address: 416 Sidney Ave, Port Orchard, WA 98366, United States

15. Go on a romantic date at Bay Street Bistro

The Bay Street Bistro is one of the best places to visit in Port Orchard, WA. It is a local restaurant that serves different Italian and Mediterranean food.

The restaurant has a warm and welcoming environment and is renowned for its outstanding services.

Its food is made using local ingredients and accompanied by different local artwork.

The Bay Street Bistro has a gas fireplace and ceiling fans that help create a comfortable ambiance. It has been named one of the Best Romantic Places in the region.

Address: 834 Bay St, Port Orchard, WA 98366, United States

Meet some of the best cities in Washington. Here is a list of things to do in Lynnwood, things to do in Ellensburg and things to do in Puyallup for a fun time.

16. Watch a production in the Bremerton Community Theatre

See a show at the Bremerton Community Theatre. The drama program began during WWII to provide the local community joy and happiness and has since expanded into one of the region’s longest-running arts organizations.

The Bremerton Community Theatre is a remarkable venue for people who want to watch different shows.

The Theatre has displayed shows including “The Wizard of Oz” and the “Hunchback of Notre Dame.”

The Bremerton Community Theatre has a long history of success and is full of passionate people. They never get tired of working on the stage and behind the scenes.

The theater is a terrific venue if you are looking for a place to unwind and catch a captivating show.

Bremerton Community Theatre is in Bremerton, WA, 13 minutes from Port Orchard, WA.

Address: 599 Lebo Blvd, Bremerton, WA 98310, United States

17. Watch plays in the outdoor in Kitsap Forest Theater

If you love nature and breathtaking shows, head to Kitsap Forest Theater, an outdoor theater constructed in 1928.

It also has a rustic abode, known as the Kitsap Cabin, that operates as the performer’s lodgings during their plays.

Enjoy an enchanting performance amidst a stunning natural setting- an expansive forest owned by the Rhododendron Preserve.

Furthermore, you can hike around the area, absorbing the incredible views and observing the salmon on Chico Creek as they swim upstream to give birth.

Address: 3000 Seabeck Hwy NW, Bremerton, WA 98312, United States

18. Explore the Exhibits in the Puget Sound Navy Museum

The Puget Sound Navy Museums presents two permanent exhibits customized for interested tourists.

The first exhibit, the USS John C. Stennis, offers you the opportunity to learn about the everyday lives of the crew of a nuclear aircraft carrier.

The last one, called A Heritage of Excellent, recalls the origination of the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard.

The Museum also houses an extensive collection of artifacts linked to local history, and you are welcome to ask for photos of the artifacts as long as you follow their rules.

For a profound interactive experience, please explore their available programs.

Full STEAM Ahead has activities to help you learn about the US Navy better.

The Club Scout Workshops are ideal for teaching your kids some much-needed skills.

The Set SAIL Friday workshop is the most famous among the three and is perfect for young children.

Walk around the area to check out its features and have an educative, fun, and interesting family day

Address 251 1st St, Bremerton, WA 98337, United States

19. Shop for antiques in Josephine’s Mercantile

One of the best antique stores in Port Orchard is Josephine’s Mercantile. This well-curated shop has numerous vendors with many vintage, antique, and locally made goods.

Some antique stores can be stuffy due to the overwhelming quantity of goods; this antique store, however, is organized and well-curated. It is not large, so it is easy to explore without taking too much time.

Josephine’s Mercantile also houses a coffee shop, so when you feel like taking a break from shopping, head to the Mercantile Coffee for a scone, latte, or other delicious treats.

Antique shopping at Josephine’s Mercantile is undoubtedly one of the fun things to do in Port Orchard, WA.

Address: 701 Bay St, Port Orchard, WA 98366, United States

20. Catch a kid-friendly show at the Aurora Valentinetti Puppet Museum

Are you thinking of where to take your children for an educational and fun trip?

Think no more! Aurora Valentinetti Puppet Museum delivers a delightful experience, with puppet shows and exhibits displaying the numerous kinds of puppets used over the years.

Furthermore, the kids can read books, play musical instruments, and even make cute puppets.

Grab treats at the gift shop, including books and puppets, to take the magic back home.

Address: 276 4th St, Bremerton, WA 98337, United States

21. Play games while being surrounded by nature in Kiwanis Park

Kiwanis Park allows visitors to exercise while appreciating the outdoor views. It is an ideal spot for families that love sports.

Flaunt your skills on the soccer or football field. Take the children to the playground for pleasurable games.

Stroll along the trails to enjoy a relaxing, scenic setting and breathe fresh air.

When you get exhausted, there are also seating areas, and you can bring your own meal and enjoy it at the available picnic shelter.

Address:1701 5th St, Bremerton, WA 98337, United States

22. Buy local produce at Bremerton Community Farmers Market

The Bremerton Community Farmers Market is suitable for people searching for healthy and local food.

It is located close to the beach and is open every Thursday from May through October.

The Bremerton Community Farmers Market actively helps farmers and producers by allowing them to market their produce.

The Market is also fabulous for people who want to meet and socialize with the locals and other tourists.

It has different events designed to keep the children and adults engaged. Some include the Chef at the Market demonstrations and the Kids Market Buck Club.

Address:1400 Park Ave, Bremerton, WA 98337, United States

23. Go skating in Bremerton Ice Center

Figure skating or ice hockey fans will undoubtedly have a splendid time at Bremerton Ice Center.

Don’t fret if it is your first time; the center offers lessons for novices and professionals.

There are also public skating lessons if you don’t don’t feel like being the center of attraction.

However, ensure you check the calendar for their schedule.

After skating, you might likely get famished, so if you do, head to the on-site snack bar and get pizza, coffee, and other tasty treats.

Address:1950 Homer Jones Dr, Bremerton, WA 98310, United States

24. Partake in exciting outdoor activities in Illahee State Park

Outdoor lovers will have a blast in Illahee State Park, which offers 86 acres of natural beauty.

This park features 0.5 miles of hiking trails, ideal for the enthusiastic explorer. If you enjoy water activities, you will also have plenty here.

You can go diving, fishing, waterskiing, oyster harvesting, and birdwatching. Some sports activities are available, like playing softball.

If you want to learn about some of the country’s brave military men, visit the veteran’s war memorial on the site.

Address: 3540 NE Sylvan Way, Bremerton, WA 98310, United States

25. Partake in sports activities in Lions Park

Surround yourself with nature while you partake in sports activities in Lions Park.

Play softball with your pals or shoot some hoops on the basketball court. Grab your racquet and sharpen your swinging skills on the tennis court.

If you want to get closer to the water, you can use the boat ramp on the site. You can play throughout the day.

Additionally, there is a picnic shelter and a drinking fountain here.

Address. 251 Lebo Blvd, Bremerton, WA 98310, United States

26. Find various species in the Bremerton Bug and Reptile Museum

The World is filled with different animals and insects that we are unaware of. If you want to broaden your knowledge about them, visit the Bremerton Bug and Reptile Museum.

Here, you can see uncommon species of reptiles like iguanas, snakes, and chameleons, and bugs like butterflies, scorpions, and praying mantises.

Bremerton Bug and Reptile Museum also have scavenger hunts for kids, where they will receive pieces of paper with questions to answer and instructions.

If they finish one, they will receive a prize from the Museum.

Address:1118 Charleston Beach Rd W, Bremerton, WA 98312, United States

27. Catch a local play in the Bremerton Community Theater

If you want a night of entertainment, head to the Bremerton Community Theater. Its play touches on different genres, like fantasy, thriller, and lots more.

Bremerton Community Theater contains 183 seats, providing clear views of the acts.

It also offers a seating area for individuals who need wheelchairs and assisted listening devices to ensure that guests fully enjoy the show.

Address: 599 Lebo Blvd, Bremerton, WA 98310, United States

Want more of Washington? do check out our list of things to do in Ellensburg, things to do in Friday Harbor, and things to do in Everett for a memorable vacation.

Plan Your Trip to Port Orchard

Port Orchard is the most typical example of a city with a suburban flair. The city’s unique blend of history, wildlife, and arts makes it a perfect destination for tourists looking for an uncommon adventure.

You will not have a minute of boredom here. Ensure you come along with your loved ones.