26 Best & Fun Things to Do in Poulsbo (WA)

Want to know the best fun things to do in Poulsbo, WA? Poulsbo is a borough and the county seat of Kitsap County on Liberty Bay, in the state of Washington, United States.

Poulsbo is the smallest city among the four towns that make up Kitsap County, with an estimated population of 10,927.

In the past, Poulsbo was known as the major destination of Scandinavian immigrants, mainly from Finland and Norway.

Poulsbo, also known as Little Norway, was founded in the 1880s by Jorgen Eliason, an immigrant from Norwegian.

The city expresses a Scandinavian theme in various establishments, including restaurants, gift stores, boutiques, galleries, etc.

There are numerous places to visit in Poulsbo, such as SEA Discovery Center, Poulsbo Historical Society and Museums, Front Street Gallery, Poulsbo Maritime Museum, Liberty Bay Books, Valholl Brewing, Central Market, Kitsap Memorial State Park, and more.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Poulsbo, WA.

Things to Do in Poulsbo

1. Kitsap Memorial State Park

If you’re traveling with your spouse, visiting Kitsap Memorial State Park is a must-do in Poulsbo, WA.

Kitsap Memorial State Park is a popular place for lovers and a favorite wedding destination in Washington.

The Park features four different cabins, which serve as accommodations for wedding preparations.

RV and camping sites are available within the Park, making it an excellent place for various rustic weddings.

Kitsap Memorial State Park is a 62-acre park with numerous fishing spots that offer visitors incredible views of the Olympic Mountains.

There are hiking trails of 1.5 miles which are perfect for both beginners and expert hikers. The Park also offers water-related activities such as clamming, oyster harvesting, and crabbing.

Kitsap Memorial State Park is beautifully and adequately maintained; you wouldn’t want to miss out on the memorable moments.

Address: 202 North East Park Street, Poulsbo, WA 98370, United States

2. Muriel Iverson Williams Waterfront Park

Muriel Iverson Williams Waterfront Park is a beautiful park and a perfect place to spend the day with your friends and family. Exploring this Park is one of the fun things to do in Poulsbo, WA.

The Park offers breathtaking views of the Olympic and Bay mountains, making it a perfect escape from all the noise in the world.

An Austin-Kvelstad Pavilion is available for rentals for various special events, including weddings.

Muriel Iverson Williams Waterfront Park features several permanent benches from which visitors can watch a live concert.

There is also a fantastic picnic area where you can grab lunch with your loved ones and go for a peaceful walk, and there are public restrooms.

Address: 18809 Anderson Pkwy Downtown Waterfront, Poulsbo, WA 98370, United States

3. Sawdust Hill Alpaca Farm

Sawdust Hill Alpaca Farm, a 15-acre farm in the city, specializes in breeding Llamas and Alpacas.

They offer barn feeding and full farm tours daily to everyone on reservations.

Sawdust Hill Alpaca Farm features a farm store offering handmade products, gifts, clothing, and books for adults and children.

The farm is open throughout the year. Visitors can stop by the onsite store without paying for a tour.

Address: 25448 Port Gamble Road Northeast Poulsbo, WA 98370, United States

4. Molly Ward Gardens

Molly Ward Gardens is located in a rural valley in the Northern part of Poulsbo, as a garden that extends for 5 acres.

There is a fully refurbished barn and a family residence where the restaurant is housed and intensively designed with European antiques.

The fresh and quality herbs grown onsite are offered in the restaurant, and the gardens are perfect for lovely weddings, showers, dinners, and holiday events.

Molly Ward Gardens were named in honor of the Ward Family and their dog, Molly. The restaurant offers lunch, dinner, and brunch on Sundays.

The restaurant offers Crab Omelette, Ling Cod Entrée, Fried Oysters, Seared Scallops, Chocolate Hazelnut Torte, Blueberry Coffee Cake, Pea Soup Du Jour, Caprese Salad, Chicken Curry, and much more.

They also offer a comprehensive drink menu featuring cocktails, wines, craft beers, and ciders such as Lumo Pinot Grigio, Husch Chardonnay, Deschutes Mirror Pond Pale Ale, Anchor Porter, Moscow Mule, Ken Wright Cellars Pinot Noir, and so on.

Address: 27462 Big Valley Rd NE, Poulsbo, WA 98370, United States

5. Pho T&N

Pho T&N is a renowned Vietnamese Restaurant in Poulsbo, committed to serving patrons nothing but delicious meals.

This family-owned and operated restaurant officially opened its doors in 2005, featuring a wide variety of Pho.

They offer Vietnamese-inspired sandwiches, noodle bowls, curries, oxtail & short rib Pho, noodle soups, and more.

Pho T&N also offers Vermicelli Bowl with Tofu, Stir Fry Rice Noodles, Grilled Pork Bahn MI, Lemongrass, Pork Belly Buns, Vermicelli Bowl with Tofu, Dry Noodle Bowl, Oxtail Pho, and more.

You can also opt for a tasting dinner where you will be offered many little plates and a detailed tour of the Vietnamese flavors using food.

They also offer more than twenty-five flavors of bubble tea, including wines and beers, for guests to make their choice.

Pho T&N staff is nice and friendly, never reluctant to take and serve guests’ orders while ensuring they are comfortable.

Address: 19641 7th Avenue NE #135, Poulsbo, WA 98370, United States

6. Central Market

Poulsbo Central Market should be among your destinations if you’re looking for an effective way to integrate into the community.

Central Market is a grocery store that offers the freshest and highest quality food, providing a broader range of options than any other store.

This Market is housed in a 69,000 square feet space and boasts of being the top food destination for patrons from different parts of Washington.

This establishment was the first commercial structure in Washington constructed through recycled elements.

Central Market features food courts and eateries where you could stop by and grab lunch after shopping for a while.

Address: 20148 10th Avenue, Poulsbo, WA 98370, United States

7. Slippery Pig Brewery

That moment when you feel exhausted and stressed, visiting Slippery Pig Brewery is one of the top things to do in Poulsbo, WA.

Slippery Pig Brewery was established in 2010 by owners who highly proclaimed themselves farmers first before brewers.

The Brewery produces craft beers using the freshest locally sliced ingredients, making them stand out from others.

They use crops grown on their family-owned farm and Washington barley in their production, including year-round and seasonal produce.

Slippery Pig Brewery features a comfortable and classic taproom for visitors to relax and feel at ease while they sip from their beer bottles.

 The enterprise offers brews like Rhubarb IPA, Stinging Nettle Mild, Bollocks Rye Pale Ale, the Baldur’s Blonde, Technoviking Elixir, and more.

 Address: 18801 Front Street NE, Poulsbo, WA 98370, United States

8. Poulsbo Historical Society and Museums

Poulsbo Historical Society and Museums is housed in Poulsbo City Hall, featuring exhibits that talk about the culture and history of the city. If you want to learn more about the city, visit the Poulsbo Historical Society and Museums.

An expansive research library is located within the Museum, owned and operated by the Poulsbo Historical Society, with offices housed in the facility.

Poulsbo Historical Society and Museums also manages the Maritime Museum and offers an extensive history of North Kitsap’s Maritime using intriguing exhibits.

The Maritime Museum has continuously grown under the leadership of the Historical Society in partnership with the Historic Downtown Association.

Address: 200 Moe Street, Northeast Poulsbo, WA 98370, United States

Also check out our list of things to do in Puyallup, things to do in Issaquah, and cool things to do in Pullman, if you are planning a Washington road trip.

9. SEA Discovery Center

SEA Discovery Center, owned and operated by Poulsbo city, was initially founded in the 1960s at the Liberty Bay Arena.

This Discovery Center was established to serve society. It was placed under the watch of Western Washington University.

The Center, which was moved to its current location in the 1990s, prides itself on its eclectic mix of conservation and aquarium processes.

SEA Discovery Center is a big supporter of marine stewardship and protection while also spreading awareness and conservation measures to the public and private school districts of the Kitsap community.

Address:18743 Front Street NE, Poulsbo, WA 98370, United States

10. Carrie Goller Gallery

An exceptional art gallery, Carrie Goller Gallery, is located in the downtown District of Poulsbo as a modified art gallery.

Carrie Goller Gallery offers an extensive collection of modern fine art on large and small scales in various media forms such as egg tempera, encaustic, oil, mixed media, and so on.

You can shop for artworks focusing on nature, abstract, botanical, marine, Plein air, and landscapes in wood or bronze from their store or online.

The Gallery showcases works of regional artists, including the famous Max Hayslette, Cory Bennett Anderson, Gabriel Lipper, Sophie Frieda, and Carrie Goller.

Whether you want to buy a gift for yourself or someone special, there is something at the Gallery that will surely captivate you.

Address: 18801 Front St NE, Poulsbo, WA 98370, United States

11. The Coffee Oasis Cafe

There is no better way to start your day in the early morning than with a coffee from Coffee Oasis Café.

Don’t think twice about adding a visit to Coffee Oasis Café to your Poulsbo itinerary. It is a nonprofit organization that offers many programs to the community’s homeless youth.

These programs or activities are sponsored through the funds acquired from the various coffee shops, which offer coffee made directly from beans and numerous artisan mixes.

The Coffee Oasis Café has about three branches throughout Washington State, including the branch in Poulsbo.

They offer a wide variety of soups, sandwiches, wraps, paninis, salads, breakfast items, and more for reasonable prices. The Café is always open from Monday to Saturday and has seasonal specials.

Address: 780 NE Iverson Street, Poulsbo, WA 98370, United States

12. The Viking Fest

An event that keeps you on your toes and gets you excited in Poulsbo is the Viking Fest, one of the most popular fairs in the area.

The Viking Fest is usually held in July every year, showcasing the beautiful culture of the community.

It involves live music performances, a Lutefisk eating competition, Vikings, street food sellers, parades, and more.

Most residents are dressed and adorned as Vikings, in alignment with the festival’s main theme.

The Viking Fest also features crafts, carnival rides, games, and arts. You can purchase a ticket at the info site or the carnival area. Attending this Fest is one of the fun things to do in Poulsbo, WA.

Address: 19735 10th Ave NE Suite S100, Poulsbo, WA 98370, United States

13. Front Street Gallery

Front Street Gallery is dedicated to promoting professional and upcoming artists by showcasing numerous artworks.

The Gallery features twenty-nine regional artists who produce contemporary artworks, including hosting periodic exhibits.

Front Street Gallery showcases original works, including classical paintings and media sculptures, as a collective fine arts and crafts gallery.

Front Street Gallery offers jewelry, photography, ceramics, glass, woodturning, painting, and many more. Here, you will find something that suits your personality and catches your fancy.

Exploring Front Street Gallery is one of the best things to do in Poulsbo, WA.

Address: 18881-A Front Street NE, Poulsbo, WA 98370, United States

14. Poulsbo Maritime Museum

If you have always wanted to learn about the city’s maritime history, add a visit to Poulsbo Maritime Museum to your list of top things to do in Poulsbo.

The Poulsbo Maritime Museum promotes Poulsbo and North Kitsap’s maritime history through interactive exhibits and displays.

The Museum highly encourages visitors to stop by and explore the diverse history of Poulsbo. The Museum aims to include a Visitors center through a partnership with the Historic Downtown Poulsbo Association and the Poulsbo Chamber of Commerce.

Address: 19010 Front Street NE Historic Downtown, Poulsbo, WA 98370, United States

15. Poulsbo Martinson Cabin Museum

Poulsbo Martinson Cabin Museum is a fully preserved cabin erected by the Martinson family in the late 1800s. It was successfully moved in 2006 to its current location.

The Cabin is a fundamental historic landmark that offers visitors more profound insights into the lifestyle of early settlers in Poulsbo.

The Poulsbo Martinson Cabin Museum showcases the belief of early Poulsbo pioneer life; you have to check it out.

Address: 317 NW Lindvig Way, Poulsbo, WA 98370, United States

Planning to explore Washington? Get the best of attractions and activities in Bremerton, Wenatchee, and Port Townsend for a fun vacation.

16. Kachai Thai Kitchen

Whenever you want to enjoy delicious meals with your loved ones, visiting Kachai Thai Kitchen is a must-do in Poulsbo, WA.

Kachai Thai Kitchen is a family-owned and operated restaurant that uses mixtures of fresh, locally grown ingredients, including authentic Thai flavors, in making dishes.

The restaurant was founded in 1992 by San and Lani Tran, who managed the business alongside their nine kids.

Bihn Tu Tran, the current chef in the restaurant, is the son of San and Lani Tran, the owners who have worked alongside famous chefs from the Pacific Northwest.

Kachai Thai Kitchen strives to ensure there is something for everyone to enjoy by also offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets.

Some of the meals offered include Crispy Spring Rolls 4, Crispy Garlic Chicken, Pad Thai Chicken, Green Curry Chicken Curry, mango sticky rice dessert, kachai fried rice, Basil Prawns & Scallops, and more.

Address: 19980 19th Avenue, NE Suite 104, Poulsbo, WA 98370, United States

17. The Verksted Gallery

Are you an art lover? The Verksted Gallery, which is one of the best places to visit in Poulsbo, WA, is a gallery that every lover of art would cherish and adore.

The Verksted Gallery was founded in 1987, making it one of the oldest art galleries in Washington State.

As a cooperative art Gallery, it plays a significant role in the active art scene of the city, promoting about thirty talented artists.

The Gallery showcases various artworks such as photography, woven wheat, pencil artwork, oil painting, sculpture, and quilling.

The Verksted Gallery also features wood turning, photography, watercolor, textile art, mixed media, and many more.

You can stop by the Verksted Gallery and browse the enormous artwork collection.

Address: 18937 Front St NE, Poulsbo, WA 98370, United States

18. Boehm’s Chocolates of Poulsbo

Don’t know what to do in Poulsbo, WA? Visit Boehm’s Chocolates of Poulsbo for excellent treats to satisfy your sweet tooth. Boehm’s Chocolates of Poulsbo first opened its doors during the Viking Fest Celebration in 1984 by Julius R. Boehm.

Suzanne Suther later, in 1987, became the owner and operator of the store while also partnering with Karen Suther, her daughter.

Technically, Boehms has been serving delicious and quality treats since 1942, and the store now offers a wide variety of chocolate confections.

They offer the most delicious European confections and traditional American, available in either milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or both.

Every piece of the confections are prepared using the highest quality ingredients in little batches ensuring they are fresh and tasty.

Boehm’s Chocolates of Poulsbo offers more than 150 flavors, including candied fruits, caramels, and ganache.

The unique creations, reasonable costs, and welcoming staff make the store stand out.

Address: 18864 Front St NE, Poulsbo, WA 98370, United States

19. Griffin Gallery

Another fantastic gallery that should be visited in Poulsbo is the outstanding Griffin Gallery. This Gallery is owned and operated by an artist, fostering the works made by artists of Puget Sound.

Griffin Gallery features artists who produce artworks using materials such as acrylic, molds, charcoal & pencil, oil, and wood.

They also adopt photography, etchings, watercolors, and other media. Griffin Gallery provides an inviting and pressure-free environment for fun and education.

The major aim of Griffin Gallery is to create a place where the usual and expected imagination and creativity are exceeded through texture, color, and tone.

Griffin Gallery also supports and promotes the talents of the artists using social media, workshops, and websites.

Address: 18804 Front St NE Suite 100, Poulsbo, WA 98370, United States

20. Nordiska

If you would like to purchase some beautiful gifts for your loved ones or souvenirs for yourself, Nordiska is the best store.

Nordiska is the newest Scandinavian gift store located in the historic downtown of Poulsbo. It is owned and operated by Kristin and Kyle Klassert, natives of Poulsbo.

The store is packed with unique and gorgeous gifts beginning from Finnish, Danish, and Swedish to Norwegian gifts, food processors, and homewares.

You can shop for mugs, jewelry, decorations, porcelain plates, table covers, woven towels, T-shirts, and more.

Nordiska offers you a bit of everything you might need for your office or home, including memorable gifts and souvenirs.

The owner and staff are dedicated to offering outstanding customer services, ensuring everybody walks out with a smile of satisfaction.

Address: 18925 Front St NE #201, Poulsbo, WA 98370, United States

21. Paella Bar

Your vacation in Poulsbo wouldn’t be complete without checking out Paella Bar with your travel companions, as it’s one of the best places to visit in Poulsbo, WA.

Paella Bar is a wonderful Spanish restaurant next to Burrata Bistro, encouraging visitors to come in for some great moments.

The Bar is the best for Spanish cuisines, including a wide range of Spanish sangria and wines.

You’re given a chance to choose from their tapas, allowing you to combine them however you like.

Paella Bar features a comfortable waiting section with a fire table where you can wait to get seated and order a drink while waiting.

For your next celebration, you can stop by the Paella Bar or the Burrata Bistro, irrespective of your group size.

The restaurant offers an extensive food menu featuring fresh seafood, desserts, homemade sauces, cheeses, and meats.

Address: 19006 Front St NE, Poulsbo, WA 98370, United States

22. Island Lake County Park

Island Lake County Park is popular among locals and visitors who want to explore outdoor skits. If you’re looking for what to do in Poulsbo, WA, visit Island Lake County Park.

The Park is a must-visit for anglers and boaters since there is a lovely fishing pier and boat launch to explore.

Hikers will also find this Park worthwhile as there is a small chain of connected and lopped trails heading to the forest before getting to the lake’s northern edge.

The Park has a trail that meanders south and crosses the lakeshore’s curve before leading to the second parking lot.

Island Lake County Park features many picnic shelters, playgrounds, and a beautiful community beach.

Address: 1087 NW Island Lake Rd, Poulsbo, WA 98370, United States

23. Liberty Bay Books

Liberty Bay Books officially began in 1977 as Shotwell’s Bookstore before it was acquired in 1966 by Suzanne Droppert.

This privately owned bookstore offers numerous book clubs, audiobooks, games, e-books, events, and gifts.

The store is open from Monday to Saturday from 10 am-5 pm and Sunday from 11 am-4 pm offering visitors a wide range of options.

Liberty Bay Books is beautifully organized, with staff always ready to assist visitors and help them search for whatever they need.

Address: 18881 Front St NE Suite D, Poulsbo, WA 98370-7351, United States

24. Valholl Brewing

Valholl Brewing, located in the city’s Center, is one of the most popular breweries in Poulsbo, solely inspired by Vikings.

Also known as Norway, Valholl Brewing Company has been producing award-winning beers since 2010.

You can stop by with your friends to relax after a stressful day and sip a drink while also enjoying the views of the Olympic Mountains.

Valholl Brewing features a classic and comfortable taproom open every day of the week to everyone, regardless of age.

 They fill squealers and growlers from the taproom, although you can come in with yours or buy one from them.

Address: 18970 3rd Ave NE, Poulsbo, WA 98370, United States

25. Dancing Brush Studio

Every year the Dancing Brush Studio welcomes myriads of people who come here to enjoy the feeling and enthusiasm of creating or designing your unique household piece or gift items.

Dancing Brush Studio is a perfect place to spend a fantastic time with family and friends, host your colleagues from work, and celebrate a special occasion while you paint.

Since its opening in 1996, Dancing Brush Studio has provided an art environment where people from different walks of life can create long-lasting memories for themselves via art. 

Dancing Brush features bisque items such as bowls, plates, square tiles, dog bowls, mugs, and plant pots.

You can pick whichever item you like and paint on it. A clear overglaze will be applied later, and your selected item will be passed through a kiln for firing to be ready for pick up after a week.

Address: 18846 Front St NE, Poulsbo, WA 98370, USA

26. Rainy Daze Brewing

If you are a beer enthusiast, one of the best places to check out during your visit to Poulsbo, WA, is Rainy Daze Brewing.

This premier brewery serves guests a fine selection of high-quality beers in a lovely setting. It is an excellent spot to hang out with your loved ones and friends, and should make your list of what to do in Poulsbo, WA.

Their ambiance is relaxed and inviting. It also has an outside patio where guests can unwind and enjoy some beers. Their service is top-notch courtesy of their excellent and super friendly staff.

Some of the beers on their menu include Goat Boated IPA, Disturbing the Peace, Pourhouse, Haulin’ Oats, Pusherman IPA, No Recollection Coffee, Porter Manic Mondaze Hazy IPA, and many others.

Address: 650 NW Bovela Ln Suite 2 & 3, Poulsbo, WA 98370-8301, USA

Explore more cities in Washington, check out our list of things to do in Tri-Cities , things to do in Bellingham, and things to do in Sequim for a fun time

Plan Your Trip to Poulsbo

Poulsbo is a stunning city and a popular tourist destination in Washington,  for those who want an extraordinary experience.

The city is home to many eye-popping attractions and establishments committed to offering people nothing but the best.

You will find numerous places to visit and activities to do so make here your next vacation destination.