Did you know Washington is home to one of only three Victorian Seaports listed on the National Register of Historic Places? Port Townsend is undeniably charming, and if you’re a history buff, you’ll love it — the entire downtown core is a designated National Historic District.
Port Townsend was founded in 1851, meaning it’s older than the state of Washington itself.
thomas murawsky / Flickr Port Townsend was immediately recognized as a good, safe harbor, and for years, it served as a major customs point.
By the late 1800s, the city was a well-known and busy seaport with a bustling downtown area.
Port Townsend Main Street Program Facebook Many homes and buildings were built during that time, most with ornate Victorian architecture.
The Victorian buildings have been well-preserved, and that’s what makes Port Townsend stand out to this day.
Port Townsend Main Street Program Facebook The city is constantly being named in travel publications as one of the country’s most charming small towns, and the annual Port Townsend Film Festival has won numerous awards.
Every building has its own unique story, like the Palace Hotel, which is rumored to be haunted by the ghosts of the ladies of the night who once worked and lived there…
Port Townsend Visitor Information Center Facebook
… but what really makes this town special is that the ENTIRE downtown area is a National Historic District.
Port Townsend Visitor Information Center Facebook There are dozens of dozens of historic buildings just waiting to be explored.
While you’re in town, make sure to take a walk through the neighborhoods, where you’ll find many historic Victorian homes.
Keith Ewing / Flickr The entire city is a walking history lesson.
If you’ve never made it to Port Townsend, make 2019 the year you visit.
Port Townsend Main Street Program Facebook With events and festivals happening every month along with weekly historic (and ghost) tours, you’ll never be bored in our Victorian seaport.
Port Townsend is such an amazing little city. Here are 10 more reasons to love it.
thomas murawsky / Flickr
Port Townsend was immediately recognized as a good, safe harbor, and for years, it served as a major customs point.
Port Townsend Main Street Program Facebook
Many homes and buildings were built during that time, most with ornate Victorian architecture.
The city is constantly being named in travel publications as one of the country’s most charming small towns, and the annual Port Townsend Film Festival has won numerous awards.
Port Townsend Visitor Information Center Facebook
There are dozens of dozens of historic buildings just waiting to be explored.
Keith Ewing / Flickr
The entire city is a walking history lesson.
With events and festivals happening every month along with weekly historic (and ghost) tours, you’ll never be bored in our Victorian seaport.
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