Before the calendar tells us winter has turned to spring, grab your rain gear, a warm coat and an overnight bag and head to the eastern shore of the Olympic Peninsula for a weekend getaway. Plan both indoor and outdoor activities that will recharge the batteries. From seasonal culinary experiences, art galleries and historic sites to invigorating outdoor adventures that bring you closer to nature, winter and early spring are the best seasons to travel locally. Slow down, learn the stories of the places you visit and enjoy the benefits of the off-season before the surge of tourism in the warmer months.
Where to Stay on Puget Sound Regardless of the Weather
For a unique hotel experience with plenty of character and an incredible story to share, book a stay at The Old Alcohol Plant in Port Hadlock. With a beautiful view of the bay and spacious guest rooms, this boutique inn also serves the nonprofit organization Bayside Housing & Services. Make sure to ask one of the hospitality staff how your stay directly supports some of the most vulnerable in the local community. They are eager to share not only the details of their social enterprise model but also the fascinating history of The Old Alcohol Plant.
Upon arrival, a warm fire will greet visitors, and the friendly concierge will welcome you. Be sure to take a look at the wall featuring works by famed American landscape photographer Ansel Adams – his grandfather, Charles H. Adams, is part of the history of this site. He helped launch the construction of the building in 1909 that processed alcohol from sawdust.
The second floor features an art gallery for visitors to enjoy. Located on-site is Spirits Bar & Grill. Dining here is a direct garden-to-table experience offering fresh seasonal ingredients from the large food production garden located just outside the back door. Take a tour of the year-round garden with terraced rows of hearty green vegetables.
Rain or Shine, Explore the Outdoors on Puget Sound
Drive across the bridge from The Old Alcohol Plant to Marrowstone Island and visit Mystery Bay Marine State Park. No boat is required! Walk along the park’s 18 acres of grassy and gravelly shore or build a fire in one of the three fire rings.
Check out the shellfishing regulations from the Department of Fish and Wildlife, as this beach is well-known for clamming and oyster harvesting.
From hiking to kayaking, the Olympic Peninsula is a playground for outdoor adventure. With the right layers to keep you warm and dry, winter is one of the most energizing times to enjoy nature and can offer profound renewal from excess time indoors throughout the Western Washington rainy season.
Finnriver Farm & Cidery: Hard Cider on Tap
Drive inland to Chimacum and visit one of the most beloved establishments of the Olympic Peninsula, Finnriver Farm & Cidery.
Finnriver creates a memorable experience with farm tours, organic cider on tap and live music on the weekends in their charming and heated indoor pavilion. The vibe will warm your heart, and the aesthetic is beautiful. Every detail of your experience has been considered, even the artistic labels on their seasonal brews. Stop in and enjoy their winter blend featuring wild-crafted rose hips and Washington cranberries.
The Historic Worthington Mansion at Worthington Park in Quilcene
Located just 15 minutes from Finnriver Farm & Cidery, schedule a tour of the historic Worthington Mansion by contacting the Event Coordinator through their website. Built in 1892, the three-story rural mansion offers a late Victorian feel, and all the period furniture was donated to create historic appeal. The mansion can be booked for special events and overnight stays, and the staff offers excellent storytelling to bring visitors into the heart of the space.
For more information on planning and resources on planning a winter getaway on Puget Sound, visit Enjoy Olympic Peninsula.
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