Looking for a waterfront getaway with naval history and Puget Sound views? Head to Bremerton! Located on the Kitsap Peninsula, Bremerton offers museums, ferry rides, and access to natural beauty. Whether you love ships, seafood, or scenic strolls, this friendly city delivers a relaxing Pacific Northwest experience.

Bremerton, WA Highlights:

  • Visit the USS Turner Joy Museum Ship: Tour this restored Navy destroyer and learn about life at sea during the Vietnam War.
  • Stroll the Bremerton Boardwalk: Walk past fountains, public art, and marinas with views of Sinclair Inlet and the Olympic Mountains.
  • Explore the Puget Sound Navy Museum: Dive into interactive exhibits on naval heritage, shipbuilding, and submarines.
  • Ride the Seattle–Bremerton Ferry: Enjoy a scenic 60-minute ferry ride with skyline and mountain views.
  • Relax in Evergreen Rotary Park: A family-friendly waterfront park with trails, a playground, and a 9/11 memorial.

Best Time to Visit Bremerton, WA

The best time to visit Bremerton is from May through September, when the weather is mild and perfect for ferry rides, hiking, and outdoor festivals. Summer offers long daylight hours and frequent community events on the waterfront.

How to Get to Bremerton, WA

  • If you are traveling by car: Bremerton is about 1.5 hours from Seattle via the Tacoma Narrows Bridge or 1 hour via the Seattle–Bremerton Ferry.
  • By Bus: Kitsap Transit offers local and regional bus service; connections are available from Seattle and Tacoma.
  • By Ferry: The Washington State Ferry from downtown Seattle to Bremerton is a scenic and popular travel option.

Where to Stay in Bremerton, WA

  • Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott – Modern hotel near the ferry terminal with water views and free breakfast.
  • Hampton Inn & Suites Bremerton – Convenient location on the waterfront, steps from downtown attractions and the marina.
  • Flagship Inn – Budget-friendly lodging overlooking Sinclair Inlet with comfortable rooms and an outdoor pool.

Best Things to Do in Bremerton, WA

Explore maritime history on USS Turner Joy Museum Ship

Explore maritime history on USS Turner Joy Museum Ship

© digidreamgrafix/stock.adobe.com

  • What is the USS Turner Joy Museum Ship?
    • The USS Turner Joy Museum Ship is a historic naval vessel and one of Bremerton’s most iconic landmarks. Originally launched in 1958, it served for many years before being decommissioned and renovated into a museum.
  • What can visitors experience at the USS Turner Joy?
    • Guests can take one-to-two-hour tours exploring the ship’s various decks and cabins while learning about its history.
  • Are the tours guided?
    • Yes, tours are led by professional guides who can answer questions and provide insights into the ship’s naval history.
  • Why should visitors tour the USS Turner Joy?
    • Exploring the USS Turner Joy offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience a real piece of US naval history.

300 Washington Beach Avenue, Bremerton, WA 98337, Phone: 360-792-2457

Learn about naval history at the Puget Sound Navy Museum

Learn about naval history at the Puget Sound Navy Museum

© Puget Sound Navy Museum

  • What is the Puget Sound Navy Museum?
    • The Puget Sound Navy Museum is a self-guided museum dedicated to showcasing the naval heritage of Bremerton and the entire Pacific Northwest region.
  • What types of exhibits does the museum feature?
    • The museum includes a variety of permanent and temporary exhibits, all centered around naval history.
  • Are there rotating displays at the museum?
    • Yes, visitors can explore a rotating selection of artifacts, photographs, and historical displays, ensuring there is always something new to discover.
  • Is there an admission fee?
    • No, the museum is completely free to enter and is open all year long.
  • Are there additional amenities at the museum?
    • Yes, the museum features a gift shop and a special area designed for children to engage in interactive learning.

251 1st Street, Bremerton, WA 98337, Phone: 360-479-7447

Admire the Manette Bridge

Admire the Manette Bridge

© isabela66/stock.adobe.com

  • What is the Manette Bridge?
    • The Manette Bridge is one of Bremerton’s most iconic landmarks, connecting the cities of Bremerton and Manette over the Port Washington Narrows.
  • How high is the Manette Bridge?
    • The bridge is located approximately 82 feet above the water’s surface, offering scenic views of the surrounding area.
  • What is the history of the Manette Bridge?
    • The bridge has a long and storied history, dating back to 1930. Before its construction, a ferry service connected Bremerton and Manette.
  • What happened if someone missed the ferry before the bridge was built?
    • Before the bridge, missing the ferry meant taking a very long detour to reach the other side.
  • What materials were used to construct the bridge?
    • The original bridge was built using timber, but over the years, it has been enhanced with steel and concrete for better durability and strength.
  • Was the Manette Bridge ever a toll bridge?
    • Yes, the bridge was once a toll bridge, but it has been toll-free for many decades now.

Manette Bridge, Bremerton, WA 98337

Hike to the beach in Illahee State Park

Hike to the beach in Illahee State Park

© Zack Frank/stock.adobe.com

  • What is Illahee State Park?
    • Illahee State Park is an 82-acre state park located in the hamlet of Illahee, just outside East Bremerton. It is a popular destination for families and groups of friends.
  • What kind of outdoor activities are available at Illahee State Park?
    • The park offers a wide range of outdoor activities, making it an excellent spot for nature enthusiasts and adventurers.
  • Is Illahee State Park open year-round?
    • Yes, the park hosts both summer and winter activities, making it a great place to visit throughout the year.
  • What recreational activities can visitors enjoy?
    • Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including:
      • Boating
      • Hiking
      • Water sports
      • Paragliding
      • Metal detecting
      • Geocaching

3540 NE Sylvan Way, Bremerton, WA 98310, Phone: 360-478-6460

Watch a play in the middle of a forest at Kitsap Forest Theater

Watch a play in the middle of a forest at Kitsap Forest Theater

© raland/stock.adobe.com

  • What is the Kitsap Forest Theater?
    • The Kitsap Forest Theater is one of the oldest forest theaters in the United States, dating back to 1928. It offers a magical outdoor theater experience in a stunning natural setting.
  • Where is the Kitsap Forest Theater located?
    • The theater is located just 7 miles west of Downtown Bremerton, making it a convenient and scenic escape.
  • What makes the setting of the theater unique?
    • The theater is surrounded by the beautiful Rhododendron Preserve, which stretches across hundreds of acres, creating a fairy-tale-like atmosphere for performances.
  • When are performances held at the Kitsap Forest Theater?
    • The theater hosts magical performances in both spring and summer, providing a unique cultural experience in a natural setting.
  • Are there additional activities at the Kitsap Forest Theater?
    • Yes, in addition to live performances, the theater also offers summer camps and is located near glamping and camping opportunities.

3000 Seabeck Highway NW, Bremerton, WA 98312, Phone: 206-542-7815

What to do if you are traveling with kids:

Visit the unique Aurora Valentinetti Puppet Museum

Visit the unique Aurora Valentinetti Puppet Museum

© Aurora Valentinetti Puppet Museum

  • What is the Aurora Valentinetti Puppet Museum?
    • The Aurora Valentinetti Puppet Museum is a unique attraction in Bremerton that showcases puppet exhibits and displays from the past, each with their own styles and personalities.
  • When is the museum open?
    • The museum is open most days of the week throughout the year, offering an affordable and fun experience for the whole family.
  • What can visitors see at the museum?
    • Guests can explore various puppet exhibits and interactive displays, learning about the history and artistry of puppetry.
  • Does the museum offer tours and workshops?
    • Yes, visitors can enjoy full guided tours and participate in puppet workshops designed for all ages, from preschool children to adults.
  • Is there a play area for children?
    • Yes, the museum features a large children's play area where kids can interact with puppets and even put on their own shows.
  • Does the museum have a gift shop?
    • Yes, there is a spacious and colorful gift shop that sells puppets and puppet-related items for visitors to take home.

280 4th Street, Bremerton, WA 98337, Phone: 360-479-6226

Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:

Explore the serene Green Mountain and relax

Explore the serene Green Mountain and relax

© tera/stock.adobe.com

  • What is Green Mountain?
    • Green Mountain is a scenic natural area located within Green Mountain State Forest, just seven miles outside of Downtown Bremerton.
  • Why is Green Mountain popular?
    • The mountain is a popular destination for locals and tourists seeking peace and quiet in nature, as well as breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  • What is the elevation of Green Mountain?
    • Green Mountain is the second highest point on the Kitsap Peninsula, with an elevation of 1,639 feet above sea level.
  • How long is the hike up Green Mountain?
    • The roundtrip hike is approximately five miles and offers a moderate level of difficulty.
  • Is the hike suitable for families?
    • Yes, the trail is not particularly difficult, making it suitable for most people, including families with children and dogs.

Olympic Peninsula, Kitsap Peninsula, Phone: 206-625-1367

Watch a production at Bremerton Community Theatre

Watch a production at Bremerton Community Theatre

© lapandr/stock.adobe.com

  • What is the Bremerton Community Theatre?
    • Bremerton Community Theatre is one of the longest-running arts groups in Washington State, offering a variety of live theatrical performances to the local community.
  • How did the theatre begin?
    • The theatre started as a humble drama program during the latter years of World War II to bring hope and happiness to the local community.
  • What types of performances can visitors see?
    • The theatre showcases a variety of productions, including:
      • Classic Shakespearean plays
      • Popular stories such as The Wizard of Oz and The Hunchback of Notre Dame
  • What makes Bremerton Community Theatre special?
    • With decades of history and a team of passionate individuals working both behind the scenes and on stage, the theatre truly embodies the spirit of Bremerton.

599 Lebo Boulevard, Bremerton, WA 98310, Phone: 360-373-5152

Eat pancakes at Family Pancake House

Eat pancakes at Family Pancake House

© Family Pancake House

  • What is Family Pancake House?
    • Family Pancake House is a popular family eatery that has been running since 1963, with multiple locations across Washington State.
  • Why is Family Pancake House well-known?
    • The restaurant is family-owned and operated and is famous for its friendly service and high-quality food, with pancakes being the standout favorite.
  • What kind of food does Family Pancake House serve?
    • The menu features a variety of classic comfort food and American fare, including:
      • Pies, steaks, sandwiches, and salads
      • Seafood, pasta, and various meat entrées
      • Pancakes served all day
  • Are there meal options for children?
    • Yes, Family Pancake House offers a separate children's menu with kid-friendly meal options.
  • What meals are served at Family Pancake House?
    • The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with pancakes available at any time of day.

4115 Wheaton Way, Bremerton, WA 98310, Phone: 360-479-0788

Where to Eat in Bremerton, WA

  • Anthony’s at Sinclair Inlet – Upscale waterfront dining with fresh seafood and sunset views.
  • Boat Shed Restaurant – A local favorite in Manette with dockside dining and casual coastal fare.
  • Hound + Bottle – Cozy gastropub offering creative dishes, wine pairings, and a great weekend brunch.

If you are interested in local events:

  • Bremerton Bridge Blast (July) – One of the largest fireworks shows in the Northwest, held near the Manette Bridge.
  • Bremerton Blackberry Festival (Labor Day Weekend) – Celebrate summer with berry treats, music, crafts, and waterfront fun.
  • Armed Forces Day Parade (May) – The largest and longest-running parade of its kind in the U.S., honoring military service.

If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Bremerton, Washington:

  • Manette (5 min) – A walkable neighborhood across the bridge with cozy eateries and stunning views.
  • Port Orchard (10–15 min by foot ferry or 25 min by car) – Quaint town with shops, antique stores, and a scenic waterfront.
  • Silverdale (20 min) – Shopping, parks, and dining in this growing town just north of Bremerton.
  • Illahee State Park (15 min) – Hike wooded trails or relax at this forested beach park on Puget Sound.
  • Seabeck (30 min) – Charming village on Hood Canal with peaceful views and kayaking opportunities.
  • Gold Mountain Golf Club (15 min) – A top-ranked public golf course nestled in the evergreen hills.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • What is Bremerton known for?
    • Bremerton is a city on the Kitsap Peninsula, overlooking the Puget Sound. It is known for its charming neighborhood restaurants, coffee shops, beautiful parks, and fascinating naval museums.
  • Does Bremerton have strong ties to Seattle?
    • Yes, Bremerton has strong links to Seattle and is easily accessible via the Bremerton-Seattle ferry.
  • What outdoor activities are available in Bremerton?
    • Visitors can explore scenic nature trails and enjoy beautiful waterfront views throughout the city’s many parks.
  • Are there family-friendly attractions in Bremerton?
    • Yes, Bremerton offers family-friendly eateries, parks, and museums that cater to visitors of all ages.

At a Glance:


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild weather, perfect for exploring parks and waterfront attractions. Hampton Inn & Suites Bremerton – Comfortable accommodations centrally located near the ferry terminal. Visit Harborside Fountain Park – Relax by beautiful fountains with scenic harbor views.
Summer (June-August) – Warm temperatures ideal for boating, festivals, and outdoor recreation. Fairfield Inn & Suites Bremerton – Modern lodging with easy access to attractions. Explore USS Turner Joy Museum Ship – Tour a historic naval ship docked downtown.
Fall (September-November) – Cool, pleasant weather perfect for scenic drives and local events. Baymont by Wyndham Bremerton – Convenient stay offering great amenities and location. Walk the Bremerton Boardwalk – Enjoy views, dining, and local shopping.
Winter (December-February) – Quiet atmosphere ideal for museums and cozy indoor activities. Fairfield Inn & Suites Seattle Bremerton – Comfortable stay offering proximity to downtown. Visit Puget Sound Navy Museum – Learn about naval history and local maritime heritage.

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