Port Angeles, Washington

As the gateway to the Olympic National Park—a top-of-the-bucket-list worthy wonder and one of few national parks in the Northwest—this smallish seaside-meets-mountain town has nuggets of history, hints of fame, bewitching beauty, and adventure waiting to be discovered. 

Port Angeles is the spot to start –and stay — during your Olympic Peninsula journey.

It’s easy to get inspired in Port Angeles. From a historic underground tour to art spotting for murals along the Port Angeles Mural Trail to Native American heritage celebrations and museums, Port Angeles is popping with culture galore.

Explore the Port Angeles Fine Arts Center, galleries, or the umpteen pieces of street art scattered throughout the downtown core. 

Don’t miss a visit to the Elwha Heritage Center or the House of Learning (a.k.a. The Longhouse) for a glimpse into the lives and culture of the original native Klallam people. Plan to watch one of the native ceremonies honoring the past traditions including the annual Paddle to Seattle Canoe Journey and the First Salmon Ceremony.

Eat and drink your way through Port Angeles restaurants with farm-to-table cuisine, fresh seafood, hip brew pubs, and chic nano wineries.