Visitors

Port Orchard is conveniently located on the Kitsap Peninsula between the urban settings of Seattle-Tacoma, and the rain forests and beaches of the Olympic National Park.  As the Peninsula is almost entirely surrounded by water, it is a perfect destination for boaters and water sports, and recently became one of the few places in the country to feature a nationally recognized water trail for paddlers.

Local resident Debbie Macomber is a New York Times bestselling author, and fans of her novels know Port Orchard as Cedar Cove, the picturesque waterfront village that is the setting for her beloved Cedar Cove series. Numerous locations from her novels can be easily found including the waterfront library, totem pole, the courthouse on Cline Street, art gallery and the Bay Street restaurants.

Downtown Port Orchard features a collection of eclectic boutiques, antiques, and collectible shops where merchants offer a mix of designer goods as well at retro items. There is also a wonderful collection of games and toys for the whole family.

Dining choices are abundant, from a bistro to a gastropub, and dining with a waterfront view. The Port Orchard Public Market located in downtown offers everything from dining to desserts, juice bar, flowers and gifts and artisan pottery. The market features permanent, seasonal, and daily vendors, so you will get something new every time you visit.

The Bay Street Pedestrian Path is a beautiful winding pathway that offers views of the Olympic Mountains and Naval Shipyard. The path extends along the waterfront and can be enjoyed by walking, biking or running, and is pet friendly. Along the pathway, stop by the Veteran's Memorial Wall, enjoy the local art and sculptures,  play in our family friendly parks or bring a picnic lunch and stop to enjoy the scenic waterfront.

During the spring and summer, Port Orchard features many free and exciting events and concerts. Come and stroll through the Saturday Farmers Market, or sing and dance during the Thursday evening Concerts on the Bay at the Gazebo by the water. Meet and greet with local artists on the First Friday Artwalks, or join the thousands of people who gather downtown during the car shows. Feeling the holiday spirit? Every December, on the first Saturday of the month, downtown Port Orchard lights up with thousands of lights, decorations and holiday cheer. During the Festival of Chimes and Lights, come and enjoy the decorated boats in the harbor, the lighting of the tree in front of City Hall, take pictures with Santa, see the animals in the Pooch and Purr Pet Parade, and much more!