Little Norway - Poulsbo Washington

The PERFECT day trip from Seattle. Yes, I am sure you have heard of the adorable alps like village, Leavenworth, located on the eastern side of Stevens Pass - BUT Poulsbo is an actual authentic Norwegian village, only a hand full of miles away from downtown Seattle. It is also a perfect day trip from the Emerald City, without having to traverse a mountain. You don't even have to drive! An ideal solo adventure, date afternoon, or family get away.

Should you choose the **non driving option, find your way to the Seattle waterfront, Pier 52 - 801 Alaskan Way. Lot's of busses come by this location, you can also take the light rail, getting off at Pioneer Square, and walking a few blocks. Another route, if staying in a hotel in the Pike Place corridor, wander through Pike Place Market, towards the waterfront, enjoying the newly created walkway (with incredible views). Once you are adjacent to Puget Sound, turn left heading South, and the Ferry Terminal will be a few blocks away, on your right. Ferries to Bainbridge run about every 45 minutes or so, from early in the morning until about midnight. Check the schedule HERE. Once on the island, you will disembark, and walk along the road, to the transfer station, just past the terminal, bus #390 will take you directly to Poulsbo, in less than 30 minutes, and cost $2. Get off at Hostmark Street, there is a CVS and a Brown Bear Car Wash, on the corner. From here, cross the road, heading down towards Liberty Bay. A few minutes later, you will be in the heart of Poulsbo.

What could a day in this adorable village look like? Though this town is extremely pup friendly, and bringing your furry friend would be a super idea if driving... this suggested itinerary will be dog-less.

Begin with donuts from Sluys Bakery,(Sluys could be the best sweet shop on the planet, be prepared for long lines) then, just around the corner, a coffee from Byrdies. This is a simple walk up counter, so take your delectables to the waterfront park and watch for seals, eagles, and otters. Next up - kayaking Liberty Bay. I suggest arriving no later than 10 am for this adventure. Returning by noon or so, with a wander to window shop and stretch the legs, before grabbing lunch on the deck at the Loft. Fantastic food, overlooking the marina and bay.

From here, head to Dancing Brush Studio, to tap into some of the creativity you may not even know you have! Fun for all ages - spend an hour or longer creating your masterpiece. Once complete, directly next door, two wine tasting venues, with another just across the street. All of which have outdoor seating, a wonderful way to spend the afternoon people watching and chatting, while reminiscing about your adventures earlier in the day. If beer is more your style, around the corner and up the stairs, Valhöll Brewing opens at 2 most days of the week. If you are in town on a Friday or Saturday, SEA Discovery Center is a great spot to spend learning about the creatures living in the Puget Sound, with fascinating hands on experiences with starfish, urchins, anemones and more.

There are a plethora of wonderful restaurants to end our day along the short two block historic downtown, or head back up the hill to catch the #390 back to Bainbridge - where you can immediately catch another ferry back to Seattle, or wander Winslow Way, which offers more superb location for dining and shopping, with a host of galleries and pubs to entertain.

** Should you decide to drive; parking is free, but can be challenging to find. The earlier you arrive, the better. There is a large lot adjacent to the waterfront park, and anothe across the street from the Son's of Norway Lodge. You can also loop your trip, coming over on the Bainbridge Ferry, and returning via Kingston. If you have brought your pup or have extra time, Port Gamble is a wonderful side trip. Additionally, North Kitsap Heritage Park, offers miles of great hiking trails to provide Rover with lots of room to stretch their legs.

North Kitsap Heritage Park

Kingston is cute as a button, offering a handful of ecclectic eats and shops adjacent to the ferry terminal. These boats have a faster turn around, with only a 30 minute sailing. You will arrive into the adorable community of Edmonds, which also offers a variety of superb bars, restaurants, shops, galleries, and more - should you want to continue your adventures before heading back to Seattle (only a short 20 miles away, from ferry terminal to ferry terminal).

I can't wait to see your adventures! Share with me on Instagram @accordingtouna