In This Article

1. Explore maritime history on USS Turner Joy Museum Ship

Explore maritime history on USS Turner Joy Museum Ship

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  • 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

2. 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

3. Admire the Manette Bridge

Admire the Manette Bridge

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  • 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

4. Hike to the beach in Illahee State Park

Hike to the beach in Illahee State Park

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  • 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

5. 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

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  • 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:

6. 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:

7. Explore the serene Green Mountain and relax

Explore the serene Green Mountain and relax

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  • 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

8. Watch a production at Bremerton Community Theatre

Watch a production at Bremerton Community Theatre

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  • 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

9. 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

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