PORT ORCHARD
Port Orchard is a rapidly growing waterfront community between Bremerton and Gig Harbor. It has many amenities including shops, galleries, museums, restaurants, parks, and marinas. There's also a convenient passenger-only Port Orchard/Bremerton ferry to decrease the commute time to Seattle.
Discover Port Orchard
History
Port Orchard became Kitsap County's first incorporated city in 1890. It was originally called Sidney after Illinois inventor Sidney M. Stevens who came to the area in 1885 and purchased an 88-acre homestead for $900. In 1892, residents petitioned to have it renamed Port Orchard after Harry Masterman Orchard, clerk to English explorer Captain George Vancouver.
Small communities sprung up along the waterfront, and Port Orchard was established as the county seat. Port Orchard's settlers established the first post office, newspaper, logging mill, pottery, and terra cotta businesses. In fact, many of the bricks that helped pave Seattle were produced in Port Orchard. The city has grown significantly over the years and is now a vibrant waterfront community.
Vibe
Port Orchard is a waterfront community that stretches south and west and is the seat of Kitsap County government. Accessible by foot ferry from Bremerton, Washington State Ferry system from Seattle and Vashon Island, and Highway 16, it has plenty of history and new development to keep tourists and locals busy. The waterfront bustles with The Port Orchard Farmer's Market, marinas, shopping and restaurants.
Activities and attractions
Explore Port Orchard to find parks, lakes, campgrounds, several 18-hole golf courses. The Fathom of Fun Festival is a popular event and there are several museums, a skate park, and even the Kitsap Live Steamers Train Park to visit. View a South Kitsap Community tour video or learn about recreational activities.
