The Pacific Northwest is a pretty great place to live or visit if you love the water. And, with an abundance of lakes, rivers, coastline and the mighty Puget Sound, a day at the beach is never far.
One town known for its rich fishing and boat making history, calm bays and beautiful beaches is Gig Harbor, Washington. This maritime town has modernized and developed over the years, but monuments, historic architecture and even a museum all play a role in honoring the salty, yet charming history of the city.
There are endless ways to spend a weekend in Gig Harbor, but, first things first: you’re going to need a place to stay. Bed and breakfasts, houseboats and other lodging accommodations are all scattered throughout the city, but if you’re looking for something comfortable, contemporary and conveniently located near the waterfront and Uptown shopping, dining and entertainment, the INN at Gig Harbor is a no brainer. With 64 rooms and suites, lavish accommodations, world-class service and business-friendly work areas, the INN at Gig Harbor still manages to create a “small inn ambiance” that is both relaxing and utterly charming. And, your stay can be as regal or laid-back as you like. With everything from in-room Jacuzzi tubs and fireplaces to on-site massages, the INN at Gig Harbor goes above and beyond to provide its guests with everything they need to unwind. Bonus: the INN is pet-friendly, too.
With so many great accommodations, it would be easy to spend an entire weekend in your room, however, at some point you’ll want to get outside and experience all that Gig Harbor has to offer. Options for exploring the town are endless. You can rent a kayak or boat and enjoy the city afloat, or stay on land and explore the charming shops, parks and other attractions located throughout Gig Harbor’s beguiling downtown area. Go by foot or in the summer you can hop on the Gig Harbor trolley where a 50 cent fare will tour you around the town in style.
When your stomach starts to rumble, fine dining, pub fare and other eats are all a short walk or drive away. You can eat at INN’s Heritage Restaurant where mouthwatering seafood like wild Alaskan Sockeye salmon and shrimp scampi abound. For exquisite fine dining in the heart of downtown, Brix 25° and JW are two local favorites, while those looking for something a bit more casual will enjoy the popular Tides Tavern for classic pub fare and sweeping views of the water. To wash it all down, enjoy tasting from a wide selection of handcrafted spirits at nearby Heritage Distilling Co., or see what’s on tap at 7 Seas Brewing. End your evening with a glass of wine at Morso Wine Bar, or (weather permitting) enjoy a starlit stroll along the waterfront.
Back at the INN, sink into your bed for a good night’s rest before waking up to a hearty breakfast. You can either chow down on one of the many enticing offerings available on the hotel’s breakfast menu, or head back into downtown where Netshed No. 9 offers a creative menu of sweet and savory breakfast foods like you’ve never seen before. (Note: the bacon cinnamon rolls are out of this world.)
Visit the INN at Gig Harbor’s website for more information about rooms, rates and specials, and more creative ways to spend your time in Washington’s Maritime City, Gig Harbor.
The INN at Gig Harbor || 3211 56th St NW, Gig Harbor || (253) 858-1111 || innatgigharbor.com
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