I spent a night in Burlington, Washington and a barman suggested that I visit Port Townsend by ferry. He had no idea how much that appealed to me, and so next morning I jumped in my car and continued my drive along Washington State Route 20, which includes the car ferry ride to Port Townsend.
The ferry ride is terrific. 30 minutes, with plenty of space out the back. Unfortunately, you aren’t allowed to drink out the back, but they sell beer on board, which you can drink inside. I prefer my beer with a view.
Port Townsend is a beautifully preserved town and there are many historic buildings in both the Downtown and Uptown sections. The sign I’ve included describes what a lawless place Port Townsend was in the day – hard to imagine with all the retirees strolling around (including me!)
The Uptown Pub is definitely worth a visit. I watched the first half of the England v Croatia game and enjoyed an old school 16oz can of Hamm’s Lager, which as I’ve come to learn is a bargain. Great tap list takeaway range available.
Port Townsend is also home to at least three craft breweries. Propolis Brewing reminds me of Wildflower Brewing in Marrickville with its approach to beer. It also has a vintage clothing boutique out the back.
The eponymous Port Townsend Brewing Company looks like it has been around for some time. Plenty of regulars bellying up to the bar. Nice flight. Chet’s Golden Ale was the standout. Plenty of establishments were offering Port Townsend beers on their menus.
Social Fabric Brewing is the newest of the three, only being open for less than two years. Some pretty serious beers, and there’s a nice beer garden out the back.
Top spot – Port Townsend.
back of the ferry 