Exploring the Gateway Towns of Olympic National Park

Nestled in the northwest corner of the United States, Olympic National Park in Washington State is a picturesque wilderness. It features diverse ecosystems, from the rugged Pacific coastline to temperate rainforests and the alpine heights of the Olympic Mountains. While the park is a natural haven with limited development, surrounding towns offer accommodation, dining options, and local delicacies. Here’s a guide to the communities at the park's doorstep and what they offer.

Port Angeles

Port Angeles is located directly north of Olympic National Park and serves as a major hub for visitors. The town has various hotels, motels, and bed-and-breakfasts for accommodation needs. Dining options in Port Angeles range from casual eateries to fine dining, with many emphasizing locally sourced seafood.

Try the Dungeness Crab, named after the nearby Dungeness Spit. The CrabHouse restaurant is a popular spot to enjoy this delicacy in various forms, including bisque, cake, or fresh and cracked.

Sequim

East of Port Angeles, Sequim is known for its lavender farms and the annual Lavender Festival. This town provides cozy lodging options and several dining establishments offering fresh local fare. Make sure to visit lavender boutiques and farms for unique culinary offerings like lavender-infused treats.

Alder Wood Bistro is a favorite for its wood-fired cuisine focusing on locally harvested ingredients. Don’t miss the opportunity to try the locally farmed shellfish, particularly the Manila clams.

Forks

West of the park is Forks, which gained fame from the "Twilight" book series. Though smaller than Port Angeles and Sequim, Forks offers several motels and inns with eateries catering to hikers and adventure-seekers. Salmon is a regional staple that can be found at many local restaurants.

The Forks Coffee Shop is a long-standing institution serving hearty American fare. Their fish and chips are frequently made with local catch and a menu highlight.

Port Townsend

To the northeast of the national park on the Quimper Peninsula is the Victorian seaport of Port Townsend. This charming town features historic bed-and-breakfasts, boutique hotels, and a well-preserved downtown with diverse dining options focusing on regional and organic ingredients.

At Silverwater Cafe, visitors can enjoy Penn Cove mussels, harvested from nearby waters, known for their sweet flavor. Don’t miss the local Olympic Peninsula cider, available at several cidery tasting rooms.

Hoquiam and Aberdeen

South of the park, the towns of Hoquiam and Aberdeen provide gateways to the southern beaches of Olympic National Park. Though more industrial in feel, both towns offer accommodations and diners for visitors. Seafood remains a highlight, with opportunities to sample everything from oysters to locally caught fish.

Grays Harbor

Closer to the southwestern edge of the national park, Grays Harbor includes small towns with cozy lodging and seafood-focused dining.

Bennett's Fish Shack in Ocean Shores is a great place for battered fish. Oyhut Bay Bistro offers a relaxing spot to enjoy a meal after exploring the nearby beaches.

Food Not to Miss

While visiting these towns, don’t miss tasting the Pacific Northwest's famous smoked salmon, available at many smokehouses and markets. Pair it with regional wines and cheeses for a true taste of local cuisine.

Helpful Websites

For information on accommodations, restaurants, and local dishes, the following websites can be helpful:

• Olympic Peninsula Visitor Bureau: olympicpeninsula.org
• Port Angeles Regional Chamber of Commerce: portangeles.org
• Forks Chamber of Commerce: forkswa.com
• Enjoy Port Townsend: enjoypt.com

These sites provide comprehensive listings of lodging, dining, and attractions, along with local events and activities to assist in planning your visit to Olympic National Park and its neighboring towns.