how to get to port townsend from seattle

How to Get to Port Townsend From Seattle

Getting from Seattle to Port Townsend involves a scenic journey across Puget Sound. You have several transportation options, including driving, taking a ferry, or combining public transit with a ferry ride. The total travel time ranges from approximately 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on your chosen method and any potential delays.

Driving and Ferry Combination

The most common way to travel to Port Townsend from Seattle is by driving and taking a ferry. First, drive to the Washington State Ferries terminal in downtown Seattle at Colman Dock. You will need to board the ferry to Bainbridge Island (Winslow). The ferry ride itself is about 35 minutes and offers stunning views of the Seattle skyline and the Olympic Mountains.

Once you arrive on Bainbridge Island, disembark the ferry and drive north towards the Agate Pass Bridge. This bridge connects Bainbridge Island to the Kitsap Peninsula. Continue driving north on Highway 305, which eventually merges with Highway 3. Follow Highway 3 north until you reach the Highway 104 junction. Take Highway 104 west; this road will lead you directly to Port Townsend. The drive from the Bainbridge ferry terminal to Port Townsend is approximately one hour, depending on traffic.

Public Transportation and Ferry

For those without a car, a combination of public transit and the ferry is a viable option. Several bus routes in Seattle connect to Colman Dock. Check the King County Metro website for the most up-to-date schedules and routes. Once at Colman Dock, board the ferry to Bainbridge Island as described above.

Upon arriving at the ferry terminal on Bainbridge Island, you can catch a Kitsap Transit bus that connects to Port Townsend. Check the Kitsap Transit website or app for bus schedules that align with the ferry arrival times. The bus ride from the ferry terminal to Port Townsend can take around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the route and any transfer times.

Considerations

Regardless of your chosen method, it’s essential to check the Washington State Ferries website for updated schedules, fares, and any service alerts. During peak travel times, especially weekends and holidays, ferry wait times can be significant, so arrive early. Traffic conditions on the Kitsap Peninsula can also affect your travel time, so factor that into your planning. You can explore the history of the city from Wikipedia.

FAQs

Is there a direct ferry from Seattle to Port Townsend?

No, there is no direct ferry from Seattle to Port Townsend. You need to take a ferry to Bainbridge Island and then drive or take a bus to Port Townsend.

How much does it cost to take the ferry to Bainbridge Island?

The cost of the ferry varies depending on whether you are walking on, driving a car, or bringing a motorcycle. Check the Washington State Ferries website for current fares.

How long does it take to get to Port Townsend by bus from the Bainbridge Island ferry terminal?

The bus ride from the Bainbridge Island ferry terminal to Port Townsend can take around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the specific route and any transfer times.

Is it necessary to make a ferry reservation?

Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak travel times. This will help ensure you get on the ferry you want.

What are some things to do in Port Townsend?

Port Townsend offers a variety of activities, including exploring historic downtown, visiting Fort Worden State Park, hiking, kayaking, and enjoying the local arts and culture scene.

Summary

Traveling from Seattle to Port Townsend requires a combination of driving and ferry, or public transportation and ferry. Plan ahead, check ferry schedules, and consider potential traffic delays to ensure a smooth journey to this beautiful Victorian seaport.