If you’ve lived in Washington for longer than about five minutes, you’ve probably heard of Leavenworth, Washington’s Bavarian village. With any luck, you’ve spent some time there and fallen in love with the little German-themed town surrounded by mountains. But did you know that Washington also has a little Norway? The next time you find yourself with a free weekend, try spending it in Poulsbo. You’re practically guaranteed to fall in love with this charming town.

Poulsbo is located on the Kitsap Peninsula, overlooking Liberty Bay.
David Seibold / Flickr
For reference, it's about an hour and 20 minutes from Seattle and about 20 miles north of Bremerton.
The Suquamish people were the original inhabitants of this beautiful area. But the town itself was founded by Norwegian immigrant Jørgen Eliason in the 1880s.
sea turtle / Flickr
In its formative years, Poulsbo was inhabited by a large number of Norwegian and other Scandinavian immigrants because of its similarities to their native countries. In time, it became known as Washington's Little Norway.
These days, Poulsbo is known as one of our most delightful small towns, although it's still somewhat of a hidden gem.
Larry Syverson / Flickr
Whether you enjoy hiking, shopping, fine dining, or simply relaxing, you'll find it here. You can go kayaking on Liberty Bay, visit the Poulsbo Marine Science Center, or learn about maritime history at the U.S. Naval Underwater Museum, just to name a few of the fun things to do here.
For such a small town, you'll find an abundance of delicious dining options here.
Sogno di Vino / Google
While Paella Bar, an upscale tapas spot, is a trendy place for Spanish fare, you can never go wrong with a meal at the beloved Sogno di Vino.
Sogno di Vino serves pasta, pizza, and other Italian classics.
Sogno di Vino / Facebook
And the wine list here is to die for.

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Speaking of wine, if you enjoy vino, don't miss the chance to taste at State 42 Wines.
State 42 Wines / Google
State 42 Wines is run by a husband and wife team who grow wines from 13 different vineyards within seven Washington AVAs, using organic and sustainably farmed vineyards.
The downtown Poulsbo tasting room has become a community gathering place and a spot for tourists to come relax over some tasty vino.
Kevin Walters / Google
The wine is so fantastic that the wine club actually has a lengthy waiting list.
If sweets are more your style, just head to the beloved Sluys Poulsbo Bakery.
THC S / Google
This place has been a local favorite for years, with people driving from all over the peninsula to sink their teeth into the delightful delicacies.
Sluys Poulsbo Bakery is a small family owned shop—there's nothing corporate about this place.
Sluys Poulsbo Bakery / Facebook
You won't find better pastries, cupcakes, or cookies anywhere in town (or possibly on Earth).
Poulsbo is a tiny town, but it's huge on charm.
State 42 Wines / Facebook
Visit for the annual Viking Fest in the summer if you want a true taste of the Norwegian influence. Otherwise, simply prepare for a decadent and relaxing weekend.

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Poulsbo, WA 98370, USA