We’re pretty spoiled when it comes to charming towns here in Washington. From our Bavarian village, Leavenworth, to our underrated treasure, La Conner, the Evergreen State is not lacking in picturesque places to spend a weekend (or a lifetime). But when it comes to our coastal towns, you simply can’t beat Port Townsend and its Victorian-era elegance.

Port Townsend isn't your typical beach town with boardwalks and saltwater taffy.
Port Townsend Visitor Information Center Facebook
It's a Victorian seaport located on the tip of the Olympic Peninsula.
What makes this place so charming, you might be wondering?
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We don't even know where to begin.
If you're a history buff, you'll love the old buildings that date back to the 1800s.
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This is the Bishop Victorian Hotel, built in 1890.
The Old Consulate Inn was once the Hastings House, which was constructed in the late 1800s by Frank Hastings, a successful local businessman.
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It's now a beautiful bed & breakfast with a rich local history.
Port Townsend was established in 1851 by a group of adventurous settlers.
Port Townsend Visitor Information Center Facebook
It was soon designated the port of call for the U.S., requiring all maritime traffic to stop and declare customs and pay tariffs.

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Even without the Victorian influences, Port Townsend would be charming.
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Since Port Townsend was booming during the Victorian era, many of its buildings were constructed during that time... which only adds to the appeal now.
Port Townsend is a "best of both worlds" kind of place. It has small-town friendliness with all the amenities of a big city.
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Not only do the restaurants serve delicious food, many of them, like Doc's Marina Grill, serve it waterside.
Even if you don't come for one of the many festivals, events or writers' conferences, you can easily spend a weekend exploring the downtown shops.
Port Townsend Main Street Program Facebook
The city has a thriving arts community, so don't forget to check out a gallery or two.
Did we mention many of these beautiful old buildings are haunted?
The Palace Hotel Facebook
The Palace Hotel is apparently full of the spirits of many of the "Ladies of the Night" who lived there when it was a brothel in the early 1900s.
In a state full of charming cities and towns, this one will win any contest, anytime.
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Nothing else quite compares to Port Townsend.

Do you think Port Townsend is our most charming place? The cities on this list might give it a run for its money.

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