Gig Harbor is located on Puget Sound, a scenic waterfront community dotted with sailboats. There are many waterfront properties, quaint shops, and million-dollar homes, and a 2-mile bay-side walkway dotted with quirky stores and cozy cafes. From here, you can explore the sweeping waters and enjoy the sunset. There are plenty of activities for families, as well as opportunities to meet locals. If you’re looking for a place to rent a boat in Gig Harbor, Washington, then you’ve come to the right place.
One of the most prominent attractions in Gig Harbor is the 7,000-square-foot Harbor History Museum, located just 11 minutes’ walk from Susanne’s. It’s home to the historical artifacts of the region, and features archival black-and-white photos. Its mission is to foster a sense of community in the town, educating the public about local and regional history. Visitors can see the infamous Skansie Brothers House, as well as the Fishermen’s Memorial.
While in Gig Harbor, you should check out the local pubs and restaurants. For example, Morso, a waterfront restaurant, was named one of the Top 100 Wine Lists in the United States by Open Table. The restaurant serves tapas, a tapas-style cuisine, as well as local art. A quaint, but funky location, Gertie and the Giant Octopus, a tiny eatery in Uptown Gig Harbor, is also worth checking out. It serves European-inspired dishes, and has an extensive wine list.
While Gig Harbor is not a biking town, it does boast several great spots for outdoor recreational activities. The Gig Harbor Trail cuts east of State Route 16 and has paved paths for easy access. There are developed trailhead parking lots, and one of the best is located off Grandview Street. There is even a flush restroom. Although most of the trail is flat, there are a few significant city streets that you should be aware of. Always yield to pedestrians and motor vehicles when you cross them.
Despite the city’s recent history, Gig Harbor has been a popular vacation spot for many visitors. Its rich history can be traced to its founding in 1895 by three early settlers. In 1905, Lt. Sinclair had rowed into the bay in a small boat. The local Indians were cooking salmon on the shore, and the small boat was the perfect size for entering the narrow channel. These early settlers eventually made the city of Gig Harbor into a fishing village.
The town’s rich history is apparent in many of its places. Names such as Anna Goodman Park and the Skansie Brothers Park are a testament to the town’s heritage. The first school in the town was operated by Anna Goodman, who had a sister named Lucy Goodman. Goodman learned her craft by rowing to Tacoma, then to the University of Washington. She also attended the Ellensburg Normal School and a number of private schools in Gig Harbor, and eventually retired.