A Little Fun Up North 101
Departure Time:
07:00 AM or PM - Read below for more information
Car Checklist:
Good tires
A full tank of fuel before you depart
Optional: Washington Parks Discover Pass or $10 cash
Dan's Notes:
This drive is at its absolute best on a sunny weekend, but the really ideal way to do this drive is to spend the night at the Alderbrook, have breakfast, and then do the drive. You'll skip traffic and really have an easy relaxing day. Depending on what you feel like and how traffic is in Tacoma, you might choose to take the Seattle to Bremerton Ferry. If there's no traffic it doesn't actually save you any time, but it is a nice way to start the trip.
Once you're on the road, your first real stop will be The Alderbrook Resort and Spa. DO NOT SPEED ON THE WAY TO ALDERBROOK ON 106! In my opinion, this is the best place to get breakfast in the state and probably the best view while having it. They have a great spa as well and Prime members will find a discount here too. The road to and from the Alderbrook is in excellent condition and there are plenty of photo opportunities on the way. Watch your speed however and especially watch for multiple driveways. This is a great road to enjoy the view on; it won't disappoint you.
The next stop is Fort Flagler. You'll need a Washington Discover Pass here if you want to stay a while or you can pay $10 at the gate. You can also buy one ahead of time and print it from home via the link above or here. There is free short term parking down by the Beachcomber Cafe, but you won't be able to explore the park too much since you need to drive around. You'll want to go left for the beach and for the cafe, but the gun batteries are to your right. It's a fun spot to explore a little so I've included the link to the park here.
Your next stop is lunch and another great view with photo ops at The Inn at Port Ludlow restaurant, The Fireside. It's important to call ahead and make sure you can get reservations as the restaurant is very popular at all times of the day.
Next is a short drop south to Port Gamble and Gamble Bay Coffee. DON'T SPEED INTO PORT GAMBLE. Why the coffee stop? Nothing more than the sign actually. It's a great spot for a cup of coffee and a photo in front of the old service station sign. You should take some time to walk around if you haven't. It's a cute little town and a fun stop.
After that quick break it's time for dessert! The road south isn't too interesting, but Mora Iced Creamery is worth every mile. The ice cream is great and all, but the hot cakes will blow your mind! After you're stuffed full of delicious regret you can hop on the Bainbridge to Seattle ferry which departs every 40 minutes or so back to Seattle.
