Washington, D.C. , United States

Guided Poulsbo Walking Tour

Active

(10 reviews)

45m

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover Poulsbo, WA—affectionately known as "Little Norway"—on this lively 45-minute walking tour through its picturesque waterfront downtown. Once home to the Suquamish Tribe and later settled by Norwegians in the 1880s, this coastal gem has a rich history shaped by the bay's striking, fjord-like beauty.

Stroll through time as we explore Poulsbo’s roots—from Indigenous heritage to its heyday as a port for the Mosquito Fleet. You'll pass historic buildings and iconic landmarks, and learn how the town’s authentic Viking spirit and Nordic traditions remain proudly alive in everything Poulsbo does.

You’ll also get insider tips on local eateries and drinkeries, one-of-a-kind retail spots, and regional attractions—plus ideas for what to explore next, from the Poulsbo Historical Society and SEA Discovery Center to waterfront activities and nearby adventures. A local treat caps off this fun, informative walk, perfect for first-time visitors and curious locals alike.

Available options

Guided Poulsbo Walking Tour

What's included

A small taste of Poulsbo's rich culinary offerings

Professional, Seasoned, and Hospitable Guide

Authentic stories and tales from Poulsbo's history

Detailed itinerary

Discover the original stewards of the land as we honor the Suquamish people, whose presence along the shores of Liberty Bay dates back thousands of years. We will also explore the Scandenavian heritage of the original pioneers!

Housed in a century-old building, this museum tells the story of Poulsbo’s early families, industries, and artifacts from daily life. Hear the story of how Norwegian settlers, arriving in the 1880s, were drawn to the bay’s fjord-like topography that reminded them of home. We’ll explore their daily lives, community-building efforts, and cultural resilience.

Sweets and treats from one of the best candy companies in the Pacific Northwest, with a detailed look at their beautiful Viking mural. Learn all about what makes Poulsbo such an authentic Scandinavian treasure.

Get a taste of Poulsbo's most iconic bakery.

Discover the educational mission of this hands-on marine center, run by Western Washington University, as we admire it from the boardwalk.

Hear the story of this beloved independent bookstore that champions local authors and serves as a cultural hub for readers of all ages.

Other Landmarks that we will see include:

Poulsbo Maritime Museum: a beautifully curated space highlighting the town’s deep connection to the water.

Sons of Norway Lodge: Still active today, this organization has preserved Nordic culture and hosted countless community events for over a century, even hosting King Olav!

The Hostmark Building: The oldest commercial structure in Poulsbo, once home to a general store and the town’s first post office.

The Eliason Building: A key structure in the rebuilding of downtown after the 1914 fire, now representing early 20th-century architecture in Poulsbo.

The Port of Poulsbo: Get a waterfront view of this active marina, which remains central to Poulsbo’s identity as a coastal town and sailing destination.

Many other sights that highlight the town's Nordic culture and vibrant history! Great photo stops at the Red Phone Booth, Viking Mural, and Uff Da!

What's not included

Tips and Gratuities

This is a walking tour

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

8 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Route requires guests to navigate a ramp that is ADA accessible, but uneven and steeply graded.

Meeting point

Your guide will be holding a Norwegian flag and eagerly awaiting your arrival next to the Austin-Kvelstad Pavilion.

About Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. is the capital of the United States and a vibrant city rich in history, culture, and politics. It's home to iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and a dynamic food scene, offering a unique blend of national significance and urban energy.

Top Attractions

National Mall and Memorial Parks

A large, open park area in downtown Washington, D.C., featuring iconic memorials, museums, and the U.S. Capitol.

Historical/Park Half day to full day Free

Smithsonian Museums

A collection of world-class museums offering free admission and covering a wide range of topics from art to space exploration.

Museum Half day to full day per museum Free

United States Capitol

The seat of the U.S. Congress and a symbol of American democracy, offering guided tours of its historic halls and the Capitol Visitor Center.

Historical/Government 1-2 hours Free, but advance reservations recommended

White House

The official residence and workplace of the President of the United States, offering public tours of its historic rooms and gardens.

Historical/Government 1-2 hours Free, but advance reservations required for tours

Georgetown

A historic and charming neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, waterfront views, and upscale shopping and dining.

Neighborhood/Historical Half day Free to explore, shopping and dining vary

Must-Try Local Dishes

Half-Smoke

A local sausage made with a blend of beef and pork, typically served with chili, onions, and mustard.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat, can be made with gluten-free buns

Crab Cakes

Made with fresh Maryland blue crab, these crab cakes are a regional specialty, often served with a tangy sauce.

Lunch/Dinner Contains seafood, can be made gluten-free

Ben's Chili Bowl Half-Smoke

A iconic dish from Ben's Chili Bowl, featuring a half-smoke sausage topped with chili, onions, and mustard, served in a bun.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat, can be made with gluten-free buns

Popular Activities

Hiking in Great Falls Park Kayaking on the Potomac River Rock climbing in Theodore Roosevelt Island Picnicking in the National Mall Strolling along the Georgetown Waterfront Visiting the United States Botanic Garden Attending a performance at the Kennedy Center Exploring the Smithsonian Museums

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Cherry blossoms in April and vibrant fall foliage in October are major highlights.

15-28°C 60-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, French, Amharic, Chinese
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (ET) - UTC-5 (Standard Time), UTC-4 (Daylight Saving Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Washington, D.C. is generally safe for tourists, with a visible police presence and a low crime rate in popular tourist areas. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
• Use reputable tour guides and vendors
• Use metered taxis or ride-sharing services with fixed pricing

Getting there

By air

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport • 5 km from city center
Washington Dulles International Airport • 42 km from city center

By train

Union Station

By bus

Union Station, Greyhound Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Metro is efficient and widely used. It consists of six lines and 98 stations.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Georgetown Adams Morgan U Street Corridor

Day trips

Mount Vernon

20 km from city center • Half day to full day

The historic estate and burial site of George Washington, offering a glimpse into the life of the first U.S. president and a beautiful view of the Potomac River.

Arlington National Cemetery

8 km from city center • Half day

A historic military cemetery honoring American service members, featuring the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the Changing of the Guard ceremony, and the graves of notable figures like John F. Kennedy and Robert F. Kennedy.

Great Falls Park

24 km from city center • Full day

A scenic park offering stunning views of the Potomac River and its waterfalls, with hiking trails, picnicking areas, and opportunities for outdoor activities like kayaking and rock climbing.

Festivals

National Cherry Blossom Festival • Late March to early April Smithsonian Folklife Festival • Late June to early July DC Jazz Festival • June

Pro tips

Visit popular attractions like the National Mall and Smithsonian Museums early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.
Use the free Smithsonian Museums as a way to beat the heat and take a break from sightseeing.
Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and attractions.
Take advantage of the city's extensive public transportation system, including the Metro, buses, and bike-shares, to get around efficiently and affordably.
Try local specialties like half-smokes, crab cakes, and international cuisine, reflecting the city's diverse cultural influences.