BEYOND THE SHIPYARD: Bremerton Beyond the Base
When a Naval Shipyard is the focal point of your city, life tends to revolve around the yard. But Bremerton is more than just a military base, it’s a diverse community set against a gorgeous Pacific Northwest backdrop with notable restaurants and bars, live entertainment and outdoor adventure.
There are a number of restaurants on the Base itself—a coffee shop, food court, a Hawaiian, Mexican, and four American restaurants—but step outside the Base and options abound. Nearby, find veteran-owned sophisticated watering holes such as Axe & Arrow Gastropub known by locals for its craft beers and the city’s largest selection of whiskies. The Garage Bar & Grill is a favorite breakfast joint offering over-the-top Bloody Mary cocktails like the Surf N Turf. Hi-Los 15th Street Café is a go to brunch spot. For a taste of Lowcountry seafood with spicy creole flavors, try Tiny’s House of Crabs. Hit Da Spot is your off-base Hawaiian connection with Loco Moco, Kalua Pork and traditional plate lunches. For intimate Italian dining, consider La Fermata’s seasonal northern Italian cuisine paired with an array of international wines. Looking for waterfront dining with sweeping views of Sinclair Inlet, the Bremerton ferry and Naval ships? Indulge in Anthony’s at Sinclair Inlet or the Boat Shed—both great spots for special occasions and out of town visitors to show off the natural beauty of the Northwest over fresh seafood.
Visit Bremerton Rec Center to rent outdoor equipment for a trip to Illahee State Park for hiking and fishing or Camp McKean to beachcomb, picnic and kayak. The Landings Waterfront on Scenic Ostrich Bay offers softball fields, basketball, tennis and volleyball courts. Follow the Kitsap Admirals semi-pro international basketball team or channel Bremerton’s five-time Olympic Gold Medalist Swimmer Nathan Adrian at the Bangor Aquatics Center or Bremerton Aquatics—both offer 25-meter pools.
Visit Manette Bridge and Elandan Gardens & Bonsai Museum. Families love the Bremerton Bug & Reptile Museum and the Kitsap Forest Theatre. Catch a live show at the Admiral Theatre, a renovated 1942 movie house, now Kitsap’s premier live entertainment venue. WestSound Symphony is 60-member orchestra made up of community members with a love of music and whole lot of heart. Discover what’s beyond the Base in Bremerton.
