Washington's 'Little Norway' Is An Underrated Port City Full Of Boutiques, Art, And Treats

It is remarkable that Vikings reached the shores of North America as early as 1021, a good 500 years before the first permanent European settlement was founded in St. Augustine, Florida. Nowadays, Scandinavians have established their presence across Canada and the United States, from British Columbia to Mount Horeb, Wisconsin, the Midwest's troll capital of the world, and many other places. One of the farthest flung from the days of longships pulling up in Newfoundland is Poulsbo, Washington, an underrated town that was not only founded by Norwegians but looks a little like their home country, too.

Located an hour's drive and ferry ride across the water from Seattle, Poulsbo was established in 1883 by Norwegian immigrant Jørgen Eliason. Over time, more Norwegian and Scandinavian people found their way to the region, attracted by the acres of farmland and surroundings that resemble the fjords back home. You can see the appeal: Set on the water and surrounded by tall pine forests, the colorful timber clad homes and buildings of the historic downtown area have a distinctly northern European look. It certainly isn't nicknamed Little Norway on the Fjord for nothing: Poulsbo residents kept Norwegian as their first language up until World War II and the town maintains a strong Nordic vibe to this day. Let's take a look at what you can expect from a visit to the Viking city of the Pacific Northwest.

Poulsbo is a relatively small city but it has plenty of fascinating boutique stores, antique shops, and galleries which make it a delightful place for a little retail therapy. You will see reminders of the town's Norwegian heritage as you wander through the streets, from the imposing Norsman Statue and the Viking mural outside Boehms Chocolates to the Norwegian flags flying from houses and storefronts. For a taste of Norway, head to Marina Market for some Scandinavian favorites, or try one of over 600 types of licorice, including Norwegian licorice ice cream sauce. You can also pick up some Nordic-themed souvenirs from Nordiska gift shop.

Many of Poulsbo's events throughout the year also lean into its Scandinavian ancestry. Foodies who love offbeat European delicacies should add the Sons of Norway Dinner to their calendars for a chance to sample traditional Norwegian Lutefisk, a cured fish travel expert Rick Steves once described as "inedible." Valisblot (the Norse equivalent of Valentine's Day) in February and Midsommer on the Summer Solstice are two time-honored Scandinavian traditions, while Viking Fest takes place around Syttende Mai, a celebration of Norwegian Independence. Expect plenty of plastic Viking helmets, sword fighting, carnival parades, live music, logging demonstrations, a strongman competition, and fun and entertainment for the kids. The area's pre-Norwegian heritage also gets a look-in: Performances at the Passage in July and Chief Seattle Days in August both honor the Suquamish people who inhabited the region prior to the Scandinavian settlers.

Poulsbo has a few interesting museums to check out that are worth adding to your West Coast bucket list. Visit Martinson Cabin to see what life was like for early Norwegian settlers in the region, and find out more about the city's history at the Heritage Museum. You can learn about Poulsbo's rich seafaring heritage at the Maritime Museum, or get friendly with some marine life at SEA Discovery Center.

Outside of town, the natural surroundings that so attracted its Scandinavian founders makes for a great place for outdoor activities. The woods to the north of the city are threaded with numerous trails for biking or hiking, and Poulsbo Fish Park is a lovely family-friendly spot for a walk and a picnic. If you want to get out on the water, rent a paddle board from Olympic Outdoor Center and make a little like a Viking out on Liberty Bay. The area is rich with wildlife — on your journey, you may well see herons, bald eagles, and seals.

Poulsbo is also great for visitors who enjoy an alcoholic beverage as the city is home to no less than five craft breweries and one specialized ciderhouse. Sticking with the Viking theme, relax with the hops and the bay views at Valhöll Brewing, or head to the Slippery Pig if you are also feeling peckish. Lutefisk tacos feature on the menu with the warning: "If you don't know what lutefisk is, you don't want it."