Life in Poulsbo: Little Norway by the Bay
The first thing you likely notice when entering the city of Poulsbo from the north is its 12-foot-tall gatekeeper: a giant Viking statue looming above a sign reading, “Velkommen til Poulsbo.” Indeed, the town’s Scandinavian roots run deep, from its Nordic-village historic downtown to the beloved annual Viking Fest. And it all intermingles against a jaw-dropping backdrop of a sparkling bay and snow-capped mountains. With just over 10,000 residents, Poulsbo may not be the largest city in Kitsap County, but it may just have the most unique feel.
Custom Homes in Poulsbo
Like many small towns in Kitsap, Poulsbo is becoming a go-to home for many new residents and Seattle transplants. Property prices are going up and inventory is tighter, but there are still lots available, including water-view and in-town infill parcels. Buyers will find more available services than rural options, but may have to navigate stricter zoning requirements. Estes Builders has an office in Poulsbo and is an expert at helping customers work through needs related to preparing the property, creating designs that maximize smaller lots, and obtaining necessary permits.
Here are just a few of the highlights of owning a home in Poulsbo:
Outdoor Adventures & Recreation
With its city limits forming a half circle around Liberty Bay, the water is at Poulsbo’s doorstep, leaving many options for outdoor activities.
- The calm waters of Liberty Bay are the perfect spot for kayaking. Olympic Outdoor Center offers rentals.
- Poulsbo’s Fish Park features trails, boardwalks, and viewing platforms for a stroll along the water followed by a picnic.
- Forest and beach merge at Kitsap Memorial Park, for walks, picnicking, weddings, and camping.
- Poulsbo loves its breweries, and celebrates them with the Poulsbo Beer Run around St. Patrick’s Day (4 miles, 6 breweries, 6 beers) as well as the Poulsbrew Beer Festival in September.
- Leash up your dog and walk for a cause at Kitsap Humane Society’s annual PetsWALK along the waterfront in July.
- Moor your boat securely (and have a front row seat for July 3rd fireworks) at the Poulsbo Marina or Liberty Bay Marina, each including must-have member amenities.
Family Fun
Poulsbo is a fun place to raise a family, with a little something for every age.
- Grab your bikes for excitement at the Poulsbo Pump Track, or gear up for greater adventure on mountain bike trails at the nearby Port Gamble Forest Heritage Park.
- Mark your calendar for Viking Fest each May, where Scandinavia comes to life through entertainment and music, dancing, art, a carnival and street fair, a lutefisk eating contest, and much more.
- Poulsbo’s 3rd of July fireworks bring everyone to the waterfront, on foot and by boat, to take in the spectacular display above Liberty Bay.
Shopping & Dining
Strolling through downtown Poulsbo is a treat for your eyes as much as your wallet, where Nordic-inspired architecture blends with fun mom-and-pop shops.
- Find gifts for everyone on your list (and yourself) at unique boutique shops including fun clothing at Flicka’s, stationary at Paperquirks, and treats for your pup at The NW Dog.
- Browse the books at Liberty Bay Books and Away With Words Bookshop & Edit Apothecary.
- Start the day with handcrafted baked goods from Sluy’s Poulsbo Bakery. For dinner, feast on traditional Scandinavian fare at Tizley’s, tapas at Paella Bar, Italian at Sogno di Vino, or waterfront pub food at the Brass Kraken. Afterward, grab a scoop of nationally renowned Mora ice cream.
Envisioning yourself in Poulsbo? Connect with us for a free consultation.