The Hidden Gem of the Pacific Northwest: Top 10 Reasons to Move to Bremerton

 

Are you looking to start fresh in a vibrant and energetic community? You need to look no further than Bremerton! Bremerton, nestled along the stunning Puget Sound shoreline, offers the perfect blend of urban amenities and small-town charm. Bremerton is the perfect place for anyone seeking a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle due to its rich maritime heritage, biodiversity, and convenient swift ferry connection to Seattle.

Are you ready for the reasons why thousands reside in this undiscovered gem? Let us now explore why Bremerton could be the perfect place for your future new home!

1.   Picturesque Waterfront City

Discover the lovely and picturesque waterfront city of Bremerton, Washington. Bremerton is known for its breathtaking natural beauty-giving amazing views of the sparkling waters and the majestic Olympic Mountains in the distance. Whether you like to stroll up and down along the scenic boardwalk, steal a quiet moment in one of the numerous parks, or just take in the mesmerizing sunsets above the water, Bremerton offers the right mix of nature and urban allure.

Some great places to see include:
     a.  Lions Park

The Lions Park here in Bremerton is a great place to sit back and enjoy nature at picnic areas, playgrounds, and green spaces. Unwind or explore, Lions Park is a beautiful escape, just minutes from downtown Bremerton. 

Learn more about the city of Bremerton.

    b.  Bremerton Boardwalk

The Bremerton Boardwalk is a scenic waterfront path located near the Bremerton Marina, and  it’s a popular spot for walks, sightseeing, and exploring downtown Bremerton. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the peaceful charm of this Pacific Northwest city.

    c.  Manette Bridge

The Manette Bridge in Bremerton is one of the crucial infrastructures linking the Manette neighborhood to the rest of Bremerton. Crossing the Port Washington Narrows, the bridge offers breathtaking views of the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. It is also a notable landmark in the region.

The current bridge, completed in 1930, has become an important symbol of Bremerton’s growth and development. It replaced an earlier bridge and has been a crucial connection for the local community. The bridge links the Manette neighborhood directly to downtown Bremerton, making it an important route for commuters, residents, and visitors alike.

     d.  Bataan Park

Bataan Park in Bremerton is a small park dedicated to the memory of the men who played a role in the World War II Battle of Bataan. It also features a monument to the Bataan Death March, which occurred in the Philippines during WWII.  The park is opportunity for visitors to reflect on its historical significance and appreciate the landscape of Bremerton.

 

2.   Strong Military Presence

Bremerton, Washington, isn’t just a picturesque waterfront city—it’s a community with a rich and enduring military heritage. From its historic roots to its modern role in supporting the U.S. Navy, Bremerton’s military presence has shaped its identity, economy, and culture.

     a.  Puget Sound Naval Shipyard: A Legacy of Service

Since its establishment in 1891, the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard (PSNS) has been at the heart of Bremerton’s military presence. This iconic shipyard has supported the U.S. Navy for over a century, handling everything from ship repairs to the decommissioning of nuclear-powered vessels. Its critical contributions during World War II earned Bremerton a reputation as a naval powerhouse, a legacy that continues today.

View their website here.

      b.  Naval Base Kitsap: A Hub for Modern Operations

Bremerton is part of Naval Base Kitsap, a major naval installation that supports aircraft carriers, submarines, and other vessels. This base is vital to the Navy’s operations in the Pacific Northwest, ensuring military readiness and innovation. 

View Naval Base Kitsap’s website.

     c.  USS Turner Joy: Honoring History

The USS Turner Joy (DD-951) is a historic U.S. Navy destroyer now serving as a museum ship in Bremerton, Washington. It is located at the Bremerton Marina and is open to the public for tours, offering visitors a chance to explore the ship’s history and learn about its role in military service. 

Learn more here.

3.   Nearby Cities: See Seattle and Tacoma from Bremerton

Seattle:

The Bremerton to Seattle ferry is a scenic and relaxing way to travel, offering spectacular views of the Seattle skyline as you approach the city. The ferry ride takes approximately 60 minutes, making it an enjoyable part of the journey as you head into the heart of Seattle’s many attractions.

For a quicker option, there's the Fast Ferry, which is great for commuters. It makes the crossing in just 30 minutes, although it doesn't accommodate cars.

Once you arrive, you can:

• Visit Pike Place Market
• Explore the Pacific Science Center
• Catch a ball game at one of the nearby stadiums (baseball, soccer, or football), which are about a 10-minute walk from the ferry.
• Discover the Seattle Art Museum. The museum's growing collection contains over 25,000 works of art from around the world.
• Enjoy the Museum of Pop Culture.
• Marvel at the Chihuly Garden and Glass, showcasing the stunning glassworks of artist Dale Chihuly.
• Ride the Seattle Great Wheel for a fantastic view of the city.

If you prefer hockey, the Climate Pledge Arena is a 15-20 minute drive. You can also check out the Space Needle and its rotating restaurant. There’s plenty to do in Seattle, and when you’re ready to head home, just hop back on the ferry.

Check the ferry schedule here.

Tacoma:

Just 40 minutes from Tacoma, you have plenty of options for a day trip. In Tacoma, you can explore the Point Defiance Zoo and Park or visit the Tacoma Dome, which hosts various events every weekend, including home and garden shows, supercross races, and wedding expos. It's one of the most versatile venues in the state. Additionally, Tacoma features a car museum, an old 1800s theater, and the Tacoma Mall for shopping and entertainment.

4.   Biodiversity

Bremerton, Washington, is home to a variety of natural habitats and biodiversity landmarks that showcase the rich ecosystems of the region. Some of the most notable spots include the following:

    a. Olympic National Park

Located merely a short drive from Bremerton, Washington, Olympic National Park is probably one of the most beautiful national parks in America, with high levels of biodiversity. The park is not based in Bremerton, but its proximity offers accessibility to citizens and visitors. The park spans nearly a million acres and features a wide variety of landscapes, from lush temperate rainforests to rugged coastlines and snow-capped mountain peaks, making it the ultimate destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

For more information, click here.

     b.   Green Mountain State Forest

Green Mountain State Forest, just outside Bremerton, is a beautiful 1,600-acre forest with varied ecosystems, which is ideal for outdoor adventures. It offers hiking trails, among which the Green Mountain Trail, which has very spectacular views, is the most popular. It is home to wildlife such as deer, elk, and several birds, while its lush trees and plants give it a lively atmosphere. Whether you’re hiking, wildlife watching, or simply enjoying nature, it’s a peaceful spot for anyone looking to connect with the outdoors, just a short drive from Bremerton.

Read here for more information.

5.   Artisan Culture 

All of their downtowns are bustling with small businesses. Whether you're in downtown Bremerton, Poulsbo, Kingston, or Silverdale, each has its own unique flair and vibe, along with great little shops. You can enjoy a coffee, visit a local bookstore, pottery store, or art store, or even participate in a wine and sip event. There are plenty of activities that the local area has to offer.

6.   Activities

Bremerton offers a variety of activities that cater to different interests, from hiking and water sports to wildlife watching and board games. Some of these establishments provide equipment, guided tours, or access to beautiful natural areas.

    a.   Bremerton Marina

The Bremerton Marina is a key hub for water-based activities. It offers boat rentals, fishing charters, and easy access to Puget Sound, making it a great spot for anyone looking to enjoy the water. 

Read more about Bremerton Marina here.

     b.  Kitsap County Parks

Kitsap County offers a wide variety of parks and recreational areas, such as Illahee State Park and Saltwater State Park. These parks provide ample opportunities for outdoor adventures like hiking, camping, and enjoying nature.

     c.  Downtown Scene

Ashley’s Pub Boardom’s End

Ashley's Pub: Boardom's End is a place for gamers of all types to gather and play games. With their selection of microbrews, ciders, and mead, and their library of board games, each visit is a new adventure. Enjoy their selection of snacks, wraps, sandwiches, and pizzas, or you may bring in outside food. Ashley's Pub is a safe place where gamers of all classes, races, and most alignments are welcome, and well-behaved dogs are also welcome.

Helms Deep Tavern

Helms Deep Tavern in Bremerton, Washington, is a unique spot that combines a game store with a tavern. Located at 603 4th St, it offers a great atmosphere with a wide selection of games available for all ages. The tavern features a variety of beers, including popular options like Guinness Nitro, Elysian Space Dust IPA, and Dragon's Milk Bourbon Barrel-Aged Stout. The overall experience is highly rated, making it a hidden gem worth visiting.

     d.   Blackberry Festival

The Bremerton Blackberry Festival is an annual event held in Bremerton, Washington, celebrating the local blackberry harvest. The festival features over 150 vendors, live music, a beer garden, and blackberry-themed food and drinks. Organized by the Bremerton Rotary Foundation and sponsored by Kitsap Credit Union, proceeds support scholarships and community projects. This beloved tradition attracts visitors from across the region for a weekend of family-friendly fun.

Learn more.

7.   Climate/ Weather

Bremerton's climate is perfect for the outdoor enthusiast. The city's parks, trails, and waterways are open all year long with moderate temperatures and plenty of rainfall. Hiking in the forests, biking along scenic routes, or kayaking in Puget Sound all become more enjoyable with the gentle weather.

Unlike other regions that experience harsh winters, hot summers, or more extreme weather events such as tornadoes or hurricanes, Bremerton experiences relatively stable weather conditions. The region is famous for its steady climate, offering a sense of security and comfort for those seeking predictable weather.

8.   Restaurants & Cafe

Bremerton, Washington, is home to a vibrant food scene that beautifully blends diverse flavors, from cozy cafes to hearty restaurants.

Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these eateries offer a wonderful way to experience the culinary side of Bremerton.

     a.  The Garage Bar & Grill

The Garage Bar & Grill in Bremerton is a popular spot known for its hearty American comfort food and welcoming atmosphere. Located at 6812 Kitsap Way, it offers delicious options like smoked brisket sandwiches, juicy burgers, and crispy fish and chips. The bar and grill is open daily from 6:00 AM to 2:00 AM, making it a great place to grab a meal and unwind.

What a customer said: “Wow! These guys know how to make a Bloody Mary! They have really good food for a bar. Great sandwiches, fish tacos, and appetizers. Table service ends at 9, which I don't really care for, but it's okay. There's been a band or a DJ the two times that I've gone. There's a nice outdoor area as well.”.

Visit their website here.

     b.  4 Sisters Pho 

4 Sisters Pho is a family-owned Vietnamese restaurant in Bremerton, located at 1600 NE Roseway Ln. They offer authentic Vietnamese dishes like pho, banh mi sandwiches, and boba tea. The café is open Monday through Saturday from 10:30 AM to 8:00 PM and closed on Sundays.

What a customer said: “Had a great lunch here today. Portions are huge and the quality is excellent - one of the best banh mi sandwiches I've had and a great bowl of well-flavored tofu pho (super good!). Keep in mind the large pho is huge and could feed two average adults. Great service and they clearly are proud of what they are serving. Highly recommend!”.

Visit 4 Sisters Pho’s website.

 

     c. Larry & Kristi's Bakery

Larry & Kristi's Bakery in Bremerton is a beloved family-owned bakery known for its fresh, homemade pastries and baked goods. Located at 1100 Wheaton Wy, it’s a cozy spot offering delicious treats like cinnamon rolls, custom cakes, fresh-baked bread, and a variety of donuts. The bakery is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 4:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

What a customer said: “Larry & Kristi's should have a warning label: Donuts may cause addiction! I didn't think the donuts would be this good. I got an old-fashioned glazed donut and an apple fritter. Really moist and flavorful. Best donuts I had in a while. Would recommend it!”.

9.   Job Opportunities

Home to the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and various military installations, Bremerton offers stable, high-paying jobs. The city also boasts a growing job market in industries like healthcare, technology, and education, making it a great choice for professionals.

10.   Relaxed Lifestyle

For those seeking a slower, more peaceful pace of life, Bremerton delivers. The city balances the convenience of modern living with the charm of a small town, providing a stress-free environment to live, work, and play.

Testimonials from the locals

"If you want affordable housing, easy access to many retail stores, and a great starting point for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, hunting, or camping, Bremerton, and Kitsap County in general, are excellent choices."

"What is it like? It's fun, close to many things, and has good food like Noah's Ark and several downtown restaurants. There's plenty of good teriyaki. It rains a decent amount, often with overcast skies. For that, I recommend taking a Vitamin D supplement."

"Bremerton is a beautiful city on the water, surrounded by Port Orchard and Silverdale. It has a number of navy bases and a shipyard bringing jobs into the community. It has the atmosphere of the small community it is, with plenty to do within an easy drive, such as dozens of lakes and swimming areas, camping, canoeing/kayaking, some of the most beautiful hiking on the West Coast, and a number of marinas with access to sailboats and other recreational activities."

Hear What Jennifer and Chris Have to Say About Why People Are Moving to Bremerton:

For the latest market trends and real estate insights in Bremington, click here or contact us!

CONCLUSION

Bremerton is more than just a city; it’s a place where you can thrive. With its proximity to Seattle and stunning natural surroundings, Bremerton offers a lifestyle that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re starting a family, building a career, or looking for a serene retirement spot, this Pacific Northwest gem has something for everyone.

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Settling in Bremerton is an exciting opportunity, and Sievers Real Estate is the partner you can trust to make it happen. With our expertise, personalized service, and commitment to the community, Sievers ensures your move to Bremerton is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. 

Ready to find your dream home in Bremerton? Contact Sievers Real Estate today to start your journey!

Sievers Real Estate

☎️ +1(253) 851-0745

✉️ info@sieversrealestate.com