WELCOME TO LITTLE NORWAY!
Poulsbo, Washington is the hidden gem of the Pacific Northwest. Nestled along Liberty Bay with stunning views of the Olympic Mountains, this charming town—known as “Little Norway”—is rich in Scandinavian culture, history, and hospitality. Stroll historic Front Street, enjoy fresh pastries and local art, or take in the waterfront beauty with family-friendly outdoor adventures.
Whether you’re into heritage, shopping, food, or the outdoors, we offer unique experiences to match your interests—from guided walking tours and tastings to scenic paddles and cultural exploration. Come discover why Poulsbo is beloved by visitors and locals alike!
GUIDED POULSBO WALKING TOUR
- Ages: All Ages
- Duration: 45 minutes
- Tour Availability: Year Round
- Tour Type: Walking, Cultural, History
- Location: Begins at Liberty Bay Waterfront Park
- Details: Arrive in Poulsbo 30 minutes prior to departure and at the Austin-Kvelstad Pavilion 10 minutes prior to departure to meet your guide
- Not Included: Tips for Tour Guide
Discover the heart and heritage of Poulsbo, Washington—affectionately known as “Little Norway”—on this engaging 45-minute walking tour of its scenic waterfront downtown. Nestled along the shores of Liberty Bay with beautiful views of Puget Sound, Poulsbo offers a unique blend of natural splendor, rich history, and Nordic charm.
Originally home to the Suquamish Tribe, this area has long been cherished for its sheltered bay, abundant resources, and cultural significance. In the late 19th century, Norwegian immigrants were drawn here by the familiar, fjord-like landscape, establishing a thriving community that continues to embrace and celebrate its roots. During the 1909 Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Exposition in Seattle, Poulsbo’s Norwegian identity gained wider attention when twelve of the town’s founding fathers dressed as Vikings and proudly participated in a Norwegian parade, symbolizing Poulsbo’s role as a cultural stronghold of Scandinavian heritage in the Pacific Northwest. That Viking spirit remains vividly alive in the town’s murals, festivals, and traditions, and this tour explores the true story behind it all.
As we walk through Poulsbo’s historic downtown, you’ll pass charming storefronts, vibrant artwork, and iconic landmarks while hearing stories that bring the town’s history to life—from its days as a Mosquito Fleet port to its transformation into a welcoming destination for travelers and locals alike. You’ll also learn about local visionary Bill Austin—known fondly as “Poulsbo Bill”—whose legacy helped preserve the town’s beauty and small-town character.
Your guide is a professional tour guide with a Master’s degree in American history, twelve years of experience leading tours for Adventures by Disney, Premier Alaska Tours, Holland America, Princess, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, and more. Now a local educator in the South Sound, your guide brings both storytelling skill and deep knowledge to each tour, making this experience as informative as it is entertaining.
Along the way, you’ll also receive expert recommendations on Poulsbo’s best eateries and drinkeries, can’t-miss shops, local attractions like the SEA Discovery Center and Poulsbo Historical Society, and ideas for outdoor adventures nearby. The tour concludes with a sweet or savory treat from a local favorite—making this walk not only a dive into Poulsbo’s past, but a perfect introduction to everything it offers today. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a curious local, this experience offers a memorable, meaningful look at what makes Poulsbo truly one of a kind.
Highlights:
- Immerse yourself in the rich history of Poulsbo on a guided walking tour
- Discover the town’s roots, from Indigenous heritage to Nordic traditions
- Explore the picturesque waterfront downtown and its iconic landmarks
- Get insider tips on local eateries, shops, and regional attractions
- Enjoy a local treat to cap off your fun and informative walk
VIKING BREWERY TOUR
- Ages: Family-Friendly / 21+ to consume alcohol
- Duration: 2.5 Hours
- Tour Type: Beer, Wine, Culture
- Location: Begins at The Sip (formerly the Slippery Pig)
- Details: Arrive in Poulsbo 30 minutes prior to departure and at the The Sip 10 minutes prior to departure to meet your guide
- Included: 4 Alcoholic or Non-Alcoholic Drinks
- Not Included: Tips for Tour Guide
Raise a horn and toast to adventure on this spirited 2-hour walking tour through the heart of Poulsbo, Washington—affectionately known as “Little Norway.” This Viking Beer & Wine Tour invites you to explore the town’s lively craft beverage scene (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) while uncovering the Norse roots and local legends that give Poulsbo its unmistakable character.
Begin at The Sip, a charming, self-pour wine and beer bar with sweeping views of Liberty Bay. Kick things off with an interactive tasting experience—choose from an array of regional wines and beers to build your own perfect “sip,” all while learning about Poulsbo’s transformation from a 19th-century Scandinavian settlement to a modern hub for craft lovers.
From there, visit two beloved local breweries: Western Red Brewing, known for its robust, Pacific Northwest-style beers and timber-themed taproom, and Valhöll Brewing, a nod to Norse mythology offering bold brews and hearty hospitality. At each stop, enjoy a pint (or equivalent pour) of your choice, giving you a flavorful glimpse into Poulsbo’s evolving brewing culture.
But this tour is more than just great drinks—it’s an immersive cultural experience. As you walk between stops, your guide—a local educator and professional guide with over a decade of guiding experience and a Master’s in American history—will bring Poulsbo’s Viking story to life. Discover the town’s Norwegian origins, the symbolism behind its Viking murals and statues, and the fascinating connections between Norse mythology and modern Nordic identity. Hear tales of real Norsemen, from seafaring warriors to the settlers who helped shape this coastal town into the Nordic-inspired gem it is today.
Wrap up with a rousing Skål! and ceremonial toast from a massive, 4-liter Scandinavian long horn—an unforgettable nod to the drinking customs of old. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast, a history buff, or just looking for a fun and unique way to experience Poulsbo, this tour offers the perfect blend of craft beverages, storytelling, and community spirit.
Highlights:
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Raise a horn on a spirited 2-hour walking tour through Poulsbo—exploring its vibrant craft beer, wine, and cider scene.
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Start at The Sip with a hands-on, self-pour tasting experience featuring regional wines and beers.
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Visit two standout breweries: Western Red Brewing with bold Northwest-style ales, and Valhöll Brewing, inspired by Norse mythology.
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Learn Poulsbo’s Viking history from a local guide and history, as stories of Norse settlers, symbols, and myths come to life between tastings.
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End with a toast from a giant 4-liter Scandinavian long horn in a memorable finale blending tradition, fun, and community spirit.
LIBERTY BAY WILDLIFE KAYAKING TOUR
- Ages: All Ages
- Duration: 1.5 Hours
- Tour Availability: May - September
- Tour Type: Kayaking, Wildlife, Paddling
- Location: Begins at Liberty Bay Waterfront Park
- Details: Arrive in Poulsbo 30 minutes prior to departure and at the Austin-Kvelstad Pavilion 10 minutes prior to departure to meet your guide
- Not Included: Tips for Tour Guide
Join a guided kayak tour through scenic Liberty Bay and experience the rich natural and cultural history of the Puget Sound region. Led by a local guide with deep knowledge of the area’s ecology and history, this relaxed paddle offers more than just beautiful views—it’s a chance to connect with the story of Poulsbo, from its Nordic roots to the vibrant marine life that thrives in its protected waters.
Our journey begins at the Poulsbo waterfront, where you’ll receive a brief kayaking safety lesson (or refresher) from our partner, Olympic Outdoor Center, before we set out in stable, sit-on-top kayaks. As we glide along a calm, pre-selected route your guide will provide commentary on Liberty Bay’s role as a harbor seal pupping ground, point out local wildlife such as bald eagles, great blue herons, Dungeness crabs, and explain the unique features of the local marine ecosystem.
You’ll also hear stories of Poulsbo’s waterfront—from Indigenous stewardship to Scandinavian settlement—making this tour a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and cultural insight!
A variety of wildlife are common but not guaranteed:
- Harbor Seals (common)
- Bald Eagles (common)
- Dungeness Crabs, Kelp Crabs (common)
- Great Blue Herons and other Aquatic Birds (common)
- Ospreys (common)
- Sea Cucumbers (common)
- Sea Stars (uncommon)
- Purple Martins (rare)
- River Otters (rare)
- Squid (rare)
- Orca (extremely rare but have visited Liberty Bay in the past)
Highlights:
- Scenic paddle through beautiful Liberty Bay with panoramic Puget Sound views
- Led by a local guide sharing rich ecology and cultural history of Poulsbo
- Spot marine wildlife like harbor seals, bald eagles, herons, and Dungeness crabs
- Learn about Poulsbo’s Indigenous roots and Nordic heritage along the waterfront
- Beginner-friendly with safety briefing and stable, sit-on-top kayaks provided