Things to Do in Gig Harbor as Recommended by Paige Schulte
With Gig Harbor boasting 200 acres of parks and 21 miles of trails, the waterfront town has a lot to offer those who ramble. There’s even plenty to do for those who want things to do in Gig Harbor that go over and above simple sightseeing. Have you considered what you’d love to engage in once you move to the region?
Below, our very own Paige Schulte offers some key examples of local events you can discover in Gig Harbor to ensure you get the most out of life here. Below, she explains why moving to Gig Harbor will net you the incredible community experiences you’ve been looking for.
8 Best Things to Do in Gig Harbor
1. Why Gig Harbor Is a Dream for Locals
If you were to move to Gig Harbor, you could start your journey in the Gig Harbor Marina as the official Waterfront Trail stretches for over a mile-and-a-half ahead of you. Get uninterrupted views of the harbor and the local amenities and sights, including the shops, the lighthouse, and many of the community’s gathering areas.
Alternatively, take an early morning walk as the soft sunlight lights up the water like a million tiny gems, silhouetting landmarks along the harbor. Then, stop at some local spots, like the Java & Clay Café, for a Caffè Umbria coffee and investigate the creative opportunities in the local pottery studio by trying your hand at painting something for yourself to take with you.
When you live here, then every day you could choose to go for a picturesque walk in the Crescent Valley Lavender Farm. The plant’s aroma infuses the area, so allow it to help you relax as you walk along the purple-lined paths.
2. Living the Gig Harbor Lifestyle
Gig Harbor has dozens of local opportunities to elevate your waterfront living, including:
Park concerts with local bands every summer
Summer outdoor movie events
Local Markers Spring Market and Festival
Tidefest Fine Arts & Gift Festival
So come by to check out the art shows, community markets, and light displays throughout the year. Check local news outlets for specific dates and venue details or for more activities in Gig Harbor throughout the year to avoid missing something you might love once you move in.
3. Paige Schulte Team’s Top Gig Harbor Event Picks
After living here for several years, we have learned which are our favorite local events and activities. Some of our favorites include:
Gig Harbor Beer Festival
The Flower Farmers Market
Community Boat Restoration Programs
Gig Harbor’s Demonstration Garden
Each displays a mix of community collaboration and simply the enjoyment of a beautiful area, proud of what it offers the local region. Those putting on the show also display a deep sense of local pride.
Later in 2025, once you have moved into the area, you should be able to rely on the upcoming local recreation center to know what the waterfront area offers. Keep an eye on the latest construction news to learn when you can step through its doors yourself.
4. Unconventional Attractions for a Gig Harbor Adventure
One of the more unique things to do in Gig Harbor is to enjoy the local artwork you cannot find elsewhere. After all, this Gig Harbor guide would be incomplete without some of the more artistic displays in the region.
The Memory Vessel, for example, is a metal recreation of a Norse boat skeleton made by a local artist who wanted to dedicate a piece to the location's Scandinavian heritage.
Similarly, other pieces of art uplift the local history of maritime pride, including:
Fishermen’s Memorial statue
Buck and King Salmon
Ringing In the Salmon
Mussel Beach
You can find many of these on local maps, so once you’re settled, take a day to learn more about them or add one or two to your normal town exploration.
5. Outdoor Escapes and Family Fun in Gig Harbor
Gig Harbor offers maps of the local trail options for either walking or biking around the area. These can give you details on local landmarks and rest areas, allowing you to keep going all day.
When you’re a resident, if you decide to travel along the waterfront, public benches are dotted along the area, giving you a chance to take a breather before continuing.
If you’re more of a water person, try out your kayaking skills on a waterborne adventure all year round. Contact one of the local courses or guides to remain safe as you discover the sights and sounds of the harbor waters.
6. Savor the Flavor in Gig Harbor’s Eatery Hotspots
Whether you want to try out one of the myriad of small food spots like NetShed No. 9 or are more in the mood for the fine waterfront cuisine of Brix 25, there are many different options dotted all across Gig Harbor’s namesake harbor.
Local food blogs agree that most of these places are the perfect place to soak up the summer sun or have a relaxing meal. You can even use them to book-end a weekly hike or something more adventurous with other locals. Either way, you are spoiled for choice.
7. Real Local Insights from an Expert Like Paige Schulte
If you’re looking for insider recommendations, Paige Schulte has already shared several reviews of the local area, highlighting various businesses that give the region a unique feeling. Whether you are curious about the casual Devoted Kiss Café or one of the winners of the Gig Harbor Restaurant Week 2024, you can get much of the best information through Paige’s website.
Paige shares her personal experiences and hints at some of the best places to live if you want to simply walk around the corner for a meal you will not soon forget. So, check out what she says about the region’s lineup and find somewhere you want to live close to.
8. How Gig Harbor’s Culture Draws People from Afar
Many of Gig Harbor’s local events are a real draw to those looking to move into the region, and area guides often list them as highlights. It is the perfect place to merge your preferences with a waterfront lifestyle. Combined with a strong community spirit and constantly increasing new listings, it’s the ideal time to learn what to do in Gig Harbor as a resident.
If you’re only visiting, remember to check out the Gig Harbor Visitor Information Center on Judson St. to learn more about this picturesque town. They can supply you with magazines, brochures, or other paraphernalia to offer you the best options as you check out the location.
Embrace New Things to Do in Gig Harbor
Whether you want a simple eatery or a dedicated taproom, or whether you would prefer a tour of local public artwork or a whole culture festival, Gig Harbor has what you need. With so many things to do in Gig Harbor, Paige Shulte’s firsthand recommendations offer a roadmap for making better home-buying decisions.
Thinking of making Gig Harbor your new home and taking advantage of everything you’ve read? Let Paige Schulte’s team help you find your dream property and enjoy a brighter future on the waterfront. Call now to schedule a tour of the best the region has to offer.
Paige Schulte, top real estate agent in Gig Harbor and your neighborhood expert, has all you need to know about our wonderful community. Visit Paige’s Gig to learn more.
Interested in selling your current home or starting the search for your dream home? Call us today at (253) 313-4093 or book a call at your convenience.
