Belfair, located in the picturesque Pacific Northwest region of Washington state, is home to a number of museums that showcase the area’s rich history and culture.
From art galleries to historical sites, these museums offer visitors the opportunity to explore and learn about the diverse heritage of this vibrant community.
Whether you’re interested in indigenous culture, maritime history, or contemporary art, Belfair’s museums have something for everyone to enjoy. Join us as we take a closer look at the fascinating museums that call Belfair home.
1. Key Peninsula Historical Society & Museum
The Key Peninsula Historical Society & Museum in Belfair, WA, USA is a fascinating destination for history buffs and curious visitors alike.
The museum showcases the rich history of the Key Peninsula region, offering a glimpse into the past through exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays.
Visitors to the museum can explore various aspects of the region’s history, from the early Native American inhabitants to the European settlers who arrived in the 19th century.
The museum’s exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including local industries, transportation, and notable figures from the area’s past.
One of the highlights of the Key Peninsula Historical Society & Museum is its collection of artifacts, which includes photographs, documents, and objects that provide insight into life on the Key Peninsula throughout.
Rating: 8
Phone: +1 253-888-3246
Address: 17010 S Vaughn Rd NW, Vaughn, WA 98394, United States
Website: keypeninsulamuseum.org
2. Veterans Living History Museum
The Veterans Living History Museum in Belfair, WA, USA is a unique and impactful destination for visitors of all ages.
This museum is dedicated to preserving the stories and experiences of veterans from various branches of the military.
Upon entering the museum, guests are greeted with displays of artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia that showcase the rich history of those who have served their country.
From uniforms to personal letters, each item tells a story and offers a glimpse into the lives of the brave individuals who have defended our freedoms.
One of the highlights of the Veterans Living History Museum is the opportunity to hear firsthand accounts from veterans themselves.
Through interactive exhibits and guided tours, visitors can learn about the challenges and triumphs faced by those who have served in the armed forces.
Rating: 9.6
Phone: +1 253-318-4101
Address: 825 Bay St, Port Orchard, WA 98366, United States
3. Veterans Memorial Cemetery
The Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Belfair, WA, USA is a solemn and respectful place dedicated to honoring those who have served in the armed forces.
The cemetery is a place of remembrance and gratitude, where visitors can pay their respects to the brave men and women who have sacrificed for their country.
The grounds of the Veterans Memorial Cemetery are well-maintained and peaceful, providing a tranquil setting for reflection and contemplation.
Rows of white headstones mark the final resting places of those who have served in the military, each one representing a unique and individual story of service and sacrifice.
Visitors to the cemetery can explore the grounds at their own pace, taking in the somber beauty of the memorial and paying their respects to the fallen.
Rating: 10
Address: 901-975 Olney Ave SE, Port Orchard, WA 98366, United States
4. Sidney Art Gallery and Museum
The Sidney Art Gallery and Museum in Belfair, WA, USA is a hidden gem that showcases a diverse collection of art and historical artifacts.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich culture and history of the area through the various exhibits on display. The museum features local artwork, including paintings, sculptures, and photography, that highlight the talent and creativity of artists in the region.
It also houses artifacts that tell the story of Belfair’s past, from its early settlement to its growth and development over the years. Visitors to the Sidney Art Gallery and Museum can learn about the history of the area through interactive exhibits and informative displays.
The museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the heritage of Belfair and gain a deeper understanding of its significance.
Rating: 9
Phone: +1 360-876-3693
Address: 202 Sidney Ave, Port Orchard, WA 98366, United States
Website: sidneymuseumandarts.com
5. Log Cabin Museum
The Log Cabin Museum in Belfair, WA is a charming historical site that offers a glimpse into the past.
This museum is housed in a rustic log cabin, giving visitors a unique and authentic experience. The Log Cabin Museum showcases artifacts and exhibits that highlight the history of Belfair and the surrounding area.
Visitors can learn about the early settlers, the logging industry, and the development of the community over the years. One of the highlights of the Log Cabin Museum is the replica of an old pioneer cabin, complete with period furnishings and tools.
This exhibit gives visitors a hands-on experience of what life was like for early settlers in the area. The museum also features displays on local wildlife, including information on the diverse ecosystem of the Puget Sound region.
Rating: 8.8
Phone: +1 360-876-3693
Address: 416 Sidney Ave, Port Orchard, WA 98366, United States
Website: sidneymuseumandarts.com
6. Mason County Historical Society Museum
Located in Belfair, WA, the Mason County Historical Society Museum is housed in a former library building.
This museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing artifacts, photos, and documents that trace the history of the county. Visitors to the museum can expect to see a wide array of exhibits that offer insight into the rich history of Mason County.
From Native American artifacts to pioneer-era photographs, there is something for everyone to enjoy and learn from. One of the highlights of the museum is its collection of historical documents.
These documents provide a firsthand look at the events and people that have shaped the county over the years. Visitors can immerse themselves in the past by exploring these fascinating records.
In addition to artifacts and documents, the museum also features interactive displays.
Rating: 9.2
Phone: +1 360-426-1020
Address: 427 W Railroad Ave, Shelton, WA 98584, United States
Website: masoncountyhistoricalsociety.org
7. Puget Sound Navy Museum
The Puget Sound Navy Museum in Belfair, Washington, USA is a free museum that offers a unique look into the region’s naval history.
Visitors can explore exhibits that showcase the rich maritime heritage of the area, with a particular focus on life on an aircraft carrier and submarines.
One of the highlights of the museum is the collection of artifacts and memorabilia that provide insight into the daily lives of sailors in the Navy.
From uniforms and personal belongings to equipment and tools used on board ships, visitors can get a sense of what it was like to serve in the Navy throughout history.
The museum also features interactive displays that allow visitors to experience what it was like to work on an aircraft carrier or submarine.
From simulated missions to hands-on activities, there.
Rating: 9.4
Phone: +1 360-479-7447
Address: 251 1st St, Bremerton, WA 98337, United States
Website: pugetsoundnavymuseum.org
8. Belfair State Park
Belfair State Park in Belfair, WA, USA offers year-round camping on Hood Canal’s tidal flats. Visitors can enjoy the serene surroundings and beautiful views of the water. The park provides RV hookups for those looking to bring their own accommodations.
This makes it convenient for travelers seeking a comfortable camping experience. In addition to camping, Belfair State Park features play fields where families and friends can enjoy outdoor activities together.
Whether it’s a game of frisbee or a picnic, there are plenty of options for recreation.For those interested in water sports, the park offers good wind conditions for surfing.
Visitors can take advantage of the coastal breeze and ride the waves along the Hood Canal.
Rating: 9
Phone: +1 360-275-0668
Address: 3151 WA-300, Belfair, WA 98528, United States
Website: parks.state.wa.us
9. Fox Island Historical Society
Located in Belfair, Washington, the Fox Island Historical Society museum offers visitors a glimpse into the past through its collection of island artifacts and photographs.
The museum is housed in a charming rustic cabin dating back to circa 1908, adding to its historical appeal. Inside the museum, visitors can explore a variety of exhibits showcasing the history of Fox Island and its residents.
From early settlers to significant events, the museum provides a comprehensive look at the island’s past.
Photographs from different eras offer a visual representation of life on the island throughout the years. One of the highlights of the museum is the collection of island artifacts, which includes items such as tools, household items, and clothing.
Rating: 9.4
Phone: +1 253-549-2461
Address: 1017 9th Avenue Court Fi, Fox Island, WA 98333, United States
Website: foxislandmuseum.org
10. Bug & Reptile Museum
Located in Belfair, WA, USA, the Bug & Reptile Museum is a must-visit for families looking for a unique and educational experience.
This small museum, housed within a gift shop, features kid-friendly exhibits that showcase a variety of live and preserved bugs and reptiles. Upon entering the museum, visitors are greeted by colorful displays of insects and reptiles from around the world.
Children will be delighted to see live specimens up close, including tarantulas, scorpions, and even snakes.
The museum staff are knowledgeable and eager to share interesting facts about each creature. One of the highlights of the Bug & Reptile Museum is the opportunity for hands-on learning. Kids can touch and hold certain non-venomous.
Rating: 8.8
Address: 1118 Charleston Beach Rd W, Bremerton, WA 98312, United States
Website: bugmuseum.com
11. Kitsap History Museum
Located in Belfair, Washington, the Kitsap History Museum is a must-visit for those interested in learning about the history of the area.
The museum boasts a variety of exhibits that showcase Kitsap’s rich heritage. One of the main attractions at the museum is the timeline exhibit, which provides a comprehensive overview of the key events that have shaped Kitsap’s history.
From the arrival of the first settlers to the development of the region as we know it today, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of how Kitsap has evolved over the years.
For those interested in experiencing what Main Street looked like in 1919, the museum offers a replica exhibit that transports visitors back in time.
Complete with storefronts, signage, and period-appropriate decor.
Rating: 9.6
Phone: +1 360-479-6226
Address: 280 4th St, Bremerton, WA 98337, United States
Website: kitsapmuseum.org
12. Bainbridge Island Museum of Art
The Bainbridge Island Museum of Art is a contemporary art museum in Belfair, WA, USA. It features rotating exhibits that showcase the works of local and regional artists.
The museum has a special focus on highlighting the talent and creativity of artists from the surrounding area. Visitors to the museum can expect to see a diverse range of art forms, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and more.
The exhibits are constantly changing, so there is always something new and exciting to see when you visit. In addition to its exhibits, the museum also offers educational programs and events for visitors of all ages.
These programs aim to engage the community and foster a greater appreciation for the arts.
Rating: 9.4
Phone: +1 206-842-4451
Address: 550 Winslow Way E, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110, United States
Website: biartmuseum.org
13. Western Washington History
Western Washington History is a museum located in Belfair, WA, USA. The museum showcases the rich history of the Western Washington region, providing visitors with a glimpse into the past.
From early Native American settlements to the logging and maritime industries that shaped the area, Western Washington History offers a comprehensive look at the area’s heritage.
Visitors to the museum can explore exhibits that highlight the diverse cultural influences that have shaped Western Washington over the years.
From the early pioneers who settled the region to the industries that have sustained the local economy, the museum offers a deep dive into the area’s history. One of the standout features of Western Washington History is its collection of artifacts and memorabilia from the past.
From tools used by early settlers to photographs documenting.
Rating: 10
Website: etsy.com
14. Johnsons Farm Museum
Johnson’s Farm Museum in Belfair, WA, USA is a hidden gem that showcases the rich history of the region. The museum is a tribute to the pioneering spirit of the early settlers who worked tirelessly to establish farms and homesteads in the area.
Visitors can explore the museum’s collection of artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that tell the story of life on the farm in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
One of the highlights of the Johnson’s Farm Museum is the beautifully preserved farmhouse, which offers a glimpse into the daily lives of the early settlers.
Visitors can tour the farmhouse and see the original furnishings, tools, and equipment used by the Johnson family. The museum also features a barn, outbuildings, and a farm.
Rating: 9.4
Address: 92nd St Ct Al, Anderson Island, WA 98303, United States
15. Gig Harbor Vintage Aero Museum
The Gig Harbor Vintage Aero Museum in Belfair, WA, USA is a must-visit destination for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Located in a picturesque setting, this museum showcases a unique collection of vintage aircraft and aviation memorabilia. Upon entering the museum, visitors are greeted with a sense of nostalgia as they are surrounded by aircraft from a bygone era.
The collection includes rare and beautifully restored planes that offer a glimpse into the rich history of aviation. One of the highlights of the museum is the opportunity to learn about the pioneers of flight and their groundbreaking achievements.
From early biplanes to sleek fighter jets, the exhibits at the Gig Harbor Vintage Aero Museum provide a comprehensive look at the evolution of aviation.
Rating: 10
Phone: +1 253-393-7456
Address: 1108 26th Ave NW, Gig Harbor, WA 98335, United States
Website: gigharborairmuseum.com
16. JCHS Museum of Art + History
Located in Belfair, WA, USA, the JCHS Museum of Art History is a must-visit for those interested in local history and art.
Housed in a charming 19th-century courthouse building, the museum offers visitors a glimpse into the past through its exhibits and galleries. The museum’s collection includes artifacts and memorabilia that tell the story of the area’s rich history.
From early settlers to the founding of the town, visitors can explore the diverse heritage of Belfair and its surrounding areas. One of the highlights of the museum is its original jail and fire hall, which have been preserved and are open for tours.
Visitors can step back in time and experience what life was like for those who worked.
Rating: 9.4
Phone: +1 360-385-1003
Address: 540 Water St, Port Townsend, WA 98368, United States
Website: jchsmuseum.org
17. Miniature Lighthouse
The Miniature Lighthouse in Belfair, WA is a unique and charming attraction that draws visitors from near and far.
This small-scale replica of a traditional lighthouse is a delightful sight to behold, with its intricate details and craftsmanship. Visitors to the Miniature Lighthouse can marvel at the attention to detail that went into creating this tiny gem.
From the carefully painted windows to the tiny lantern room perched atop the structure, every aspect of the lighthouse has been lovingly recreated. While the Miniature Lighthouse may be small in size, it is big on charm and character.
Its quaint design and picturesque setting make it a popular spot for both locals and tourists looking to capture the essence of a traditional maritime beacon.
Rating: 10
Address: 104 Herron Lane Kp N, Home, WA 98349, United States
18. Bremerton Historic Ships Association
The Bremerton Historic Ships Association in Belfair, WA, USA is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. This museum houses a collection of historic ships that have played significant roles in maritime history.
Walking through the exhibits at the Bremerton Historic Ships Association is like taking a step back in time. Visitors can learn about the intricate details of each ship, from their construction to their service in various naval operations.
One of the highlights of this museum is the opportunity to explore the decks of the ships and get a firsthand look at life on board.
From the cramped living quarters to the impressive weaponry, visitors can immerse themselves in the experience of being a sailor on these historic vessels.
Rating: 9
Phone: +1 360-792-2457
Address: 300 Washington Beach Ave, Bremerton, WA 98337, United States
Website: ussturnerjoy.org
19. Beverly Hooks Impressionist Artist
Beverly Hooks Impressionist Artist in Belfair, WA, USA is a unique and captivating museum that showcases the works of the talented artist Beverly Hooks.
The museum is a must-visit for art enthusiasts and those looking to experience the beauty of impressionist art. Upon entering the museum, visitors are greeted with a stunning collection of paintings that highlight Hooks’ mastery of the impressionist style.
The vibrant colors and intricate brushwork in each piece are sure to leave a lasting impression on all who view them. One of the standout features of the Beverly Hooks Impressionist Artist museum is the opportunity to see the artist’s works up close and personal.
The intimate setting allows visitors to fully appreciate the detail and emotion captured in each painting.
Rating: 10
Phone: +1 360-649-4530
Address: 191 E Rainier Dr, Allyn, WA 98524, United States
Website: beverlyhooks.com
20. Anderson Island Historical Society
The Anderson Island Historical Society is a must-visit museum in Belfair, WA, USA. This museum showcases the rich history of Anderson Island, providing visitors with a glimpse into the past.
From exhibits detailing the early settlers of the island to displays highlighting key events in its history, the Anderson Island Historical Society offers a comprehensive look at the area’s heritage.
One of the standout features of the museum is its collection of artifacts from different time periods. Visitors can see firsthand the tools, clothing, and household items used by the early residents of Anderson Island.
These artifacts provide a tangible connection to the past and offer insight into how people lived in the area many years ago. In addition to its exhibits, the Anderson Island Historical Society also offers educational programs.
Rating: 9.4
Phone: +1 253-884-2135
Address: 9306 Otso Point Rd, Anderson Island, WA 98303, United States
Website: anderson-island.org
21. USS Turner Joy
Located in Bremerton, Washington, just a short drive from Belfair, the USS Turner Joy is a must-visit museum for history buffs and naval enthusiasts alike.
After its service in the Pacific, this naval destroyer was transformed into a museum that is open to the public to explore. Visitors to the USS Turner Joy can step aboard this historic ship and imagine what life was like for the sailors who served on board during its active duty.
From the cramped quarters to the intricate machinery, every corner of the ship offers a glimpse into the past. The museum features exhibits that highlight the ship’s role in various conflicts, including the Vietnam War.
Visitors can learn about the ship’s missions and the brave men and women who served on board.
Rating: 9.4
Phone: +1 360-792-2457
Address: 300 Washington Beach Ave, Bremerton, WA 98337, United States
Website: ussturnerjoy.org
22. Valentinetti Puppet Museum
The Valentinetti Puppet Museum in Belfair, WA, USA is a unique and charming destination for visitors of all ages.
The museum showcases a diverse collection of puppets from around the world, highlighting the artistry and cultural significance of these intricate creations.
Visitors to the Valentinetti Puppet Museum can explore exhibits that range from traditional handcrafted puppets to modern interpretations of this age-old art form.
The museum offers a glimpse into the history of puppetry, showcasing how it has evolved and adapted over the years.
One of the highlights of the museum is its interactive exhibits, which allow visitors to try their hand at puppetry and learn more about the techniques and skills involved in bringing these characters to life.
Rating: 9.8
Address: 276 4th St, Bremerton, WA 98337, United States
Website: valentinettipuppetmuseum.com
Conclusion
Museums in Belfair, WA offer a diverse range of exhibits and experiences for visitors of all ages. Whether you are interested in natural history, art, or local heritage, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
These museums provide a unique opportunity to learn about the rich history and culture of the area, making them an essential stop for anyone visiting Belfair.
With their informative displays and interactive programs, museums in Belfair are sure to leave a lasting impression on both locals and tourists alike.
Tony Spadafora