Fort Ward Park

For dining near Fort Ward Park, Bainbridge Island offers a variety of restaurants. The Islander is a rustic eatery known for its thoughtfully sourced steaks and seafood, offering a cozy atmosphere with a great selection of whiskey and cocktails. Another popular spot is Harbour Public House, which provides farm-fresh pub grub and marina views, making it a favorite for both lunch and dinner. For seafood lovers, Doc's Marina Grill offers casual American dining with waterfront views. Additionally, Treehouse Cafe is a family-friendly pizza pub with live music, and Bruciato serves wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas in a rustic-chic setting.

For accommodations near Fort Ward Park, several hotels are available on Bainbridge Island. The Inn at Pleasant Beach offers refined guest rooms with complimentary Wi-Fi and some with fireplaces, providing a genteel getaway. Quality Inn & Suites Bainbridge Island is a casual option with free breakfast and Wi-Fi. For a more upscale experience, The Eagle Harbor Inn provides polished rooms and modern townhouses with a garden courtyard. Lastly, The Marshall Suites offers laid-back accommodations with free breakfast and Wi-Fi.

Fort Ward Park offers several amenities to enhance visitor experiences. The park includes two picnic areas, one accessible by car and the other by foot, each equipped with vault toilets and potable water. Additionally, there is a public boat ramp donated by the Bainbridge Island Rotary Club, and parking for about 25 cars and boat trailers. Restrooms are available near the boat launch and picnic areas. The park's trails are well-maintained, providing opportunities for hiking and biking, and are dog-friendly.

For those interested in exploring the park's history, remnants of the military past, such as gun batteries, are accessible along the trails.

The park's natural setting and historical landmarks make it a unique destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Fort Ward Park offers a variety of activities for visitors. Swimming, kayaking, and fishing are popular water activities, while hiking and biking are favored on land. The park's trails, including the Lower Fort Ward Trail, Upper Fort Ward Trail, and Ridge Trail, provide scenic views of the Puget Sound and opportunities for birdwatching. The beach area is also suitable for picnicking and relaxation. Additionally, the park's historical significance makes it an interesting spot for those interested in military history.

The diverse range of activities caters to different interests, from nature lovers to history enthusiasts.

The park's proximity to other attractions like Blakely Harbor also makes it a great starting point for further exploration.

Fort Ward Park offers some accessibility features to ensure that visitors with disabilities can enjoy the park. The parking lots have accessible parking spaces, and restrooms are wheelchair accessible. However, the lower picnic area is only accessible by foot or bicycle, which may pose a challenge for those with mobility issues. The park's trails vary in difficulty, with some being more accessible than others. While the park strives to be inclusive, some areas may require additional assistance or planning for visitors with disabilities.

Visitors are encouraged to contact park authorities for specific accessibility information to plan their visit accordingly.

Overall, the park aims to provide a welcoming environment for all visitors.

Parking at Fort Ward Park is relatively convenient, with a main parking lot located at the dead-end of Pleasant Beach Drive NE and a smaller lot off Fort Ward Hill Road NE. Both lots have sufficient parking spaces and are equipped with restrooms and trash facilities. The parking areas are close to the beach and trailheads, making it easy for visitors to access the park's amenities. There are no parking fees, adding to the park's appeal for day visitors.

The proximity of the parking lots to the beach and trails ensures that visitors can quickly start their activities.

Overall, the parking facilities are well-suited for the park's size and visitor volume.

Fort Ward Park has a rich history dating back to World War I when it was established as a military base. During World War II, it served as a radio station and training school, playing a significant role in communication and code-breaking efforts. The park's strategic location allowed it to protect the Bremerton Naval Shipyard. Today, visitors can explore remnants of this military past, including gun batteries and historical trails.

The park's transformation from a military base to a public park reflects the community's efforts to preserve both natural and historical resources.

The park's unique blend of history and nature makes it a fascinating destination for visitors.

One of the main attractions at Fort Ward Park is its historical significance. The park features remnants of its military past, including two gun batteries along the main walkway and a third hidden away in the upper woods. These historical sites provide insight into the park's role as a former military base. Additionally, the park's scenic trails offer stunning views of the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, making it a popular spot for nature lovers.

The park's proximity to other attractions like Blakely Harbor also makes it a great base for exploring the surrounding area.

The combination of natural beauty and historical landmarks makes Fort Ward Park a unique attraction.