Bremerton

Nearly surrounded by water, and with one of the largest navy bases on the West Coast, Bremerton is a workaday city of about 39,000 with several attractions that center on the waterfront and its gardens, fountains, and ferry docks dwarfed by massive warships. Away from the waterfront, and especially around the ferry terminal, Bremerton looks a bit depressed in some parts. The western Charleston neighborhood, which had been run-down for years until some recent revitalization efforts, has the most going on, with a few art galleries and restaurants. Bremerton appeals especially to fans of naval history and machinery.