Signs of life are returning to Fort Worden State Park as popular vacation rentals, housed in historic former military buildings, are set to reopen after a year-long closure. The abrupt shutdown in January 2025 had canceled reservations and impacted local businesses. Now, ten buildings are preparing to welcome guests again, offering a much-needed boost to tourism in Port Townsend.
Key Takeaways
- Ten historic buildings at Fort Worden State Park are reopening as vacation rentals.
- Rentals will be available between April and October.
- The park’s lodging was closed for a year due to financial issues with the leasing company.
- The reopening is expected to revitalize local businesses and bring back jobs.
A Welcome Return For Tourists And Businesses
The closure of the vacation rentals at Fort Worden State Park last January left many families with canceled plans and no refunds. The financial troubles of the leasing company led to an indefinite halt in operations, affecting dozens of employees and the tourist-dependent economy of Port Townsend. The reopening of ten buildings marks a significant step towards normalcy.
Optimism For The Season Ahead
Local businesses are expressing optimism about the upcoming season. Pubs like Taps at The Guard House, which managed to survive the past summer, anticipate a positive impact from the return of lodging. "People are saying Fort Worden reopened. Just having the lodging open sends a message to the greater Puget Sound area and beyond that we’re back," said Brian Curry, the pub’s co-owner. The State Parks Department conducted a soft opening over the holidays, which saw strong booking numbers, including sold-out weekends for Christmas and New Year’s.
Future Plans And Reservations
While reservations are currently being accepted for lodging between April and October, the State Parks Department is still determining the full scope of future operations. "It’s something where we’ll be able to pursue those options. We’ll begin to hear from people. There are a lot of options on the table. As long-term planning continues, we’ll know more," stated Sarah Fronk of the State Parks Department. The successful holiday soft opening has provided encouragement for a continued reopening.