Sweet Discoveries: Port Gamble General Store - A Candy Lover's Paradise

A Step Back in Time with Modern Delights

Walking into the Port Gamble General Store feels like stepping into a Norman Rockwell painting, but with all the conveniences and flavors of today. As one visitor perfectly described it, "The grand staircase is quite a view to first walk into." This historic establishment combines "historic feel with modern appeal," offering visitors a unique shopping and dining experience that perfectly captures the essence of small-town charm.

Reviewers consistently praise this as "a very charming place to stop, buy a souvenir and experience a little bit of history," and it's easy to see why. The store has "an aesthetic theme throughout, great for taking pictures," making it not just a shopping destination but a memorable experience worth sharing.

The Star of the Show: An Incredible Saltwater Taffy Selection

What immediately catches your eye—and will likely capture your heart—is their absolutely stunning candy display. Row upon row of glass jars filled with colorful saltwater taffy line the shelves, creating a rainbow that would make any candy enthusiast weak in the knees. The variety is simply overwhelming in the best possible way.

From unique flavors like Buttered Popcorn Taffy that offers "the buttery, salty goodness of popcorn without greasy hands" to the controversial but beloved Black Licorice Swirl that has become "an undisputed customer favorite," there's something to satisfy every palate and preference.

The taffy is crafted by Taffy Town, known for their "delicious whipped taffy that melts in your mouth with a wide variety of true to life, unique, and amazing flavors." Made in small batches in the USA using premium ingredients, each piece promises a quality experience that mass-produced candies simply can't match.

More Than Just Candy

While the taffy selection might steal the show, the Port Gamble General Store offers so much more for visitors looking to fuel their Port Gamble adventures. As one reviewer noted, "This place has anything and everything you might think you want or need," from "tons of unique fun items you couldn't find anywhere else" to practical conveniences.

Premium Coffee Experience: Start your day right with their expertly crafted Olympia Coffee. The coffee shop, tucked "around the back," serves up more than just great caffeine—visitors rave about the "delicious food with beautiful art on the walls to complement your food." The seating area creates "a fairly romantic setting" perfect for couples or anyone looking to slow down and savor the moment.

Fresh, Local Food: The cafe serves up delicious handcrafted sandwiches made with local and organic ingredients whenever possible. They focus on "handcrafted food using local and organic ingredients," with breakfast served from 8-11am Monday-Friday, and extended hours from 8am-3pm on weekends.

Local Ice cream & Shakes: Cool down with their selection of local ice cream or indulge in a hand-dipped shake—the perfect treat after a day of exploring Port Gamble's historic charm.

A Complete Shopping Experience

Beyond the cafe, visitors will find "delicious espresso, ice cream & hand dipped shakes, a large candy selection, as well as gifts/home decor/cards and souvenirs" with "complementary gift wrap always available with purchase." The store stocks everything from "home decor, gifts, candy, clothing, novelty items, souvenirs" and more—truly "anything and everything you might think you want or need."

The friendly staff consistently earn praise from visitors, with reviewers noting that "the staff were always super friendly" and "staff is friendly and welcoming." There are practical conveniences too, including restrooms and an ATM available inside.

Hidden Gem Alert: Don't miss the second floor! The upstairs houses a fascinating Museum of Shells & Natural History that visitors describe as "definitely worth a look." As one reviewer advised, "Don't sleep on the second floor seashell museum"—it's filled with "displays of sea creatures" that add an unexpected educational element to your visit.

Perfect for Your Port Gamble Visit

Whether you're staying at The Hudson or just passing through this picturesque town, the Port Gamble General Store deserves a spot on your itinerary. While one practical reviewer noted they "wouldn't recommend a special trip to Port Gamble" for just a few hours, they made an exception for the general store, calling it "very different" from other shops in the area.

Visitors consistently rate it as "a must stop when visiting Port Gamble," and it's easy to understand why. It's more than just a place to grab a snack—it's an experience that connects you to the town's rich history while satisfying your modern cravings. The store transforms with the seasons too, with visitors noting how it gets "all decked out for Christmas with 9 beautiful Christmas trees," making it "a cute store where you can easily find something for everyone on your list."

Pro tip: Come hungry and with an appetite for adventure. With so many taffy flavors to choose from, you might want to create your own custom mix to take home as the perfect Port Gamble memory. And don't forget to explore upstairs—the shell museum is an unexpected treasure that adds educational value to your sweet shopping expedition.

Location: 32400 Rainier Ave NE, Port Gamble, WA

The next time you're exploring the Olympic Peninsula or enjoying a getaway in Port Gamble, make sure to carve out time for this sweet discovery. Your taste buds—and your Instagram feed—will thank you.