Ever wonder what it would be like to spend a weekend with the people you love in your private mansion? The Worthington Mansion, with its associated museum, outdoor theater and public park, is set in a quiet town nestled between the Hood Canal’s Quilcene Bay and the eastern slope of the Olympic National Forest. Quilcene welcomes visitors with small-town hospitality and offers easy access to some of the most beautiful outdoor adventures in the Pacific Northwest. Throughout a weekend or midweek stay, visitors could choose a staycation within the splendor of this regal historic Victorian mansion or spend their days exploring the many possibilities of nature’s abundant offerings that draw so many to this region.

Brian Cullin standing on the porch by the door of the Worthington Mansion
Brian Cullin is a volunteer and director of communications for Worthington Mansion. With over 100 registered volunteers dedicating nearly 50,000 documented hours of labor for restoration efforts, Worthington Mansion is truly a community project of many minds, hearts and hands. Photo credit: Jess Caldwell

Worthington Park and Mansion Renovations

With over 100 registered volunteers dedicating nearly 50,000 documented hours of labor, Worthington Mansion has been meticulously renovated with the love of a very passionate community.

Brian Cullin has been an active volunteer with the project for seven years. He has not only participated in the physical labor involved with the restoration project but also serves as the director of communications. “Since fully opening our doors in 2023, we are thrilled to be finally welcoming guests to our beloved historical site,” he shares.

Rent Worthington Mansion for Vacations, Weddings and Other Events

The 13-room restored mansion includes four bedrooms featuring period furnishings to sleep up to eight guests.

Adorned with original, historic art that has been donated to elevate the authenticity of the experience, Worthington Mansion makes for a special vacation experience. The 10-acre public park associated with the property includes a historic barn, a large and well-maintained grassy area to stroll by the pond and access to the CK Birkenfeld Trail, complete with interpretive signs.

Meander over to the Quilcene Historical Museum or admire the hand-crafted artwork of the community stage. For those looking for a special event venue, the unique and intentionally-designed location has hosted weddings, concerts and private events that inspire a special kind of look and feel. Make sure to scroll through their online Events Calendar to explore the many public festivities being offered throughout the year. From the Quilcene Fiber Festival to bike races and movies under the stars, there is something for everyone to enjoy, thanks to the many dedicated volunteers who have brought the vision of Worthington Park’s possibility to life.

Linger Longer Stage with a totem pole next to it
Worthington Park provides a 10-acre public nature space that includes the Linger Longer Stage, designed and built by local volunteers. The stage offers live music and theatrical performances and can be rented for private events. Photo credit: Jess Caldwell

Where To Eat While Visiting Quilcene and Worthington Mansion

Whether driving through town while touring the Olympic Peninsula or staying at Worthington Mansion, consider starting your day off with a hot beverage from Catkin Coffee Roastery & Cafe. This charming coffee house offers delightful pastries and espresso drinks with a warm and welcoming environment to sit and enjoy.

For lunch, Gear Head Deli is right next door to the coffee shop and is owned by a kind-hearted couple who have created an auto-themed cafe with bright colors and delicious sandwiches. Co-owner Debbie Williams, who runs the deli alongside her husband Larry Williams, suggests the pulled pork sandwich for your first experience. “It is the local favorite!” she shares. “Braised in porter beer with homemade barbecue sauce and smoked on-site.”

Writer Jess Caldwell enjoys the Gear Head Deli pulled pork sandwich. This local favorite is braised in porter beer with homemade barbeque sauce and smoked on-site. Can’t decide on a sandwich? Spin the auto-themed wheel for inspiration on what to choose from the menu. Photo credit: Jason Marsteiner

Unsure of which sandwich to choose? Make it a surprise and spin the auto-themed wheel located on the counter to assist with your choice. It won’t steer you wrong!

For dinner, Quilbilly’s Restaurant and Taproom offers locally sourced menu items from burgers to oysters, along with draft beers and ciders. A homemade dessert will complete the Quilcene experience, and the staff are exceptionally down-to-earth and friendly.

What To Do While Visiting Quilcene and Worthington Mansion

Stop by the Chimacum Corner Farm Stand to pick up a locally inspired picnic lunch and head out to Fort Flagler State Park. For those who enjoy history along with the beauty of nature and expansive views of the Olympic Peninsula, an entire day or weekend can be spent enjoying the many activities available at this popular state park.

Ranger Aaron Terada standing by a wall with historic photos on it
Ranger Aaron Terada, the operations manager at Fort Flagler State Park, encourages visitors to explore the onsite museum featuring displays of the fort and military life at the turn of the 20th century. Photo credit: Jess Caldwell

Make sure to tour the Fort Flagler Historical Museum, which features displays of the fort and military life at the turn of the 20th century. Enjoy trails, beachcombing, biking, bird watching and even winter camping. Park Ranger Aaron Terada has been the operations manager for 12 years. He suggests that visitors consider renting one of the five historic Fort Flagler vacation houses for a unique overnight stay. “I love living here at Fort Flagler State Park and welcoming the many guests that visit throughout the year,” explains Terada. “We are family-friendly with coordinated scavenger hunts and a Junior Ranger Program for youth.”

Whether you want to impress the person you are courting with a unique romantic getaway in Jefferson County, or you are planning a holiday stay with a large family gathering on the Olympic Peninsula, the Worthington Mansion historical site and Fort Flagler Historical State Park each brings beauty, art and a rich history to your weekend getaway. To learn more about planning your next vacation or event in the Olympic Peninsula, visit the Enjoy Olympic Peninsula website.

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