Olympic Game Farm in Sequim is a wildlife refuge that offers drive-through tours. Formerly an animal training facility for Disney Studios, this unusual wildlife sanctuary is one of Sequim's hidden gems. (Photo courtesy of Olympic Game Farm) | | |
Greetings!
Sequim, Washington offers hidden gems beyond its famous lavender farms, serene coastal spots and nature areas. This month’s issue features some of those less well-known but exceptional and enjoyable Sequim spots.
| | (photos courtesy of Olympic Game Farm) | |
Olympic Game Farm 1423 Ward Road
Discover one of Sequim’s true hidden gems: Olympic Game Farm, a one-of-a-kind drive-through wildlife exhibit where animals may come right up to your vehicle for a snack of wheat bread and a friendly hello. A longtime local landmark since the 1950s, Olympic Game Farm offers a memorable experience for families and visitors while continuing its commitment to animal welfare, conservation, and the care of more than 200 animals on-site.
Olympic Game Farm is open year-round for its driving tour, with additional summer attractions including a petting farm, freshwater aquarium, and concessions. No reservations are required.
For current hours, days of operation, and more information, visit Olympic Game Farm.
| | | Pioneer Memorial Park work party in 1951 (photo courtesy of Sequim Prairie Garden Club) | |
Pioneer Memorial Park
387 East Washington Street
Looking for a quiet place to explore in downtown Sequim? Pioneer Memorial Park is considered another local treasure. Originally part of pioneer John Bell’s homestead, the site was donated in 1909 and later transformed into Sequim’s first community park through the dedication of the Sequim Prairie Garden Club, local service groups, and volunteers.
Today, the park offers a peaceful setting filled with history and natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy an arboretum with a striking stand of gnarled Garry oaks, along with rhododendrons, shrubs, and perennials throughout the grounds. Picnic tables and garden benches invite guests to slow down and take in the surroundings.
Pioneer Memorial Park is also home to unique historic features, including an 1893 hand-hewn log cabin and a Jamestown S’Klallam totem. With its renovated clubhouse and charming setting, the park is also a pleasant spot for community gatherings and private celebrations.
| | | Port Williams in 1909 (photo from North Olympic Heritage/Bert Kellogg Photograph Collection) | |
Port Williams Beach 2499 Port Williams Road
At one time in the early 20th century, Port Williams served as a primary gateway for commerce and passengers in the Dungeness Valley before the arrival of the railroad in 1914. None of those early structures remain. Now named Marlyn Wayne Nelson Memorial Park, Port Williams was deeded to Clallam County Parks in 1976.
Known for being quiet, meditative, and a hidden gem compared to more crowded tourist spots and beaches, Port Williams Beach is presently a quiet, one-acre coastal site located on the Strait of Juan de Fuca near Sequim. It is a perfect location for watching sunrises, with views of Protection Island and Canada across the water.
The beach consists of a mix of gravel and sand, perfect for short walks and beachcombing. It is also a favorite dog walking spot. Amenities in this compact park include parking for vehicles, saltwater boat launch, picnic tables, benches and fire pits.
| | | (photos courtesy of Betsy Bankston) | |
Hiking Trails Off Palo Alto Road
If you’re looking to explore beyond the busier routes this spring, the hiking trails off Palo Alto Road offer a peaceful side of Sequim that’s well worth discovering. As Palo Alto Road becomes Forest Service Road 28, it leads to scenic trailheads in the Olympic National Forest where hikers can enjoy towering old-growth Douglas firs, bright green moss, lush ferns, and the kind of dense forest canopy that feels timeless. Many of these trails follow the Dungeness River and nearby streams, adding beautiful river views and the calming sounds of flowing water along the way.
One standout is the Upper Dungeness Trail, which leads into Buckhorn Wilderness and offers a memorable mix of forest, river, and mountain scenery. Unlike the more heavily traveled trails in Olympic National Park, this area often feels quieter and more serene, making it a great choice for anyone seeking a true hidden gem. With options ranging from easy riverside walks to more challenging backcountry hikes, and lower-elevation access that can open earlier in the season, the Palo Alto Road trail system is a wonderful place to enjoy the natural beauty of the Olympic Peninsula.
| | | (photo by Linda Barnfather) | | |
Hurricane Ridge Kennel Club
Agility, Rally & Obedience Trials
May 29 – 31
Carrie Blake Park Softball Fields, Sequim
Calling all dog lovers to Carrie Blake Park. Come observe incredible canine athleticism, and the heartwarming partnership between dogs and their handlers. For more information, email info@hrkc.org or visit Hurricane Ridge Kennel Club.
| | | (Photo courtesy of Sequim Gazette) | | |
4th Annual Sequim Record Show
June 6, 9 AM – 5 PM
Guy Cole Center, 202 N Blake Ave
Free admission. 30+ vendors with vintage vinyl records, collectable memorabilia and other music mediums and items. All music genres and prices, something for everyone. Come shop and rock out!
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North Olympic Discovery Marathon
June 6 & 7
Olympic Discovery Trail, Sequim to Port Angeles
The Run the Peninsula race series comprises five races (run or walk) spanning sections of the Olympic Discovery Trail from Port Townsend to Port Angeles.
The North Olympic Discovery Marathon & Relay race (5k / 10k / 13.1 / 26.2) is the third race in the series and includes an entire weekend of events on the Olympic Discovery Trail from Sequim to Port Angeles. For more details, visit North Olympic Discovery Marathon.
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Sequim City Band presents
Concert at the James
June 7, 3 PM
James Center for the Performing Arts Band Shell in Carrie Blake Park
The Sequim City Band, 70+ members strong, kicks off its thirty-fifth year with a concert themed Let's Go Soaring! Enjoy a free, outdoor concert each month during the summer in beautiful Carrie Blake Park. For the full concert schedule, visit Sequim City Band.
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KSQM FM Radio presents Music in the Park Concert Series
Begins June 23, 6 – 8 PM
James Center for the Performing Arts Band Shell in Carrie Blake Park
A delightful evening of free, live music in a stunning outdoor setting. This concert series runs every Tuesday evening, from June 23 – August 25. Bring your chair, blanket, and a picnic to enjoy an evening of summer entertainment in Sequim. Folks of all ages will love the park setting.
See the full concert schedule here.
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Whether you’re discovering Sequim for the first time or revisiting a favorite local place, these hidden gems are each well worth a stop. We hope to see you soon in our unique, sunny corner of the Olympic Peninsula in Washington state!
Sincerely,
Barbara Hanna
City of Sequim
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