Winter in Gig Harbor

It should take 30 minutes to walk to Finholm’s Market at thehead of Gig Harbor, Washington, from Old Ferry Landing Park at thebay’s mouth. But you’ll never make it that fast ― there aretoo many docks to walk and Kodak moments to catch, such as Mt.Rainier popping through clouds. If rain surprises you, find refugein an espresso bar or a shop ― almost all are independentlyowned.

Gallery Row.
WHAT: Waterfront gallery featuring Rebecca Baumgartner’sintense pastels of Northwest landscapes. WHEN: Open daily. WHERE: 3102 Harborview Dr.; www.gigharborgalleryrow.comor 253/851-6020.

The Fine Art Inn.
WHAT: Paintings include landscapes, cityscapes, andportraits. WHEN: 10-5 Tue-Fri, 10-4 Sat-Sun. WHERE: 8805 N. Harborview Dr.; 253/858-8055.

Harbor walk.
WHAT: Orient yourself with this pretty 1½-milewalk. WHERE: Start at Finholm’s Market (8812 N. Harborview Dr.)and loop around the west side of the water to Old Ferry LandingPark.

Rent-A-Boat.
WHAT: In 1841, an American naval party named the bayafter exploring it in a gig (a small boat). These days, kayak andpowerboat rentals are the way to go, even in winter, thanks to theprotected nature of the harbor (dress warmly). WHEN: Call for reservations. HOW MUCH: From $12 per hour. WHERE: 8829 N. Harborview Dr.; 253/858-7341.

Brix 25°.
WHAT: After a flute of sparkling wine (which startsevery meal here), indulge in sesame ahi and lavender crèmebrûlée. WHEN: Dinner daily. HOW MUCH: $$$. WHERE: 7707 Pioneer Way; 253/858-6626.

IsaMira Café.
WHAT: Dockside cheese shop offers at least 60 varieties.Call an hour ahead for fondue. WHEN: 9-7 daily. HOW MUCH: $. WHERE: 3313 Harborview Dr.; 253/857-7511.

Java & Clay Café.
WHAT: Paint a plate and have it fired. WHEN Open daily. WHERE: 3210 Harborview Dr.; 253/851-3277.

Info: Gig Harbor is 3 miles from Tacoma. For more info,contact the Gig Harbor Chamber ofCommerce (253/851-6865).