Gig Harbor is the name of both a bay on Puget Sound and a city on its shore in Pierce County, Washington, United States. Discovered in 1840 and incorporated in 1946, Gig Harbor is one of the most picturesque small cities in America. The city was named from the Wilkes Expedition in which the crew entered the harbor in a longboat called a "captain's gig". These three fisherman rowed from British Columbia to Gig Harbor and decided to stay. Gig Harbor is one of several cities and towns that claim to be "the gateway to the Olympic Peninsula". While best known for its stunning walkable waterfront and historical maritime history, it also offers a welcome escape from the city. You can stroll along Harborview Avenue for views of the Puget Sound and Mount Rainier, while still browsing the local shops that line the waterfront.
