11 Best Things to Do in Centralia, WA

Posted on by Coldson

Centralia, WA is situated on the I-5 segment of the interstate highway, midway between Portland, OR and Seattle. This location facilitates a day journey from either city. Numerous historical structures have been preserved and are currently operational. The city is renowned for its expansive open spaces, specialized restaurants, art galleries, and exceptional home-brewed beverages.

1.Seminary Hill Natural Area

The Seminary Hill Natural Area, situated just outside of Centralia, offers a 1.2-mile loop trail that offers a chance to reconnect with nature and experience a slight ascent. The trailhead is located at the terminus of Banner Drive, where a map of the area is available to assist you in orienting yourself.

The unpaved trail is suitable for all individuals, with the exception of a significant elevation gain as you ascend Seminary Hill. Leashed pets and children are permitted. There is an intriguing understory to observe, and the majority of the trek is shaded by Douglas firs and cedars. Sweeping vistas from the summit of the hill will be the recompense for your endeavors.

Seminary Hill Natural Area, 902 E. Locust St, Centralia, WA 98531

2.Borst Park

Borst Park is centrally situated within the city limits. Historical attractions include the old homestead and schoolhouse, and the Fort Borst Blockhouse. Of botanical interest are the arboretum and rhododendron gardens. Sports facilities abound, with a volleyball court, three softball, four baseball and seven soccer fields. An athletic field, indoor swimming pool and outdoor tennis courts are close by.

Trails criss-cross the park and picnic spots offer an opportunity to rest and replenish energy. The 121 acre park is at the confluence of the Chehalis and Skookumchuck Rivers. Visitors can enjoy walks along the riverfront or lakeside. For canine customers, there is a one acre area at the south end where they can run free.

Borst Park, Location: West of I-5, Off Exit 82

3. Rectangle Gallery and Creative Space

Centralia

Rectangle Gallery and Creative Space is a cooperative endeavor that showcases artists from Southwest Washington. An ongoing recruitment campaign is underway to attract new artists to augment the diverse array of talent that is currently on exhibit. Original artwork of all genres, mediums, and prices is available for purchase. Classrooms, studio space, and a collaborative design area are rented. Resident artists provide art classes and multi-day seminars in their respective mediums. On-demand arts and craft classes are available for novices. An evening event featuring live music, exquisite dining, and shopping is held every third Thursday. The gallery is located in the former Lander’s Hotel building, which was constructed in 1912. Private functions are facilitated at the gallery.

4. The Fox Theater

The Fox Theater in downtown Centralia, originally the smallest in the Fox chain, was built in 1930. It ran Fox Movietone News films and hosted vaudeville acts. In 1982, it was revamped into three movie theaters which operated until 1998. The motto, “The Last Word in Talking Picture Entertainment” is still emblazoned on the wall.

The City authorities, recognizing its historic value, acquired the building in 2000. Of special interest are the brick design on the exterior walls and the three large murals. Inside the original carving, gold overlays and leather seats are intact. The starburst chandeliers and orchestra pit are still there but the pipe organ has been carefully stored away.

The Fox Theater, 123 S Tower Ave, Centralia, WA 98531, Phone: 360-330-766

5.The Historic Borst Home Museum

The Historic Borst Home Museum

Within Borst Park is the Historic Borst Home Museum. In 1880, Joseph Borst constructed it for his spouse Mary as a means of making up for the 26 years she had lived in hardship in the blockhouse and fort. It was intended to be the best house from Fort Steilacoom to Vancouver and to last for eight decades. The land was purchased by the city from a descendent of Borst. Before it was renovated in 1984, it was the residence of several park officials for many years. The home still has a number of original furnishings and old family photos. Public access to the museum is available on designated Saturdays and by group appointment.

The Historic Borst Home Museum, Pioneer Road, 98531 Centralia, Washington

6.The Hubbub, Centralia

1910 brown brick structure that had been refurbished, Rebecca Staebler founded the Hubbub Art Center in 2005. The structure has a gift shop and a gallery of modern crafts. Both nationally and in the Northwest, the stock is sourced.

Toys, clothing, and home decor are all on discount. Rebecca transformed the abandoned parking lot next door into a sculpture garden in 2008 after purchasing it. On the asphalt walks, guests are free to stay and even try their hand at chalk art.In

The Hubbub, Centralia, 505 N Tower Ave, Centralia, WA 98531, Phone: 360-736-1517

7.King Agriculture Museum

King Agriculture Museum

Set in an historic big red building which was formerly a lumber yard warehouse, the King Agriculture Museum is the largest museum of its kind to be found between Seattle and Portland. The museum is home to an impressive collection of more than 70 vintage farm tractors as well as many items of antique agricultural implements.

In addition to the vintage equipment, the museum has also set up a number of interactive exhibits and there are some pedal-tractors that children can try out. There are also many eclectic antiques including model tractors, a model train and a vintage sewing machine.

King Agriculture Museum, 213 E. Maple Street, Centralia, WA 98531,360 701 7525

8.McMenamins Olympic Club

McMenamins Olympic Club

McMenamins Olympic Club hotel was opened in 1908 and remodeled in 1913. It has remained unchanged since then, conjuring up images of the Wild West in its vintage décor and photos of the era. It has 27 rooms, all named after famous and infamous local characters of the area. The salon ladies are long gone but the bar remains and there is a restaurant and movie theater, offering patrons more family-oriented entertainment these days.

McMenamins Olympic Club, 112 N Tower Ave, Centralia, WA 98531, Phone: 503-223-0109

9.Country Cousin Restaurant

Since its opening in 1973, the ‘countri-fried’ cuisine of Country Cousin Restaurant has become a local favorite.It frequently draws second generation patrons who recall their childhood visits with their parents.Travelers will find the eatery convenient as it is located just off exit #82 on the I-5 corridor between Portland and Seattle.We can cater special events at your house or in the banquet venue.Preserves, candies, and toys are sold by a country store both online and on the property.

Country Cousin Restaurant, 1054 Harrison Ave, Centralia, WA 98531, Phone: 360-736-2200

10.Great Wolf Lodge Water Park

Situated halfway between Seattle and Portland, the Great Wolf Lodge Water Park Grand Mound offers fantastic family getaways along with year-round water activities and entertainment. In 2023, the water park had a complete makeover. The 56,000 square foot indoor facility is maintained year-round at a very comfortable 84 degrees. The Slap Tail Pond wave pool, the River Canyon Tube run, Fort Mackenzie, a 4-story interactive water fort perfect for kids, and a number of thrilling open slides and tube slides suitable for all ages are just a few of the enjoyable activities available. The price includes admission to the water park and on-site accommodations with a theme.

Great Wolf Lodge Water Park, 20500 Old Hwy 99 SW, Centralia, WA 98531, 800 640 9653, Map

11.Dick’s Brewing Company

Dick's Brewing Company

Dick’s Brewing Company was established in October, 1983 by the energetic and innovative founder, Dick Young. The initial vision was to offer superb, old-style smoked sausage but the business grew to include a deli and a sit-down sandwich bar. Dick then started brewing his own beers. Today the company boasts 20 varieties of home-brewed beers, including year-round, seasonal and limited production beers. Tastings are held on Fridays and Saturdays, and food pairing and trivia evenings, each month. Besides the beer, visitors can purchase t-shirts, hats, mugs and gift boxes at the shop.

Dick’s Brewing Company, 3516 Galvin Road, Centralia, WA 98531, Phone: 360-736-1603