Explore the lands and structures at the center of fur trade and military history in the Pacific Northwest. Learn about the diverse cultures who lived and worked here. Enjoy relaxing trails along the Columbia River and Village. Experience costumed programs, hands-on education activities, engaging living history events, creative media and a world-class archaeology collection. Connect to the past.See more..
4.5Maryhill Museum of Art(377 reviews) - A Must See Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Art Museums • History Museums
Housed in a majestic Beaux Art mansion overlooking the Columbia River Gorge, Maryhill Museum of Art is one of the NW's most fascinating cultural destinations. Explore world-class European & American art, an extensive American Indian art collection, sculptures and watercolors by Auguste Rodin - one of the largest collections in the US - and much, much more. Cafe, museum shop, sculpture garden, & picnic grounds on-site. In 2012 the museum opened its 25,000 square foot Mary & Bruce Stevenson Wing, featuring a dedicated arts education suite, a cafe with terrace seating and sweeping views of the Gorge and Mount Hood.See more..
4.5Stonehenge Memorial(337 reviews) - Very cool! Saturday: 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Monuments & Statues
Three miles east of Maryhill Museum of Art, just off HWY 14 and near the original Maryhill town site, stands a full-scale replica of England's Stonehenge built by museum founder Sam Hill. Stonehenge Memorial was built as the nation’s first WWI memorial. It was dedicated in 1918 to the servicemen of Klickitat County, Washington, who died in the service of their country during the Great War; it was completed in 1929 and re-dedicated on Memorial Day of that year, when 14 local service men were honored by having their names placed on the pillars of the Memorial. Samuel Hill’s crypt is located a short walk southwest of Stonehenge on a bluff overlooking the river. The site is open daily from 7 a.m. to dusk. Admission is free.See more..
4.5Jimi Hendrix Grave Site(313 reviews) - Amazing tribute to a rock and roll legend Historic Sites • Cemeteries
This is an outstanding memorial and tribute to a rock and roll legend, Jimi Hendrix. When you park in the memorial parking, you will walk towards your right and the memorial stands alone. The memorial contains numerous pictures of Jimi, as well as guitar tombstone. This is a good place to visit if you are a fan of Jimi Hendrix's music and his rock and roll legacy.See more..
This was our second time doing the hike. It was fairly easy and the views were breathtaking on a beautiful Sunday morning. If you end up walking along the beach on your return, do note that there isn't an actual trial, so you are walking on the sand/rocks, which got a little tiring on my feet and knees. See more..
4.5Officers' Row(236 reviews) - Great Park Historic Sites • Neighborhoods • Historic Walking Areas
This historic drive is lined with 21 restored Victorian homes built for military officers of the Vancouver Barracks, including Ulysses S. Grant, General O.O. Howard House and George C. Marshall. Two of the homes are open for tours.See more..
This was fascinating and well done. You have to go online and make a reservation a couple of weeks in advance. Fortunately there were some cancellations and we got in on short notice. My 10-year old learned a lot about the history of this place and that time period as did I.See more..
4.5Pacific Northwest Quilt & Fiber Arts Museum(108 reviews) - Even if you are not a quilter...GO! Saturday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • Historic Sites
The Pacific Northwest Quilt & Fiber Arts Museum (formerly the La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum) in the historic Gaches Mansion, located in the beautiful waterfront town of La Conner, features exhibits of quilts and fiber arts throughout the year. With a new exhibit opening on one of the three floors each month, exhibits range from traditional quilts from around the globe to contemporary fiber art. The mission of the Pacific Northwest Quilt & Fiber Arts Museum is to present exhibitions and educational programs in all fiber arts that enrich and inspire, honor cultural traditions, and celebrate the creative spirit.See more..
We walked through Wright Park after breakfast at the Hob Nob. I saw the conservatory do we decided to go inside. Toasty warm with beautiful plants and flowers! Seasonal and year-round plants here. I think the last time I was here was when the Century Plant bloomed. I forgot to ask the docent if it was still there. Free and open to the public. We decided to make this a seasonal adventure!See more..
4.5George C. Marshall House(88 reviews) - Free Tours, History Comes to Life Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites
This Queen Anne Victorian was once the residence of George C. Marshall, the architect of the plan for European recovery after World War II. Marshall occupied the home, one of two Officers' Row houses currently open to the public, when he was the commander of the Vancouver barracks.See more..
4.5Cashmere Museum and Pioneer Village(81 reviews) - Great museum for kids and adults Saturday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Historic Sites • History Museums
Our museum features a beautiful outdoor village of furnished authentic local log cabins, a waterwheel, a series of Great Northern Railway buildings (including a red caboose!), two levels of Native American artifacts and natural history exhibits and a gift shop with something for everyone. We offer a hand-held audio-tour to enhance the educational experience, or with advance notice, guided tours for groups of 15 or more, with special rates. With admission, kids can wear prairie aprons and bonnets or vests and bandanas to get into character while exploring the village- which offers parents some GREAT photo opportunities! They can also take part in a free scavenger hunt with prizes to choose from at the end. Our volunteers are happy to give advice on what else to do while you are in town, and give insider tips on the best places to eat. The Museum also hosts Apple Days the first full weekend of October every year- visit our website for more details!See more..
Words can't describe how wonderful my "sunset sailing" into and out of Gray's Harbor was. I have been aboard once before but that was over 25 years ago. It was so wonderful to take another adventure on such a lovely tall ship. To feel and hear the wind propelling the ship without the noise of the motor. To get to "help out" as a member of the crew. Everyone made us all feel welcome. I recommend it to anyone who has never been on a tall ship or sailed. Or like those of us who haven't sailed in a while, it was great getting back on board.See more..
4.5Old Molson Museum Ghost Town(66 reviews) - Old Molson School Museum is Gem of a Small Town Museum... Historic Sites
This is a small-town museum that is proud of their local history. The early 1900s school building housed 1st through 12th grade students until is closed at the end of the 1968 1969 school year. Especially interesting is a first / second grade classroom left as it was the day the school closed. This time capsule serves as a reminder of what was involved in teaching and attending elementary school in that era. Along with school artifacts are a plethora of other items important to community members ranging from horse-drawn wagons to medals win in various competitions. This is one of those "off the beaten path" museums worth a side trip when visiting north central Washington state!See more..
Millions of years ago, this fossil site was a lake rich in plant and animal life.See more..
4.5Dayton Historic Depot(52 reviews) - Train Trip Back In Time Saturday: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings • Cemeteries
The Dayton Historic Depot is the oldest standing depot in Washington state. Built in 1881, it was moved to its present location in 1899 by capstan and horses. After it closed in 1971, the Dayton Historical Depot Society placed the Depot on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974, then they refurbished the building and opened as a museum in 1981. Presently, the first floor of the depot has been re-created to appear as it did in 1899. The upstairs, where the Station Agent and his family lived, contains a Gallery that has rotating exhibits. The freight room houses a gift shop of Depot memorabilia, western history books, low technology games, and unique gifts for that special hostess or friend.See more..
Serving as the main supply depot for the Hudson's Bay Companys fur trading business in the 19th century, this 366-acre reserve features many important historical sites including the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, Vancouver Barracks, Officers' Row and Pearson Field.See more..
4.5Lakewold Gardens(42 reviews) - One of the most beautiful gardens in the Northwest Saturday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites • Gardens
Lakewold Gardens is a premier 10-acre historic garden estate that features formal and natural settings. Located just south of Tacoma off of I-5 we are near the hustle and bustle of the city, but our gardens feel worlds away. Nestled amidst the lush English-inspired gardens is the Georgian-style mansion which overlooks Gravelly Lake. This historic and unique property is open year round to the public for self-guided garden tours and also serves as an elegant setting for a wedding, corporate event, or a private function. The Wagner House and gardens offer a variety of meeting room space that can be utilized many ways – from a small staff retreat in our upstairs boardroom overlooking the gardens, to an evening reception under our wisteria draped veranda – an event held at Lakewold is unlike any other. You and your guests will enjoy a beautiful backdrop and view from any of our event spaces. Special features include: a wisteria covered veranda, gorgeous spiral staircase, a unique quatrefoil pool, winding pathways, and a historic brick walkway. Discover why we are one of the premier venues in the South Sound.See more..
4.5Crosby House(34 reviews) - What a surprise! Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks
I stopped in here with my parents during graduation weekend. It was really neat to see all the memorabilia displayed and presented so accessibly. It was very engaging for someone like me who didn't know more than that Bing Crosby was the reason for the Crosby Building on campus. It's not a large space but it is packed with very interesting information. Well worth the stop and highly recommended!See more..
Take a journey back to the 1880s to relive the times of homesteaders in Washington State or experience life in an Indian Village, through narrated tours through a reconstructed pioneer farm, schoolhouse and trading post.See more..
4.0The Academy(20 reviews) - Great place for a wedding Saturday: Historic Sites
The Academy Chapel and Ballroom offer a unique and beautiful venue for your wedding and reception. With beautifully landscaped grounds, plenty of free parking for you and your guests and easy access from Interstate 5 or Hwy 14.See more..
3.5Clark's Dismal Nitch(15 reviews) - Lewis & Clark's nightmare is a 21st Century pleasant rest stop with historical information Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Educational sites
Dismal Nitch was an important part of Lewis & Clark expedition. They had made their way across the country, only to be stuck here for nearly a week waiting out a fierce winter storm. When we visited in May, the sun was shining, the sky was blue and it was hard to envision what they went through two centuries ago. Dismal Nitch is now a very pleasant highway rest stop. Situated right on the Columbia River, it has fantastic views of the river, the ships passing by, and the town of Astoria on the Oregon side. There are several picnic tables, all with river views, and a nice large grassy area. The restrooms were clean and tidy. We enjoyed reading the several informational signs here. They have a lot of information about Lewis & Clark. Take the time to stop, read and learn about those courageous explorers. Wet, cold and miserable, it's no wonder they named this camp "Dismal" Nitch!See more..
This memorial is located in the marine park off SE Columbia Way next to the boat launch. Be aware, there is a $5 parking fee. The former Kaiser Shipyard is now the site of the Columbia Business Park on the south side of Highway 14 in Vancouver along the Columbia River. The viewing tower tells the story of the shipyards through interpretive panels. Climb the stairs of the tower for a view of the river, watch jets take off from the Portland Airport across the river and on a clear day, you can see Mt. Hood to the east. If you look closely at the interpretive panel on the upper deck of the tower you can look out over the industrial park to the west and still see the concrete ways and structures of the shipyard that are still present. I'm glad I took the time to investigate :)See more..
The site is notable because the Lewis and Clark expedition spent some time here. It was at this location that they conducted the famous vote that took them over to Ft. Clatsop for the winter. While the event that occurred at this location is historic, there is nothing really still here from that occurrence other than some signage. There is more signage describing the life of the Chinook peoples and there is a recreated longboat canoe and plank house. There is also a church dating to the early 1900s. It is pleasant little walk around the area and it is informative and free.See more..
4.0Claquato Church(12 reviews) - Oldest Church in Washington Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings • Religious Sites • Churches & Cathedrals
The historic Claquato Church is the oldest church building still standing in the state of Washington. This was a Methodist church built in the now unincorporated town of Claquato--once a promising and growing community. The church is located near the historic Claquato Cemetary.See more..
It just so happens that this store was open on a rainy Sunday! I instantly saw signs in the window that drew me in, but come to find out it was a store full of all kinds of different things. Antiques, Nik naks, clothing, furniture, bath/body. I couldn't walk out of there with out buying something. Very neat store.See more..
5.0The Starrett House Inn(10 reviews) - Victorian elegance with modern comforts. Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks
A beautiful Victorian-style home with incredible architectural detailing. 5 guest rooms with private baths available to rent overnight.See more..
4.5Grays River Covered Bridge(9 reviews) - Working covered bridge Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Bridges
Just off the highway lies Grays River Covered Bridge...the only covered bridge in Washington State that is still in use. Built in 1905 and covered in 1906 so livestock wouldn't slip on the wet planks. Love seeing this bridges from the past. Definitely worth the stop....life is too short to zoom past bridge like this!!!See more..
4.5The Schmidt House(8 reviews) - The Schmidt House is more than just about the brewery. Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks
I can highly recommend The Schmidt House. Our family held a Celebration of Life for my Lovely Bride. She grew up in the local area and Tumwater held many special memories for her The staff was so very helpful in helping us set up and accommodating any special needs we had. The house and grounds, especially the rose garden, are not to be missed for history buffs! .See more..
We loved learning about the history! The director came out and gave us some very interesting facts to add to our learning! Very friendly place!See more..
4.5Tiger Historical Center & Museum(7 reviews) - Very informative on local history! Must stop! Saturday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Historic Sites • History Museums Amazing historical landmark. Very informative! Great home in the wall for history! Snack & gifts! Lots of local history & local authors book is sold there on detailed history of the area. We highly recommend stopping & talking to them. See more..
4.5Thorp Mill(7 reviews) - Worth your time Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites
Excellent historical stop to see a beautifully preserved mill. The docents were very friendly and knowledgeable providing a thorough tour of the interior that’s open to the public. Very interesting history of the area.See more..
Mary Olson Farm is the most intact 1880s family farm in King County. Nestled in a private canyon, the center of the farm includes a farmhouse, large barn with animals, a weaving house, and several other out buildings surrounded by forested hillsides and two meadows. Mary Olson Farm is 60-acres and open only during the summer for picnics, and tours of the historic house.See more..
5.0The Hubble House(5 reviews) - great as my Mother owns it. Historic Sites
The Hubble House Inn opened July 1, 2022 for overnight stays, events and special gatherings. It replaced Logan's Inn which is at this time, no longer operating. Call Caara 480 313 1690 for details. The four rooms with private baths are beautiful. Sit in the Parlor and allow yourself to drift back in time. So many special places to sit, meditate, read or write. The outside is beautiful and the house sits in the Middle of lovely town of Montesano. Shelby HollidaySee more..
5.0Claquato Cemetery(5 reviews) - Amazing Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Historic Walking Areas
We came to the area during the week so there wasn't much to do as most places nearby are only open on weekends. I saw this place as a suggestion on this site so decided to go. We were not disappointed. What an amazing walk. Beautiful and peaceful. Lots of old headstones. Definitely worth the time. I'm so glad we went. We also went over the the old church across the street and boy what a treat that was. Wow! We took many pictures. Don't forget to walk around back to see the old outhouse :)See more..
We were told that we could see petroglyphs with boat rides or driving along the Snake River Rd, WA. We drove 18 miles south of Asotin on a paved road and found the sign that says "Buffalo Eddy." There were a few campers on the narrow stretch of the river bank. We found the trail on the left side facing the river. Where the rocks are, you will find ancient petroglpyhs.See more..
5.0Blackman House Museum(4 reviews) - The museum took me out of the real world for a while. Historic Sites
This local history museum is housed in one of the oldest buildings in town.See more..
4.0Historic Borst Home Museum(4 reviews) - In costume tours are available Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings Volunteers give tours in costume pretending to be the Borsts. Fun for kids but good history. The block house is worth seeing. Excellent long trail. WC access. See more..
4.5Hidden House Market(4 reviews) - Open and lovely! Saturday: 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM Historic Sites
Surround yourself in history as you dine heartily in this Victorian home-turned-restaurant, originally built by the wealthy Hidden family in 1885. Great food, cocktails, beer, wine, and desserts!See more..
Great place to visit just as it's getting dark. Abandoned many years, featured on one TV show on abandoned/haunted sites.See more..
3.5Will Roger-Wiley Post Memorial(3 reviews) - Cool place to hang out and watch the jets come and go. Saturday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • Monuments & Statues You are also right where the floatplanes launch from. Interesting the crew and passengers just walk across the tarmac to the building. See more..
St. Andrew's Episcopal Church in Chelan is a cool log cabin style church definitely worth seeing. It was built in 1897 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1992.See more..
4.0Steptoe Battlefield State Park Heritage Site(2 reviews) - For history buffs Historic Sites • Battlefields Interesting spot. Be sure to read the monument and plaque. We were here on a grocaching mission. Yes, we found the cache. See more..
5.0Chief Joseph Rest Area(1 review) - Piece of Important Native American History!! Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Monuments & Statues
This place must be visited if you have any interest in the 19th Century history of the settlement and development of the American West. The legacy left by Chief Joseph of the Nez Perce is very important. Here was a man who did not believe in violence yet was involved in the most successful conflict with American military in the late 19th Century. This site gives you some of that history and the shameful and disgraceful way he and his tribe were treated by the American authorities. Memorable visit of someone I would consider to be real "Good Guy".See more..
