Get to know some of the smaller cities and towns in Southwest Washington, from the coastal town of Long Beach to the former logging and railroad town of Chehalis. Discover a more laid-back alternative to bustling cities as you immerse yourself in local history, culture, and cuisine.

Small Cities & Towns in Southwest Washington

Chehalis

Founded as a logging and railroad town in 1883, Chehalis boasts three historic districts that are recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. Well-preserved and rich with pioneer history, its downtown is full of quaint old buildings, antique malls, and coffee shops. Also worth a visit are the Vintage Motorcycle Museum and the Chehalis-Centralia Railroad & Museum, which offers seasonal rail excursions through the countryside.

Cougar

Come for the small-town atmosphere, but don’t miss the nearby Ape Caves. The more than 2-mile underground lava tube is the nation’s third largest and is easy to explore with headlamps. The area is also home to camping options for those looking to sleep under the stars. Cougar also serves as the southern gateway for visitors to Mount St. Helens.

Hoquiam

Located where the Hoquiam River enters the sea, this small town has deep roots in the lumber industry and is a great destination for history buffs. Explore Grays Harbor history at the Polson Museum or wander the historic downtown and waterfront.

Ilwaco

This town near well-known Long Beach offers world-class fishing and a vibrant arts community, along with plenty of outdoor recreation. Hike or bike along the 8.5-mile-long Discovery Trail, which begins at the Port of Ilwaco, or explore the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center in nearby Cape Disappointment State Park.

Kalama

Located on the Columbia River on the border with Oregon, Kalama’s thriving Port boasts miles of walking paths, water activities, and a marina, and standout fishing. In town, visitors can wander antique shops or dine at one of the many restaurants. In August, the town hosts the annual Untouchables Car Show featuring 300-plus classic cars.

Long Beach

Anchoring a 28-mile peninsula, this small town offers big adventure, from kite flying and clam digging to surfing and strolling along the beachside boardwalk. Visitors will find plenty of shops selling everything from souvenirs to candy. The town is also home to the World Kite Museum and the International Kite Festival, which takes place each year in August.

North Bonneville

From 1976 to 1978, the entire town of North Bonneville — 400 residents at the time — relocated to make way for a new powerhouse. Today, this community is a popular stop on Highway 14 for windsurfing on the Columbia River and an abundance of hikes. North Bonneville is also conveniently located next to the Bonneville Lock & Dam, where two visitor centers offer travelers the chance to learn more about this historic dam.

Oysterville

A sense of history permeates this town on the Long Beach Peninsula. Once a thriving community fueled by the gold rush, today the entire town is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Take a self-guided walking tour to appreciate the town’s Victorian architecture. Afterward, stop by Oysterville Sea Farms for a taste of the local bivalves freshly plucked from Willapa Bay.

Packwood

Dramatically sandwiched between Mount St. Helens and Mount Rainier, Packwood plays host to one of the largest flea markets in the western United States. Taking place over four days every Labor Day and Memorial Day weekend since the 1970s, the market extends for more than a mile and draws thousands of bargain hunters to this cozy outpost on the Cowlitz River.

Stevenson

Hiking, dining, and history all converge in this destination in the Columbia River Gorge. Trace the history of the region and its First Peoples at the Columbia Gorge Museum, head out on a hike, and dive into Stevenson’s local dining and craft beverage scene, where visitors can find everything from wine to beer. Those looking to stay overnight can enjoy glamping or traditional lodging at Skamania Lodge, home to a zipline course and other fun outdoor activities.

Woodland

This town off Interstate 5 is a great base for visiting the scenic Cedar Creek Grist Mill. Established in 1876 and now on the National Register of Historic Places, the mill is a photo-worthy working museum. Also on the National Register of Historic Places is the Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens, which honors the work of famed lilac developer Hulda Klager and includes an 1880s Victorian Farmhouse.