Centralia: History, Parks and Special Discoveries

Centralia combines urban history, river landscapes and a diverse range of experiences into a destination with many different facets. Its location along the I-5 corridor can play an important role in planning your arrival. On site, the spectrum ranges from historic sites and live theater to forest trails, gardens, waterfront access and activities for children. Depending on whether you are looking for culture, nature or shared family experiences, you can choose a suitable vacation rental as a base for your stay.

Experience the city’s history in the historic center

In the historic center, hand-painted murals tell the story of Centralia. The subjects include George Washington, Buffalo Bill and Armistice Day in 1919, also known as the Wobbly War. In addition, the current Centralia Train Depot was built of brick in 1912. It is used by Amtrak passengers and also serves as a stop for local public transportation. Those interested in the city’s development and its visible traces of history will find concrete points of reference here for a culturally focused stay.

The Downtown Centralia Historic District also offers more than a brief walk-through. Antique and boutique shops, dining establishments, as well as locally operated stores and galleries shape the selection. There you will find, among other things, handmade jewelry, handcrafted furniture, homemade chocolates and antiques. The Evergreen Playhouse was founded in 1959, has operated continuously since then and presents a variety of live theater experiences. During restoration, the Fox Theatre also hosts events throughout the year.

Riverfronts, forest trails and historic sites

For quieter hours, Seminary Hill Natural Area is a good choice. A walk through the forest offers views of Centralia as well as the Chehalis and Skookumchuck river valleys. Fort Borst Park at the confluence of the Chehalis River and the Skookumchuck River offers a different perspective on the landscape. Historic sites include the Borst Home, the One Room School House and the Block House.

More than 285 trees from over 150 species grow in the Fort Borst Park Arboretum. Rhododendron and azalea gardens complement the grounds, whose paths invite you to take a walk and discover the trees more closely. There is waterfront access along the adjacent riverbanks, at Fort Borst Lake and via a concrete boat ramp on the Chehalis River. Rotary Riverside Park also has paved and unpaved walking paths, as well as public access to the water. This allows you to distinguish between historic sites, garden paths, forest and river landscapes when planning your day.

Experiences for curious children and active days

At the Discover! Children's Museum, interactive exhibits invite children to touch, play and explore. In the Dinosaur Discovery Zone, children can excavate fossil replicas while learning about prehistoric life. The Sports Hub at the Sports Complex at Borst Park offers another kind of shared activity. The 99,000-square-foot sports facility hosts indoor volleyball, basketball, fastpitch and wrestling events.

You can explore history in greater depth at the Borst Home through specific programs: group and special tours are offered by appointment Monday through Friday from April through September, with three weeks’ advance notice required. Admission to open-house events is free, donations are accepted, and Living History programs are planned for every open-house event. These differences are important when planning your trip if you want to combine a spontaneous visit with a specifically scheduled tour.

If you would also like to compare other places for your trip planning, you can find Chehalis, Napavine, Packwood and Glenoma here.

For the higher-level travel overview: Lewis.