Chehalis offers several ways to explore its local history: on a self-guided walking tour through downtown, in museums covering regional and military history, and on rides aboard historic rail vehicles. There are also trails through farmland and a seasonal farmers market. During your stay, you can choose between local history, rail experiences, and outdoor activities.
Town History and Museums
The Chehalis Historic Walking Tour passes historic buildings in downtown. This self-guided tour traces the town’s development from a pioneer settlement to a thriving community. Its focus is the town itself; the museums broaden the perspective to include the history of Lewis County and military memorabilia.
The Lewis County Historical Museum is housed in a historic Northern Pacific railroad depot dating from 1912. Its exhibits include early settlements and pioneer life in the county. An HO-scale model railroad depicts the main rail stops in Lewis County in the 1970s. The building, exhibits, and model layout bring together several aspects of regional history in one place.
The Veterans Memorial Museum honors people who served honorably in the armed forces in peacetime or during wartime. Its collection includes memorabilia, artifacts, and historic military equipment dating from the Civil War to the present. In contrast, the Lewis County Historical Museum focuses on settlement and life in the county. Visitors interested in the region’s history can thus explore it from different thematic perspectives.
Historic Train Rides and Trails Through the Landscape
The Chehalis-Centralia Railroad runs historic rail vehicles from Chehalis on scenic routes through the surrounding area. During the ride, passengers can see forests, farmland, and the Chehalis River. Another offering is a live murder mystery experience aboard a restored 1920s railcar. Availability may vary, so check the dates in advance.
For outdoor exercise on a trail, Willapa Hills State Park Trail offers a different perspective. The 22-mile section between Chehalis and Pe Ell is developed for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. From Chehalis, the paved trail heads west through the farmland of Adna. The trail also runs east-west from Chehalis to South Bend, a river town near the sea. The self-guided tour focuses on the town’s history, while the trail is developed for outdoor activities.
Farmers Market and Play Area
The Community Farmers Market at Chehalis takes place on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., May through October, in the historic downtown. Items for sale include locally grown and made goods such as fruit and vegetables, cheese, fresh farm eggs, honey, artisan breads, and organic personal care products. The selection and offerings may vary by season and vendor. As the market is seasonal, it is a good idea to check the specific dates before your visit.
Penny Playground has been redesigned as a modern, inclusive, and accessible play area for children of all abilities. It complements the historical and scenic attractions with a public play area for children. Along with the seasonal market and the various ways to experience local history or rail travel, it gives visitors several options to consider when planning a stay in Chehalis.
Discover more destinations: Napavine, Glenoma, Packwood, Centralia.
View the main travel overview: Lewis.
