Moving to Centralia, Washington? If so, you’ll be glad to know that Centralia is diverse, affordable, and has amazing outdoor adventure options. The weather in summer is spectacular in Centralia, and the nightlife here is vibrant and fun. Speaking of fun, if you’re wondering what there is to do in Centralia, WA, you’re in luck! Below we’ve gathered the fun, interesting, and thrilling things to do in Centralia, Washington, for your convenience! If you’ve just arrived (or are on your way) and looking for something to do, read on to discover more!
Estimated reading time: 7 minutes
Hubbub
Launched in 2005, Hubbub is a contemporary art gallery and one of the main fixtures in Centralia, WA. At its core, Hubbub is a place for local artisans and craftspeople to show off and sell their wares. Everything on display was hand-crafted, from toys to clothing, pillows, cards, clocks, and home décor. Some items were made by solo craftspeople while others by small companies, but all were created with TLC. One of their specialties is handcrafted children’s toys. That makes Hubbub a great place to visit with the kids. Adults, though, love it too, especially the handmade clothing. It’s one of the more fun and exciting things to do in Centralia, WA!
Dick’s Brewing Company
Portland, OR, and Centralia have one thing in common; a love for handcrafted beer! (Portland is affectionately known as Beervana by beer lovers.) Dick’s Brewing Company should be on your beer radar if you’re a fan of delicious, handcrafted suds. With a large, inviting tasting room, and heated outdoor seating, Dick’s is perfect for gathering with friends and family. Plus, with 12 rotating beer taps, they serve some fantastic locally brewed beers.
Another reason to love Dick’s Brewing Company is their onsite bistro, NW Sausage & Deli. Like their beer, their sausages and Deli items are made (and smoked) on-site. Old world-style smoked sausage and handcrafted beer together in one inviting place? Yes, please, and thank you!
Fox Theatre
Decades ago, going out to see a movie was an event, and most folks dressed to the nines to do it. In the 1920s and 30s, one of the biggest movie theater chains in the United States was Fox Theaters. The historic Fox Theater in Centralia, Washington, opened in 1930! It was an art deco masterpiece with elaborately carved plaster overlaid with precious metals! At the time, Centralia was about as tiny a town as they get in the northwest. The Fox Theater, however, put Centralia on the map! After it opened, touring shows from around the country made their way here. Even better, the latest Hollywood blockbusters arrived also!
As of this writing, the Fox Theater is going through major renovations to return to its former glory. (It’s predicted to open in the near future.) Right now, however, they’re searching for volunteers to help with the renovations (and provide donations). If you’re looking for something interesting to do in Centralia, WA, there are few better than the Fox Theater!
Borst Park
Borst Park is perfect if you’re searching for a place to play, walk, swim and relax in Centralia! The park is one of the most popular places in the entire area. Everything you could want in a green space you’ll find here! Boating and fishing on Borst Lake, for example. Volleyball, horseshoe, and Tennis Courts. There are concession stands, soccer fields, and plenty of picnic areas! There’s even a lovely rhododendron garden, a playground, and a dog park for your furry friends!
If you’re a history buff, the historic Borst Homestead is located here, including the schoolhouse, arboretum, and Fort Borst Blockhouse. Looking for a place to put in your boat? A public boat ramp on the Chehalis River is free for all. There are also large shelters for group picnics and an indoor pool. In short, practically anything fun, exciting, and relaxing to do in Centralia, WA, can be found in Borst Park!
Borst Homestead Museum
Located in Borst park, the historic Borst Home Museum is an amazing piece of Centralia history. Built in 1880, it was designed to last 80 years but is still standing today! Many of the original pieces of furniture are still there, as well as family photographs. Restored in 1984, if a peek into Centralia’s history sounds interesting, put the Borst Home Museum on your to-do list.
TIP: The museum is only open to the public on Saturdays. However, large groups can schedule a private tour on other days.
Country Cousin Restaurant
If country-fried is how you like your food prepared, prepare for deliciousness at Country Cousin! Opened in 1973, Country Cousin is one of Centralia’s most popular restaurants, and for a good reason, their food is fantastic! (Satisfied customers have been coming back for two and three generations!) This is comfort food at its best and served hot and fresh every day. They’re open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but dinner is where they shine. Our recommendation is the country pot roast and the smothered chicken breast. Or, for a real taste of country-fried, the biscuits and gravy! No matter what you try, one thing is certain; Country Cousin will fill your belly and soothe your soul.
Centralia Square Antiques
Located in Centralia’s historic district, Centralia Square Antiques is a paradise for antique lovers! It’s 7000+ square feet of floor-to-ceiling antiques with over 50 dealers! You can easily spend an afternoon searching and enjoying everything on display and finding some great bargains!
King Agriculture Museum
The largest tractor museum in the northwest, the King Agriculture Museum, is fascinating. They feature over 70 tractors and other farming memorabilia, machines, and even toys. Railroad memorabilia is also on display and several distinct pieces from the famed Seatle Kalakal Ferry! If you’ve got an afternoon that needs filling, it’s one of the most interesting things to do in Centralia, WA!
Things to Do in Centralia, Washington, brought to you by Northwest Self Storage
We hope you found today’s list highly informative. If you’ve just arrived in Centralia and time is of the essence, Northwest Self Storage can help. Our self-storage center in Centralia, Washington, has safe, clean storage units to store all your things. If you’ve just arrived, come on by!
On your way to Centralia right now? If so, we recommend reserving a Centralia, WA storage unit before you arrive. When you get here, it will be waiting so your movers can unload directly into your storage unit! Once done, you can start searching for your new home, knowing your things are secure.
Speaking of secure, our self-storage location in Centralia has 24/7 video security and on-site managers. The same managers can answer any of your questions in person if you want to come by before renting. By the way, if you arrive with a boat, we offer boat storage in Centralia, WA, also. (RV Storage, too!)
We hope you enjoy everything lovely Centralia has to offer! If you’ve just arrived with plans to stay, welcome to your new home, Centralia, Washington!
This post was originally published on 05/23/2016. It was updated on 08/26/2022.
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