Pe Ell WashingtonATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Pe Ell, Washington.
1. Rainbow Falls State Park
NATURAL WATERFALL OASIS
Rainbow Falls State Park is a picturesque natural attraction located near Pe Ell featuring a beautiful waterfall that remains despite flood damage from the Great Coastal Gale of 2007. The park serves as the endpoint of the popular Pe Ell River Run where participants float down the Chehalis River. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities including hiking, picnicking, and admiring the scenic falls in a tranquil forest setting.
2. Willapa Hills State Park Trail
HISTORIC RAIL TRAIL
The Willapa Hills State Park Trail bisects the town of Pe Ell and offers a flat, scenic 56-mile trail from Chehalis to South Bend. Converted from a former Burlington Northern railroad line, the trail was completed in June 2016 and features Pe Ell as an important trailhead. Visitors can enjoy horseback riding, cycling, and hiking along this trail that largely runs parallel to State Route 6.
3. Pe Ell River Run
LOCAL FLOATING TRADITION
The Pe Ell River Run is a unique local tradition that began in 1978 as a birthday celebration among friends. Participants build or buy water crafts to float down the Chehalis River from Pe Ell to Rainbow Falls State Park. This beloved community event culminates with riders floating over a small waterfall, creating a memorable experience for locals and visitors alike.
4. Claquato Church
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS LANDMARK
Claquato Church is a historic religious building near Pe Ell that offers visitors a glimpse into the region's past. The church stands as one of the oldest structures in the area and represents the early settlement history of Lewis County. Visitors appreciate its well-preserved architecture and peaceful setting, making it a popular stop for history enthusiasts.
5. Claquato Cemetery
HISTORIC BURIAL GROUNDS
Claquato Cemetery is a historic burial ground that serves as the final resting place for many early settlers of the region. The cemetery features tombstones dating back to the pioneering days of Lewis County, offering a tangible connection to the area's past. Visitors can explore this peaceful site to learn about local history and ancestry while appreciating its serene countryside setting.
6. The Chehalis Centralia Railroad & Museum
VINTAGE TRAIN RIDES
The Chehalis Centralia Railroad & Museum offers visitors a chance to experience the golden age of rail travel through vintage train rides. The museum preserves the railroad heritage of the region with restored coaches and locomotives that date back many decades. Visitors can enjoy scenic excursions through the countryside while learning about the important role railways played in developing the Pacific Northwest.
7. Veterans Memorial Museum
MILITARY HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Veterans Memorial Museum honors those who served in the United States armed forces with extensive military artifacts, memorabilia, and personal stories. The museum's collection spans multiple conflicts from the Civil War through modern engagements, offering a comprehensive look at American military history. Visitors gain insight into the sacrifices made by service members while viewing rare equipment, uniforms, and educational exhibits.
8. Polish Daze Festival
CULTURAL HERITAGE CELEBRATION
Polish Daze Festival is an annual celebration that began in 2007 to honor Pe Ell's rich Polish heritage. The festival features traditional displays, food vendors, games, contests, and a popular quilt show that draws visitors from around the region. This community event provides a wonderful opportunity to experience authentic Polish culture, cuisine, and traditions in the heart of rural Washington.
9. Fourth of July Celebration
PATRIOTIC COMMUNITY GATHERING
Pe Ell's Fourth of July Celebration brings the community together for a traditional small-town Independence Day experience. The event features a lively parade through the center of town with floats, classic cars, and community groups. The day culminates with an impressive fireworks display that lights up the night sky over this charming rural town.
10. Chehalis River Valley
SCENIC NATURAL BEAUTY
The Chehalis River Valley surrounds Pe Ell with breathtaking natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. Nestled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains, the valley offers picturesque views of mountains, rivers, and lush forests that change with the seasons. Visitors can explore hiking trails, fishing spots, and wildlife viewing areas while enjoying the tranquility of this pristine Pacific Northwest landscape.
11. Lewis County Historical Museum
REGIONAL HERITAGE CENTER
The Lewis County Historical Museum preserves and showcases the rich history of the region through engaging exhibits and artifacts. Housed in a historic railroad depot, the museum features collections spanning Native American heritage, pioneer settlement, logging industry, and daily life in early Washington. Visitors gain a deeper understanding of the forces that shaped this corner of the Pacific Northwest while viewing photographs, tools, clothing, and household items from bygone eras.
12. Chehalis Farmers Market
LOCAL PRODUCE SHOWCASE
The Chehalis Farmers Market brings together local farmers, artisans, and food producers to offer fresh, seasonal goods to the community. Visitors can browse stalls filled with locally-grown vegetables, fruits, meats, dairy products, baked goods, and handcrafted items. The market creates a vibrant community gathering space where people connect with the agricultural heritage of the region while supporting small businesses.
13. Jeremy's Farm to Table
LOCAL SUSTAINABLE DINING
Jeremy's Farm to Table restaurant offers a dining experience focused on locally-sourced ingredients from the abundant agricultural region surrounding Pe Ell and Chehalis. The menu changes seasonally to showcase the freshest produce, meats, and dairy products from nearby farms and producers. Diners enjoy creative, thoughtfully prepared dishes in a warm, welcoming atmosphere that celebrates the bounty of the Pacific Northwest.
14. Book 'n' Brush
INDEPENDENT BOOKSTORE HAVEN
Book 'n' Brush is a beloved independent bookstore serving the communities of Lewis County, including Pe Ell, with a carefully curated selection of books and art supplies. The store hosts author events, book clubs, and other literary gatherings that foster a sense of community among readers. Visitors appreciate the knowledgeable staff, comfortable browsing environment, and commitment to supporting local authors and artists.
15. Antique District
VINTAGE TREASURE HUNTING
The Antique District in nearby Centralia features a collection of shops where treasure hunters can discover vintage items, collectibles, and historical artifacts. Multiple storefronts line the historic downtown area, each offering its own unique selection of furniture, housewares, clothing, jewelry, and memorabilia. Visitors enjoy spending hours browsing these shops that preserve pieces of the past while offering unique items that can't be found in modern retail stores.