Centralia: Discover its history and parks

Centralia is located along the I-5 corridor. If you’re looking for a hotel in Centralia, the focus of your stay can help you decide where to explore: Are you especially interested in local history, parks, exhibitions or events? The city offers a range of attractions in these areas.

Murals and the Centralia Train Depot

Hand-painted murals in Centralia’s historic downtown depict the city’s history; their locations may change. The subjects depicted include George Washington, Buffalo Bill and the 1919 Armistice Day, also known as the Wobbly War. These images and motifs offer one way to encounter the city’s history.

The present-day Centralia Train Depot was built of brick in 1912. It serves Amtrak passengers and is a stop for local public transit. If you plan to use these connections during your trip, check the current schedules.

Historic sites in Borst Park

Historic sites in Borst Park include the Borst Home, the One Room School House and the Block House. Group and special tours of the Borst Home are offered by appointment, Monday through Friday, from April to September; three weeks’ advance notice is required. As dates and availability may change, check the conditions before making plans.

Admission to Borst Home open-house events is free, donations are accepted, and living-history programs are scheduled for every event. Event dates may change, so check ahead if a visit on a particular date is part of your travel plans.

Walks, water access and gardens

Fort Borst Park is located at the confluence of the Chehalis and Skookumchuck rivers. Water access is available along the adjacent riverbanks, at Fort Borst Lake and via a concrete boat ramp on the Chehalis River. At the Fort Borst Park Arboretum, you can stroll along the paths and learn about the trees. The collection includes more than 285 trees representing over 150 species, as well as rhododendron and azalea gardens; the collections and plantings may continue to evolve.

A peaceful walk through the forest at Seminary Hill Natural Area offers views of Centralia and the Chehalis and Skookumchuck river valleys. Rotary Riverside Park has both paved and unpaved walking paths, as well as public access to the water. The nature experiences are distinct: Seminary Hill offers woodland and views, while Rotary Riverside Park offers paths and water access.

Exhibitions and events

At the Dinosaur Discovery Zone in the Discover! Children’s Museum, children can excavate fossil replicas and learn about prehistoric life. The museum also offers interactive exhibits where children can touch, play and explore.

The Sports Hub at the Sports Complex at Borst Park is a 99,000-square-foot sports facility. It hosts events in indoor volleyball, basketball, fastpitch and wrestling; the program may change. During its restoration, the Fox Theatre also hosts events throughout the year. Check specific event dates if an event determines when you travel.

Shopping and local offerings

Downtown Centralia Historic District has antique and boutique shops, as well as places to eat. Shops and galleries in the historic downtown include locally run businesses offering handmade jewelry, handcrafted furniture, homemade chocolates and antiques. A seasonal market in Centralia takes place on Fridays and offers fresh local produce, baked goods and handicrafts. Seasons, dates, shops and offerings may change; check current information if you’re planning a market or shopping visit for a specific date.

For an overview of the wider destination: Lewis.