Kelso (Washington) Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay, and more in Kelso, Washington. Plan your trip with our week-long itinerary and transportation options guide.


Introduction to Kelso (Washington)

Located in Southwest Washington, Kelso is a small town with a big heart. This charming community is nestled among forests of fir and cedar and bordered by the mighty Columbia River. Kelso offers an exciting mix of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and delicious food and drink scenes. Whether you’re looking to explore historical sites or hike scenic trails, Kelso has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Kelso (Washington)

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Cowlitz County Historical Museum: this museum showcases the rich history of Cowlitz County and includes exhibits on the region’s logging, agricultural, and Native American heritage.
  • Mount St. Helens Visitor Center: located just outside Kelso, this visitor center offers interactive exhibits about the massive volcanic eruption that occurred in 1980.
  • Tam O’Shanter Park: home to the iconic Tam O’Shanter Totem Pole, this park is a must-visit for those interested in Native American history.

Natural Attractions of Kelso (Washington): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • River Mile 38 Brewing Co.: enjoy a locally brewed beer while taking in stunning views of the Columbia River.
  • Lake Sacajawea Park: this park offers walking trails, a Japanese garden, and a serene lake for kayaking and canoeing.
  • Rose Valley Falls: located just a short drive from Kelso, this trail offers stunning views of a picturesque waterfall.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kelso (Washington)

  • Mount St. Helens Summit: this challenging hike offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area, including a panoramic view of Mount St. Helens.
  • Dorothy Fox Trail: this easy hike is ideal for families and offers beautiful views of Lake Sacajawea.
  • Columbia River Dike Trail: this scenic trail offers views of the Columbia River and the surrounding forests.

Best Things to Do in Kelso (Washington): Activities and Tours

  • Horseback Riding: explore the area’s forests and meadows on horseback with local outfitters like Akin Back Ranch.
  • Columbia River Kayaking Tour: paddle along the Columbia River while taking in stunning views of the surrounding area.
  • River Rafting: take a guided rafting tour along the rapids of the Cowlitz River with outfitters like Wet Planet Whitewater.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kelso (Washington)

Day 1: Visit Cowlitz County Historical Museum and explore Tam O’Shanter Park Day 2: Hike to Rose Valley Falls and enjoy a locally brewed beer at River Mile 38 Brewery Day 3: Take a horseback riding tour and enjoy a picnic at Lake Sacajawea Park Day 4: Explore the Mount St. Helens Visitor Center Day 5: Take a Columbia River Kayaking Tour Day 6: River rafting on the Cowlitz River Day 7: Relax and enjoy the local food and drink scene

Food and Drink Scene of Kelso (Washington)

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fish and Chips: try this classic crispy dish at local restaurants like Porky’s Public House & Eatery.
  • Huckleberry Pie: savor the flavors of the Northwest with this delicious pie at McMenamins Olympic Club.
  • Salmon: this delicious fish can be found on menus throughout Kelso and is a must-try for seafood lovers.

Local Beverages

  • River Mile 38 Beer: enjoy locally brewed beer with views of the Columbia River.
  • Washington Wine: sample delicious wine from local wineries like Stavalaura Vineyards and Indian Creek Winery.
  • Hard Cider: try refreshing hard cider from local companies like Brownrigg Hard Cider and Finnriver Cidery.

Where to Stay in Kelso (Washington): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Red Lion Hotel Kelso Longview: this hotel offers comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, and a fitness center.
  • GuestHouse Kelso Longview: this charming guesthouse offers cozy rooms and a delicious continental breakfast.
  • Super 8 by Wyndham Kelso Longview Area: this budget-friendly hotel offers basic amenities and a convenient location.

What to Buy in Kelso (Washington): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Mount St. Helens Volcanic Ash: take home a piece of history with this unique souvenir.
  • Huckleberry Jam: savor the flavors of the Northwest with this delicious jam.
  • Locally Made Crafts: browse handmade wares by local artisans at Kelso’s Farmers Market.

Local Culture and Customs of Kelso (Washington)

Kelso is a friendly and welcoming community. Visitors are encouraged to embrace the local culture and explore the natural beauty of the area.

Best Time to Visit Kelso (Washington)

The best time to visit Kelso is during the summer months of June through August when the weather is warm and dry. However, visitors can enjoy the area’s natural beauty year-round.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kelso (Washington)

Do:

  • Do explore the area’s natural beauty
  • Do visit Mount St. Helens Visitor Center
  • Do sample the local food and drink scene

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the area’s forests
  • Don’t feed wildlife
  • Don’t forget to bring warm clothing in the winter months

Safety and Health

Safety in Kelso (Washington)

Kelso is a safe community, but visitors should use common sense and take standard safety precautions.

  • Always lock car doors and keep valuable belongings out of sight.
  • Always carry a map and water when hiking or exploring the area’s natural beauty.

Health in Kelso (Washington)

Kelso offers excellent medical facilities, including a major hospital located in nearby Longview.

Getting to Kelso (Washington): Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kelso (Washington)

  • Portland International Airport: located about an hour’s drive south of Kelso, this airport offers domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Kelso (Washington)

  • Kelso Greyhound Station: located in downtown Kelso, this station offers bus service to major cities throughout the region.

Other Options

  • Car Rentals: visitors can rent cars at Portland International Airport or in downtown Kelso.
  • Taxi and Ride-Share Services: services like Uber and Lyft are available in Kelso and the surrounding area.

How to Get Around in Kelso (Washington)

The easiest way to get around Kelso is by car. Visitors can also explore the town on foot or by renting bicycles.

Where to Go Next from Kelso (Washington): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Mount Rainier National Park: visit this iconic park for stunning views of Mount Rainier and to explore its hiking trails.
  • Astoria, Oregon: visit this charming town for its historical attractions, including the Oregon Film Museum and the Astoria Column.
  • Seattle, Washington: visit this bustling city for its world-famous food scene, cultural attractions, and scenic views.

Conclusion

Kelso, Washington offers a unique mix of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and delicious food and drink scenes. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an exciting outdoor adventure, Kelso has something for everyone. Plan your trip today and experience the charm of this Southwest Washington town.