Chehalis Valley Historical Museum

There is no better place to learn about the history of Montesano and surrounding area.  The museum is home to many antiques, artifacts, pictures, and unique equipment used by pioneers of times past.  Admission is free.  

Hours:  10 AM to 4:30 PM on weekends, or by appointment on weekdays.

Location:  703 W. Pioneer Avenue, Montesano, WA 98563

Phone:  360-249-5800

Montesano serves as the county seat for Grays Harbor County.  The city is also the halfway point between Olympia and the ocean beaches.  There are many other things to do in and around the area.  Montesano also serves as a hub for many outdoor activities, including camping, fishing, hunting, kayaking, boating, hiking, and bird watching.  Visit Montesano and stay awhile!

Lake Sylvia State Park

Only minutes north of downtown is this beautiful park.  Originally, it was a logging camp.  Now, it is home to several campgrounds, picnic areas, and a children’s playground on the shores of Lake Sylvia.  Lake Sylvia is popular with campers, hikers, cyclists, and fishing enthusiasts.

Sylvia Creek Interpretive Forestry Trail Information and Map

Lake Sylvia Information and Park Hours

The Running Anvil Carriage House

Located in the beautiful Wynoochie Valley, this museum boasts of old trade tokens, local matchbooks, 1902 western saddles and saddle bags.  It also is the home to antique vehicles, including Montesano Mayor (from  1937-1940) J.E. Calder’s trap buggy, pony carts, and many more buggies, sleighs, and other local history items.  Admission is free.

Location:  445 Black Creek Road, Montesano, WA 98563

Phone:  360-249-3645

View Running Anvil Carriage House Videos

Dining / Food on the Go in Montesano

• All Wrapped Up!   (110 Pioneer Ave.)
• Bee Hive Restaurant   (300 S. Main St.)
• Crows Nest Drive In   (441 S. Main St.)
• Oishi Teriyaki   (112 Pioneer Ave. W.)
• El Rancho III   (216 S. Main St.)
• Gene’s Stop & Go   (414 W. Pioneer Ave.)
• Gepetto’s Pizza   (126 E. Pioneer Ave.)
• Pizza Express   (213 W. Pioneer Ave.)
• Savory Faire   (135 S. Main St.)
• Subway   (211 S. Main St.)
• Pick-Rite Thriftway   (211 E. Pioneer Ave.)
• West Side Pizza  (113 S Main St.)

Lodging and Camping

• Abel House  (117 Fleet Street S.)
• Friends Landing (300 Katon Road)
• Lake Sylvia State Park
• Monte Square Motel  (100 Brumfield Ave.)

Visit Grays Harbor Tourism Web site for other activities and accommodations in this area.

Grays Harbor County Courthouse

You can’t miss it.  Just look for the clock tower when you are in Montesano.  A wonderful example of architecture and workmanship.  It was built in 1911.  The courthouse is also known for remarkable historic murals painted throughout.

Hours:  9 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday

Location:  101 W. Broadway, Montesano, WA 98563

Phone:  360-249-3731