Location: Ilwaco
Top Things to do in Ilwaco
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Top 9 Budget-friendly Things to do in Ilwaco, Washington (WA)
Ilwaco (/ɪlˈwɑːkoʊ/ il-WAH-koh) is a city in Pacific County, Washington, United States. The population was 936 at the 2010 census. Founded in 1890, the city was home to the Ilwaco Railway and Navigation Company along the Long Beach Peninsula, with its core economy based on logging and timber rafting. The city is located on the southern edge of the Long Beach Peninsula, on the north bank of the Columbia River where it meets the Pacific Ocean. It is near the city of Astoria, Oregon, which lies to the southeast on the southern bank of the Columbia.
Restaurants in Ilwaco
1. Don Nisbett Art Gallery
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 26 reviews
Reviewed By AbbyPlusOffspring - Evansville, United States
Stopped in with my 15yr old son on a weekday afternoon. Don, the shop owner and artist, was there and welcomed us. He provided enthusiastic conversation throughout the visit and even did a quick sketch of my son whilst giving him a brief drawing lesson. We purchased a couple awesome prints and a cool mask. Definitely not a “snooty” art gallery, would recommend to others and plan to return when in the area!
2. Cape Disappointment State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 493 reviews
A scenic state park with hiking trails and cabins for overnight visitors.
Reviewed By MiaAmica - Oregon Coast, United States
One of the nicest parts of visiting Cape Disappointment State Park and the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center is that whatever the weather it is a good experience. Rain or shine there is something outstanding do in this park. The Interpretive Center affords excellent views of the Columbia River Bar and any ships or boats that are crossing it. The panoramic view of the North and South Jetty and the width of the river also encompasses the ocean beyond and south to Tillamook Head. This park is full of hiking trails, beaches, camping sites, and two lighthouses in close proximity to each other. I always make it a point to take visitors there and continually find them to be appreciative of the experience. Whether it is a visit to the Interpretative Center with it's displays relevant to the coastal area and the Lewis and Clark experience or a hike to one of the lighthouses you will be delighted that you took time to visit.
3. Cape Disappointment Lighthouse
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 215 reviews
Reviewed By Mousetraveler62
The pic you see is North head lighthouse, not cape disappointment, its been restored! Its windy here, but beautiful! Across the cove to the south, is a black and white lighthouse, cape disappointment. Both lighthouses are great! A must see!
4. North Head Lighthouse
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 206 reviews
Reviewed By karih453 - Bend, United States
So gorgeous. I loved this easy hike. What amazing views. I highly recommend you visit. We had perfect weather, bring a jacket for the wind though.
5. Willapa National Wildlife Refuge
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 37 reviews
Reviewed By virginias729
Another beautiful park in this area . Hikes are fairly flat, through wooded areas and near the coast. Did not see the deer at this time, but so enjoyed being outside in the refuge
6. Columbia Pacific Heritage Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 35 reviews
Explore the crossroads of history where the Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean. Discover the history of the railroad that ran by the tide, fishing, logging and early explorers of the Columbia-Pacific region.
7. Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 120 reviews
Reviewed By karih453 - Bend, United States
Really nice interpretive center. Take your time as you walk through this create and informative museum.
8. Fort Canby State Park
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 33 reviews
Reviewed By karih453 - Bend, United States
We loved it. We were there in the shoulder season so it wasn't crowded. The stillness and solemnity of this place was an experience. We rambled around and explored all the tucked in places. So much information.
9. Port of Ilwaco Boardwalk
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 63 reviews
Reviewed By TedNSusie - Enumclaw, United States
Happened to get there for the Saturday Market, as well as the First Friday Art Walk. Had no idea that this boardwalk was even here. Don't miss it!
