The Perfect Day in Forks, WA

Exploring downtown Forks WA on the Olympic Peninsula

Forks WA is located in the heart of the Olympic Peninsula, between the Olympic Mountains and Pacific Ocean beaches.

Manitou Lodge is only 15 minutes from town. Staying with us places visitors near the ocean beaches as well as front and center for exploring all the area has to offer. With the Pacific Ocean to the west, alpine meadows and rain forests to the east, and 200 miles of rivers zigzagging throughout the region, nature seekers will be on cloud nine.

Outdoor attractions, such as Olympic National Park, Rialto Beach, the Hoh Rain Forest, Kalaloch Beach, Lake Ozette, Cape Flattery, Lake Crescent, Sol Duc Falls and many scenic rivers and mountain trails have made the region’s natural beauty famous.

In addition to all the great outdoor recreation, Forks WA oozes small town charm. Head into town and spend the day exploring quirky and fun shops, excellent museums, tours, and more.  

First stop: coffee! Heading into Forks WA on 101, you’ll find Northwest Coffee Bros, a coffee trailer located under the Shell Station sign in town. While their location is small, their love of great coffee and fabulous customer service is served up large.

After you’re fueled up, it’s time to check out Forks WA local shops!

The Chinook Pharmacy, located at the only traffic light, is more than just the local drug store. They also have a fabulous selection of fabric, stationery, toys, jewelry, souvenirs, Twilight merchandise, books, and mementos.

Native to Twilight is another favorite among visitors. In addition to the Twilight movie memorabilia and souvenirs you would expect, you’ll also find art work from local artists. Things like hand-painted drums, hand knit Cowichan style mittens, and hats from an artist who had pieces featured in Eddie Bauer. You’ll also see handmade porcelain mugs carved with scenes from the different area beaches, plus a large selection of clothing with native art. Twilight fan or not, it’s worth the stop.

Looking for antiques and vintage finds? Head on over to The Attic Secondhand Store (locally known as Sarge’s Attic). In addition to being a great shop for finding that special something, the proceeds go directly to Sarge’s Veterans Support, a non-profit serving the homeless Veterans of Clallam and Jefferson Counties.

The Rusty Gate Nursery sells household and garden decor. It’s also just a fun place to wander around while taking in the smells from the flowers and fresh cut wood from the lumberyard.

Forks Outfitters is a jack of all trades when it comes to retail goods. It has groceries, a bakery, deli counter, clothing, shoes, housewares, Ace Hardware, sporting goods, as well as Forks and Twilight souvenirs. They can also provide fishing and hunting licenses. Need more gear? Head on over to Luxe Hiking Gear.

Time for Lunch?

For a quick bite, swing by the deli at Forks Outfitters, or hit up Sully’s Drive-In. The Parlor has burgers and fries, Taqueria Santa Ana offers Mexican, and Pacific Pizza … well, we hope that’s self-evident.
Wanting to peruse ALL the Forks-area restaurants? Download the Fork’s Bites restaurant guide!

Forks WA Museums and Tours

After a bite to eat, it’s time to explore more of town. The Forks Timber Museum, located in a log cabin next to the Chamber of Commerce, provides a look into the rich history of the Pacific Northwest. Homesteading, farming, and logging are all highlighted. The Forks Lumber Mill Tour is an informative and fun, 3 hour tour. Call (360) 374-2531 to reserve space, and check out the tour’s great reviews on TripAdvisor.

The Rainforest Arts Center is a beautiful building in town. It features rotating art and history, as well as props and costumes from the Twilight movies. This stop is considered a must see for Twilight fans.

John’s Beachcombing Museum is another fun stop in Forks, featuring treasures collected from beaches around the world since 1976. The museum is open summers, 10am-5pm, and other times by appointment.

Nearing the End of a Full Day of Exploring

Like bowling? Well then head over to Sunset Lanes! This small but very well maintained bowling alley includes arcade games, 2 pool tables, and a snack bar! The small town vibe and friendly people make for a fun night out in Forks.

Dinner recommendations include: BBG Blakeslee Bar & Grill for pub food and entertainment, The In Place for American & burgers, Plaza Jalisco for Mexican, or The Golden Gate for Chinese. If you’re in the mood for an ocean-side dinner, we recommend heading back towards Manitou Lodge and LaPush. All the way down LaPush road, past the Manitou, to River’s Edge Restaurant.

After dinner, head back to Manitou Lodge for an evening of rest and relaxation. Overnight guests enjoy a variety of accommodations including camping, cottages, and lodge rooms.