Things To Do
in Centralia
Centralia, located in Pennsylvania, is a ghost town that has been abandoned due to an underground coal mine fire that has been burning since 1962. The fire resulted in dangerous sinkholes and toxic gases in the area, forcing residents to evacuate. Only a few residents remain in the town, which is now largely covered in graffiti and surrounded by a barren landscape.
Centralia has become a popular tourist destination for those interested in urban exploration and the eerie remnants of a town swallowed by flames.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike at the nearby Capitol State Forest. Be sure to explore the scenic trails and enjoy the beautiful nature around you.
After lunch, visit the Centralia Historical Museum to learn about the town's rich history. Discover exhibits that showcase the local heritage and culture.
Wrap up your day with a relaxing dinner at a local diner. Enjoy some comfort food while reflecting on your day's adventures.
Begin your morning with a walk through the enchanting Centralia City Park. The park is ideal for enjoying nature and perhaps a picnic breakfast.
Head to the Centralia Farmer's Market for fresh local produce and artisanal goods. It’s a great way to experience the local community and grab a tasty lunch.
Spend your evening at a local coffee shop, sipping on artisan coffee and soaking in the cozy atmosphere. Engage with locals and perhaps even catch a live music performance.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Unique historical significance due to the underground coal fire that has been burning since 1962.
- Attracts tourists interested in ghost towns and urban exploration.
- Offers a glimpse into environmental issues and the impact of industrial activities.
- Health and safety hazards due to the ongoing coal fire and unstable ground.
- Limited infrastructure and amenities due to the reduced population.
- Emotional toll on former residents who had to leave their homes and community.
Best Activities in Centralia
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails around Centralia, including the nearby Gifford Pinchot National Forest, which offers a variety of hiking paths with stunning views.
Enjoy cycling along the Chehalis Western Trail, which provides a paved path for bikers among beautiful landscapes.
Experience fishing at local spots such as the Cowlitz River, where you can catch trout, salmon, and other species.
Set up camp at local campgrounds like the Lake Mayfield Resort, which offers amenities and access to outdoor activities such as boating and swimming.
Kayak or canoe on the nearby rivers and lakes, where you can enjoy peaceful paddling and scenic surroundings.
Visit local wetlands and forests to observe native wildlife, including deer, birds, and other outdoor species.
Enjoy a family picnic at one of the many parks in Centralia, such as Fort Borst Park, which has facilities and picnic tables.
Tours
Uncover the best of Centralia with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Centralia
Visit one of these nice places.
Provides a picturesque view with historic buildings and local charm.
Offers stunning views of nature and wildlife, perfect for outdoor photography.
Provides a unique and elevated view of the city and its surroundings.
Food in Centralia
Centralia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tender, smoky, and slathered in tangy sauce, Centralia's barbecue ribs are a must-try. Head to Smokin' Joe's BBQ Shack for a finger-licking good experience.
Must-Try!
A Centralia staple, the crispy yet juicy pork tenderloin sandwich is a beloved local favorite. Visit Mom's Diner for an authentic taste of this classic dish.
Centralia's fresh sweet corn is a seasonal delight. During the summer months, farmers' markets like Centralia Farmers' Market are the best spots to savor this local treat.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Centralia better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Open-air markets such as the Centralia Farmers' Market abound, offering an array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and ready-to-eat treats like kettle corn and freshly squeezed lemonade.
Exploring Downtown Centralia, you'll encounter a delightful assortment of food trucks dishing up everything from gourmet tacos to inventive grilled cheese sandwiches, providing a satisfying street food experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Centralia, once a thriving mining town, is now known for its abandoned status due to an underground coal fire. Acknowledge and honor the town's history by learning about its past and being respectful when visiting any historical sites.
Centralia is surrounded by natural beauty. Visitors should practice Leave No Trace principles, such as cleaning up after themselves and respecting wildlife, to help preserve the local environment.
Many locals appreciate friendly interactions but may prefer to keep conversations light. When engaging with residents, show genuine interest in their stories while being mindful of sensitive topics related to the town's past.
Safety
Tipping in Centralia
Ensure a smooth experience
In Centralia, as in many parts of the United States, tipping is a common practice, especially in the service industry. Standard tipping rates typically range from 15% to 20% of the total bill at restaurants. Bartenders, taxi drivers, and hairdressers also expect tips, often around 15-20%. Some establishments may include a service charge for large groups.
Payment practices in Centralia generally align with standard U.S. practices, where cash and credit/debit cards are widely accepted. Mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay are becoming increasingly popular. Most businesses display payment policies clearly, and it is common for customers to receive receipts for their transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Centralia, with mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the natural beauty of the area.
Summer brings warm temperatures and longer days, perfect for hiking, camping, and enjoying outdoor festivals and events in Centralia.
Fall is a popular time to visit Centralia, with the stunning display of autumn colors in the surrounding forests. It's a great time for scenic drives and hiking.
Winter in Centralia can be cold and snowy, but it's a beautiful time to experience the winter landscape. Outdoor activities like skiing and snowshoeing are popular in the area.
Centralia at Night
Hiking in Centralia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A local park with scenic trails suitable for hiking and outdoor activities. Offers a mix of wooded trails and open spaces.
Located just a short drive from Centralia, this park features numerous hiking trails through old-growth forest, along with access to beautiful lakes.
Offers a variety of trails and scenic views. The park is great for hiking, walking, and picnicking with family and friends.
A vast area with extensive hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging, set in a lush forest environment.
A nice walking and hiking trail that follows the Chehalis River, providing beautiful views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Aiports
How to reach Centralia by plane.
Located approximately 70 miles north of Centralia, SEA is the primary airport serving the Seattle metropolitan area.
Approximately 135 miles south of Centralia, PDX is the largest airport in the Portland, Oregon area.
Around 260 miles east of Centralia, GEG is the primary airport serving the Spokane area.
Located about 90 miles southeast of Centralia, YKM serves the Yakima Valley region.
This airport, located roughly 185 miles southeast of Centralia, serves the Tri-Cities area of Washington.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Centralia, predominantly of European descent.
A significant group in Centralia, reflecting the growing diversity within the community.
An important demographic group in the area, contributing to the cultural fabric of Centralia.
Includes various nationalities, representing a smaller yet notable group in the population.
Individuals identifying with multiple races, indicative of increasing mixed heritage.
A smaller community that reflects the historical presence of indigenous peoples in the region.
A collection of various racial backgrounds that do not fit into the standard categories.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is a popular sport in Centralia, with local teams and leagues fostering community engagement and youth participation.
American football enjoys a strong following in Centralia, particularly at the high school level, where local teams compete fiercely.
Basketball is widely played in Centralia, with various schools and community organizations offering programs for all ages.
Soccer has been growing in popularity in Centralia, with youth leagues and adult teams catering to the community's interest in the sport.
Track and field events are a significant part of the local high school sports scene, with many athletes competing in both school and regional meets.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Centralia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Centralia are sensitive to vegetarian and vegan dietary needs. Restaurants like Green Leaf Bistro and Veggie Haven offer diverse and flavorful plant-based dishes.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities will find accommodating options at various establishments such as The Grain-Free Kitchen and Nourish Café, where gluten-free choices abound.