Cosmopolis WashingtonATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Cosmopolis, Washington.
1. Kurt Cobain Memorial Park
NIRVANA FRONTMAN'S TRIBUTE
Kurt Cobain Memorial Park honors the legendary Nirvana frontman who was born in Aberdeen. The memorial features various tributes including a statue and informational placards about the grunge icon's life. Visitors can reflect on Cobain's impact on music while viewing this meaningful site that has become a pilgrimage spot for music fans worldwide.
2. The Lady Washington
HISTORIC TALL SHIP
The Lady Washington is a full-scale reproduction of the 18th-century sailing ship that has appeared in numerous films and television shows. Visitors can tour this magnificent vessel when it's docked in Aberdeen and learn about maritime history from knowledgeable crew members. The ship offers both dockside tours and sailing adventures that transport guests back to the age of exploration.
3. International Mermaid Museum
OCEANIC WONDER AND MYTHOLOGY
The International Mermaid Museum is dedicated to teaching ocean ecology through the lens of mermaid mythology. Open daily from 11am to 6pm, the museum offers a unique experience that combines marine education with fascinating folklore from oceanic cultures around the world. Visitors can explore exhibits that showcase the undersea world that covers three-quarters of our planet but remains largely unexplored by most people.
4. Aberdeen Museum of History
LOCAL HERITAGE PRESERVED
The Aberdeen Museum of History is housed in a former firehouse and showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region. The museum's extensive collection includes photographs, artifacts, and displays that tell the story of Aberdeen from Native American history through the logging boom years. Visitors gain insight into the unique development of this coastal Washington community through thoughtfully curated exhibits.
5. Westport Winery Garden Resort
WINE AND COASTAL GARDENS
Westport Winery Garden Resort offers an exceptional wine tasting experience combined with beautiful garden surroundings near Aberdeen. Visitors can sample award-winning wines while exploring the extensive gardens featuring unique sculptures and themed landscaping. The resort also includes a restaurant serving farm-to-table cuisine featuring local ingredients paired perfectly with their wines.
6. Wishkah River Distillery
CRAFT SPIRITS EXPERIENCE
Wishkah River Distillery creates small-batch craft spirits in the heart of Aberdeen. Visitors can tour the facility to learn about the distillation process and sample their unique offerings including whiskey, gin, and vodka. The distillery embraces local history and ingredients, creating an authentic taste of the Pacific Northwest region.
7. Lake Wynoochee
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Lake Wynoochee is a stunning recreational area located near Aberdeen offering boating, fishing, swimming, and camping opportunities. The crystal-clear waters are surrounded by the lush forests of Olympic National Forest, creating a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy well-maintained camping facilities and hiking trails that showcase the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
8. Westport Marina
COASTAL FISHING HUB
Westport Marina is one of Washington's largest and busiest coastal fishing ports, located a short drive from Cosmopolis. Visitors can watch commercial and recreational fishing vessels come and go, shop for fresh seafood direct from the boats, or book fishing charters for salmon, tuna, and bottom fish. The marina area also features shops, restaurants, and the Westport Maritime Museum for a complete coastal experience.
9. Aberdeen Downtown Sculpture Corridor
WHIMSICAL METAL ARTWORKS
Aberdeen's Downtown Sculpture Corridor features a wonderful array of whimsical metal sculptures throughout the streets. These artistic creations add character and visual interest to the urban landscape while celebrating the creative spirit of the community. Visitors can enjoy a self-guided walking tour to discover these unique works that transform ordinary city blocks into an outdoor art gallery.
10. Brady's Oysters
FRESH SEAFOOD MARKET
Brady's Oysters is a beloved seafood market offering the freshest catches from local waters near Aberdeen. Visitors can purchase oysters harvested from their own beds along with crab, clams, and other Pacific Northwest seafood delicacies. The market's no-frills approach focuses on quality and freshness, making it a must-visit for seafood lovers exploring the area.
11. Olympic National Forest
ANCIENT WILDERNESS EXPERIENCE
Olympic National Forest surrounds the Cosmopolis area with over 600,000 acres of diverse ecosystems including ancient rainforests, mountains, and coastal regions. Visitors can explore numerous hiking trails, stunning waterfalls, and pristine lakes while watching for the abundant wildlife that calls this wilderness home. The forest offers recreational opportunities year-round, from summer hiking and fishing to winter snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
12. Grays Harbor Historical Seaport
MARITIME HERITAGE CENTER
Grays Harbor Historical Seaport preserves and celebrates the maritime heritage of the Pacific Northwest region. Visitors can learn about traditional sailing vessels, maritime trades, and the importance of the sea to local history through interactive exhibits and programs. The seaport serves as home base for the Lady Washington and Hawaiian Chieftain tall ships when they're not touring the coast.
13. Driftwood Theatre
COMMUNITY PERFORMANCE VENUE
Driftwood Theatre is a cherished community performance venue showcasing local talent in Aberdeen. The theater presents a diverse program of plays, musicals, comedy shows, and special events throughout the year. Visitors and residents alike appreciate the intimate atmosphere and dedication to bringing quality live entertainment to the Grays Harbor area.
14. Bottle Beach State Park
BIRDWATCHER'S COASTAL HAVEN
Bottle Beach State Park is a 75-acre marine park featuring a significant shorebird migration viewing area near Westport. Visitors can observe thousands of shorebirds during spring and fall migrations along the interpretive trail and boardwalk that protect the sensitive habitat. The park also offers spectacular views of Grays Harbor and access to a unique bottle-collecting beach that gave the park its name.
15. Aberdeen Farmers Market
LOCAL HARVEST GATHERING
Aberdeen Farmers Market brings together local farmers, artisans, and food producers to offer fresh, seasonal goods to the community. Visitors can browse stalls filled with locally grown produce, handcrafted items, baked goods, and specialty foods while enjoying the friendly atmosphere. The market supports the local economy while providing a gathering place for residents and tourists to experience authentic local flavors and crafts.