Outdoors

5 min read

25 Fun & Free Things to Do in Forks, WA

Explore Forks, WA with 25 fun & free activities! From Twilight tours to nature trails & museums, there's something for everyone. Perfect for travelers on a budget.

Tobi Miles
July 1, 2022

Forks, WA is nestled in the Pacific Northwest. It is home to a national park, state parks, 19 restaurants, a bowling alley, two museums, rafting company, and several fly-fishing guide services.

Olympic National Park, the Roosevelt Elk, and Bogachiel Rain Forest are natural wonders that attract visitors from all over that want to explore the rivers and trails that weave through the dense forest. Rafting and fly fishing are popular activities and numerous tours are offered in Forks on its three local rivers.

The popular movie and book, Twilight, took place in Forks. Visitors can check out familiar places from these stories and see costumes and props from the movie in Forks. Forks, WA is a hub in the logging and timber industry.

Tours and museums educate visitors on the history of this industry and modern-day operations. These are free or low-cost. Forks is also home to many dining establishments that offer everything from coffee and pancakes to beer and burgers.

Forks has plenty to offer visitors of all ages. Whether you like the outdoors, food, bowling, or movies memorabilia, there is something in Forks for you to enjoy. This is a list of places to add to your agenda during your visit to Forks.

Free Things to Do in Forks, WA

1. Tillicum Park

Credit: Debra Pearson / Facebook

The park has a playground, tennis courts, skate park, covered picnic area, tank, fitness course, fields and train. There is something to amuse most visitors with its offerings, no matter what their age may be.

The fields are great for flying a kite in or playing frisbee after an afternoon picnic lunch. Children visiting with your party will love the playground. It has slides, swings, monkey bars, and more.

The fitness course is great for getting in a workout on your visit to the area. There is equipment for arm, abdominal, and leg exercises.

Each year the park is host to community gatherings that are full of fun for the whole family. If you are visiting over the 4th of July the Lion’s Club hosts a fantastic event at the park.

Address: Tillicum Lane Forks, WA 98331

Phone Number: (360) 374-5412

Website: https://forkswashington.org/city-government/departments/parks-recreation/

Open Hours: Daily 6AM-10PM

Cost:  Free

2. Forever Twilight in Forks Collection

Credit: Forever Twilight in Forks / Facebook

The popular book and movie series Twilight is based in Forks. The Forever Twilight Collection is housed at the Rainforest Arts Center and can be viewed for free. You will see props and costumes from the movie in the collection.

Items like Chuckesmee, the animatic doll, Bella’s graduation quilt, and costumes for Edward and Jacob can be viewed here.

Additionally, fan-made gifts to the collection are on display and editions of the books from other places around the world.You will want to bring a camera to capture your own memories with the fabulous items on display.

Expect the staff at the exhibit to be filled with knowledge about the memorabilia on display and Twilight stories. They are accommodating and friendly to all who visit the exhibit and love Twilight.

Address: 35 N, Forks Ave Forks, WA 98331

Phone Number: (360) 374-2531

Website: https://forkswa.com/ftfcollection/

Open Hours: Winter - Friday 2PM-4PM & Saturday 12PM-4PM  |  Summer -  Thursday-Monday 12PM-4PM

Cost: Free

3. Roosevelt Elk

Credit: Shutterstock

You may find it interesting to know that Olympic National Park was formed to help protect the Roosevelt elk. The subspecies of elk, named after President Theodore Roosevelt, that frequent the Pacific Northwest are a wonderful sight for nature-lovers visiting Forks to observe in the wild.

They can be found feeding on grasses and berries several areas around town. Visitors usually find these majestic creatures near the airport, Hoh Rainforest, and near the Mormon church.

They have also been spotted on Bogachiel Way, Division Street, and between miles 202 and 203 on Highway 101. These beasts are can weigh up to 1100 lbs. They frequent prairies and pastures in the mornings. Riverbanks are another favorite spot for visitors to view them.

Address: Various locations Forks, WA 98331

Phone Number: NA

Website: https://forkswa.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/RooseveltElk.pdf.com)

Open Hours: DailyCost: Free

4. Bogachiel Rain Forest Trail

Credit: Shutterstock

Bogachiel Rain Forest Trail is a free trail that you can explore one of Olympic National Park’s valleys by hiking. It is not as popular as other trails in the area.

The trail is 26.9 miles long point to point. It can be completed in about 13 hours if you are ambitious, or a wilderness permit can be obtained for camping as you explore it.

You can also connect to the Pacific Northwest Trail from this trail, if you are looking for a lengthier exploration through the forest.

You will find the bridges in excellent condition that traverse waterways along the trail. Mud should be expected along the trail, due to the climate of the region.

Fallen trees are also another obstacle many have encountered travelling this trail. Bears, elk, and birds are just a few critters you may encounter on an adventure on the Bogachiel Rain Forest Trail.

Address: 437 Tillicum Lane Forks, WA 98331

Phone number: (360) 374-6522

Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5297651.pdf

Open Hours: DailyCost: Free

Related Read: 30 Top Treehouse Rentals in Washington

5. Rainforest Arts Center

Credit: City of Forks

The arts center in Forks is home to theater, dance, meeting spaces, and social spaces. It also houses the Twilight Museum. Community events and functions are scheduled throughout the year at the Rainforest Arts Center.

If you are passing through town in May, check out the Sasquatch Days. Concerts by the musicians in the area, including celloist Ian Maksin are popular events on the calendar at the center, as well.

If you need a room for a meeting or family gathering in Forks, the Rainforest Arts Center has space for you, too.

Address: 35 N. Forks Ave Forks, WA 98331

Phone Number: (360) 374-2531

Websitehttps://forkswashington.org/local-resources/rac/

Open Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00AM to 5:00PMCost: Free

6. Forks Chamber of Commerce

Credit: Forks Chamber of Commerce - Forks, WA / Facebook

The chamber of commerce in Forks is a great place to get information and have any questions answered during your visit. It is a great place to find out about local shops, restaurants, tours, and more.

The commerce sponsors the free logging and mill tours each summer too! Stop in and get a brochure, find a business in the business directory, and educate yourself on the surroundings.

The chamber of commerce is staffed by volunteers. They are experts on the area. They can help you find your way through town. They are also a great resource for finding more to explore in town or for suggestions on where to stay and where to eat.

Address: 1411 S. Forks Ave. Forks, WA 98331

Phone Number: (360)374-2531

Website: https://forkswa.com/about-us/

Open Hours: Summer Hours - Monday to Saturday 10am to 5pm  |  Sundays 11am to 4pm

Winter Hours - Monday to Saturday 10am to 4pm  |  Sundays 11am to 4pmCost: Free

7. Logging and Mill Tour

Credit: Forks, Washington

The Chamber of Commerce offers free Logging and Mill Tours each Wednesday from the end of May through the end of August. These tours require a reservation.

The tour educates you on the evolution of the lumber industry and mills in the area. You will become familiar with equipment used at the lumber mill and for logging.

You will get to visit a real operational mill, not just a museum on the tour to gain first-hand insight on the industry. Another stop on the tour is a fascinating logging operation. You also stop at the largest western cedar tree, along the tour.

This is a 3+ hour tour and best for participants over 8 years old. It can educate young and old on the importance of timber in the area and work that goes into getting this important resource to consumers.

Address: 1411 S. Forks Ave. Forks, WA 98331

Phone Number: (360) 374-2531

Websitehttps://forkswa.com/about-us/

Open Hours: May 25-August 31 on WednesdaysCost: Free

Fun Things to Do In Forks, WA

8. Forks Timber Museum

Credit: Trip Advisor

The Timber Museum is a great place to learn about the timber industry in the area, as it has been known as the logging capital of the world. You will learn about native communities and pioneers to Forks.

You will also get an inside look at how the community has grown and changed as industry in timber impacted it. There are examples of logging equipment from years past, including steam driven machines that will fascinate you.

Many old photos and other memorabilia are on display, and worth your attention too. Beyond the walls of the museum, there is a nature trail to take a walk on.

Museum staff are knowledgeable and love discussing the history of the area and life in Forks today. You will want to give yourself at least an hour, to explore this attraction.

Address: 1421 Forks Ave, Forks, WA 98331

Phone number: (360) 374-9663

Website: http://forkstimbermuseum.org/index.html

Open Hours: May to September Monday to Saturday 10AM-5PM  |  Sunday 11AM-4PM

October to April Monday to Saturday 10M-4PM  |  Sunday 11AM-4PMCost: $3 for visitors over 12. 12 and under are free.

9. Tree Root Cave

Credit: Shari Sanford / Facebook

This is a natural phenomenon that you won’t want to miss. The cave is located on the north side of the Kalaloch Creek Campground on the beach.

It’s a wonderful mess of tangled roots. You can see crabs, sea stars, and sea urchins, in tide pools as you explore the beach nearby this wonder.

Look offshore and you may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of whales, dolphins, and sea otters that swim the ocean waters. If it is not the season for whale watching, you might look for shore birds.

There is a great day use area to have a picnic nearby. The beach serves as a great place to dig in the sand or play volleyball too.

Address: WA-101, Forks, WA 98331 · ~78.7 m

Phone Number: (360) 962-2271

Websitehttps://maps.roadtrippers.com/us/kalaloch-wa/nature/tree-root-cave

Open Hours: DailyCost: Day Use $10 for a day or $30 annually. Camping also available for an additional cost.

10. Angler’s Obsession

Credit: Angler's Obsession / Facebook

A great way to get out and explore the great outdoors is through fly fishing. Angler’s Obsession provides excellent fishing tours year-round. Y

our fishing trip will transportation in a drift boat or fly-fishing raft. Rods, reels, food and beverages are also included, along with images captured by your guide’s camera.

You can expect to catch a variety of salmon, trout, and steelhead on your adventure. Summer Steelhead, Coho Salmon, Chinook Salmon, and Sea Run Cutthroats all frequent the waters you will explore.

The rivers in the Olympic Peninsula are plentiful and will not disappoint those your seek their bounty on a fishing trip with Angler’s Obsession.

Address: P.O. Box 1515, Forks, WA 98331

Phone Number: (360) 485-3334

Websitehttp://anglersobsession.com/

Open Hours: By AppointmentCost: Jan 1-April 30 -Lodging/Fishing Packages are $685 for one or two anglers and $860 for three anglers (8+ hrs). This includes guided fishing and lodging at our Elk Loop Vacation RentalMay 1-Dec 30 – $495 for one or two anglers, $625 for three anglers (8+ hrs)

11. John’s Beachcombing Museum

Credit: Ruby Re-Usable / Flickr

You don’t want to miss this attraction in Forks. The visual display of it is actually hard to miss. John’s has large floats hanging in front of his place, that will catch your eye before you even arrive.

This place is collection of what some may consider trash and others treasure. You can find items lost at sea from shipping containers. You can also find objects rerouted by tsunamis. There is military and NASA memorabilia on display too. Everything is unique.

John, who runs this roadside attraction, is very knowledgeable about beachcombing and loves to share that knowledge and stories with his visitors. Stop in and you may be surprised at what you learn about.

Address: 143 Andersonville Av. Forks, WA 98331

Phone Number: (360)640-0320

Website: https://www.roadsideamerica.com/tip/49667

Open Hours: Daily 10AM-5PMCost:  $5 Adults $2 Kids

12. OP Raft Co.

Credit: OP Raft Co. / Facebook

Explore the Olympic Peninsula by raft with experienced rafting guides along the Hoh, Sol Duc, or Calawah River. Each tour with OP Raft Co. varies in intensity and scenery.

All your options are fun and beautiful, it doesn’t matter what adventure you take on the river. The Hoh River Canyon trip is more relaxed while trips down the Sol Duc and Calawah that are rapid filled, and for those that might not mind taking a swim.

The views you will see on your trip are incredible. Your guide is sure to be well-versed in the flora and fauna you will see on your journey. Guides are known to stop and point out animal tracks and unique sights in nature along floats.

Address: P.O. Box 1734 Fork, WA 98331

Phone Number: (360) 640-8109

Website: http://opraftco.com/

Open Hours: DailyCost: $125

Related Read: 15 BEST Water Parks in Washington State

13. Hoh Rainforest

Credit: Shutterstock

The Hoh Rainforest is an area within Olympic National Park that is beautiful and inspiring to visitors. There are numerous options for hiking in this area of the park.

The Spruce trail is one recommended trail. Visitors describe the Hoh Rainforest as walking into Jurassic Park, with its lush moss and large trees.

The Hoh Rainforest typically busy, so go early. Attractions including the Hall of Mosses are popular sights within the park. If you are lucky you will see animals in the rainforest, including elk!

Beware, getting to close to these creatures can be dangerous.  Others have spotted signs of cougar and owls during their adventures in this dense forest.

Address: 18113 Upper Hoh Rd, Forks, WA 98331

Phone Number: (360) 565-3131

Website: https://www.nps.gov/olym/planyourvisit/visiting-the-hoh.htm

Open Hours: Daily in summerCost: 25 per car $50 annual pass for Olympic National Park $80 Interagency Pass

14. Bogachiel State Park

Credit: Wikipedia

This state park is 127-acres and great for day-use for visitors that want to spend time on the Bogachiel River. The park has numerous campsites.

It’s a great place to use as your base for exploring Forks, the Olympic National Park and the surrounding area.

The state park has picnic tables in the day use area and also a kitchen shelter with grills and electricity for those that want to cook a meal on the spot. This is available to users on a first come, first serve basis.

You will likely see numerous birds and wildlife ranging from small rodents to majestic elk during your time in the park.

Address: 185983 Highway 101, Forks 98331

Phone Number: (360) 374-6356

Website: https://www.parks.wa.gov/478/Bogachiel

Open Hours: DailyCost: $10 Daily or $30 Annual

15. Springer Sportfishing

Credit: Springer's Sportfishing / Facebook

Looking to get out on a local Fork’s River and catch salmon, trout, or steelhead? Springer’s Sportfishing caters to beginner and experienced fly fishermen.

They offer full day tours and provide you with rods, reels, tackle, and bait. Their equipment is top-notch. Their drift boats are even heated!

Springer’s Sportfishing guides are knowledgeable about the rivers you float on your fishing trip. Make a catch, and decide to keep it, your guide will clean and fillet your fish for you! These tours are an excellent way to take in what nature has to offer the pristine forests of Forks.

Address: PO Box #331, Forks, WA 98331

Phone Number: (360) 780-0121

Website: https://www.springersportfishing.com/

Open Hours: DailyCost: $300-500

16. Sully’s Drive-In

Credit: Trip Advisor

This establishment is a fun place to eat lunch or dinner. It serves a variety of scrumptious items for everyone in the family. The burgers are delicious, especially the Chalet Burger! Your mouth will water over the hot and fresh French fries they serve.

This is not a place to go if you are watching your weight. The thick milk shakes are incredible. Sully’s can be busy on the weekends and when events are taking place in town. But if you are looking for a friendly and affordable American dining experience you will want to stop here.

Address: 220 N Forks Ave, Forks, WA 98331

Phone Number:  (360) 374-5075

Website: https://forkswa.com/listing/sullys-drive-in/

Open Hours: Tues-Sat 11AM-8PMCost: Varies by item

17. Castaway Café

Credit: Cast Away Cafe / Facebook

The Castaway Café is a great stop if you are looking for breakfast or lunch. The nautical decorations throughout this establishment welcome those who visit.

There is indoor and outdoor seating options. If you have a furry friend, their outdoor seating welcomes them. The café has internet and a charging station, making it ideal for travelers.

Breakfast is offered all day, in case you like pancakes or biscuits and gravy for lunch. Wraps, salads, and burgers are popular lunch items on their menu. The staff is helpful and polite.

They know the area well, and are happy to offer visitors recommendations for other fun activities in Forks, WA. If you want a simple, meal and need to charge your computer or phone the Castaway Café will meet your needs.

Address: 945 S. Forks, Ave Forks, WA 98331

Phone Number: (360)640-5689

Website: https://www.facebook.com/1CastAwayCafe/about

Open Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 8AM-4PM  |  Sunday 10AM-4PMCost: Varies by Item

18. A Shot in the Dark

Credit: Mocha Motion & A Shot in the Dark

This drive-thru coffee shop is great for drinks and breakfast. You have a wide range of dairy and non-dairy espresso options if you care to have more than just black coffee.

There are hot, blended, and iced drink options. They also offer red bull drinks. The bagel breakfast sandwiches, pastries, and yogurts on their menu will satisfy your taste buds.

The line can get long at A Shot in the Dark, especially on weekends. The baristas are speedy and even come to your car to get your order to keep things moving.

The customer service is better than most places. If you need a bite to eat or your caffeine fix, you will want to check this coffee shop out.

Address: 260 S Forks Ave, Forks, WA 98331

Phone Number: NA

Website: None

Open Hours: 5:30AM-7PMCost: Varies

19. Benelli's Burgers

Credit: Benelli's Burgers / Facebook

Benelli's Burgers is a great lunch or dinner stop if you are looking for a greasy burger and fries. They have dine-in and drive-thru options, for those that want a quick stop. The milkshakes are thick and creamy, and recommended by many.

You will enjoy this stop more than most drive-thru’s as the ingredients are higher quality than similar types of restaurants. They use brioche buns, thick cut bacon, and quality beef. The fries are thick cut and fresh. Their food is worth the caloric splurge if you are on a diet!

Address: 80 Calawah Way, Forks, WA 98331

Phone Number: (360) 374-5479

Website: https://www.benellisburgers.com/

Open Hours: 11:30AM-8PMCost: Varies

20. Hard Rain Café and Mercantile

Credit: faeanna / Flickr

This café serves up excellent breakfast, lunch, and dinner options for the casual crowd. Vegetarians will love the garden burger and omnivores will find the burgers delicious. The BLT is also a visitor favorite.

The service is fast and friendly. It’s a great stop on your way in or out of Olympic National Park. This establishment can get busy, due to its proximity to Olympic National Park, though.

It is also a great stop if you are shopping for souvenirs. They offer unique items like carved slugs, huckleberry jams, ceramics, glass art, and more. If you want a bite to eat and need a souvenir this is a stop you will want to make.

Address: 5763 Upper Hoh Rd, Forks, WA 98331-9337

Phone Number: (360) 374-9288

Website: http://www.hardraincafe.com/rvpark.htm

Open Hours: 9AM-7PMCost: 5.99 and Up

Things to Do In Forks, WA at Night

21. Sunset Lanes

Credit: Sunset Lanes / Facebook

Sunset Lanes is a fun and cheery place to bowl or play pool with friends or family. The staff is friendly and very attentive. They help you get set up for your game and quickly get you any food or drinks you may order. The food onsite is delicious and affordable.

The bowling alley itself takes you back in time. The décor is vintage. The ball return is above ground. Scoring is modern and done by a computer, for those that do not recall how to score bowling from high school PE.

Address: 261 E E St Forks, WA 98331

Phone Number: (360) 374-5323

Website: https://www.facebook.com/SunsetLanesForksWA/

Open Hours: 3PM-8PMCost: Varies

22. Pacific Pizza

Credit: Pacific Pizza

If you are a fan of pizza then you will want to spend a night feasting on one of the savory pizza’s this restaurant has to offer. This is a popular joint. They have a salad bar, to get you started along with five dinner salad options.

Soup and wings are other popular menu items. They offer nine specialty pizzas and build your own options. Beyond pizza, they offer pasta, grinders, paninis, and deli sandwiches.

You will love having a Pepsi or other soda with your meal. Kids may prefer chocolate milk or orange juice. This is family joint and great for an evening out after hiking in one of the state or national parks in the area.

Address: 870 S Forks Ave, Forks, WA 98331-0516

Phone Number: (360) 374-2626

Website: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Pacific%20Pizza/115494468473492/photos/

Open Hours: 10AM-9PMCost: Varies

23. Blakeslee Bar and Grill

Credit: BBG Blakeslee Bar & Grill / Facebook

Blakeslee Bar and Grill is a great place for diners and drinkers. It caters primarily to the 21+ crowd, but has a tasty grill menu available for the whole family.

They offer scrumptious appetizers, including prawns, nachos, and mozzarella sticks. Their menu ranges from sandwiches to steaks. Eight burgers and chicken wings will also make your mouth water at this bar and grill.

The staff is attentive and friendly at Blakeslee Bar and Grill. On weekends, you will want to stop in for their filling breakfast options after drinks the night before. They offer Bloody Marys to curve any hangover!

Address: 1222 S. Forks Ave. Forks, WA 98331

Phone Number: (360) 374 5003

Website: https://forkswa.com/listing/bbg-blakeslees-bar-grill/

Open Hours: Sunday 7AM-9PM  |  Tues-Thurs 11AM-10PM  |  Friday & Saturday 7AM-2AM Cost: Varies

24. Taqueria Santa Ana

Credit: Taqueria Santa Ana / Facebook

This restaurant is for those that want a little spice in their life, during a night out in Forks. They offer a variety of tacos, burritos, mole, and more.

Chips and homemade salsa are complimentary and a great way to get your meal started. The cost is affordable and the food is truly authentic.

The customer service is excellent and you are always seated quickly at this establishment. Favorites here include the wet burritos and pineapple salsa. You will be impressed with whatever you order here. The portions are huge, and you won’t leave hungry.

Taqueria Santa Ana also serves breakfast daily. This is a traditional American cuisine. They begin offering Mexican at 11:30AM daily.

Address: 81 N Forks Ave, Forks, WA 98331

Open Hours: 6AM-9PM

Phone Number:  (360) 374-6171

Website: https://www.facebook.com/Taqueria-Santa-Ana-1391055644267872/reviews/?ref=page_internalacebook

Cost: Varies

25. Westend Taproom Tap & Sip

Credit: Forks Forum

This is a restaurant for those that want a drink and bite to eat. They offer a wide selection of ciders and beers. They also have wine, you can sip, as you catch up with friends or just relax with after a hike.

It’s a place to go if you want to know what’s happening around town too. The locals love to spend time here. Beyond the drink menu, you’ll be delighted by a menu of appetizers and sandwiches.

They have paninis, nachos, chips, and pretzels. You must try their beer cheese sauce. The service is excellent here too. The owners have a presence and make you feel right at home.

Address: 70 W A St, Forks, WA 98331

Phone Number: (360) 374-7410

Website: https://business.facebook.com/WestendTaproom/

Open Hours: Monday & Thursday 3PM-8PM  |  Friday & Saturday 3PM-9PM  |  Sunday 3PM-7PMCost: Varies

Tobi Miles
Article updated:
March 28, 2024
A nomadic wordsmith savoring the world's flavors and penning stories that turn every journey into an epic.
Find me on Twitter

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