Aberdeen, Washington, of Grays Harbor County, was once a thriving seaport. Now, it is best known as the “gateway” to the Olympic Peninsula and the “Home of Grunge,” as it is the hometown of two members of the iconic rock band, Nirvana.
About
Aberdeen is located on the southwest coast of Washington. Originally known as a timber capital, it is now a popular spot for those exploring the area. Though the town is quaint, it’s a terrific location for a weekend getaway or a pitstop on your way to the Olympic National Park. It boasts beautiful waterfront parks, a history museum with tributes to Kurt Cobain, Washington’s westernmost winery, one of the best spots in the entire state for birding and much more. If you’re looking for food, take advantage of the many eateries offering fresh and locally sourced seafood options.
Weather and Getting There
Aberdeen is a 2-hour drive from Seattle. Take I-5 south from Seattle, U.S.-101 north, WA-8 and U.S.-12 west to Aberdeen. The weather in Aberdeen is wet and mild with summer highs in the 60s and winter lows in the 30s.
Dining
Breakwater Seafood and Chowder House has been in business since 1987 and is a great spot for local, fresh seafood.
Festivals & Events
The annual Cranberry Festival in nearby Grayland celebrates the importance of the cranberry harvest to this region in Washington State on the second weekend of October. Tour the bogs and enjoy cranberry-themed merchandise, a parade, and more.
Outdoors
From Aberdeen it is a short 50-minute drive to Quinault Rain Forest. Drive around Quinault Lake and view beautiful waterfalls, local wildlife and towering trees. This temperate rain forest is part of the Olympic National Park. There are a number of trails in the area. Start with the easy ½ mile interpretive trail and then explore on your own. This area has a diverse wildlife population including several herds of Roosevelt Elk. Also look for black bears, coyotes, black tailed deer, bobcats and more.
- Pacific Beach State Park offers 2300 ft of oceanfront, perfect for beach combing or watching the surf. Drive 1.5 hours north along the coast to Ruby Beach. This is one of the most popular and beautiful beaches in the Olympic National Park.
Things to Do
There are over 15 properties listed on the National Historic Register located in Aberdeen and neighboring Hoquiam. Stroll the tree lined streets in Aberdeen and pass the Aberdeen Mansion, built in 1905. Nearby Hoquiam Castle was completed in 1900. This 10,000 sq. ft home is now a private residence overlooking downtown Hoquiam.
Art is alive and being preserved in Aberdeen. Enjoy a series of murals adorning local buildings. The mural project started in 1988 and continues today. The newest will cover Aberdeen’s rich history, past and present, and is being created by local artist Chris Dalton.
If you are interested in music, visit the Aberdeen Museum of History and take the Kurt Cobain Walking tour. This tour winds through the neighborhoods of Aberdeen exploring every aspect of his life as a youth in this coastal town.
