10 Historic Towns In Washington That Will Transport You To The Past

Also referred to as "Little Norway on the Fjord", this charming town is surrounded by stunning scenery, old murals and unique architecture. Located in a valley between the Olympics and Cascades, the community was founded by Jorgen Eliason of Fordefjord, Norway in the late 1880s.

This western-themed small town can be found in the Methow Valley at the confluence of the Chewuch and Methow rivers. It was first incorporated in March 1924 and later restored after the completion of the North Cascades Highway portion of State Highway 20 in 1972.

Located 16 miles west of Spokane, Cheney was first settled under the name of Willow Springs but was re-named in honor of Benjamin P. Cheney, the director of the Northern Pacific Railroad. Today the town is home to a population over 10,000 and has two districts listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Jacob Anthes founded this town in the late 1800s on Whidbey Island. In 1902, he built a logger bunkhouse that still stands today in the downtown area, serving as the location for the South Whidbey Historical Society Museum!

This village was first settled in 1841 and is a major hub for oyster farming along the east side of Willapa Bay. The town was later placed on the National Register of Historic Districts in 1976!

Officially incorporated in 1883, this city's downtown area is full of historical buildings, art museums, fine galleries, a brew pub, wine shops and various amazing restaurants!

This small town can be found along the Yakima River with less than 6,000 residents. The construction of the Northern Pacific Railroad and first irrigation canal here in the early 1900s were major elements in the area’s thriving history!

This city in Snohomish County was an important stop on the Great Northern Railway in the late 1800s and was best known for its GN Greenhouses, which grew beautiful flowers that passengers could purchase.

Our state's oldest incorporated town was founded in January 1851 by Lafayette Balch, a sea captain from Maine! The community boasts several historic structures and was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975.

The small town of Republic features an old 1900s look and was founded by gold prospectors in the late 19th century. It features breathtaking scenery by the Colville National Forest and offers endless recreational opportunities.