What comes to mind when you think of Washington’s best shopping cities? We’re willing to bet very few people think of Chehalis, the small town in Lewis County most people fly by on their way to Seattle or Portland. And while you won’t find many high-end department stores in town, you will find one of the quirkiest shopping centers in the Northwest. And Yard Birds Mall is definitely worth checking out.

Yard Birds Mall is located on North National Avenue in Chehalis, not far from the freeway -- and it's easy to find thanks to the giant roadside blackbird.
Yard Birds Mall Facebook
While this is a one-of-a-kind mall with a single location, there used to be several in the area. And the shopping center has quite a backstory.
In 1947, childhood friends Bill Jones and Rich Gillingham started a war surplus in an old garage in Centralia and named it Two Yard Birds Surplus.
Yard Birds Mall Facebook
They soon relocated to Chehalis, added a third partner, and expanded. By 1959, a sister store had been added, with a few more popping up over the decades. Due to flooding and some other life events, every other location has closed -- but this one, now owned by Darris McDaniel and Ray Caldwell, is going strong.
The mall is largely considered to be a swap meet, with all kinds of secondhand treasures and one-of-a-kind items available for purchase.
Yard Birds Mall Facebook
The property is divided into small privately leased merchants, each with their own unique treasures.
At Butterfly Wishes, you'll find clothing for adults and children, handmade gifts and treasures, soaps, and all kinds of collectibles.
Yard Birds Mall Facebook
This is a great place to go for gifts.
Earth Treasures Jewelry sells both new and used jewelry along with rocks, fossils, jewelry boxes, and even essential oils.
Yard Birds Mall
You can also sell or trade your treasures here.
The You Name It Store is appropriately named, offering an eccentric group of collectibles.
Yard Birds Mall
Other stops for secondhand treasures include Tom's Treasures, The Squirrel Hut, Rick's Relics, and Papa's Place, just to name a few.
And if you need a break for shopping, stop by Shankz Black Light Miniature Golf for a guaranteed good time.
management / TripAdvisor
It's the perfect place to go and relax while you decide which treasures to take home with you.

Stop by Yard Birds Mall the next time you’re in Chehalis and you’ll see why it has such a cult following.

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2100 N National Ave, Chehalis, WA 98532, USA