A Local’s Guide to Exploring Longview, WA (and Beyond!)

Let’s be honest—Longview, Washington doesn’t usually show up on “Top 10 Travel Lists.” But maybe that’s exactly what makes it worth discovering.

Tucked quietly in the heart of Cowlitz County, Longview offers a peaceful, affordable, and refreshingly unpretentious alternative to the bustling tourist traps. And with its central location—just a hop from Mt. St. Helens, Astoria, and the Oregon Coast—it’s the perfect home base for your next Pacific Northwest adventure.

Whether you’re hiking volcanoes, exploring tidepools, or just looking to slow down in a charming tiny home, here’s how to make the most of your time in and around Longview.

📍 Why Choose Longview as Your Base Camp?

  • Location, location, location. Less than an hour to Mt. St. Helens or the coast, and close to I-5 for easy road-tripping.

  • Smaller crowds. You’ll find peaceful parks, hidden gems, and friendly locals—not long lines and high prices.

  • Unique stays. (Hi, we’re biased—but staying at My Tiny House Village is way more memorable than a roadside motel.)

🏔️ Best Day Trips from Longview, WA

1. Mt. St. Helens National Volcanic Monument (Approx. 1 hr)

Experience one of the most iconic natural landmarks in the Pacific Northwest.

  • Hike the Hummocks Trail or Harry’s Ridge for stunning views of the blast zone.

  • Visit the Johnston Ridge Observatory (seasonal) to learn about the 1980 eruption.

  • Drive the Spirit Lake Highway for dramatic landscapes you won’t forget.

📸 Pro tip: Bring a picnic and binoculars. Elk sightings are common in this area!

2. Astoria, Oregon (Approx. 45 min)

Where the Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean—and history meets hipster.

  • Climb the Astoria Column for panoramic views.

  • Grab seafood and stroll the pier or visit the Columbia River Maritime Museum.

  • Take a walk through Fort Stevens State Park or check out filming locations from The Goonies.

📸 Insider fave: Don’t miss a pint at Buoy Beer Co., where sea lions bark below the brewery floor!

3. Cannon Beach & the Northern Oregon Coast (Approx. 1 hr 45 min)

Yes, it’s worth the drive.

  • Explore Haystack Rock at low tide.

  • Browse the local shops and art galleries.

  • Walk the beach with your dog, fly a kite, or just breathe in the salt air.

📸 Plan for at least a half-day here—and bring layers!

🛍️ Local Attractions in Longview, WA

• Lake Sacajawea Park

Longview’s crown jewel: a 3.5-mile trail, gardens, water features, and plenty of places to picnic or stretch your legs.

• Downtown Longview

A mix of vintage, quirky, and cozy. Grab a latte at Pacific Perks, browse local boutiques, and snap a photo of the famous Nutty Narrows Squirrel Bridge (yes, it’s real—and adorable).

• Columbia Theatre for the Performing Arts

Catch a concert, play, or dance performance in this lovingly restored 1925 gem.

• Kalama Harbor Lodge (20 minutes south)

McMenamins fans, this one’s for you. River views, rooftop bar, and Kalama’s cute shops make for a perfect half-day getaway.

🍓 Seasonal Events & Local Flavor

  • Cowlitz County Farmers Market (May–October)
    Fresh produce, flowers, and handmade goods every Tuesday and Saturday at the fairgrounds.

  • Squirrel Fest (August)
    Yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like. Quirky fun, local vendors, and a uniquely Longview celebration.

  • Festival of Lights Parade (December)
    A holiday classic with small-town charm and cheer.

🏡 Where to Stay: My Tiny House Village in Longview

Skip the cookie-cutter hotel and stay somewhere you’ll actually remember.
At My Tiny House Village, we offer a curated mix of tiny homes, teardrop campers, vintage caravans, and even a waterfront A-frame—all tucked into a peaceful, nature-filled setting that feels a world away from the highway.

Whether you’re traveling solo, with your sweetheart, or bringing the whole crew, we have a space that’s just the right mix of cozy and cool.

💤 Book your stay and discover why so many of our guests say they’ve never slept better.

✨ Final Tips for Visiting Longview

  • Bring layers—this is the PNW, after all.

  • Download offline maps if heading into the mountains (cell signal can be spotty near Mt. St. Helens).

  • Ask locals for recommendations. We’ve got hidden gems, secret spots, and trail tips we’re happy to share.

💚 Plan Less. Wander More.

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, stargazing from a hammock, or just sitting by the fire with people you love, Longview might just surprise you. Come stay awhile—and let your adventure begin at My Tiny House Village.

Michelle Boyle