7 Cool Historic Places in Snohomish

Modern goods revivify shops filled with rustic upcycled goods, old bakeries are filled with aromas of fresh pastries, and breweries make a nod to the storied past of tree-felling.

Keep your eyes peeled as you walk through time in downtown Snohomish for a fresh take on vintage. Here are some old-meets-new sights you’ll want to catch.

Oxford Saloon - 913 1st St.

Some locals say this saloon is super haunted. Look to the windows on the second floor to see spectral human figures lingering for a moment behind lace curtains before vanishing. Downstairs, treat yourself to a night of live blues rock, billiards, and domestic beers on tap. The Oxford is a no-frills historic bar that used to be a brothel. One thing’s for sure – this place has real energy.

Carnegie Library - 105 Cedar Ave.

The first Snohomish library was one of many Carnegie Libraries built across the United States. They were built with money from Robber Baron Andrew Carnegie, who felt he must use the spoils of capitalism to give back to the public.

The Carnegie Library is a beautiful and well-colored piece of civic architecture, and today it’s used as a community gathering space and event venue. Stop here to admire the external architecture while sightseeing the town. The Carnegie isn’t open to the public on a daily basis, but it makes for a truly remarkable event venue for weddings, parties, etc. Book your event here.

Blackman House Museum - 118 Ave. B

Built in 1878, this home was the original homestead of the Blackman family. They were lumber workers from Maione who settled along what was named Blackmans Lake in north Snohomish at the end of the nineteenth century.

Today the Blackman House Museum is owned and operated by the Snohomish Historical Society. You can take a tour if you reach and book a visit.

Cabbage Patch Restaurant - 111 Ave. A #2925

This restaurant has been open in an old Victorian-era gabled house for several decades. The house is split up into different levels, plus you can dine in an enclosed porch, on the front veranda, or on a porch out back. The secret is the daily from-scratch pie, which compliments the all-American fare of burgers, fries, and salads.

The Cabbage Patch is also allegedly haunted, so if you hear footsteps on the staircase to the second floor and there’s nobody there… don’t be surprised.

The Gazebo

The Avenue A gazebo overlooks cottonwoods that line the scenic Snohomish River. The gazebo was first built in 1976 to celebrate the bicentennial of the United States. It’s recently undergone extensive reconstruction and remodeling, making for a great place to enjoy a lazy ice cream cone or a selfie with a loved one. It’s easy to see why this little gazebo is the pride of old-town Snohomish.

Centennial Trail Railroad

This 40-mile route parallels an old railroad grade. In the city of Snohomish, you can still glimpse remnants of the railroad tracks next to the Centennial Trail’s paved biking/running path. At one point the trail runs past the old Snohomish Depot, now converted into a private residence. Get your workout on while appreciating this relic of local railroad history.

Antiquing

A place that bills itself as The Antique Capital of the Northwest has got the goods to deliver. If you’re into upcycling, vintage finds, or that perfect something to add to the breakfast nook, Snohomish knows what’s up. Whether you’re cruising an antique mall, or window shopping downtown you’re sure to find the furniture, retro clothes, home decor, or collectibles that will speak volumes about your good taste. Carve out a few hours to explore – you can really go deep into the world of antiques in this city.

Want to dive deeper into the history of Snohomish? Join a Snohomish Walks guided walking tour to get the full story on what makes this such a storied town.