Get some exercise and learn about local history with a scenic waterfront walk on the Coos Bay Boardwalk. This 0.3-mile (0.5-kilometer) wooden plank pier near downtown Coos Bay features interpretative displays of the area's past and delightful views of the harbor.
As you stroll along its length, stop at the three pavilions to read displays about the history of Coos Bay, covering its lumber industry, which started in the19th century. According to one of the panels, Coos Bay was the world's largest lumber shipping port from the late 1940s to the 1970s. There are also panels about Coos County trees such as tan oak, Oregon white oak and Oregon ash. Look at the old tugboat from 1924, which is housed in one of the pavilions.
Observe modern-day tugboats from your vantage point on the boardwalk. Two types continue to operate at Coos Bay, harbor tugs and ocean-going tugs, which tow large barges.
When you feel hungry, dine in the boardwalk's seafood restaurant. Alternatively, bring a picnic and spread out a meal on any of the benches and tables dotted along the wooden walkway. Linger for a while to breathe in the sea air and watch seabirds.
After your visit, explore the adjacent downtown area for antique stores, gift shops, cafés, restaurants and visitor attractions. Browse the galleries of the Coos Art Museum, which hold contemporary fine art prints and original works of all types of media by Pacific Northwest artists. These include pieces by local talents.
Go on a tour of the Egyptian Theatre, which dates back to 1925. The movie venue features Egyptian-themed decor such as hieroglyphics, bronze pharaoh statues, winged scarabs and deities with animal heads. Other highlights include the theater's original and still operable Wurlitzer organ.
Find Coos Bay Boardwalk in downtown Coos Bay across from the Coos Bay Visitor Information Center. Parking in the area is free.
