Longview, Washington

Longview Washington Established 1923

Longview’s roots can be traced back to Kansas City, Missouri, home of city founder R. A. Long, president of the Long-Bell Timber Company. Long and other company leaders committed to building a large lumber mill along the Columbia River. Because Southwest Washington did not have a ready workforce, Long decided to build a city to accommodate the estimated 14,000 workers it would take to operate the mill.

Longview was dedicated in July 1923. In February 1924, it was incorporated and a municipal government was established. Designed as a hub for business and travel routes, the town’s Civic Center features R. A. Long Park, Longview Public Library, the Monticello Hotel, and the post office and city hall

Today, Longview is a thriving community of 35,000, growing in both size and diversity. The city has a strong economic base and a wide array of recreational, educational, and cultural offerings. Highlights include Lower Columbia College, the Columbia Theatre, Rose Center for the Arts, and a vibrant, historic downtown.

The City recognizes that a vibrant downtown is critical to our uniqueness as a community. Built in the 1920s, Longview has a small-town atmosphere that is very appealing to residents and visitors alike, offering a safe, comfortable and inviting gathering place with shopping, restaurants, galleries and beautiful streetscapes.

There are countless recreation and leisure activities waiting for you here in Longview. Explore some of the nooks and crannies and special events that make our community such a fun place to live, work, and play.

Attractions

Any time is a great time for adventure in Longview where you'll find a wealth of activities waiting for you.

Getting Around

Longview has a wide range of transportation modes to make getting around as easy as possible.

History

Located ninety miles from the Pacific Ocean at the confluence of the Cowlitz and Columbia Rivers, Longview is a relatively new city with a short but remarkable history. Less than 75 years ago, the area where Longview now stands was sparsely populated wilderness and rural homesteads.

Lake Sacajawea

There truly is something for everyone at the lake, so add this gem to your list of things to do in Longview, and come down for a visit. You will see why we call Lake Sacajawea the city’s crown jewel- it always sparkles with activity!

Nutty Narrows Bridge

San Francisco has its cable cars. Seattle has its Space Needle. And, Longview has its squirrel bridge. The bridge, across Olympia Way near Civic Center circle has attracted international attention and is now a local landmark