| Shelton, Washington |
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The narrow waterway of Hammersly Inlet connects the Port of Shelton to Olympia, Tacoma and points beyond. The downtown core features stone and brick architecture from the World War I era, when the town was rebuilt after a large, destructive fire. Shelton's local industry is still centered around lumber and forestry products, though in recent years the economy has seen major diversification. Commercial shellfish harvesting, new retail centers, real estate activity and government jobs have added layers of economic activity to this formerly traditional blue collar town. Today, several antique stores, gift shops, fitness clubs, fine restaurants and a movie theater are all doing a bustling business in downtown Shelton. Stretch out or play catch at shady Kneeland Park, a summer picnic spot favorite. Kneeland Park also has one of the most unique children's playground and climbing gyms in the state.
June brings the annual Forest Festival & Parade, a Shelton trademark that honors its logging heritage. Finally, don't forget to visit the Mason County Historical Museum on Railroad Avenue. Exhibits showcase the town's early pioneer and logging days.
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Shelton is the largest and only incorporated city within Mason County. The county seat, Shelton served as one of the nation's premier log exporting centers for the decades from 1855 through 1975.
Another favorite past time is a walking tour through the historic "timber baron" neighborhood downtown, which parallels a small creek winding lazily throughout the town's core. During spawning time in late summer and early fall, migrating salmon can be observed traversing this miniature waterway on their journey home.
