Before Twilight put Forks on the map, even many Washington residents probably hadn’t heard of it. Today, the quiet logging town — population 3,446 — draws tourists from around the country, especially each September during the Forever Twilight Festival (usually mid-September; this year, it’s Sept. 11-14). The event sells out fast, so mark your calendar early. You can walk through the woods like you’re riding on Edward’s back, then grab a burger in Jacob’s territory an hour later. Even the gas stations feel like movie locations.

While die-hard fans may stay for the full experience, there’s plenty nearby to round out the trip.

If You Love Edward and Bella

The four-day Forever Twilight in Forks Festival (and several pre-festival events) includes themed experiences like cooking classes, costume galas, and fun runs. Dress up as your favorite character and meet actors from the films — past guests have included Alex Meraz (Paul) and Erik Odom (Peter).

Visit the Forever Twilight Collection at the Rainforest Arts Center, which displays props and costumes year-round for free. Take a selfie with Bella’s red truck parked outside the Forks Chamber of Commerce — that’s almost sacred.

Wander Twilight Landmarks

Pick up a free self-guided tour map at the Forks Chamber of Commerce or grab this PDF from the Chamber’s website. This route brings you to Forks High School, Bella’s house, the Cullen residence (Miller Tree Inn), and the treaty line near Sol Duc River. Prefer a guided experience? Twilight Tours by Team Forks runs a 13-seat shuttle through the same sites.

The Real Forks Backstory

The Logging & Mill Tour launches Wednesdays at 9 a.m. from May through September. It’s free and led by volunteers who offer real insight into the town’s timber past. Call ahead to reserve.

Brood in the Great Outdoors

Within an hour: Lake Crescent, a glacier-carved lake in Olympic National Park, and the Hoh Rain Forest, which gets about 140 inches of rain annually. The Hall of Mosses Trail is a dripping, dreamy step into another world. Rialto Beach in La Push is often foggy and dramatic, capturing the moody coastal vibe that fits the Twilight universe.

Where to Sleep Like a Vampire

Manitou Lodge (Forks): cozy, stone-fireplace atmosphere with tents, cottages, or rooms
Twilight Lodgings (just outside town): themed cabins, including “Edward’s room”
Miller Tree Inn Bed & Breakfast: the inspiration for Cullen house
Quileute Oceanside Resort (La Push): oceanfront cabins
Hoh Valley Cabins: woodsy charm about 20 minutes from town
Woodland Inns: updated rooms close to shops and restaurants
Pacific Inn Motel: Twilight-themed rooms, including one styled after Bella’s bedroom

Bite Me: Where to Eat

Bug & Buf’s Espresso (formerly Jitterbugs): rotating coffee drinks and pastries
Sully’s Drive-In: home of the Bella Burger
Bella Italia (Port Angeles): they serve Bella’s mushroom ravioli—the actual dish from Edward and Bella’s date
Pacific Pizza: relaxed dine-in pizza with veggie options
Blakeslee’s Bar & Grill: low-key dinner spot for locals

Shop Like an Immortal

Head to the Forks Chamber of Commerce, which doubles as a souvenir hub — home to books, shirts, stickers, and self-guided maps. 

Native to Twilight offers Twilight swag, from candles like “Vampire’s Kiss” to body sprays and wax melts. Forks Outfitters carries general items: shirts, hoodies, and books. Chinook Pharmacy throws in themed décor with your meds and vaccines. You’ll also find replica rings, keychains, tote bags, and — yes — fork-shaped utensils engraved with Forks. 

How to Get There

Popular route: Seattle to Bainbridge ferry, then U.S. 101 through Port Angeles to Forks (about four hours)
Alternative: Seattle to Edmonds ferry, then Kingston to U.S. 101 west
Other options include driving around Puget Sound via Olympia and Aberdeen or flying into Port Angeles

Twilight Extras for the Devoted

Try local trivia nights, festival bar takeovers, or pick up replica rings and scented candles at gift shops. Ask the Forks Visitor Center about wolf-howl nights near La Push. Be sure to make a broody playlist for the drive — something moody and haunting. Or just listen to Twilight’s soundtrack on repeat and call it good.