Forks, Washington Home of "Twilight" Vampires

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"Twilight" Self-Guided Tour of Bella and Edward's Home Town

Port Angeles and Forks, WA are "Twilight" havens for teenagers after the movie came out right before Thanksgiving. Forks is a quaint old logging town, on the Washington Coast. Surrounded by forests, the La Push Indian Reservation, National Forests and Rivers. Bald Eagles, Deer, Otter, and a host of other wildlife are abundant in this area. This area of the Olympic Peninsula is one of the rainiest areas of the United States, and is just beautiful.

This year the Stephenie Meyers Day Twilight Celebrations will be the Week-end of Sept. 13-14, 2009.

Driving the Olympic Pennisula for a Self-Guided "Twilight" tour 

Port Angeles and Forks, WA

We left Tacoma early in the morning for Port Angeles and Forks, WA, intent on going to the various places that were mentioned in the "Twilight Books" by Stephenie Meyer. November is usually cold, overcast, and rainy, but as luck would have it, the weather was beautiful. The sun was out, although the weather fluctuated between 32 and 43 degrees the whole day. We drove through some of the most beautiful country, with flowing waterfalls on the side of the road, lakes, forests, and sometimes the most magical lighting filtering through the miles of forest along the road. We saw deer, hawks, a beaver, sea otters, a large white owl, and more squirrels than I could count. The ride was beautiful.

In Port Angeles the shopkeepers were very friendly and helpful at directing us to the Lincoln Theater, the Restaurant where Bella and Edward ate, the Gottschalk's where she bought her prom dress, etc. Of course we had to take pictures, and the day was perfect for it.

From Port Angeles the ride to Forks was spectacular. Of course I heard from the kids that this was the road that Edward drove around 100 miles an hour on going home. Apparently Vampires can drive faster than we did, as it took us about an hour or so. Waterfalls and forest on the left side of our windy road , and a beautiful lake on the right side we drove towards our destination- Edward and Bella's home, Forks.

You will pass the road to the La Push on the Quileute Indian Reservation about 12 miles from Forks, and I suggest you go there first, we didn't, and had to back track. We wanted to go to First Beach where another character from the Book, Jacob, supposedly lived. The kids were pointing out homes that they thought he might have lived in, and played as we made our way down to First Beach (there are a couple other Beaches, Second and Third Beaches). But it was First Beach, littered with driftwood and huge trees that had washed up on shore that was our destination. A small fishing fleet, 3 or 4 sea otters, and one lone fisherman in his boat were what greeted us at we parked and took in the magnificent sights. A Photographers Paradise with James Island a little off the coast, miles of driftwood, and the misty sky seeming to change with each wave that crashed onto the outcroppings.

After spending about an hour at La Push we drove back to Forks. For anyone that is doing a "Twilight" tour here are a couple hints:

1. As you enter Forks on the right is a lighted sign that says Welcome to Forks. There is a small ramp to walk up to the sign for anyone wanting to take a picture.

2. The Cullen House is next door to the Police Station; the two story home to the left. It is a beautiful bed and breakfast, and they are used to the "Twilight" tourists and have a whiteboard where they tell you where the Cullen Family is that day.

3. There is a brand new store in town selling "Twilight" merchandise on the main street. The store is appropriately called "Twilight."

4. At the Hospital-Dr. Cullen has his own Parking Space (picture op for kids) just be careful to leave room for cars to go around you.

5. The Chamber of Commerce is on the left as you are leaving town and this is where Bella's truck is. The Chamber has some fantastic "Twilight" souvenirs for sale, and a book where they have collected letters, cards, and various Bella items of interest. The Forks Chamber has also made up a Trivia Quiz for "Twilight" enthusiasts.

We lucked out on our trip, with both Weather and pre-planning. We were able to see and do many of the things some tours are charging over $1,500 to do, and end our day with a beautiful sunset in Kalaloch, another wonderful area of the Olympic Peninsula.

Twilight Tour Bella and Edwards home  

A few pictures from the Twilight Tour. Also FYI the Cullen Home is next door to the Police Station, and they have a Whiteboard that they change frequently to tell you where the Cullen Family is.

La Push 1st Beach Driftwood by Kathy McGraw

La Push 1st Beach Dr...

First Beach Driftwood by Kathy McGraw

First Beach Driftwoo...

Forks Cullen Home by Kathy McGraw

Forks Cullen Home

Forks Lincoln Theatre by Kathy McGraw

Forks Lincoln Theatr...

La Push First Beach by Kathy McGraw

La Push First Beach

Is it raining today in the Rainest City in the US? 

Check the Weather before you go-click the link

5 things you shouldn't miss in Port Angeles and Forks, WA area 

Five Things not to miss whether you're doing a "Twilight" Tour or just visiting the area.
1. Port Angeles- Bald Eagles live in this area so if you go off the beaten path look for these magnificent birds.
2. Rain Forests- A must for anyone that hasn't been to the area., and even those that have.
3. Architecture- If you like old buildings and history, walk around town it is a treat.
4. La Push- Camping and Hiking Paradise don't forget to go to the end to First Beach. There's a nice little Tribal Store with Souvenirs and Native Wear right before you get to First Beach.
5. Forks Chamber of Commerce- Everything you wanted to know about "Twilight", the area, and the books you can get at the Chamber. And don't forget to look at the back of Bella's Truck!

Tips on Buying Twilight Souveniers #1

Port Angeles has some unique Souvenirs including T-Shirts made by a local Artist. Several of the Bookstores also have souvenirs. Well worth it to buy your Twilight Souvenirs here.

In Forks the Twilight Store, on the main road in, has a variety of Souvenirs as does the Chamber of Commerce at the end of town. Try the ice cream shop and the Variety Store also. Bumper Stickers and T shirts are at the Chamber along with an absolutely must see book of letters to Bella.

Tips on Buying Twilight Souvenirs #2

The Market as you enter the La Push area is a must stop, although they sell out of their souvenirs quickly. If you're lucky you can find hand carved Wolves and bracelets like Bella wore. While there you should also go into the Restaurant for the Twilight treat. Very friendly people, and there is also an RV park next to the Market.

Traveling further towards First Beach is the Tribal Store, look for the Totem Pole. Inside they also have souvenirs and you can buy other Tribal Merchandise.

Current Updates for Twilight Activities in Forks 



Join the Summer School in Forks, (geared towards adults)

A Twilight Symposium Forks High School June 25-28, 2009 for the only literary symposium, anywhere, dedicated to Stephenie Meyer's Twilight Saga. More info here: http://www.litfanevents.org/summerinforks/index.html

September 13-14,2009 Bella's Birthday Bash ......loads of activities all week-end. Last year was a big hit, and this year it should be even bigger.

January 18- Casting is apparently pretty much complete except for a few spots for "young" Native Americans (or look alikes) for the sequel to Twilight, "Blue Moon." Casting ends Jan. 30th.

So far Celbrity Guests for the Chicago Twilight Convention in February include:
Kellan Lutz aka Emmet Cullen and Ashley Greene aka Alice Cullen

Test your knowledge: Twilight Fun Facts 

If you go to the Forks Chamber be prepared to have some fun with a little "Twilight" Quiz. These questions are pretty easy compared to some of the ones they'll ask you....it's a lot of fun for sure.

What city was Bella originally from:
a) Chicago, IL
b) Atlanta, GA
c) Phoenix, AZ
d) Seattle, WA

Which Character is a 'tracker" and tracks Bella to kill her?
a) Jasper
b) Jacob
c) James
d)Emmet

How old were the stars during the shooting of the Movie?
a)Pattinson 22, and Stewart 17
b) Pattison 23, and Stewart 19
c) Pattison 18, and Stewart 17
d) Pattison 22, and Stewart 19

Did Bella ever turn into a Vampire?
a) yes
b) no

What was the name of Bella & Edwards child?
a) Jillian
b)Edward
c) Renesmee
d) Johandanika

What sport did Bella's stepfather play?
a) soccer
b) football
c) golf
d) baseball

More Next time....if you want the answers just post a comment on which one you want :) I don't want to spoil it for someone else by putting them here :)

"Twilight" Lensroll 

Other Twilight Lenses of Interest
Book Review & Other Links
Twilight Merchandise in addition to books and interesting Book Review
"Twilight" and Forks Souveniers
If you are looking for "Twilight" Souvenirs or "Twilight" Merchandise look here.

Stephanie Meyers Books 

Breaking Dawn (The Twilight Saga, Book 4)

Amazon Price: $12.64 (as of 07/05/2009) Buy Now
List Price: $22.99
Used Price: $10.00

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The Host: A Novel

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List Price: $25.99
Used Price: $11.99

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The Twilight Saga: The Official Guide

Amazon Price: $14.95 (as of 07/05/2009) Buy Now
List Price: $21.99
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Not yet published

Amanecer (Breaking Dawn, Spanish Edition)

Amazon Price: $13.59 (as of 07/05/2009) Buy Now
List Price: $19.99
Used Price: $9.99

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Twilight

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Used Price: $2.35

Edward Cut-out  

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Other Great Twilight Lenses 

Guestbook for your comments :) 

I hope you enjoyed the tour, and would love to hear your comments.

rms wrote...

Wow I'd love to go here.

ReplyPosted June 24, 2009

KathyMcGraw wrote...

Thanks Tipi..I enjoyed my trip and writing this was almost as much fun. I am also glad we connected on Twitter.

ReplyPosted June 11, 2009

Tipi wrote...

This is an awesome lens! I'm so glad I noticed you on Twitter this morning and decided to see who you are...followed your blog over to you lensmaster bio page.
I'm impressed with your writing style and the light that you are able to shed upon this topic in the way that you did! - Very good and interesting!
Susie

ReplyPosted June 06, 2009

KathyMcGraw wrote...

in reply to kathmypal Yes, the movie wasn't filmed in Forks....and during our trip we were going to the school where the movie was made, but missed it. Thank you so much for your comment..every little bit adds to the experience :)

ReplyPosted June 05, 2009

Lensmaster

kathmypal

Actually parts of Twilight were filmed in Washington. Kalama, Washington to be exact. I am the Business teacher at Kalama High School (exit 30 on I-5) and several parts of the movie were filmed here at our school. We also had several students in the movie as extras. The actual parking lot, school building, walkways, grass courtyard, walk to the woods, batting cages, and hospital scenes were all filmed right here in Kalama. The hospital scene was actually contructed in our wrestling room. And we have one piece of memorabilia that was left behind by the film crew out back on our weight room. The Cultural Diversity sign that was in the movie. We will soon have an information and souvenir page off of our school website (www.kalama.k12.wa.us) soon! So look forward to checking that out. If you feel so inclined stop by, get your picture taken in the parking lot in front of the school building that Bella and Edward actually hung out and Bella almost got killed in!

ReplyPosted June 05, 2009

 
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