Peace Arch Historical State Park

Peace Arch Historical State Park: International Symbol of Peace at the U.S.-Canada Border

Peace Arch Historical State Park in Blaine celebrates the world’s longest unguarded border with the iconic 67-foot Peace Arch that rises from manicured gardens directly on the international boundary between the United States and Canada. This unique 19-acre park, jointly managed with British Columbia’s Peace Arch Provincial Park, offers visitors the rare opportunity to walk freely between two countries while exploring one of the world’s first international peace parks, featuring over 10,000 flowers planted annually, spectacular views of Semiahmoo Bay, and the powerful symbol of peaceful cooperation between nations.

Peace Arch Historical State Park Fast Facts

Park Overview

Peace Arch Historical State Park stands as a unique testament to international cooperation, where visitors can literally walk between two countries while celebrating over a century of peaceful U.S.-Canadian relations. The park centers around the magnificent 67-foot Peace Arch, constructed in 1921 through the vision of prominent road builder and humanitarian Sam Hill, who purchased property in both countries specifically for this monument to peace. The arch commemorates the Treaty of Ghent (1814) and the Rush-Bagot Agreement (1817), which provided for peaceful resolution of disputes and established the unguarded border that defines North American international relations.

The park’s horticultural displays represent a living symbol of cooperation, with both countries maintaining stunning floral flag gardens and more than 10,000 flowers planted annually across vast lawns and themed garden areas. The unique international character allows visitors to explore both sides of the border within park boundaries without passport requirements, creating an extraordinary experience where families can picnic in two countries simultaneously while enjoying spectacular views of Point Roberts, Vancouver Island, and the Gulf Islands.

Activities & Recreation

• Walking through international gardens with seasonal flower displays and interpretive panels featuring audio presentations
• Historical exploration of the Peace Arch interior and surrounding monuments with guided tours during peak season
• Photography at one of North America’s most iconic international landmarks with mountain and ocean backdrops
• Picnicking in vast lawn areas with views spanning two countries and multiple scenic waterways
• Playground activities for children in a unique international setting with swing sets and play fields

Facilities & Amenities

Peace Arch Historical State Park offers comprehensive facilities designed for international visitors and special events. The centerpiece American Kitchen provides a premium rental facility accommodating 85 people indoors and up to 300 people for combined grounds events, featuring views of the Peace Arch, Gulf Islands, and surrounding waterways. Seventy-nine unsheltered picnic tables, including ADA-accessible options, are available first-come, first-served throughout the park’s expansive grounds. Modern restroom facilities, drinking water, parking areas, and a 0.6-mile hiking trail complete the amenities. The park features automated Discover Pass stations for convenient access, while interpretive panels with audio provide historical context throughout the grounds.

Camping & Accommodations

Peace Arch Historical State Park operates as a day-use facility and does not offer camping accommodations. Visitors seeking overnight stays can access nearby options including Birch Bay State Park, which provides 147 standard campsites and 20 partial hookup sites accommodating RVs up to 60 feet long. Larrabee State Park offers additional camping with 51 standard sites, 26 full hookup sites, and eight primitive hiker-biker sites. Both parks accept reservations through Washington State Parks’ online system or by calling (888) CAMPOUT, with some sites available first-come, first-served during winter months.

Planning Your Visit

Peace Arch Historical State Park requires a Discover Pass for vehicle access, available as annual passes ($45) or day passes ($10) through automated stations at the park. The unique international character means visitors can explore both U.S. and Canadian sides of the park without passports, though crossing park boundaries into either country requires proper documentation and customs clearance. Peak visitation occurs during summer months when horticultural displays reach their finest, though the park’s year-round operation allows for off-season visits with fewer crowds. The American Kitchen facility requires advance reservations through the park at (360) 332-8221, making it popular for weddings, corporate events, and family reunions with international flair.

What to Bring & Know

• Valid identification if planning to explore beyond park boundaries into either country
• Camera equipment for capturing the iconic Peace Arch and international garden displays
• Picnic supplies to take advantage of extensive lawn areas and scenic picnic tables
• Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the 0.6-mile trail and garden areas
• Weather-appropriate clothing as the park sits near Semiahmoo Bay with potential coastal breezes

Final Word

Peace Arch Historical State Park delivers an unparalleled international experience where the 67-foot Peace Arch stands as a beacon of peaceful cooperation, allowing visitors to celebrate the unique friendship between the United States and Canada in one of the world’s most beautiful border settings.