yakima travel guide

Top Things to Do in Yakima, Washington – Ultimate Guide

Yakima, Washington offers a variety of attractions and things to do, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a unique Pacific Northwest experience. From cultural landmarks to outdoor adventures, Yakima has something for everyone to enjoy.

Key Takeaways:

Visit the Yakima Valley Museum to uncover the rich history and culture of the region.
Explore the serene Yakima Area Arboretum and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.
Discover outdoor adventures on the Cowiche Canyon Trail , Yakima Greenway , and Yakima River Canyon .
Indulge in delicious fresh fruits at Johnson Orchards , a local fruit farm.
Experience the vibrant cultural scene at the Capitol Theater and Yakama Nation Cultural Center .

Yakima Valley Museum: Uncover the History and Culture

Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Yakima at the Yakima Valley Museum , a captivating institution that showcases the heritage of the region. Located in the heart of downtown Yakima, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the past through its extensive collection of exhibits and artifacts.

Step inside and be transported back in time as you explore the museum’s various galleries. From the Native American history of the Yakama Nation to the early pioneer days and the development of the agricultural industry, the Yakima Valley Museum covers it all. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about the local heritage, you’ll find something to pique your interest here.

The museum also hosts special exhibitions throughout the year, offering visitors a chance to delve deeper into specific aspects of Yakima’s history and culture. Check the museum’s website for the latest updates on upcoming exhibits and events.

Discover Yakima’s Past

Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking to learn more about the region you’re visiting, a visit to the Yakima Valley Museum is a must. Immerse yourself in the captivating stories and vibrant culture that define Yakima’s past, and gain a deeper appreciation for this charming city in the heart of Washington state.

Yakima Area Arboretum: Enjoy Nature’s Beauty

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and embrace the tranquility of nature at the Yakima Area Arboretum , where lush gardens, scenic trails, and abundant wildlife await. This 46-acre oasis is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of Yakima, Washington.

As you stroll through the arboretum, you’ll be captivated by the beauty of its diverse plant life. From vibrant flowers and towering trees to exotic shrubs and native species, the arboretum boasts a rich collection of flora that provides a feast for the senses. Take in the fragrant scents, admire the vibrant colors, and get lost in the serenity of the surroundings.

The Yakima Area Arboretum is not only a feast for the eyes but also a sanctuary for wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for a variety of bird species, including majestic ospreys and colorful warblers, as you explore the trails. If you’re lucky, you may even spot deer grazing in the distance or catch a glimpse of a playful squirrel darting through the trees.

Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply seeking a tranquil spot to relax, the arboretum has something for everyone. Lace up your walking shoes and embark on one of the scenic trails that wind through the arboretum, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, find a shady spot to have a picnic or simply sit and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

Table: Activities at Yakima Area Arboretum

No matter the season, the Yakima Area Arboretum offers a welcome respite from the outside world, where visitors can connect with nature and find solace in its beauty. Whether you’re a local looking for a peaceful escape or a visitor exploring Yakima, be sure to make time for this hidden gem amidst the bustle of everyday life.

Outdoor Adventures: Explore Yakima’s Natural Wonders

For outdoor enthusiasts, Yakima is a playground of natural wonders, offering a plethora of hiking trails, biking routes, and scenic spots to explore and soak in the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. One of the top outdoor attractions in Yakima is the Cowiche Canyon Trail , a stunning trail that winds through a picturesque canyon, showcasing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Whether you’re an avid hiker or a casual nature lover, this trail is a must-visit destination.

The Yakima Greenway is another outdoor gem in the area, providing a network of paved trails along the Yakima River. Perfect for walking, jogging, or biking, the Yakima Greenway offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, allowing visitors to connect with nature and enjoy the serene beauty of the river.

If you’re looking for a more adventurous outdoor experience, the Yakima River Canyon is the place to be. This scenic canyon offers an array of activities such as fishing, kayaking, and river rafting. As you navigate the river, you’ll encounter stunning rock formations, wildlife, and tranquil stretches of water that make for a truly memorable outdoor adventure.

A Table of Outdoor Activities in Yakima, Washington

Outdoor adventures in Yakima are not only thrilling but also provide a unique opportunity to connect with nature and experience the beauty of the region. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful hike, a scenic bike ride, or an exhilarating river adventure, Yakima has it all. Don’t miss the chance to explore these natural wonders and create unforgettable memories in the heart of the Pacific Northwest.

Johnson Orchards: Indulge in Fresh Fruits

Delight your taste buds with the freshest and juiciest fruits at Johnson Orchards , a family-owned farm that invites visitors to experience the sweetness of Yakima’s local harvest. Located in the heart of Yakima Valley, Johnson Orchards is a beloved destination for fruit enthusiasts and those seeking a farm-to-table experience.

At Johnson Orchards, you can stroll through the orchards and witness the vibrant colors and fragrant aromas of the various fruit trees. From crisp apples and succulent cherries to plump peaches and luscious pears, the farm offers a wide variety of seasonal fruits for you to pick and enjoy.

But the fruit-picking experience is just the beginning. Johnson Orchards also features a farm store where you can purchase freshly harvested fruits, homemade jams and jellies, locally produced honey, and other delectable treats. Indulge in a tasting of their flavorful products and take some home to savor the flavors of Yakima long after your visit.

Whether you’re searching for the perfect apple for baking, cherries for homemade preserves, or simply want to enjoy the experience of picking your own fruit, Johnson Orchards offers a delightful and authentic taste of Yakima’s agricultural heritage. Don’t miss the chance to savor the flavors of Yakima at this charming fruit farm.

Cultural Exploration: Capitol Theater and Yakama Nation Cultural Center

Immerse yourself in Yakima’s rich cultural heritage by attending captivating performances at the historic Capitol Theater and exploring the art, traditions, and history of the Yakama Nation at the cultural center. The Capitol Theater , built in 1920, is a stunning example of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and has been a cultural hub in Yakima for over a century. Step inside the beautifully restored theater and be transported to a world of music, dance, and theater performances that cater to a wide range of interests and tastes.

Capitol Theater

Take a seat in the elegant auditorium and enjoy a show by local and international artists. The theater hosts a diverse range of performances, including Broadway musicals, classical concerts, contemporary dance performances, and comedy shows. With its intimate atmosphere and excellent acoustics, the Capitol Theater offers an unforgettable experience for art enthusiasts and culture seekers.

Yakama Nation Cultural Center

For a deeper understanding of Yakima’s indigenous culture, head to the Yakama Nation Cultural Center . This educational institution showcases the rich heritage of the Yakama Nation through exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays. Learn about the Yakama people’s history, traditional practices, and artistic expressions. The center also hosts special events and workshops that allow visitors to engage with Yakama art, music, and storytelling firsthand.

Whether you’re a fan of the performing arts or interested in indigenous culture, the Capitol Theater and Yakama Nation Cultural Center offer unique opportunities to embrace Yakima’s vibrant cultural scene. Immerse yourself in the beauty and creativity that Yakima has to offer, and discover the stories that shape this remarkable Pacific Northwest community.

Nightlife and Dining: Yakima’s Best Restaurants and Entertainment

When the sun sets, Yakima comes alive with an array of dining options and entertainment venues that cater to diverse tastes and guarantee a night of fun and flavor. Whether you’re in the mood for a cozy dinner with your loved ones or a vibrant night out with friends, Yakima has something for everyone.

For food enthusiasts, Yakima boasts a variety of restaurants that showcase the region’s culinary delights. From farm-to-table eateries to international cuisines, there is no shortage of options to satisfy your palate. Indulge in the succulent flavors of locally sourced ingredients at renowned establishments like The Cowiche Canyon Kitchen & Icehouse Bar, where you can enjoy a mouthwatering steak while sipping on a handcrafted cocktail.

If you’re looking for a night filled with entertainment and live performances, Yakima has got you covered. The Capitol Theater is a cultural gem that hosts a wide range of shows, including plays, musicals, and concerts. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and witness the prowess of talented artists from around the world.

In addition to its culinary and cultural offerings, Yakima also boasts a lively nightlife scene. From cozy pubs and taverns to trendy bars and clubs, there is a venue to suit every taste. Enjoy a refreshing craft beer at Bale Breaker Brewing Company, known for its innovative brews and inviting atmosphere. Or dance the night away at The Hop Nation Brewing Company, where you can groove to live music while sampling their delicious selection of beers.

“Yakima’s dining and nightlife scene never fails to impress. With its diverse range of restaurants and entertainment venues, there’s always something new to discover. Whether you’re a foodie, music lover, or simply looking for a great night out, Yakima has it all.”

So, when you find yourself in Yakima, make sure to explore the city’s vibrant nightlife and dining options. Whether you prefer a quiet dinner or an energetic night on the town, Yakima has the perfect spot to satisfy your cravings and create lasting memories.

Family-Friendly Activities: Fun for All Ages in Yakima

Yakima offers a host of family-friendly activities that promise endless fun and excitement for visitors of all ages, ensuring that everyone in the family will have a memorable experience. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural exploration, or simply want to indulge in delicious local produce, Yakima has something to offer for everyone.

Outdoor Adventures

For families who love the outdoors, Yakima provides numerous opportunities to explore and connect with nature. The Yakima Greenway offers scenic walking and biking trails, perfect for a leisurely family stroll or a bike ride. The Yakima River Canyon is another must-visit destination, offering breathtaking views, hiking trails, and picnic spots for the whole family to enjoy.

Cultural Exploration

Immerse your family in Yakima’s vibrant culture by visiting the Capitol Theater and Yakama Nation Cultural Center. The Capitol Theater hosts a variety of family-friendly events, including live performances, concerts, and theatrical productions, offering entertainment for all ages. At the Yakama Nation Cultural Center, you can learn about the rich history, traditions, and arts of the Yakama Nation through engaging exhibits and interactive displays.

Parks and Museums

Yakima is home to several parks and museums that cater to families. Franklin Park offers playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas, providing a perfect setting for a day of outdoor recreation. The Yakima Valley Museum is another must-visit attraction, where you can discover the history and culture of the region through engaging exhibits and interactive displays.

With its wide range of family-friendly activities, Yakima is a destination that caters to visitors of all ages. Whether you’re exploring the great outdoors, immersing yourself in local culture, or simply enjoying quality time with your loved ones, Yakima provides endless opportunities for fun and excitement. Plan your family trip to Yakima today and create lasting memories!

Yakima Wineries: Savor the Flavors of Wine Country

Embark on a wine lover’s journey through the picturesque vineyards and acclaimed wineries of Yakima, where exquisite wines and breathtaking landscapes combine to create an unforgettable experience. With its rich soil and ideal climate, Yakima, Washington has become a premier wine region, known for producing world-class wines that rival those from renowned wine destinations.

When exploring Yakima’s wineries, wine enthusiasts will have the opportunity to sample a diverse selection of varietals, including robust reds, crisp whites, and elegant rosés. Renowned wineries such as Two Mountain Winery and Owen Roe offer tastings of their award-winning creations, allowing visitors to savor the flavors and appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into each bottle.

As you venture through the vineyards, take in the stunning views of rolling hills, lush valleys, and cascading vineyards that stretch as far as the eye can see. Many wineries offer guided tours, providing insight into the winemaking process and the unique characteristics of the Yakima terroir. You can also indulge in gourmet food pairings, enhancing the tasting experience and complementing the exquisite wines.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or simply appreciate the finer things in life, Yakima’s wineries offer an idyllic setting to immerse yourself in the world of wine. Plan a visit to Yakima, Washington, and discover the flavors, beauty, and hospitality that make it a must-visit destination for wine lovers.

White Pass Ski Area: Winter Adventures on the Slopes

Hit the slopes and embrace the winter wonderland at White Pass Ski Area , a premier destination for snow sports enthusiasts seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures in the heart of Yakima. Nestled in the majestic Cascade Mountains, this ski area boasts breathtaking views and a variety of outdoor activities for all skill levels.

With over 1,400 acres of skiable terrain and an average annual snowfall of 350 inches, White Pass offers an exhilarating experience for skiers and snowboarders. From gentle beginner slopes to challenging black diamond runs, there’s something for everyone. Strap on your gear and carve your way down the powdery slopes, feeling the rush of the cold mountain air on your face.

In addition to downhill skiing and snowboarding, White Pass also offers opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and tubing. Glide through the tranquil snowy landscapes on cross-country trails or venture off the beaten path with a pair of snowshoes. For a thrilling ride, hop on a tube and zoom down the dedicated tubing lanes.

After a day on the slopes, relax and unwind at the lodge, complete with cozy fireplaces and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Indulge in a warm cup of cocoa or a delicious meal, replenishing your energy for another day of winter adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a beginner hitting the slopes for the first time, White Pass Ski Area promises an unforgettable winter getaway in Yakima.

Q: What are the top things to do in Yakima, Washington?

A: Some of the top activities in Yakima include visiting the Yakima Valley Museum, exploring the Yakima Area Arboretum, hiking the Cowiche Canyon Trail, and sampling the fruit at Johnson Orchards. Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy the Yakima Greenway, Yakima River Canyon, and White Pass Ski Area . Cultural attractions include the Capitol Theater and Yakama Nation Cultural Center.

Q: What attractions can I visit in Yakima, Washington?

A: Yakima offers a variety of attractions to visit, such as the Yakima Valley Museum, Yakima Area Arboretum, Johnson Orchards, Capitol Theater, and Yakama Nation Cultural Center. You can also explore the scenic beauty of Cowiche Canyon Trail, Yakima Greenway, and Yakima River Canyon.

Q: What outdoor activities can I enjoy in Yakima, Washington?

A: Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities like hiking the Cowiche Canyon Trail, exploring the Yakima Greenway, and marveling at the beauty of Yakima River Canyon. During winter, you can also indulge in skiing and snowboarding at the White Pass Ski Area.

Q: Where can I taste fresh fruits in Yakima, Washington?

A: Johnson Orchards is a popular destination in Yakima where you can sample and pick fresh fruits. It offers a delightful farm-to-table experience with a range of delicious produce.

Q: Are there any cultural attractions in Yakima, Washington?

A: Yes, Yakima boasts cultural attractions such as the Capitol Theater, which hosts a variety of events and performances, and the Yakama Nation Cultural Center, where you can learn about the rich heritage of the Yakama Nation.

Q: What are some family-friendly activities in Yakima, Washington?

A: Yakima offers several family-friendly activities, including parks, museums, and attractions suitable for all ages. Families can enjoy exploring the Yakima Valley Museum, visiting the Yakima Area Arboretum, or spending time in the local parks.

Q: Can I visit wineries in Yakima, Washington?

A: Absolutely! Yakima is renowned for its wineries and vineyards. You can savor the flavors of wine country by visiting the various wineries in the area, indulging in wine tastings, and taking vineyard tours.

Q: What winter activities can I enjoy in Yakima, Washington?

A: During winter, you can head to the White Pass Ski Area for thrilling skiing and snowboarding adventures. The area also offers other winter activities like snowshoeing and tubing.

Discover Fun Things to Do in Ames, Iowa – Your Ultimate Guide
Uncover Fun: Things to Do in Waldorf Maryland – Top Picks!
Join Us & Attend the vibrant Central Washington State Fair in Yakima.
Experience Bliss: Attend a concert at the renowned Metro in Wrigleyville, Illinois.

Yakima travel guide

Yakima tourism | yakima guide, you're going to love yakima.

With a population of 91 067, Yakima is a must-see destination in Washington, United States. It is among the most popular tourist destinations in the country. Yakima deserves at least 2 full days for you to see its main sights.

Where to Eat in Yakima

If you’re looking for affordable options, E.Z Tiger (222 E Chestnut Ave) and Zesta Cucina (5110 Tieton Drive) are great picks.

When to visit Yakima

Looking for warm weather? Then head to Yakima in July, when the average temperature is 69.8 °F, and the highest can go up to 87.8 °F. The coldest month, on the other hand, is December, when it can get as cold as 21.2 °F, with an average temperature of 28.4 °F. You’re likely to see more rain in December, when precipitation is around 1.5″. In contrast, July is usually the driest month of the year in Yakima, with an average rainfall of 0.2″.

How to Get to Yakima

When flying to Yakima, you’ll arrive at Yakima Air Terminal (YKM), which is located 5 km from the city center. The shortest domestic flight to Yakima departs from Seattle and takes around 43m.

Another option to get to Yakima is to pick up a car rental from Seattle, which is about 178 km from Yakima. You’ll find branches of Fox and Sixt, among others, in Seattle.

Yakima’s bus station is located 0.9 km from the city center.

Airports near Yakima

Airlines serving yakima, where to stay in popular areas of yakima, most booked hotels in yakima, renting a car in yakima.

Renting a car in Yakima costs $84 per day, on average, or $169 if you want to rent if for 2 days.

Expect to pay $3.63 per gallon in Yakima (average price from the past 30 days). Depending on the size of your rental car, filling up the tank will cost between $43.61 and $58.14. The most frequently booked car type in Yakima is Mini (Chrysler Pacifica or similar). If you’re looking to save money, though, keep in mind that Standard rental cars (Chevrolet Camaro or similar) are, on average, 44% cheaper than other rental car types in the city.

Best car rental deals in Yakima

Intermediate

5 Adults, 3 Bags

Supplier choice

5 Adults, 5 Bags

Search Please fill out this field.
Newsletters
United States
More to Explore
Things To Do

12 Best Things to Do in the Yakima Valley of Washington State

Alam_Chandra / Getty Images

Known for having 300 days of sunshine, the Yakima Valley is also known as Washington state's wine country as its perfect for growing grapes. However, the Yakima Valley offers visitors more than just great food and drink and friendly hospitality; it also has several history museums, nature trails, outdoor activities, and exciting music, dance, and theater performances. Whether you're a fan of the great outdoors or you'd rather spend your day inside a climate-controlled exhibit, the Yakima Valley has something for everyone to enjoy year-round.

Walk Along the Yakima Greenway

TripSavvy / Alisha McDarris

Set just east of theCascade Mountain Range, the Yakima Valley is sunny and scenic, perfect for all sorts of outdoor exploration during your trip. One of the most popular destinations for backpackers and hikers, though, is the Yakima Greenway, which features 15 miles of improved trails along the Yakima River. Walk, run, or bike along the path as you pass through parks and by quiet ponds and busy boat ramps or stop to watch the wildlife instead.

Play a Round of Golf

Apple Tree Resort

The sunny terrain of Eastern Washington state is the perfect setting for unique, professional golf courses. If you want to spend some time trying to improve your swing, head over to one of the many courses in the Yakima area for a round of golf. One of the most popular courses, the Apple Tree Golf Course , is located at the Apple Tree Resort in the city of Yakima and known for its apple-shaped floating green. Alternatively, visitors can also stop by the lesser-known Suntides Golf Course , which features an 18-hole course and an RV Park.

Sample Fresh Produce and Local Cuisines

Cowiche Canyon Kitchen & Icehouse Bar

You can spend days tasting your way around Yakima Valley, which is one of the richest agricultural areas in North America. Be sure to stop by local farmer's markets and roadside farm stands to pick up a selection of the season's fresh offerings of grapes, hops, and apples.

Top restaurants where you can try local dishes in the Yakima Valley include the Cowiche Canyon Kitchen, the Carousel Restaurant & Bistro, and Zesta Cucina. Additionally, food- and wine-themed festivals are also popular in the Yakima Valley throughout the year. Stop by the annual Cinco de Mayo Fiesta Grande in May for Mexican cuisine or the Catch the Crush event in October to crush your own grapes at vineyards across the region.

Tour the Wine Country

Steven Morris Photography / Getty Images

Over 70 wineries are scattered across the Yakima Valley, and many offer tasting rooms and patios where guests can relax and enjoy the fruits of the region throughout the year—but especially during the fall and summer harvests.

Take a trip down Interstate 82 from Yakima to Benton City and stop along the way to experience wines from each of the region's five wine areas: Yakima, Rattlesnake Hills, Columbia Gorge, Prosser, and Red Mountain. Each region has its own varieties of wine, so you'll have to stop in each if you really want to get a taste of Washington's wine country.

Discover Native History at the Yakama Nation Museum

Yakama Nation Cultural Center

The Yakama tribe, the valley's native people, continue to make an impact on the region to this day through community organization, engagement, and events. Visit the Yakama Nation Museum and Cultural Center to view exhibits and artifacts that illuminate their history, culture, and traditions before and after the founding of the United States. The facility also includes a gift shop, a movie theater, and a library full of literature about the region and its people.

Enjoy Musical and Theatrical Performances

The Capitol Theatre

After spending a day on the river or touring the countryside, sit back and enjoy a live performance at one of two theaters and performance halls in the Yakima Valley: The Capitol Theatre and the Seasons Performance Hall in the city of Yakima.

The Capitol Theatre is a historic venue hosts a range of diversions—from Broadway-style musicals to lectures to performances by the Yakima Symphony Orchestra. Meanwhile, the Seasons Performance Hall , located in a historic and eclectic church building, is an intimate performance space that hosts live music concerts, dinner shows, and other special events throughout the year.

Take a Ride on the Yakima Valley Trolleys

Yakima Valley Trolleys

The city of Yakima preserves the last remaining early 20th-century interurban electric railroad. Take a short trip on the Yakima Valley Trolleys, which run routes between Yakima and Selah on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from Memorial Day through Labor Day each year. After your ride back to Yakima, stop by the museum at West Third Avenue and West Pine Street to learn about the history of this antiquated method of transportation and conservation efforts for the trolley.

Immerse Yourself in Nature

Yakima Area Arboretum

While much of the Yakima Valley is covered in uninterrupted nature, there are two places you should definitely check out if you're a fan of flowers, trees, and other plant life of the region: the Hillside Desert Botanical Gardens and the Yakima Area Arboretum.

The botanical gardens are a well-established facility that focuses on plants that thrive in the Pacific Northwest's climates —including high deserts. After checking out the experimental gardens, you can also purchase plants for your own landscaping needs, but appointments are required for visits. Alternatively, stop by the Yakima Area Arboretum & Jewett Interpretive Center , a "living plant and tree museum" that covers 46 acres with gardens and natural areas to wander and explore.

Learn About Local Culture at the Yakima Valley Museum

Witold Skrypczak / Getty Images

Local history and culture are the focus of the Yakima Valley Museum, which offers an intriguing variety of exhibits. The permanent collection includes Native American artifacts, regional art, homestead era items, and natural history exhibits. The museum's special exhibition galleries change topics over time and can address all sorts of topics of local interest, from Sasquatch to bicycling to movie cowboys. A section of the museum facility includes a historic soda fountain, preserved and now open as the Rooster Diner and Ice Cream Shop.

Take a Trip to the Northern Pacific Railway Museum

Nils Öberg / WikiCommons / CC BY-SA 3.0

The Northern Pacific Railway was one of the first transcontinental railroads in the United States, which operated routes across the northern portion of the country from Minnesota to the Pacific Northwest, including the town of Toppenish in the Yakima Valley.

To learn more about the history of this important mode of transit while visiting the valley, head to the Northern Pacific Railway Museum. Located in Toppenish is a Northern Pacific Railway depot that was built in 1911, this Yakima Valley museum preserves the glory days of the American railroad. An old steam engine and several vintage rail cars are part of the museum's collection.

Hop Over to the American Hop Museum

Westend61 / Getty Images

The Yakima Valley is one of the world's premier hop-growing regions, producing over 75-percent of the hops grown in the United States. The American Hop Museum is located in the historic Trimble Brothers Creamery building in Toppenish. Their collection includes equipment, artifacts, and memorabilia related to the hops and the hop industry. This is a must-see for beer aficionados and anyone interested in craft brewing.

Marvel at the Toppenish Murals

Chris Ballance / Flickr / CC BY 2.0

While you're in Toppenish, don't miss out on one of this small city's most unique features: the Toppenish Murals. What started as one mural in the middle of town has now spread across town to include over 70 large-scale paintings, most of which depict scenes from local history. Take a walking tour of Toppenish and see how many you can count yourself.

Travel Guide

Yakima valley's official travel guide.

Yakima Valley Adventures Await

The Yakima Valley Official Travel Guide™ is the single best resource for planning your visit to the Yakima Valley. Weve packed it full of maps, trip ideas and details about local businesses and things to do and see all around the valley. Whether youre heading off to taste your way through wine country, taking a tour of farm fresh orchards and produce stands, or trying to lose yourself in the mountains and rivers, our guide will help you make most of your Yakima Valley visit!

Take a look through our digital guide and share with your family and friends for fun times ahead!

Pick Up a Yakima Valley Travel Guide or Have a Copy Mailed to You

If youre planning a visit and live outside the greater Yakima Valley, you can request a printed travel guide to be mailed via the form below. If you live within the greater Yakima Valley, please visit one of the five convenient locations below to pick up a copy.

Yakima Valley Visitor Information Center (on Fair Avenue)
Yakima Valley Info Center and Gift Shop (at the Valley Mall)
Yakima Convention Center (Main Office)
Yakima's Ship Shop (West Valley)
Yakima Valley Museum (Central Yakima)

Request a printed copy of the Travel Guide to be mailed to you

Address Line 2:

Would you like to receive our weekly events email? yes no

Please confirm this key: SSJM7

Must See Yakima Valley Stops

Get inspiration for your next yakima valley vacation, stay connected.

By signing up, you agree to our terms .

Get Your Free Official Yakima Valley Travel Guide

The Official Yakima Valley Travel Guide™ is the single best resource for planning your visit to the Yakima Valley. Packed full of maps, trip ideas and details of the many attractions, it will be your constant companion during your stay.

Get a Free Travel Guide

BOOK A ROOM
Meetings & Groups

Travel Guide

Things to Do
Best Hotels
Things to See
Best Restaurants
Planning a Trip

Things to Do in Yakima

150 miles SE of Seattle, 92 miles NW of Richland, 195 miles SW of Spokane

Considering the fact that Washington is well known for its plentiful rainfall, it may seem hard to believe that eastern Washington's Yakima Valley receives only about 8 inches of rain per year. Located 3 hours from Seattle, Yakima is in another world -- the sunny side of the Cascades. Despite the lack of rainfall, the area has become one of Washington's main apple-growing regions. Hops, used in making beer, are another important crop in the Yakima Valley, but it is grapes and the wines produced from those grapes that have been bringing the valley international attention for many years.

The city of Yakima lies at the western end of the Yakima Valley winery region, while at the eastern end is the Tri-Cities area comprising Richland, Kennewick, and Pasco. Although the Tri-Cities area has its share of wineries, it is best known for the Hanford Site, the huge military reservation where the first nuclear bomb was developed. Today, Hanford is notorious for its many nuclear contamination sites, which luckily are well removed from any towns or vineyards, so there's no need to worry about glow-in-the-dark wine.

Despite the many wineries in the Yakima Valley, the region has never really caught on as a wine-touring destination and it has very few B&Bs or memorable restaurants. This is due to several factors. First, the wineries begin more than 20 miles away from Yakima, and so the city isn't exactly an ideal base for exploring this wine country. Also, the small towns scattered along the length of the Yakima Valley are basically farm towns and not what you would call quaint. In fact, Sunnyside has stockyards and their stench permeates the town. Vineyards are just part of the picture here, and you'll have to drive through a lot of unattractive scenery to reach the wineries. Nevertheless, a visit to the Yakima Valley is worthwhile to familiarize yourself with Washington wine.

All Regions
Australia & South Pacific
Caribbean & Atlantic
Central & South America
Middle East & Africa
North America
Washington, D.C.
San Francisco
New York City
Los Angeles
Arts & Culture
Beach & Water Sports
Local Experiences
Food & Drink
Outdoor & Adventure
National Parks
Winter Sports
Travelers with Disabilities
Family & Kids
All Slideshows
Hotel Deals
Car Rentals
Flight Alerts
Credit Cards & Loyalty Points
Cruise News
Entry Requirements & Customs
Car, Bus, Rail News
Money & Fees
Health, Insurance, Security
Packing & Luggage
-Arthur Frommer Online
-Passportable
Road Trip Guides
Alaska Made Easy
Great Vacation Ideas in the U.S.A.
Best of the Caribbean
Best of Mexico
Cruise Inspiration
Best Places to Go 2024

TravelRaval

Travel is Love

Best Things to Do in Yakima (Washington)

TravelRaval » Blog » Best Things to Do in Yakima (Washington)

Y akima is a fruit-producing community with a broad variety of attractions and things to do. Nestled on the lush soil of the Yakima River Valley 60 miles southeast of Mount Rainier National Park,. t leads the nation in agricultural output. As a result the local culture and society is shaped by the food that is cultivated here.

Yakima attractions appeal to nature lovers, history fans, and anybody searching for an adventure, luring both tourists and long-term inhabitants. Bike trips on the Yakima Greenway and treks on the Cowiche Canyon Trail are popular local excursions. The Yakima River Canyon also draws people north of town with local adventures. White Pass Ski Resort and Mount Rainier National Park, which are a little further away, both provide for memorable day outings.

Yakima has a number of cultural attractions as well. There are indoor activities as well, such as museums, orchards, and old theaters. Our list of the top things to do in Yakima will help you learn more about the greatest attractions in the city.

Explore Mount Rainier National Park

Go hiking on the cowiche canyon trail, walk through yakima area arboretum, tour the yakama nation cultural center and museum, fulfill your outdoor pursuits at yakima sportsman state park, at the yakima valley museum, delve deep into history, enjoy skiing at white pass ski area, fort simcoe historical state park transports you back in time, visit bale breaker brewing company and sample their handcrafted beers, walk through the yakima greenway, attend a performance at the capitol theater, take part in the central washington state fair, take a tour of gilbert cellars’ winery, johnson orchards offers a fresh menu, have fun at the yakima farmers’ market, take a trip to the yakima river canyon, tour the central washington agricultural museum, wineries express invites you to have a wine tour, participate in a fun event at the famous yakima valley sundome, north metropolitan kitchen & lounge, antojitos mexicanos, barrel house, oxford suites yakima, hilton garden inn yakima downtown, ledgestone hotel, for rustic luxury, holiday inn yakima, an ihg hotel, when are you planning a yakima valley trip, best and fun things to do in yakima wa.

Yakima is ideally located for day trips or overnight excursions to the majestic Mount Rainier, Washington State’s highest peak.

Yakima is 70 miles from the charming Stevens Canyon Park Entrance. The Ohanapecosh Campground, located in an old-growth forest, is one of Mount Rainier’s greatest campgrounds and is only a short drive away.

A two-hour trip from Yakima will take you to the Sunrise Visitor Center and the park’s northeast part. Mount Rainier is a destination that should be on everyone’s lifetime bucket list, and is among the wonderful things to do in Yakima today.

It is a perfect site to fly into because of the abundance of fantastic campgrounds, hiking routes, and breathtaking mountain views.

Cowiche Canyon is a beautiful shrub-steppe ecosystem just west of town.

It’s ideal for a fast or full-day trip into nature, and is among the top Yakima activities for nature lovers. This picturesque location, along with its more than 30 miles of hiking trails, is preserved and protected by the nonprofit Cowiche Canyon Conservancy.

The path system travels up and down the canyon, following minor creeks and tributaries to provide beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. There are various trailheads around the city, including several pull-offs off Summitview Avenue. The Canyon offers a tremendous sense of seclusion just outside the city despite its close proximity.

The Cowiche Canyon Conservancy offers a variety of special events, including volunteer opportunities, butterfly release parties, and guided excursions.

The Yakima Area Arboretum is located on the city’s east side, between Interstate 82 and Highway 24. One of the top Yakima tourist attractions that maintains more than 40 acres of manicured green space and gardens.

The arboretum supports a vast variety of trees. There are over 100 of different plant species that are dispersed across the grounds, each of which has a label describing its function in the environment.

Its unique landscapes feature butterfly gardens, wetland walks, and a exotic fruit trees. Despite its proximity to major highways, the roadways bustle is readily drowned out by the trees once you begin exploring this natural region.

Also Read: Best Things To Do in Bellingham

A fantastic way to learn about the history and people of the Yakama Nation is to visit this cultural center, which is located to the south of the city.

It’s a 12,000-square-foot complex filled with relics, art, and photography. It also houses the Heritage Theater and the Yakama Nation Library.

Other exhibitions and replicas at the museum include life-size home reconstructions and interactive displays with enhanced sound effects.

Furthermore, the area around the university is interesting enough to explore on its own, and on clear days, Mount Adams may be seen proudly in the distance. For even more culture, visit nearby Fort Simcoe.

The Yakima Sportsman’s Association established this 266-acre state park as a game management zone. Today it is flanked with green spaces and an abundance of trees, and is one of the top places to visit in Yakima.

The park offers a variety of popular recreational activities, including hiking, bird viewing, and fishing. It also has a campsite with more than 60 tent and RV sites making it possible to spend several days in nature’s lap.

The park is popular all year. When the trees change color in the autumn, it is especially beautiful to visit, as is in the spring when the wildflowers emerge annually.

The park also has a basketball court, mini-golf course, and picnic tables that can be reserved.

Yakima Valley Museum is located in downtown Yakima, next to Franklin Park.

It offers an enthralling view at the Yakima River Valley’s past, present, and future. The exhibits provide information on early explorers, native communities, and the thriving fruit business.

The museum also has a vintage soda fountain, which is perfect for a fizzy beverage.

Franklin Park is one of the city’s most well-liked public parks, right behind the museum. It’s a nice natural spot that serves plenty of shade trees and picnic tables. Franklin Park also has one of the city’s few public swimming pools.

Local Yakima residents’ preferred ski resort is White Pass . It is located 50 miles west of Seattle, at the southeast entrance of Mount Rainier National Park.

One of the fun things to do near Yakima where every level of skier and snowboarder may find something to enjoy at White Pass in the winter. You can access beginner-friendly ski lessons to expert-only terrain with bluffs and ramps.

The resort has 1,500 skiable acres accessible by six chairlifts, ensuring ample terrain to cater to the weekend visitors.

The resort also has 18 kilometers of groomed tracks at the White Pass Nordic Center. White Pass exposes itself to be a paradise for mountain biking and hiking during the summer.

Fort Simcoe was built in 1856 and is still standing today in the Yakama Indian Reservation. It is a short drive from Yakima’s city center. It is currently a 200-acre national historic site and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Through a neighboring Interpretive Center, visitors can learn about the fort’s history at this day-use facility.

In addition, three conserved officers’ houses with period-appropriate furnishings and decorations are open for self-guided tours.

It’s a very well-liked location for bird- and wildlife-watchers, and Fort Simcoe’s extensive open area is ideal for picnics and outdoor recreation.

Check Out: Things To Do in Forks, WA

Bale Breaker Brewing Company is a new addition to the Yakima community.

It first opened to the public in 2013 and has since grown to become the area’s fifth-largest independent microbrewery.

There are several handcrafted brews on display at the brewery. It contains a 30-barrel brewhouse and 41 fields of brown ale, top cutter, and bottom cutter royal.

You must make an appointment to see this location. You’ll learn about the company’s history and the procedures they use for production during your tour.

One of the best outdoor things to do in Yakima WA is to travel around town via Yakima Greenway. It spans for more than 20 kilometers, connecting several of the city’s finest natural attractions. Many bodies of water, including Myron Lake, Willow Lake, and Lake Aspen, can be reached along the greenway.

A large portion of this non-motorized road winds away from traffic while passing beneath boulevards and covered trees. The greenway also provides access to Sherman Park’s off-leash dog area, as well as water and facilities.

Expect crowds throughout the week and especially on weekends.

What to do in Yakima for some entertainment? The Capitol Theater , located in the city’s center, has been providing Yakima residents with entertainment for almost a century.

Today, tourists may find hundreds of performances taking place all year long, including stand-up comedy, opera, concerts, and dramas.

The stunningly updated architecture and modernized light and sound system of the Capitol Theater contribute to the entertainment value.

There are more than 1,500 seats available, with a perfect view from every nook and corner.

The Capitol Theater also hosts the prestigious “Capitol Kids” youth theater arts programme for students of all grade levels.

Every September, Yakima County hosts the Central Washington State Fair. The fair was initiated for the first time in 1892 and has been a popular occasion ever since.

Its primary goal is to promote, develop, and cultivate an interest in farming and agricultural cultivation in Central Washington.

Additionally, the event hopes to pique the interest of the younger generation and help them comprehend the value of farming and crop production.

The fair also features horticulture and other sorts of agriculture.

This fair is among the top Yakima tourist attractions because farmers from throughout the nation come here to sell their agricultural goods.

Gilbert Cellars is a tiny, family-run vineyard in Yakima that creates both red and white wines that have garnered numerous accolades.

It features a tasting room where you may enjoy wine samples and delicious cheese platters that are also for sale.

Winery tours are available by appointment and highlight the winery’s activities and history.

A lawn-style amphitheater also holds live music events throughout the year, including the Music in the Vines concert series.

Visit Johnson Orchards on the west side of Yakima to get a sample of the local produce. This orchard has been in business since 1904 but still continues to be a local favorite today.

The months of mid-June to August are ideal for visiting this metropolitan orchard oasis.

The variety of cherries that are readily accessible from mid-June to early July is the standout crop that can be bought here in abundance. Apricots, peaches, and nectarines are a few other stone fruits still available for purchase during the rest of the season.

The Little Bake Shop, located in the orchard’s retail area, sells fresh desserts from Wednesday through Saturday. Before you go, call ahead or check the website for the most recent availability.

The Yakima Farmers’ Market , which has been serving fresh food for over 20 years, is held every Sunday from May to October at the Valley Mall parking lot.

Each week, the Farmers Market offers a cooked breakfast between 8:30 and 10am, as well as locally produced foods, confections created by hand, and artisanal goods.

The Yakima Farmers’ Market’s stalls are home to more than 20 unique vendors.

Fresh products to look for include plums, pears, milk, poultry, and peppercorns. The community center also features live music and works by regional artists.

The Yakima River meanders through a canyon of granite cliffs and rolling arid terrain between Yakima and Ellensburg.

While the speed limits are a little slower, the Yakima River Canyon Scenic Byway offers considerably nicer views than the highway.

It is also a popular summer destination here where visitors can partake in sailing, rafting, fishing, and other fun activities.

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) manages much of the canyon, including four designated recreation areas – Umtanum, Luma Creek, Big Pines, and Roza.

The river is accessible from all four BLM locations. Additionally, there are campsites available at all four locations, with Big Pine having the most overnight spaces. Both tents and trailers are accepted, however there are no electrical hookups available. All campers have access to vault toilets, however they are required to carry their own water for drinking.

One of the top Yakima tourist attractions is the 15-acre museum featuring the machinery and people who were involved in the area’s agricultural history.

It is located on the southern side of Yakima near the city of Union Gap. The museum’s collection includes a 1908 farmstead, a Northern Pacific Railroad boxcar, and a functional 1930s-era sawmill.

Another prominent exhibit at the museum is the Farm Equipment Yard, where hundreds of donated, vintage tractors and other farm equipment provide an up-close view of earlier farming practices.

This museum also hosts Old Town Days, Civil War reenactments, and an annual Old Steel Car Show.

Wineries Express invites You to Have a Wine Tour

Wineries Express is the most well-known wine tour company in the Yakima Valley, located less than 10 minutes from Yakima.

Because it is privately held, small groups can access private services. Definitely check out this location if you’re traveling in a company of 15 or less.

You can tour a number of breweries using the services of this company. Wineries Express also provides deluxe excursions and doesn’t charge extra for sampling.

The best wineries in the region offer packages that also include free plates.

For tourists who are interested in wines, beers, ales, and other unique beverages, this is one of the wonderful things to do in Yakima WA.

An engineering marvel which is also one of the top places to visit in Yakima, Washington. This stadium has ample seats for almost 6,000 people.

The Yakima Valley SunDome holds numerous sporting events all year round including sports like basketball, tennis, rugby, polo, and volleyball.

In addition, the location accommodates festivals, equestrian events, and exhibitions. There are also agricultural shows, trade exhibits, symposiums, and conventions hosted here.

The SunDome in Yakima Valley is the world’s second concrete sectional roof dome, the first being the Kingdome in Seattle.

Best Places to Eat in Yakima WA

Yakima, located in the heart of Washington, is an excellent starting point for exploring the region’s numerous wineries. This verdant country is abundant in fruits, vegetables, and other agricultural goods, all of which inspire local cooks. Here are some of Yakima, Washingtonmost ,’s delicious dining establishments.

5 North, located in downtown Portland, is a refined yet easygoing restaurant specialized in Pacific Northwest cuisine. The culinary team crafts gourmet dishes guaranteed to tempt a variety of taste senses using the freshest ingredients from nearby sources. Favorites include the lamb bolognese, which is cooked with potato gnocchi, fresh spaghetti, and black beans. You can also try the Serrano ham-wrapped chicken, which is served with roasted potatoes, brussels sprouts, and oyster mushrooms.

Address – 175 West St, Annapolis, MD 21401

This vibrant restaurant has been a longtime fixture in Yakima’s culinary scene. It is particularly well-liked by people looking for authentic Mexican food packed with flavor. Visitors will find a variety of alternatives, ranging from Mexican favorites to entrées with beef, chicken, or seafood, as well as at least six distinct salsas with varied levels of chili. Tacos packed with a variety of meats ranging from pork in a mild red sauce to grilled filet steak; the veggie tortilla stuffed with quinoa, lentils, and numerous veggies; and prawns cooked with garlic are all tempting options.

Address – 3512 Summitview Ave, Yakima, WA 98902

Barrel House is a laid-back eatery serving New American food that is housed in a charming old structure. From soups and salads to melts and wraps, everything is available on the menu. A few standout dishes are the Mulligatawny soup, a wonderful concoction of curry, chicken, apple, and rice, and the winemaker melt, which consists of a cheeseburger patty, goat’s cheese, red wine relish, arugula, and onion. The house also offers a wide variety of wines and microbrews, with a focus on regional products.

Address – 22 N 1st St, Yakima, WA 98901

Carousel is a gorgeous, cozy café that specializes in French cuisine and is housed in a historic building with exposed brick walls. The menu offers a variety of mouthwatering entrees, including vegetarian and omnivore-friendly options as well as French classics. Notable dishes include coq au vin, which is chicken cooked in a red wine sauce and topped with asparagus. This is a must-try culinary gem due to the food and lovely, welcoming atmosphere.

Address – 2648, 25 N Front St UNIT 6, Yakima, WA 98901

Best Places to Stay in Yakima WA

The Washington town of Yakima, which is renowned for its breweries, is surrounded by more than 100 vineyards. It is, in a nutshell, a destination for individuals who appreciate the good life. Our Yakima hotels will allow you to appreciate this lovely riverside town and the surrounding countryside in comfort and style.

There aren’t many more reliable hotels in Yakima than this one. Its plant-filled lobby leads to classically designed guest rooms, the bigger of which have patios with views of the Yakima River and the hotel’s lush gardens. It offers free WiFi and breakfast.

Address – 1701 E Yakima Ave, Yakima, WA 98901

The relaxing guest rooms of this classic downtown Yakima hotel have a traditional style and a neutral color scheme. Accessible accommodations are also provided for those with limited mobility, and the Garden Grille and Bar serves wonderful American cooking, particularly the juicy burgers. The motel is conveniently close to a multitude of eateries and Yakima’s renowned breweries.

Address – 401 E Yakima Ave, Yakima, WA 98901

The newest hotel in Yakima has a traditional, rustic appearance with stone walls, dark wood furniture, and a muted, earthy color scheme. Choose a suite to enjoy comfortable seating areas with couches and armchairs arranged around coffee tables. If you need help planning a visit to one of Yakima’s top wineries, the staff will be happy to help.

Holiday Inns are unbeatable for dependable comfort, and this one carries the flag magnificently. For a restful night’s sleep, there are pillow menus and blackout curtains. Guest rooms have pine furniture and a minimalist Scandi ambiance, while the suites have jetted bathtubs. A heated indoor pool guarantees that training is constantly on the agenda.

Address – 802 E Yakima Ave, Yakima, WA 98901

Whether you’re a local or a tourist, Yakima is a fantastic place to visit. Whether relaxing in a hot spring, shopping at some of the best antique stores in the world, or taking a tour of the lush and fertile Yakima River Valley, there’s really something for everyone. Yakima is home to all kinds of outdoor activities and cultural attractions that will leave you longing for more.

If you are looking for a truly unique vacation or weekend trip away from the city, Yakima might be the place. There is a reason that so many people visit and end up staying, particularly young professionals. Yakima is enjoyable year-round, but it can be especially vibrant in spring and summer.

Check Out: Things to Do in Port Angeles, WA

Best Time To Visit Puerto Rico

27 Things To Do in Old Orchard Beach with Family and Friends

For Flight Enquiry to "North America"

Call now to reveal great deals & discount

+1-877-445-3112

Begin typing your search term above and press enter to search. Press ESC to cancel.

Travel in the Pacific Northwest and beyond
Work With Me

Pacific Northwest
National Parks
Seattle Travel Guide
Recommended Gear
Published Work

Washington , United States

10 fun things to do in yakima on the weekend.

Part of the reason I started this website was to explore local getaways to share with all of you, so I’m excited to write about a new area – Yakima Valley! It’s the perfect weekend trip from Seattle when you want to get away for a few days, and there are plenty of things to do in Yakima to keep you entertained.

Yakima has everything you could want in a vacation – craft beer, Washington’s first AVA for wine, a fun art scene, and plenty of outdoor adventure. Regarding wine, almost half the state’s wine grapes are produced here, so it really is the best place to go for wine tasting in Washington.

I last visited Yakima about seven years ago, so I wanted to go to this area again to explore different places and write a more thorough guide. That’s why I was happy to work with Visit Yakima on this trip to help highlight the newest happenings in the area.

This guide to Yakima will give you helpful tips on how to plan your stay there as well as ideas of what to do in Yakima.

Table of Contents

Yakima Travel Tips

Here are some tips to help you plan your trip to Yakima, whether you live close or are coming from a road trip from Seattle .

How to Get to Yakima

Yakima is the perfect place to go if you’re looking for a quick weekend trip where you can leave after work on Friday and get back by Sunday night. It’s a little over two hours to get to Yakima when coming from Seattle or three hours from Portland, so you can get into plenty of activities during your time there.

Where to Stay in Yakima

There are a variety of hotels and vacation rentals to stay at in the area. You’ll want to consider how many people are coming with you on your trip and how much room you need.

I stayed at Oxford Suites Yakima , which was right on the river, so I had a beautiful view from my balcony. It was also close to the highway, making it easy to get around Yakima Valley, and a pool to enjoy at night.

10 Things to Do in Yakima

Here are some of the best things to do in Yakima during your time there.

1. Go on a Hike

You all know how much I love hiking, so I was thrilled to check some new hikes off my list when I visited the area. The ones I did were great for beginner hikers or those traveling with kids.

Tieton Nature Trail

This beautiful trail follows the Tieton River and has minimal elevation gain. There’s a small parking lot at the trailhead, and you’ll cross a small bridge to choose from several different ways to go. If you follow the trail, there’s a suspension bridge that makes for great pictures.

I loved this trail because you could make it into a longer hike at over six miles if you’re feeling adventurous, or you can cut it shorter. I advise going early in the morning because there is minimal shade here. You should also be aware that rattlesnakes are prevalent in this area (I didn’t see any but heard them).

Cowiche Canyon

I’ve had this hike on my list for years, so I was thrilled to be able to check it off finally. I did this early in the morning (again, I highly recommend this due to no shade at all) and loved greeting locals walking their dogs on the trail. It’s one of the best things to do in Yakima when you’re looking for scenery and exercise.

Cowiche Canyon is a network of trails, so you can make it as short or as long as you want. I was there during the summer, but I’ve seen pictures of both spring and fall , and they look beautiful with wildflowers and fall foliage. You can also snowshoe here in the winter (just make sure to pack your winter hiking clothes ).

There is a portable toilet in the parking lot (something I always like to be aware of either way).

2. Pick Your Own Fruit

I drove by Washington Fruit Place at Barrett Orchards and was planning on getting some fruit to go, but I saw they offered U-Pick and jumped at the chance to do that. It’s been years since I picked my own fruit, and cherries were in season when I was there. This is one of the best things to do in Yakima with kids, as they can get excited about picking the fruit and learn where it comes from.

You can buy a bag if you don’t have one, and a guide will walk you through the orchards to explain what color fruit you’re looking for to know if it’s ready, what types of fruit they have (there were a variety of cherries), and exactly how to pick the fruit off of the tree.

You’ll pay for your fruit by the pound at the end, and you can buy prepicked fruit as well as a variety of local goods in the store on-site. They also sell lemonade and ice cream for hot days.

3. Go Wine Tasting

I could write a whole article on all the different wineries in Yakima Valley, as they have a vast variety (over 90). I stopped at Freehand Cellars to do a sampler and loved the winery.

They had a beautiful tasting room with huge windows overlooking the area and air conditioning, as well as an outdoor area with picnic tables that I chose to sit at.

4. Check Out the Local Beer

Don’t like wine? No problem, as Yakima is also a hotspot for breweries and taprooms!

The Kiln Taproom

The Kiln Taproom was the first place I stopped for food after getting to Yakima and it was perfect. They had dozens of beers on tap, a full food menu (I got pizza), and a large outdoor area with umbrellas.

Public House of Yakima

They have two locations in Yakima, and one was conveniently right by my hotel. This restaurant had a big menu with appetizers such as pretzels, flatbreads, and more in addition to the dozens of beers on tap.

5. Check Out the Art

In addition to all the beer, wine, and food that Yakima offers, they also have a big art scene.

I got to check out Mighty Tieton while I was there, which is an artisan incubator that houses numerous artists. The photo above was from a studio that makes tiled art for places all over the state.

I also saw the studio of Trimpin, a famous sound artist and kinetic sculptor who has been featured in numerous Washington galleries.

You can visit the studio on an appointment basis only, but there are various studios around the region to visit. Contact [email protected] for more info.

6. Try the Local Food

There are so many places to check out when you’re hungry, but here are the ones I can personally recommend!

HopTown Wood-Fired Pizza

This restaurant had such a fun vibe to it – there was indoor seating with a bar and TVs, but also plenty of outdoor seating. I chose to enjoy the cool indoors since it was a hot evening, but I would love to come back and enjoy the outdoor area next time.

There were plenty of original pizza combos to choose from or you can make your own. I was so hungry that I almost forgot to take a picture there!

Cowiche Canyon Kitchen

This upscale restaurant offers tasty cocktails that you can enjoy in the bar if there’s a wait. They had a wide selection of food, from Asian coconut rice bowls to trout with apple chutney. I promptly ate all of my meal here because it was so delicious.

Los Hernandez Tamales

This might sound crazy, but I’d never had a tamale before coming here. I picked the right place to have my first one – these are so popular that people order by batches and come as far as California to take them home! I had the veggie ones with asparagus that were in season.

7. Visit a Local Farm

You can stop at one of the many roadside stores such as Thompson’s Farm Market to quickly grab some local goodies when looking for things to do in Yakima. This one was conveniently located on US-12 so you can grab some items on your way out of town.

8. Stroll Through Randall Park

This was an ideal park to take a mid-day break at, as there was plenty to do here. Dozens of trees lined the paths in the park so I could stay shaded while getting some exercise in. They also have a playground here so it’s a fun thing to do in Yakima for kids when they need to get a bit of energy out.

9. Stop at the Apple Tree for Breakfast and Golf

Many golfers will instantly recognize the apple-shaped piece of land at the Apple Tree Golf Course , making it a bucket list place to golf at. While I’m only a beginner golfer, I hope to come back here another time to play the course as it’s a unique thing to do near Yakima.

However, you don’t have to be a golfer to come here. You can stop at the restaurant for brunch and enjoy the beautiful views of golfers playing their games in the morning while enjoying a delicious breakfast.

10. Recharge With Local Coffee

I do stop at Starbucks sometimes when I travel mainly out of convenience, but I highly prefer to support local coffee shops when I can.

That’s why I was excited to visit The Planted House , and even more excited when I saw that it was a half-coffee shop, half-plant shop (both things I love!). If I lived in Yakima, you can be sure that I’d be here weekly buying new plants (I sadly had no room in my car for them this trip).

Which one of these things to do in Yakima are you most excited for? SaveSave

Marissa Pedersen

Marissa is a Seattle local who's obsessed with exploring all things Pacific Northwest, especially hiking, road trips, and national parks. She's been to hundreds of places all over the region and started this website to help others discover the beauty of the area and create their own trips.

26 thoughts on “ 10 Fun Things to Do in Yakima on the Weekend ”

Such a beautiful place and the food looks amazing! Will be saving this if we ever plan to go to Yakima in the future!

Belle | One Awesome Momma

You had my attention at craft beer, and hooked me at whitewater rafting! Yakima is surprisingly awesome!

I was pleasantly surprised at how much there was to do there!

Beer and outdoor activities always make the best trip! ?

I’m from Florida so when I finally make it to the northwest, this will be on my list! I love all of your suggestions. Looks beautiful, delicious, and fun!

You’ll love Yakima!

Looks amazing. What a nice place to go on a wee break.

Looks amazing, what a nice guide

Wow! Love this post and the photos that you provided. Beautiful spot! I wouldn’t mind trying out that brewing co.

It’s a scenic area!

I loved sitting outside having a beer!

Thanks for the tips. I’m going to tuck this away and give your recommendations a try!

We’ll have to add these places to an adventure day!

I hope you enjoy it!

Have a great time!

I’ve been wanting to go to Bron-Y-Aur ever since trying their beer at a festival. I’ve never heard of Berchmans but I’ll drink any beer with ginger in it!

I can’t wait to visit some of these places!Thanks for the inside scoop!

You’ll love both of them!

You’re very welcome!

I’m from Washington but never really went to Yakima before. I like Walla walla though!

They’re both nice areas, but check out Yakima!

I heart the Yakima Valley. Great guide. I’ve been to many of the places you’ve mentioned and would love to stay at Hotel Maison. Did you hear that the hills behind Owen Roe caught fire this summer? When I was there, the hills were all black. They did lose some vines too, but not too many. If you head that way again, be sure to try the new restaurant Crafted.

Oh no, that’s too bad!

I really want to do more exploring in Eastern WA!

So do I! Yakima is a good start.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Home » Spring Yakima Valley Itinerary: Festivals, Hikes, and More

Spring Yakima Valley Itinerary: Festivals, Hikes, and More

Spring brings exciting events and great weather to the Yakima Valley.

As the weather starts to warm up, the Yakima Valley begins to blossom. Between beautiful orchards, delightful festivals, and freshly barreled wines, spring is a colorful and relaxing time of year to visit the Yakima Valley. Temperatures in March see an average high of 58 degrees, reaching highs in the low 70s by May.

This itinerary will take you throughout the area, from hiking in the north to wine tasting in the east. Since destinations are spread across the valley, a good way to get around is by driving, either with your own vehicle or a rental.

Attend a Spring Event

Time your spring visit to align with one of these fantastic events to make the most of your trip.

A man and woman sit at a table and drink wine outside during the Spring Barrel event in the Yakima Valley.

Spring Barrel (April): Join Yakima Valley wineries as they celebrate the spring. Makers pull tastes straight from the barrel, giving you a sneak peek at how these young vintages may mature.
Yakima Taco Fest (May): Yakima’s favorite food festival celebrates and honors agricultural workers and heritage. Savor traditional and fusion tacos, sip local craft beer, wine and cider and dance to the sweet sounds of Latin music.
Cinco de Mayo Festival (May): With more than 100 vendors, dancing horses, live entertainment, traditional music, and incredible food, you won’t want to miss the biggest cultural celebration in the valley.
Asparafest (May): This festival celebrates local restaurants and fruit stands that offer asparagus. Enjoy special items such as the asparagus burger at Pepp’rmint Stick Drive-In, battered asparagus from Majors Restaurant, or asparagus and pepper-jack cheese tamales at Los Hernandez Tamales.

Explore more events.

Spring Yakima Valley Itinerary

In addition to events, here’s how you can make the most of your spring trip to the Yakima Valley with two full days of food, culture, and outdoor recreation. View the itinerary map.

Fuel up for your day at MAK Daddy Coffee Roasters in downtown Yakima. Named after the first initial of the founder’s three daughters, this coffee shop and local roastery offers avocado toast, breakfast burritos, and more quick bites.

Hike Umtanum Creek Canyon

A group of women stand on a hiking trail.

Get the lay of the land by starting your day with a hike up a spectacular canyon with towering basalt formations and a rushing creek. Bighorn sheep, deer, and elk visit the canyon in the spring, and the slopes are decorated with balsamorhiza sunflowers and other wildflowers. This 6.5-mile roundtrip hike is located about 30 minutes north of Yakima and starts with a suspension bridge over the Yakima River. Do as much or as little as you’d like. Note: The canyon narrows and trails become less defined toward the west end.

Also See: 3-Day Yakima Valley Summer Itinerary

Enjoy Lunch at Canyon River Grill

The exterior of Canyon River Grill in Yakima.

After your hike, you’ve earned a relaxing lunch. Head down scenic Highway 821 to the nearby Canyon River Grill , which offers breathtaking views paired with amazing food. Sit outside and take in the sound of the running river while enjoying your meal.

Stop by Precision Fruit and Antiques

Precision Fruit & Antiques has plenty of seasonal fresh fruits and quaint antiques for visitors wanting to take a break from their travels. They also stock Yakima Valley wines, canned fruit, jams, preserves, and pickles for purchase as well.

Go Beer Tasting at Single Hill Brewing Co.

An amber beer in a glass at Single Hill Brewing.

After lunch, head to the Single Hill taproom in Yakima to sample local brews. The brewery uses high-quality ingredients from the region to create a diverse and evolving lineup. With 16 taps, you’ll find everything from tart and fruity sours to hoppy IPAs and a range of classic styles. And, they always have experimental beers on tap from their three-vessel Experimentor fermentation system.

Dine at Provisions Restaurant and Market

People dine inside Provisions Restaurant and Market.

Wrap up the first full day of your Yakima Valley itinerary at Provisions Restaurant and Market . The restaurant features scratch recipes from Executive Chef and General Manager Lindsay Park, regional craft beer, and global wines. Don’t forget to stop by the market on your way out. Closed Sunday-Monday.

For your second full day, start your morning at Essencia Artisan Bakery. Located in the heart of downtown Yakima, this is a locals’ favorite stop for artisan pastries and breakfast options that can be enjoyed on site or to-go. Closed Sunday-Monday.

Visit the Yakama Nation Museum and Cultural Center

After breakfast, explore the important cultural influence of the Yakama Nation. Opened in 1980, the facility is one of the oldest Native American museums in the United States and is comprised of the Yakama Nation Museum, Cultural Center Gift Shop, the Heritage Inn Restaurant, the Heritage Theater, and the Yakama Nation Library. Visual and listening experiences guide you as you explore permanent exhibits that tell the story of the Yakama people. Open daily.

Eat Asparagus Tamales at Los Hernandez Tamales

A plate of fresh tamales, rice, and beans.

For lunch, try a local favorite — fresh asparagus tamales courtesy of the one and only James Beard award winning Los Hernandez Tamales located in Union Gap. Every spring, this family owned restaurant makes dozens of asparagus tamales from scratch. The broth, home ground masa, and bright chunks of fresh, local asparagus are patted into a corn husk by hands that have perfected the dish.

Explore History at the Yakima Valley Museum

Old carriages are seen inside the Yakima Valley Museum.

Stretch your legs after lunch with a visit to the Yakima Valley Museum . Located in Yakima’s beautiful Franklin Park, the museum offers two full floors of historical exhibits on the natural and cultural history of south-central Washington, including the largest collection of wooden wagons west of the Mississippi. Find exhibitions on the Yakima Valley fruit industry, Native American art, and more. You can even order an old-fashioned malt at the museum’s 1930s Art Deco Soda Fountain. Closed Sunday-Monday.

Go Wine Tasting in Zillah

Bar seating and wine inside LaPierre Farms and Winery.

For your afternoon activity, take a scenic drive about 20 minutes southeast toward Zillah, one of Yakima Valley’s wine areas. Stop in at LaPierre Farms & Winery to sample wines in the new tasting room boasting views of Mount Adams and Mount Rainier. The tasting room features an organic produce market stocked with fresh, seasonal fruit from the family owned, certified organic farm, from Rainier cherries to peaches. With more than 1,800 vine acres and 20 wineries, this region specializes in cabernet sauvignon, malbec, merlot, Syrah, chardonnay and Riesling.

Also See: Get to Know Washington Wine Country

A group gets on a tour bus for beer tasting.

Although the Yakima Valley is known for wine, it’s also the epicenter of the country’s hop production. For an alternative to wine tasting, consider adding a beer tour to your Yakima Valley itinerary. Both Little Hopper and Elite Tours offer brewery tours that let visitors experience Yakima Valley’s thriving craft beer scene responsibly.

Also See: Best Destinations for Beer Lovers

Enjoy dinner at Crafted

For dinner, head back to Yakima to dine at Crafted . Owners Dan and Mollie Koommoo source much of their ingredients from the Yakima Valley area. The husband-and-wife team base their menus on the seasons. Enjoy à la carte items or choose the “hands free” chef’s menu, a multi-course experience for the whole table. Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Also See: Farm-to-Table Dining in Washington

Day 3 – Depart

Check out of your hotel and make your way to Caffe 11 th Avenue for hand-dipped French toast, eggs benedict, or their homemade quiche. This spot has been a favorite with locals since it opened in 2018. Afterward, head to the big red barn at Washington Fruit Place at Barrett Orchards to pick up some farm-fresh produce.

Walk Cowiche Canyon Trail (West)

A woman in athletic wear hikes along a trail.

If you’re heading west, consider stretching your legs along the Cowiche Canyon Trail. Cowiche Creek winds between towering cliffs of basalt and andesite. Once a railroad line, the 3-mile flat, packed-gravel trail is any easy stroll that makes nine creek crossings. Walking beside the creek allows access to a lush riparian habitat and the opportunity to spot wildlife (be alert for rattlesnakes in warmer months).

Where to Stay

A hotel exterior is illuminated at night in downtown.

Hotel Maison Yakima Tapestry Collection by Hilton: Hotel Maison Yakima Tapestry Collection by Hilton truly represents the history and character of Yakima. Built by the Yakima Masons to house their temple in 1911, this boutique hotel offers all the historic elegance with modern convenience.

Hilton Garden Inn Yakima Downtown: The Hilton Garden Inn Yakima Downtown is centrally located just one block from downtown attractions such as The Capitol Theatre. The Ummelina Yakima Valley Spa Retreat and Stems wine and gift shop are adjacent to the hotel.

Ledgestone Hotel Yakima: Ledgestone Hotel Yakima is one of the newest hotels in Yakima and is great for extended stays thanks to large suites.

See more lodging options.

Year-Round Fun: Top Seasonal Activities in Olympia and Beyond

Olympia is a great idea no matter the season.

Perfect Fall Weekend Getaway on San Juan Island

Fall foliage, farm tours, and events await during autumn in the islands.

Discover Washington’s Creative Districts

Discover museums, art, events, and more throughout Washington.

Casual dining

Bob's Burgers and Brew , 121 North Fair Ave , ☏ +1 509 654-9114 . M-Th 10:30AM to 10PM; F Sa 10:30AM to 11PM; Su 9AM to 10PM .
Powerhouse Grill , 3807 River Rd , ☏ +1 509 469-9900 . Su-Th 6AM to 10PM; F Sa 6AM to 11PM .
Second Street Grill , 28 North 2nd St , ☏ +1 509 469-1486 . 6AM to 10PM .
Zesta Cucina , 5110 Tieton Dr , ☏ +1 509 972-2000 . M-Th 11AM to 9PM .
Miners Drive Inn , 2415 S 1st St, Union Gap ( Next to Valley Mall ), ☏ +1 509 457-8194 . Su-Th 8AM-2AM, F Sa 8AM-3:30AM . Burgers that are Llgendary for their size and taste; try the homemade Walla Walla Sweet Onion Fries too. It takes two hands to hold their burger!

Fine dining

The Apple Tree Resort , 8804 Occidental Ave , ☏ +1 509 966-5877 . Su-W 8AM to 2PM; Th-Sa 8AM to 8PM .
WaterFire Restaurant & Bar , 4000 West Creekside , ☏ +1 509 853-1057 . M-Sa 11AM to 11PM .
El Caporal Family Mexican Restaurant , 109 East Naches Ave , ☏ +1 509 698-4337 . M-Th 11AM to 10PM; F Sa 11AM to 10:30PM; Su noon to 9:30PM .
El Mirador Mexican Dining , 418 West Walnut St / 1601 East Yakima Ave , ☏ +1 509 452-7201 , +1 509 452-1202 .
El Pastor Restaurant , 315 W Walnut St , ☏ +1 509 453-5159 .
El Porton Mexican Restaurant , 4808 Tieton Dr , ☏ +1 509 965-5422 , fax : +1 509 965-8576 . Su-Th 11AM to 9PM; F Sa 11AM-10PM .

46.60264 -120.50355 1 Sports Center , 214 E Yakima Ave , ☏ +1 509 453-4647 , [email protected] . 11AM-2AM . Restaurant, bar, music venue, place for dance parties, to watch the game or just hang out.
Coffee Cravings , 118 W Yakima Ave , ☏ +1 509 225-6768 .
Jitter Bean Espresso Bar , Southgate Shopping Center, 401 W Nob Hill Blvd , ☏ +1 509 248-1848 .
North Town Coffeehouse , 32 N. Front St. , ☏ +1 509 895-7600 . M-F 6AM-midnight, Sa Su 7AM-midnight . Cheerful spot with long hours. Also serves remarkably tasty pastries, made locally.
Pacific Traders Coffee , 518 N. 20th Ave , ☏ +1 509 945-5589 , [email protected] . M-F 9AM-2PM . locally-roasted coffee daily .
Kana Winery Tasting Room , 10 S 2nd St , ☏ +1 509 453-6611 .
Best Western Ahtanum Inn , 2408 Rudkin Rd , ☏ +1 509 248-9700 , toll-free: +1-800-348-9701 , fax : +1 509 248-3607 .
Best Western Peppertree Yakima Inn , 1614 N 1st St , ☏ +1 509 248-7850 , toll-free: +1-800-834-1649 , fax : +1 509 453-8874 .
Fairfield Inn & Suites Yakima , 137 N Fair Ave , ☏ +1 509 452-3100 , fax : +1 509 452-3200 .
Hilton Garden Inn , 401 E. Yakima Ave , ☏ +1 509 454-1111 , fax : +1 509 248-3344 .
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Yakima Downtown , 1001 E Staff Sgt Pendleton Way , ☏ +1 509 249-1000 .
Oxford Suites Yakima , 1701 E. Yakima Ave , ☏ +1 509 457-9000 .
Red Lion Hotel Yakima Center , 607 E. Yakima Ave , ☏ +1 509 248-5900 .

Stay healthy

Air stagnation.

Sometimes there will be an advisory issued for poor air quality due to stagnation. Because of Yakima's location within a mountain valley, air sometimes settles and becomes stagnant for an extended period of time. During this phenomenon, pollutants often accumulate and subsequently the air quality becomes poorer than usual, and can affect those individuals who have existing respiratory conditions.

You can refer to the National Weather Service website on air quality to see if any such advisories have been issued for the Yakima Valley region.

There have been confirmed cases of hantaviral pulmonary syndrome in the Yakima Valley; the most recent of which occurred during the summer of 2011.

Although this disease is a very rare, it is important to always take precautions when entering confined spaces, or places that are dusty and underexposed to sunlight, where conditions may be ideal for the presence of a rodent population.

For more information on prevention and transmission, visit the CDC website on hantaviruses.

Heat exhaustion

During the summer months, the temperature in Yakima and the greater Yakima Valley often exceeds 100 °F (38 °C) .

If you are to be outside for long periods of time, be sure to drink plenty of water and limit the intake of alcohol and caffeine to prevent dehydration and heat stroke . Should you be planning on venturing off into the surrounding landscape, follow desert survival guidelines . Make sure you know where you are going, tell someone where your destination will be, and take an ample water supply with you.

Yakima has experienced a significant increase in gang activity throughout the past decade due to its population growth. This has resulted in a rise of violent crime within the city limits, although incidents of violence are mostly isolated to particular neighborhoods (mostly on the east side).

Yakima is very nice place to visit and the surrounding scenery is just as wonderful as its sun abundant climate. The problems it does have are typical in most mid-size cities and rarely effect the average person.

The best way to stay safe is to just be smart . Be vigilant! Most often, when people find themselves in a bad situation, it is because they put themselves in that situation. If you need help, there is an often visible police presence in the more troubled locales.

Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital , 2811 Tieton Dr , ☏ +1 509 575-8000 .
Boulder Cave ( 32 miles west of Naches. Take State Route 410 to Milepost 95.4, turn left on paved road. ). April 1 - Oct 31 . Unlike many Washington caves, Boulder Cave is formed from volcanic rock which was eroded away and collapsed. A fun boulder scramble, suitable for kids. Bring a flashlight. The short loop trail has a branch which is wheelchair accessible. Day use only. Part of Wenatchee National Forest. $5/vehicle, $15/bus .

Has default banner
Has map markers
Has mapframe
Airport listing
Go listing with no coordinates
See listing with no coordinates
Do listing with no coordinates
Eat listing with no coordinates
Drink listing with no coordinates
Sleep listing with no coordinates
Has routebox
Has Geo parameter
Columbia River Plateau
All destination articles
Usable cities
Usable articles
City articles
Pages using the Kartographer extension

Road Trip: Yakima Valley, Washington

From the October 2012 issue of National Geographic Traveler

Washington’s interior, with its dramatic mountain passes and low-slung Main Streets, has the exaggerated beauty of a Western film set. It has the history, too—the booms and busts, the rail heists, the violence of westward expansion. That Old West history sets the scene for a driving route traveling from the railway hub of Centralia, past the snowmelt lakes of the Cascades, and ending in the tumbleweed towns of the Yakima Valley, with 300 sunny days a year. A hundred-some miles from drizzly Seattle, the Yakima was once a dust bowl, but crisscrossing canals now hydrate rows of Fuji apple trees, V-shaped trellises of hops (the fragrant seed cones that flavor beer), and grape vines at 70-plus wineries. “When you cross the Cascades, it’s 20 or 25 degrees warmer—people come over just to enjoy the sunshine,” says Jill Johnson of Yakima’s 108-year-old Johnson Orchards. Such farms feed locavore Northwestern tastes, and in 2013 the valley celebrates its 30th anniversary as Washington’s oldest wine region. October is harvest time: The vines are stripped, the grapes are crushed, and a party spirit sweeps the region.

Before the Yakima flourished as Washington’s wine country, its volcanic soil was known for its sweet apples. The fruit even carries a creation myth; the seeds are said to have come to Washington in 1826 in the pocket of a Hudson’s Bay Company supervisor. At a London party, a woman had playfully presented the seeds with instructions: Plant them in the wilderness of the West.

The 1883 completion of the Northern Pacific Railway connected Yakima’s apples, cherries, and pears to the Northwest’s young and hungry cities. Centralia —the midpoint between Portland, Oregon, and Seattle, Washington—became the state’s “hub city,” a quintessential Western railroad boomtown. It’s also the ideal starting point for a drive through rural central Washington.

In 1912, Northern Pacific built the grand Union Depot ; two years later, Centralia hummed with 44 passenger and 17 freight trains daily. Loggers, miners, and railroad workers crowded the brick station’s dark oak benches, its walls stenciled with admonishments against spitting. A century later, Amtrak serves the depot. Next door, the opulent Olympic Club Hotel and Theater is a 27-room railroad hotel with a movie theater and pool hall. Legend holds that Roy Gardner, the notorious “Gentleman Train Robber,” was captured here in 1921 while posing as a burn victim in one of the hotel’s prostitute-frequented rooms. Now owned by the quirky Portland-based brewpub chain McMenamins, the hotel’s mahogany bar stays true to its past with a massive antique cash register and a wood-burning fireplace.

Starting south of town eastbound, the White Pass Scenic Byway (Route 12) skirts the banks of the Cowlitz River, teeming with trout and salmon, and crosses the Cowlitz Valley elk habitat as well as the Pacific Crest Trail on its long, lonely passage between Canada and Mexico. Route 12 reaches 4,500 feet at White Pass and then winds between Gifford Pinchot and Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forests , a combined three million acres of Ponderosa pines and fragrant fir trees. The byway rides the north shore of Rimrock Lake , which was created by the 1925 construction of the Tieton Dam—at the time, the world’s tallest earth-fill dam—which helps make possible the valley’s 172,000 acres of orchards. On clear days, the imposing peaks of St. Helens, Adams, and Rainier appear in the distance. South of the byway is the ashen landscape created by the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens, a blast that flattened 200 square miles and left vast plains of pumice.

Finally, descend into the Yakima Valley, where the air is warm and dry and the palette shifts from mountain grays and greens to startling golds and deep reds. In fall, attention is fixed on the grape crush. At vineyards such as Airfield Estates , ripe fruit perfumes the air with a musty sweetness, bands play a live sound track, and bare feet dance in halved wine barrels, a ritualized stomp that sprays juice and stains toes.

Before delving into the valley’s viticulture, detour north on Canyon Road —the snaking, two-lane Highway 821—following the Yakima River through 2,000-foot basalt cliffs, sage-covered desert, and the state’s highest concentration of hawks, eagles, and falcons. The byway ends in Ellensburg , a proud cow town with a rodeo grandstand and an art walk on first Fridays.

Back in the city of Yakima, a resurgent downtown radiates from the Capitol Theatre . Its interior painted by muralist A. B. Heinsbergen, the 1,500-seat theater opened in 1920 as the Northwest’s largest. South of town, the Yakama Indian Reservation is home to the 14 confederated bands and tribes of the Yakama (this spelling said to better reflect native pronunciation). Chief Kamiakin’s story of 1850s resistance against American settlers is enlivened at the Yakama Nation Museum and Cultural Center , where visitors can also shop for Pendleton blankets and try luk-a-meen (a stew of smoked salmon and dumplings).

Nat Geo Expeditions

Continue southeast to Prosser, where in 1937 scientist Walter Clore began a series of grape-growing trials. “Locals nicknamed him Johnny Grape Seed,” says Kathy Corliss of the soon-to-break-ground Walter Clore Wine and Culinary Center. The valley now cultivates some 30 varietals, from Reisling to rare Graciano (a Spanish red). Rocky soils and lava flows characterize the appellation. “When you walk through the vineyards, you can see the deposits on the rocks,” says Barbara Glover, executive director of the Wine Yakima Valley association. Start at Prosser’s new Vintner’s Village , with 13 tasting rooms within walking distance.

Similar to Clore’s wine trials, current research fuels a growing beer culture. Near downtown Toppenish’s 1911 depot turned Northern Pacific Railway Museum is a onetime creamery housing the American Hop Museum . Murals along its stucco walls show hop farmers in their fields; exhibits inside trace the Yakima Valley’s history as the world’s second largest hop-growing region (smaller only than Germany’s Hallertau). Prosser brewer Gary Vegar works with experimental hops at his Horse Heaven Hills Brewery and participates in October’s Fresh Hop Ale Festival in Yakima. “When we get the hops, sticks and leaves are still mixed in,” Vegar says. The burgeoning scene is another example of the valley reinventing what historian W. D. Lyman called the desert’s “destiny”—to become Washington’s “great horticultural and orchard region.”

Brooklyn-based writer Freda Moon grew up road-tripping through the Pacific Northwest.

Get ready to hit the road with these road trip essentials

How to plan a road trip in the Bavarian Alps

Become a subscriber and support our award-winning editorial features, videos, photography, and more—for as little as $2/mo.

How to plan the ultimate road trip adventure in Canada

25 essential drives for a U.S. road trip

Route 66: America's most celebrated road trip is going electric

Lobster, lighthouses and sea breezes on a road trip in nautical Nova Scotia

An epic rainforest road trip along North Queensland's Cassowary Coast

Environment
Paid Content

History & Culture

History & Culture
Mind, Body, Wonder
Adventures Everywhere
Terms of Use
Privacy Policy
Your US State Privacy Rights
Children's Online Privacy Policy
Interest-Based Ads
About Nielsen Measurement
Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
Nat Geo Home
Attend a Live Event
Book a Trip
Inspire Your Kids
Shop Nat Geo
Visit the D.C. Museum
Learn About Our Impact
Support Our Mission
Advertise With Us
Customer Service
Renew Subscription
Manage Your Subscription
Work at Nat Geo
Sign Up for Our Newsletters
Contribute to Protect the Planet

Fall Road Trip

Yakima valley road trip idea.

Fall Trip Ideas

Yakima valley road trips.

The crisp air, vibrant leaves and bountiful harvests make fall in the Yakima Valley an enchanting time of year to come visit.

Don't forget to make your first stop the Yakima Valley Visitor Information Center where you can find more information and plan your trip with one of our travel consultants.

Yakima Valley Fall Trip Idea Stops

White Water Rafting during Tieton Flip Flop - Yakima Valley

Go White Water Rafting during Tieton Flip Flop

September For one short month, the Tieton River becomes a wild ride of challenging class III rapids, dropping 55 feet of elevation each mile. Book a trip with a local guide and experience the thrill!

See Balloons take Flight at the Prosser Balloon Rally

Late September Dozens of brilliant hot air balloons take flight and float over Prosser wine country. Don't miss the Night Glow when the balloons light up the evening. After the rally, enjoy the harvest festival, farmers market and street painting.

Central Washington State Fair

Late September Central Washington?s largest event with 10 days of fair fun. Enjoy top entertainment, fair food, agricultural displays and livestock, educational exhibits, carnival rides, shopping with fun for the entire family.

Harvest Festivals and Fall U-pick

September & October Celebrate the agricultural bounty of the Yakima Valley with fun on the farm! Harvest your own apples and press fresh cider at u-pick farms. Visit apple and pumpkin festivals for tasty treats, family activities, hay rides, corn mazes and more!

Fresh Hop Ale Festival

Early October We grow your beer right here in the Yakima Valley! Come celebrate hop harvest with one of the Top 10 Beer Festivals in the Nation! Sip fresh hop ales from 65 breweries, enjoy foods from local vendors and kick back with live music. Check out festivities happening all week long during Fresh Hop Beer Week.

Catch the Crush - Yakima Valley Wine Country

Catch the Crush in Yakima Valley Wine Country

Early October Celebrate harvest in wine country style with a Valley wide harvest party of grape stomping, tastings, live music, winemakers dinners, winery and vineyard tours, wine education, food pairings and deals on your favorite wines.

Sip in Stroll in Downtown Yakima - Yakima Valley Wine Country

Sip & Stroll in Downtown Yakima

Mid November Stroll, sip and savor Yakima Valley craft beers, wine and cider at Downtown Yakima businesses. Enjoy food pairings and fun activities for all along the way.

Must See Yakima Valley Stops

Get inspiration for your next yakima valley vacation, stay connected.

By signing up, you agree to our terms .

Get Your Free Official Yakima Valley Travel Guide

Get a Free Travel Guide

BOOK A ROOM
Meetings & Groups

IMAGES

Fun Things to Do in Yakima
Yakima Valley's Official Travel Guide: Trip Ideas, Maps, Guides & Tours
Yakima
Yakima, Washington Vacation Travel Guide
Best Things to Do in Yakima Valley, Washington
Guide in Floating in Yakima River

VIDEO

Packwood to Naches, Washington Time Lapse Drive
yakima,washington
2023.4.22 Yakima, WA on the way to Seattle
Wildfire Yakima Update
Пожар Yakima, WA Июнь 21 2024 11:17 am
Yakima River Fly Fishing Report-April 5th, 2024-Worley Bugger Fly Co

COMMENTS

Plan Your Yakima Valley Trip, Yakima Valley Attractions, Wine Tasting
Get Your Free Official Yakima Valley Travel Guide. The Official Yakima Valley Travel Guide™ is the single best resource for planning your visit to the Yakima Valley. Packed full of maps, trip ideas and details of the many attractions, it will be your constant companion during your stay. Get the Travel Guide
Travel Guide
The Yakima Valley Official Travel Guide™ is the single best resource for planning your visit to the Yakima Valley. We?ve packed it full of maps, trip ideas and details about local businesses and things to do and see all around the valley. Whether you?re heading off to taste your way through wine country, taking a tour of farm fresh orchards ...
Plan Your Yakima Valley Visit: Trip Ideas, Maps, Guides & Tours
How to Explore the Yakima Valley. Exploring the Yakima Valley is a delightful, rewarding journey, no matter what type of adventure you're looking for. Whether you download one of our handy travel maps, flip through a Yakima Valley Travel Guide, or stop by the Visitor Information Center, we have a wealth of information to help you make the most of your stay here.
20 Best Things to Do in Yakima (By a Local)
Explore the majestic mountain heights and enchanting forests of Mt. Rainier National Park. On the trail to the Grove of the Patriarchs. Ascending towards the summit. 📍 Google Maps | Phone: (360) 569-2211 | Website | Hours: 24 hours | Entrance: $15-30 | 👉 Book a Mt. Rainier + Yakima Valley Wine tour.
Top Things to Do in Yakima, Washington
Visit the Yakima Valley Museum to uncover the rich history and culture of the region. Explore the serene Yakima Area Arboretum and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Discover outdoor adventures on the Cowiche Canyon Trail, Yakima Greenway, and Yakima River Canyon. Indulge in delicious fresh fruits at Johnson Orchards, a local fruit farm.
THE 30 BEST Things to Do in Yakima, WA
Located in the historic Larson Building, built in 1931, and tallest building in downtown Yakima. Kana's space restored to a 1930's dated charm (and almost bohemian), including its 20 ft. high windows and ceiling. Open mic last night was great, including a Nashville musician transplant to Yakima playing and singing solo.
Yakima Travel Guide
Yakima Travel Guide - View the KAYAK Yakima city guide for the best Yakima travel tips. To help you organize your Yakima trip ideas, this Yakima visitors guide provides travel information and trip tips about how to get there, where to stay, what to do, where to eat and more. ...
Best Things to Do in Yakima Valley, Washington
The Yakima Valley is one of the world's premier hop-growing regions, producing over 75-percent of the hops grown in the United States. The American Hop Museum is located in the historic Trimble Brothers Creamery building in Toppenish. ... A Travel Guide to Washington's Mount Rainier National Park. Guide to July 4th in Seattle: Festivals, Events ...
Visit Yakima: 2024 Travel Guide for Yakima, Washington
Take advantage of central Washington's semiarid climate at Yakima Area Arboretum any day from dawn to dusk. This living museum has over 1,000 species of plants and trees. Travel on one of Yakima's famous trolleys. The city hosts America's last intact electric rail line from the early 20th century. Entry to the Yakima Electric Railway ...
Yakima Valley Trip Ideas
The Official Yakima Valley Travel Guide™ is the single best resource for planning your visit to the Yakima Valley. Packed full of maps, trip ideas and details of the many attractions, it will be your constant companion during your stay. Get the Travel Guide. Looking to plan a wine tasting or craft beer trip to the Yakima Valley and wonder ...
Yakima Travel Guide
Get information on Yakima Travel Guide - Expert Picks for your Vacation hotels, restaurants, entertainment, shopping, sightseeing, and activities. Read the Fodor's reviews, or post your own.
Yakima Valley's Official Travel Guide: Trip Ideas, Maps, Guides & Tours
The Yakima Valley Official Travel Guide™ is the single best resource for planning your visit to the Yakima Valley. Packed full of maps, trip ideas and details of the many attractions, it will be your constant companion during your stay. Whether you're heading off to taste your way through wine country, taking a tour of farm fresh orchards ...
Things to Do in Yakima
First, the wineries begin more than 20 miles away from Yakima, and so the city isn't exactly an ideal base for exploring this wine country. Also, the small towns scattered along the length of the Yakima Valley are basically farm towns and not what you would call quaint. In fact, Sunnyside has stockyards and their stench permeates the town.
Best Things to Do in Yakima (Washington)
The Yakima Area Arboretum is located on the city's east side, between Interstate 82 and Highway 24. One of the top Yakima tourist attractions that maintains more than 40 acres of manicured green space and gardens.. The arboretum supports a vast variety of trees. There are over 100 of different plant species that are dispersed across the grounds, each of which has a label describing its ...
10 Fun Things to Do in Yakima on the Weekend
Visit a Local Farm. You can stop at one of the many roadside stores such as Thompson's Farm Market to quickly grab some local goodies when looking for things to do in Yakima. This one was conveniently located on US-12 so you can grab some items on your way out of town. 8. Stroll Through Randall Park.
Things To Do in Yakima: Spring Itinerary in Yakima Valley
Bighorn sheep, deer, and elk visit the canyon in the spring, and the slopes are decorated with balsamorhiza sunflowers and other wildflowers. This 6.5-mile roundtrip hike is located about 30 minutes north of Yakima and starts with a suspension bridge over the Yakima River. Do as much or as little as you'd like.
Yakima Valley, Washington Wine Country, Yakima Valley Craft Beer
Get Your Free Official Yakima Valley Travel Guide. The Official Yakima Valley Travel Guide™ is the single best resource for planning your visit to the Yakima Valley. Packed full of maps, trip ideas and details of the many attractions, it will be your constant companion during your stay. Get the Travel Guide
Yakima
Yakima is a city of 94,000 people (2019) in the Yakima Valley, ... This city travel guide to Yakima is a usable article. It has information on how to get there and on restaurants and hotels. An adventurous person could use this article, but please feel free to improve it by editing the page.
Yakima
The Yakima Convention and Visitors Bureau is the official tourism office for Yakima, Yakima County and the Yakima Valley. Visitor Information Center, 101 Fair Avenue, ☎ +1- (509) 575-3010 ([email protected]), [x]. Toll free: (800) 221-0751 (USA and Canada).
Road Trip: Yakima Valley, Washington
Road Trip: Yakima Valley, Washington. From the October 2012 issue of National Geographic Traveler. By Freda Moon. August 29, 2012. • 7 min read. Washington's interior, with its dramatic ...
Yakima Valley Visitor Information Centers
Yakima Valley Visitor Information Center. 101 N Fair Ave • Yakima, WA 98901 • 509-573-3388. Tues ? Sat: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Seasonal hours-shorter in winter months.
Yakima Valley Tourism releases new travel guide
Residents and visitors can pick up a copy of the guide at the Yakima Valley Visitor Information Center at 101 N. Fair Ave. or order one by calling 509-575-3010 or 800-221-0751 (toll-free) or e ...
Yakima Valley Road Trip Idea
Get Your Free Official Yakima Valley Travel Guide. The Official Yakima Valley Travel Guide™ is the single best resource for planning your visit to the Yakima Valley. Packed full of maps, trip ideas and details of the many attractions, it will be your constant companion during your stay. Get the Travel Guide

Top Things to Do in Yakima, Washington – Ultimate Guide

Key Takeaways:

Yakima Valley Museum: Uncover the History and Culture

Discover Yakima’s Past

Yakima Area Arboretum: Enjoy Nature’s Beauty

Table: Activities at Yakima Area Arboretum

Outdoor Adventures: Explore Yakima’s Natural Wonders

A Table of Outdoor Activities in Yakima, Washington

Johnson Orchards: Indulge in Fresh Fruits

Cultural Exploration: Capitol Theater and Yakama Nation Cultural Center

Capitol Theater

Yakama Nation Cultural Center

Nightlife and Dining: Yakima’s Best Restaurants and Entertainment

Family-Friendly Activities: Fun for All Ages in Yakima

Outdoor Adventures

Cultural Exploration

Parks and Museums

Yakima Wineries: Savor the Flavors of Wine Country

White Pass Ski Area: Winter Adventures on the Slopes

Q: What are the top things to do in Yakima, Washington?

Q: What attractions can I visit in Yakima, Washington?

Q: What outdoor activities can I enjoy in Yakima, Washington?

Q: Where can I taste fresh fruits in Yakima, Washington?

Q: Are there any cultural attractions in Yakima, Washington?

Q: What are some family-friendly activities in Yakima, Washington?

Q: Can I visit wineries in Yakima, Washington?

Q: What winter activities can I enjoy in Yakima, Washington?

Related posts:

Yakima travel guide

Where to Eat in Yakima

When to visit Yakima

How to Get to Yakima

Airports near Yakima

Best car rental deals in Yakima

12 Best Things to Do in the Yakima Valley of Washington State

Walk Along the Yakima Greenway

Play a Round of Golf

Sample Fresh Produce and Local Cuisines

Tour the Wine Country

Discover Native History at the Yakama Nation Museum

Enjoy Musical and Theatrical Performances

Take a Ride on the Yakima Valley Trolleys

Immerse Yourself in Nature

Learn About Local Culture at the Yakima Valley Museum

Take a Trip to the Northern Pacific Railway Museum

Hop Over to the American Hop Museum

Marvel at the Toppenish Murals

Related Articles

Travel Guide

Yakima Valley Adventures Await

Pick Up a Yakima Valley Travel Guide or Have a Copy Mailed to You

Request a printed copy of the Travel Guide to be mailed to you

Must See Yakima Valley Stops

Get Your Free Official Yakima Valley Travel Guide

Travel Guide

Things to Do in Yakima

Best Things to Do in Yakima (Washington)

Explore Mount Rainier National Park

Best Places to Eat in Yakima WA

Best Places to Stay in Yakima WA

Washington , United States

Yakima Travel Tips

How to Get to Yakima

Where to Stay in Yakima

10 Things to Do in Yakima

1. Go on a Hike

Tieton Nature Trail

Cowiche Canyon

2. Pick Your Own Fruit

3. Go Wine Tasting

4. Check Out the Local Beer

The Kiln Taproom

Public House of Yakima

5. Check Out the Art

6. Try the Local Food

HopTown Wood-Fired Pizza

Cowiche Canyon Kitchen

Los Hernandez Tamales

7. Visit a Local Farm

8. Stroll Through Randall Park