Yakima WashingtonATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Yakima, Washington.
1. Yakima Valley Museum
LOCAL HISTORY AND CULTURE
Yakima Valley Museum offers visitors a fascinating look into the local history and folklore of the region. The museum features extensive exhibits covering everything from the area's agricultural heritage to Native American culture. Visitors can spend a few hours exploring the collections and gaining a deeper understanding of what makes this valley unique.
2. Johnson's Orchards
FRESH FRUIT AND FUN
Johnson's Orchards is a popular farm destination where visitors can experience the agricultural bounty of the Yakima Valley. The orchard features cherry trees loaded with fruit and offers a wonderful opportunity for photography and picking fresh produce. Visitors often stop by to purchase fresh fruit and enjoy the authentic farm atmosphere.
3. Bonair Winery
FAMILY-OWNED WINE EXPERIENCE
Bonair Winery is a charming small family-owned winery located in the Rattlesnake Hills area of Yakima Valley. The winery produces a wide variety of wines ranging from award-winning dry reds to sweeter varieties to suit different palates. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings while taking in the beautiful vineyard views that showcase the region's viticultural excellence.
4. Bale Breaker Brewing Company
CRAFT BEER AND HOPS
Bale Breaker Brewing Company offers craft beer enthusiasts a chance to enjoy locally brewed pints in the heart of hop country. Visitors can watch games inside or soak up the Yakima sunshine at picnic tables on the patio while sampling the brewery's offerings. The brewery regularly hosts events and food trucks, making it a lively social hub in the community.
5. Cowiche Canyon Trail
SCENIC OUTDOOR ADVENTURE
Cowiche Canyon Trail provides outdoor enthusiasts with miles of biking and hiking paths through the natural beauty of central Washington. The trail winds through a riparian zone along the creek, offering visitors diverse ecological experiences and stunning views. This natural attraction showcases the region's unique landscape and provides a perfect escape for nature lovers.
6. Yakima Area Arboretum & Botanical Garden
NATURAL PLANT MUSEUM
Yakima Area Arboretum & Botanical Garden serves as a living museum with over 1,000 species of plants and trees available to explore. Open from dawn to dusk daily, this green sanctuary offers visitors a chance to experience central Washington's diverse plant life in a tranquil setting. The arboretum combines educational opportunities with scenic walking areas that highlight the region's botanical diversity.
7. North Front Street Historic District
DOWNTOWN SHOPPING AND DINING
North Front Street Historic District invites visitors to explore the charming downtown area of Yakima with its distinctive cobblestone streets. The district features meticulously restored historic buildings that house various shops and restaurants for a pleasant day in town. Visitors can enjoy the unique atmosphere while supporting local businesses in this vibrant cultural center.
8. Yakima Electric Railway Museum
HISTORIC TROLLEY RIDES
Yakima Electric Railway Museum preserves America's last intact electric rail line from the early 20th century. Visitors can enter the museum for free and learn about this important piece of transportation history. For a small fee, guests can experience a ride on one of Yakima's famous historic trolleys for an authentic journey into the past.
9. Cowiche Canyon Kitchen & Icehouse
CONTEMPORARY AMERICAN DINING
Cowiche Canyon Kitchen & Icehouse offers a sophisticated dining experience featuring American cuisine with vegetarian-friendly options. The restaurant combines a stylish bar atmosphere with quality food prepared using regional ingredients. Visitors appreciate the contemporary setting and carefully crafted menu that showcases the flavors of the Yakima Valley.
10. Yakima Greenway
RIVERSIDE RECREATION PATH
Yakima Greenway provides residents and visitors alike with miles of paved paths perfect for walking, running, and cycling along the river. The greenway connects parks and natural areas throughout the city, offering accessible outdoor recreation opportunities. This urban trail system serves as an important community resource for fitness and enjoying the outdoors in all seasons.
11. Central Washington Agricultural Museum
FARMING HERITAGE DISPLAY
Central Washington Agricultural Museum celebrates the rich farming history of the Yakima Valley through extensive exhibits of historic equipment and artifacts. The museum showcases how agricultural practices have evolved over time in this fertile region known for apple, wine, and hops production. Visitors can gain appreciation for the area's agricultural heritage and its continued importance to the local economy.
12. Miner's Drive-in Restaurant
ICONIC LOCAL EATERY
Miner's Drive-in Restaurant has been serving quick bites and American classics to hungry Yakima visitors and residents for generations. The restaurant is famous for its generous portions and nostalgic drive-in atmosphere that harkens back to simpler times. Visitors often stop by to experience this local institution's burgers and shakes that have stood the test of time.
13. State Fair Park & SunDome
EVENTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
State Fair Park, home of the Yakima Valley SunDome and Central Washington State Fair, serves as the region's premier venue for large events and entertainment. The facility hosts everything from concerts and sporting events to the annual state fair that celebrates the area's agricultural bounty. Visitors from throughout central Washington gather here to enjoy diverse entertainment offerings throughout the year.
14. Toppenish Murals
OUTDOOR ART GALLERY
Toppenish Murals transform this small town south of Yakima into an outdoor art gallery with more than 70 large paintings adorning buildings throughout the community. The murals depict historical scenes and cultural heritage related to the Yakama Nation and the development of the region. Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour to appreciate these colorful works that bring local history to life through public art.
15. Yakama Nation Cultural Center
NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE
Yakama Nation Cultural Center offers visitors insight into the rich traditions and history of the indigenous people who gave Yakima its name. The center includes a museum with exhibits on tribal heritage, contemporary Native life, and cultural preservation efforts. Visitors can explore the gift shop featuring authentic Native American arts and crafts while learning about the continuing importance of the Yakama Nation in the region.