Eastern Washington, Washington Travel Guide

Discover Eastern Washington: A blend of scenic landscapes, charming small towns, and rich history, perfect for a serene getaway or an adventurous escape.

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Eastern Washington

Eastern Washington offers a diverse landscape that contrasts sharply with the lush greenery of the western part of the state. Here, you will find rolling hills, expansive farmlands, and arid deserts that provide a unique backdrop for any adventure. The region is less crowded, making it perfect for a quiet retreat or an off-the-beaten-path experience. Explore the charming small towns like Walla Walla, known for its world-class wineries and vibrant arts scene. The Snake River and Columbia River offer opportunities for water sports, fishing, and scenic boat rides. If you are a nature lover, the Palouse region's undulating hills are a sight to behold, especially during the golden hour when the landscape glows. For history enthusiasts, the region is rich in Native American history and pioneer heritage. Visit the Whitman Mission National Historic Site to delve into the area's past. During the winter, head to the Blue Mountains for some skiing and snowboarding. Eastern Washington is a year-round destination with something for everyone.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Eastern Washington.

Visit in late spring or early fall to enjoy milder weather and fewer crowds.
Book winery tours in advance, especially in Walla Walla, to ensure availability.
Pack layers, as temperatures can vary greatly between day and night.
Check the local event calendar for festivals and farmers' markets, which offer a glimpse into local culture.
Rent a car to explore the region's scenic byways and hidden gems at your own pace.

Top City Travel Guides in Eastern Washington

The cities of Eastern Washington, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Seattle

Bremerton

Spokane

Tacoma

Kirkland

Destinations in Eastern Washington

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Mount Rainier National Park

Columbia River Gorge

Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

North Cascades National Park

Leavenworth

Explore Eastern Washington: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Eastern Washington

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Riverfront Park

Explore Riverfront Park in Spokane for breathtaking views, recreational activities, and a vibrant cultural scene in a stunning urban oasis.

4.7

Washington Park Arboretum

Discover the tranquil beauty of Washington Park Arboretum, a botanical garden in Seattle with diverse plant collections and serene landscapes.

4.8

Boeing Future of Flight

Discover aviation's past, present, and future at Boeing Future of Flight, the ultimate destination for aviation enthusiasts in Mukilteo, Washington.

4.5

Snoqualmie Falls

Explore the breathtaking Snoqualmie Falls, a natural wonder in Washington known for its stunning waterfall, hiking trails, and picturesque picnic areas.

4.8

Best landmarks in Eastern Washington

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

Space Needle

Discover breathtaking views and the iconic architecture of Seattle at the Space Needle, a must-visit tourist attraction.

4.6

Mount Rainier National Park

Explore the breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and endless adventures at Mount Rainier National Park in Washington, a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

4.9

Snoqualmie Falls

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Snoqualmie Falls, a majestic waterfall surrounded by lush nature and scenic hiking trails in Washington State.

4.8

Palouse Falls State Park

Explore the stunning Palouse Falls State Park, a natural wonder in Washington featuring breathtaking waterfalls and scenic trails for all adventurers.

4.7

Best restaurants in Eastern Washington

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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All Restaurants

The Pink Door

Experience exquisite Italian cuisine at The Pink Door in Seattle, where delightful dishes meet captivating performances in an enchanting atmosphere.

4.6

Cottage Cafe & Fireside Lounge

Experience comfort dining at Cottage Cafe & Fireside Lounge in Cle Elum, WA – your go-to spot for delicious breakfasts and cozy gatherings.

4.6

The Brick Saloon

Experience the warmth of community at The Brick Saloon in Roslyn - where delicious food meets inviting atmosphere.

4.5

Yodelin Broth Company and Beer Garden

Experience hearty soups and craft beers at Yodelin Broth Company in charming Leavenworth - a must-visit for food lovers!

4.5

Best bars in Eastern Washington

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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All Bars

Unicorn

Experience the magic of Unicorn, Seattle's eclectic bar offering creative cocktails and a whimsical atmosphere in the heart of Capitol Hill.

4.4

Woodblock

Discover the vibrant flavors of Woodblock, a New American restaurant in Redmond, WA, known for its innovative brunch and cocktail menu.

4.3

The Brick Saloon

Discover the charm of The Brick Saloon in Roslyn, WA - the oldest pub in the state, offering delicious food and local brews in a historic setting.

4.5

The Black Duck Cask and Bottle

Experience the best of Washington's pub culture at The Black Duck Cask and Bottle, known for its exceptional food, craft beers, and vibrant atmosphere.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Eastern Washington

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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All Nightclubs

Sarajevo Nightclub

Discover Seattle's lively Sarajevo Nightclub, where vibrant music and a spacious dance floor create an unforgettable nightlife experience.

4.0

Globe Nightclub

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Spokane at Globe Nightclub, where music and dance come alive in an electrifying atmosphere.

3.8

Havana Nightclub

Discover Seattle's pulsating nightlife at Havana Nightclub, where vibrant music, delicious cocktails, and an electrifying atmosphere await.

3.6

Club Silverstone

Discover the lively atmosphere of Club Silverstone, Tacoma's premier bar and nightclub, where unforgettable nights and great music collide.

3.5

Best shops in Eastern Washington

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

Seattle Premium Outlets

Discover unbeatable deals at Seattle Premium Outlets, where over 130 brand-name stores await your visit in Tulalip, Washington.

4.3

Ye Olde Curiosity Shop

Explore the eclectic treasures of Ye Olde Curiosity Shop, a unique Seattle destination filled with gifts, artifacts, and curiosities from around the world.

4.5

Hobby Lobby

Unleash your creativity at Hobby Lobby, the ultimate destination for crafts, fabrics, and unique home décor in East Wenatchee.

4.4

Kris Kringl

Discover Kris Kringl, a magical Christmas store in Leavenworth, WA, filled with unique ornaments and festive treasures all year round.

4.7

Explore Eastern Washington on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Eastern Washington, mapped for you.

Eastern Washington Essentials

Eastern Washington is accessible via multiple modes of transportation. The primary airport is Spokane International Airport (GEG), which offers numerous domestic flights. You can also drive into the region via Interstate 90 if you're coming from Western Washington or neighboring states. Amtrak services are available, with the Empire Builder line stopping in Spokane and other points in Eastern Washington.
Once in Eastern Washington, you can utilize various transportation options. Car rentals are widely available and recommended for exploring rural and remote areas. Public transportation is limited primarily to urban centers like Spokane, where you can use buses operated by Spokane Transit Authority (STA). Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also available in larger towns and cities.
The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in rural areas. ATMs are readily accessible in cities and towns. Contactless payment methods like Apple Pay and Google Wallet are also becoming increasingly common.
Eastern Washington is generally safe for tourists. However, it's advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas. Spokane has some neighborhoods with higher crime rates, such as East Central and Hillyard, so exercise caution in these areas. Always keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Spokane has several hospitals, including Sacred Heart Medical Center and Deaconess Hospital. For non-urgent medical issues, urgent care centers and pharmacies are available in most towns. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress in layers, especially in the colder months. Casual attire is generally acceptable. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially if visiting Native American reservations. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Avoid loud conversations. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a friendly nod. Eating & Drinking: Do try local wines from the region's numerous wineries. Don't leave a tip less than 15% in restaurants, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Eastern Washington like a local, visit the farmers' markets, especially in Spokane and Walla Walla, to buy fresh produce and artisanal goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share their knowledge about the region. Don't miss a drive through the Palouse region for stunning landscapes. Also, try to attend local festivals and events to get a true feel of the local culture.

When is the best time to visit Eastern Washington?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Eastern Washington

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Eastern Washington. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHey there
  [Hay thair]
- GoodbyeSee ya later
  [See ya lay-tur]
- YesYep
  [Yep]
- NoNah
  [Nah]
- Please/You’re welcomeSure thing
  [Shur thing]
- Thank youThanks a lot
  [Thangs a lot]
- Excuse me/SorryMy bad
  [My bad]
- How are you?How's it going?
  [How's it goin'?]
- Fine. And you?I'm good, you?
  [I'm good, you?]
- Do you speak English?Do ya speak English?
  [Do ya speak English?]
- I don't understandI don’t get it
  [I don’t get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu?
  [Can I see the menu?]
- I don't eat meatI'm a vegetarian
  [I'm a veg-e-tarian]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCan I get the check?
  [Can I get the check?]
- Help!Help!
  [Help!]
- Go away!Leave me alone!
  [Leave me alone!]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [Call the cops!]
- Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
  [Get a doctor!]
- I'm lostI’m turned around
  [I’m turned around]
- I'm illI’m not feeling well
  [I’m not feeling well]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy...]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [Just browsing]
- How much is it?What’s the price?
  [What’s the price?]
- That's too expensiveThat's way too pricey
  [That's way too pricey]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya make it cheaper?
  [Can ya make it cheaper?]
- What time is it?What time ya got?
  [What time ya got?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [It's one o'clock]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [Half past ten]
- MorningMorning
  [Morning]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
- EveningEvening
  [Evening]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesterday]
- TodayToday
  [Today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
- 1One
  [One]
- 2Two
  [Two]
- 3Three
  [Three]
- 4Four
  [Four]
- 5Five
  [Five]
- 6Six
  [Six]
- 7Seven
  [Seven]
- 8Eight
  [Eight]
- 9Nine
  [Nine]
- 10Ten
  [Ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the nearest...?
  [Where's the nearest...?]
- What's the address?What’s the address?
  [What’s the address?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you point it out?
  [Can you point it out?]
- When's the next (bus)?When’s the next bus?
  [When’s the next bus?]
- A ticket (to ....)One ticket to...
  [One ticket to...]

History of Eastern Washington

Eastern Washington has been home to various Native American tribes for thousands of years, including the Spokane, Yakama, and Nez Perce tribes. These tribes thrived on the region's abundant natural resources, developing rich cultural traditions and intricate social structures. The area is dotted with significant archaeological sites, petroglyphs, and tribal lands that showcase the deep-rooted history of these indigenous peoples.
The Lewis and Clark Expedition, commissioned by President Thomas Jefferson in 1804, traversed Eastern Washington in 1805. This historic journey marked the first American expedition to cross the western portion of the United States. The explorers mapped the area, established relations with Native American tribes, and documented the region's flora and fauna. Their journey through Eastern Washington significantly contributed to the westward expansion of the United States.
In the early 19th century, fur traders from the Hudson's Bay Company and the North West Company began to explore Eastern Washington. They established trading posts, such as Fort Nez Percés (also known as Fort Walla Walla), which became vital centers for trade between Native Americans and Europeans. The fur trade era brought significant changes to the region's economy and interactions between different cultures.
The Oregon Trail, one of the most famous migration routes in American history, passed through Eastern Washington. Thousands of pioneers traveled this arduous path in the mid-19th century, seeking new opportunities in the Pacific Northwest. The trail's presence in Eastern Washington is commemorated by numerous historical markers and interpretive centers that provide insights into the hardships and triumphs of the pioneers.
The late 19th century saw the rapid expansion of the railroad system in Eastern Washington. The Northern Pacific Railway, completed in 1883, connected the region to the rest of the country, facilitating economic growth and population influx. Towns like Spokane and Walla Walla flourished as transportation hubs, and the railroads played a crucial role in the agricultural and industrial development of Eastern Washington.
Completed in 1942, the Grand Coulee Dam is one of the most significant engineering feats in the United States. Located on the Columbia River, it is the largest concrete structure in North America. The dam was constructed as part of the New Deal's public works projects and provides hydroelectric power, irrigation, and flood control for the region. Its construction transformed the economy and landscape of Eastern Washington, making it a pivotal landmark in the area's history.
During World War II, the Hanford Site in Eastern Washington became a critical component of the Manhattan Project, the secret U.S. government program to develop the atomic bomb. Established in 1943, the site produced plutonium for the bomb dropped on Nagasaki, Japan. Today, the Hanford Site is a key location for nuclear waste cleanup efforts and offers tours that provide a glimpse into its historical significance and ongoing environmental challenges.