Kennewick: Where the Columbia River Meets Adventure

• HelloHey
  [Hey]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [See ya]
• YesYep
  [Yep]
• NoNah
  [Nah]
• Please/You're welcomeSure thing
  [Sure thing]
• Thank youThanks
  [Thanks]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me
  [Pardon me]
• How are you?How's it goin'?
  [How's it goin'?]
• Fine. And you?Good. You?
  [Good. You?]
• Do you speak English?You speak English?
  [You 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, please
  [Can I see the menu, please]
• I don't eat meatI'm vegetarian
  [I'm vegetarian]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseCheck, please
  [Check, please]

• 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 lost
  [I'm lost]
• I'm illI'm sick
  [I'm sick]

• I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy...]
• I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [Just browsing]
• How much is it?How much?
  [How much?]
• That's too expensiveToo pricey
  [Too pricey]
• Can you lower the price?Can you give a discount?
  [Can you give a discount?]

• What time is it?What's the time?
  [What's the time?]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [It's one]
• Half past (10)Ten thirty
  [Ten thirty]
• 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...?
  [Where's the...?]
• What's the address?What's the address?
  [What's the address?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [Can you show me (on the map)?]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [When's the next (bus)?]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [A ticket (to ....)]

Long before Kennewick was established, the area was inhabited by Native American tribes, primarily the Wanapum, Yakama, and Nez Perce. These tribes thrived along the Columbia River, utilizing its abundant resources for fishing, hunting, and gathering. The discovery of the Kennewick Man in 1996, a nearly 9,000-year-old skeletal remains, brought significant attention to the area's ancient history, sparking debates in the fields of archaeology and anthropology.

The Lewis and Clark Expedition passed through the area in October 1805, documenting the rich landscape and its native inhabitants. By the mid-19th century, settlers began to arrive, drawn by the promise of fertile land and the strategic location along the Columbia River. The establishment of the Oregon Trail further accelerated settlement, with Kennewick becoming a notable waypoint for pioneers heading west.

Kennewick was officially incorporated on February 5, 1904. The town's growth was initially driven by agriculture, thanks to the region's favorable climate and irrigation from the Columbia River. The development of the Northern Pacific Railway also played a crucial role, connecting Kennewick with larger markets and facilitating the transport of goods.

During World War II, the nearby Hanford Site was chosen as a key location for the Manhattan Project, the secret U.S. government project to develop nuclear weapons. The construction of the Hanford Engineer Works brought thousands of workers to the area, dramatically altering the local economy and landscape. Kennewick, along with neighboring Richland and Pasco, became part of the Tri-Cities, a hub of scientific and technological advancements.

After the war, Kennewick continued to grow, driven by the expansion of the Hanford Site and the diversification of its economy. The construction of the Interstate 82 in the 1980s further boosted accessibility and growth. Today, Kennewick is known for its vibrant community, thriving wine industry, and its role as a commercial and cultural center in the Tri-Cities region.

Kennewick is located in southeastern Washington State. The nearest major airport is Tri-Cities Airport (PSC) in Pasco, which is about a 15-minute drive from Kennewick. PSC offers flights from major airlines such as Delta, United, and Alaska Airlines. Alternatively, you can fly into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and take a connecting flight to PSC or drive approximately 3.5 hours to reach Kennewick. Amtrak also operates a train service to nearby Pasco, and there are several bus services including Greyhound and regional shuttle services.

Kennewick offers various transportation options. Rental cars are available at Tri-Cities Airport and several locations in town, which is convenient for exploring the region. Public transportation is provided by Ben Franklin Transit, which operates buses throughout the Tri-Cities area including Kennewick, Pasco, and Richland. For shorter distances, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available. Biking is also a popular option, with numerous bike lanes and trails throughout the city.

The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful, especially in larger commercial areas. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or in case you visit more rural parts of the area where card payments might not be accepted.

Kennewick is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like any urban area, it's important to be cautious, especially at night. Areas with higher crime rates include parts of Downtown Kennewick and some neighborhoods near the Columbia River. Always keep an eye on your belongings, avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, and be cautious when using ATMs. The local police are visible and responsive, contributing to a sense of safety.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Trios Health and Kadlec Regional Medical Center are the main hospitals serving the area. Pharmacies such as Walgreens and CVS are also available for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For non-emergency situations, the Kennewick Police Department can be reached at their non-emergency number.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the season. Summers can be very hot, so light clothing is advisable. Don’t wear overly revealing clothing in more conservative or family-oriented areas. Religion: Do be respectful when visiting religious sites. Public Transport: Do have exact change or a transit card for bus services. Don’t play loud music or talk loudly on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or a handshake. Don’t be overly familiar with strangers. Eating & Drinking: Do try local wines and dishes, as the area is known for its wine production. Don’t tip less than 15% in restaurants, as this is considered customary.

To experience Kennewick like a local, visit the Columbia Park, which offers scenic views and recreational activities. The Farmers' Market is a great place to buy fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with residents at community events such as the annual Benton-Franklin Fair & Rodeo. Don’t miss the wine tours, as the region is famous for its wineries. For a unique experience, visit the Sacagawea Heritage Trail for biking or walking along the Columbia River.