Kennewick, Washington Travel Guide

Discover Kennewick, Washington – a vibrant city on the Columbia River with stunning landscapes, rich history, and exciting outdoor adventures.

Kennewick, located in southeastern Washington, is a gem in the Tri-Cities area. Bordered by the majestic Columbia River, Kennewick offers a blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. Tourists will find a charming downtown area with boutique shops, local eateries, and a vibrant arts scene. The city's parks and trails provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to fishing and boating on the Columbia River. Kennewick is also home to several wineries and breweries, making it a fantastic destination for food and drink enthusiasts. The annual events such as the Columbia Cup Hydroplane Races and the Tumbleweed Music Festival add to the city's lively atmosphere. For history buffs, the nearby Sacajawea State Park offers a glimpse into the area's rich Native American heritage. Whether you're looking to relax by the river, explore local culture, or indulge in culinary delights, Kennewick has something for everyone. Its welcoming community and scenic landscapes make it a must-visit destination in Washington state.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit during the summer months for the best weather and to enjoy local festivals.
Check out the local wineries and breweries for a taste of Kennewick's craft beverages.
Rent a bike and explore the Sacagawea Heritage Trail along the Columbia River.
Bring your fishing gear for some great fishing spots along the river.
Explore the downtown area for unique shops and local dining options.

Explore Kennewick: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

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

Best attractions in Kennewick

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Gesa Carousel of Dreams

Discover the enchantment of Gesa Carousel of Dreams, a vibrant amusement center in Kennewick, WA, perfect for family fun and unforgettable memories.

4.8

J. Bookwalter Winery & Richland Tasting Room

Discover the enchanting J. Bookwalter Winery in Richland, WA, home to exquisite wines, stunning vineyard views, and unforgettable tasting experiences.

4.4

Goose Ridge Estate Vineyard and Winery

Discover the beauty and flavor of Washington's wine country at Goose Ridge Estate Vineyard and Winery, where exceptional wines meet breathtaking views.

4.4

Terra Blanca Winery & Estate Vineyard

Experience the serene beauty and exceptional wine at Terra Blanca Winery & Estate Vineyard in Benton City, Washington.

4.4

Best landmarks in Kennewick

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Clover Island Inn

Experience the charm of Clover Island Inn, a beautiful riverside hotel in Kennewick, Washington, perfect for relaxation and adventure.

4.2

Carl’s Jr.

Discover the delicious fast food experience at Carl's Jr. in Kennewick, WA, where quality meets convenience for every traveler.

4.2

Kennewick Plaza

Explore Kennewick Plaza, a vibrant shopping mall in Washington offering diverse stores, delicious dining, and lively entertainment for every tourist.

4.2

Cedars at Pier One

Discover the exquisite flavors and stunning riverside views at Cedars at Pier One, Kennewick's premier dining destination.

4.2

Best restaurants in Kennewick

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Texas Roadhouse

Experience mouth-watering steaks and lively atmosphere at Texas Roadhouse in Kennewick - perfect for meat lovers and families alike.

4.5

Bob's Burgers & Brew

Experience the best burgers in Kennewick at Bob's Burgers & Brew – where flavor meets fun!

4.3

Foodies Kennewick

Discover the flavors of America at Foodies Kennewick—where delicious meals meet warm hospitality in Washington's scenic heart.

4.5

The Crazy Crab Place

Experience the best fusion of seafood and Mexican cuisine at The Crazy Crab Place in Kennewick - where every dish tells a delicious story.

4.1

Best bars in Kennewick

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Twigs Bistro and Martini Bar

Discover the vibrant flavors of Twigs Bistro and Martini Bar, a premier dining destination in Kennewick, WA, where great food meets a lively atmosphere.

4.5

Hops n Drops

Experience the vibrant flavors of Hops n Drops in Kennewick, where delicious burgers and grilled delights meet a lively atmosphere.

4.4

The Pub

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and diverse menu at The Pub, Kennewick's top destination for grilled delights and refreshing drinks.

4.1

Proof Gastropub

Discover the culinary creativity of Proof Gastropub in Kennewick - a must-visit for food lovers seeking a unique dining experience.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Kennewick

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Sam’s Saloon

Enjoy an unforgettable night at Sam's Saloon, the ultimate combination of vibrant nightlife, delicious American cuisine, and a welcoming atmosphere in Kennewick, WA.

4.4

Power Up Arcade Bar

Experience the thrill of gaming and a vibrant bar atmosphere at Power Up Arcade Bar in Kennewick, WA, a unique destination for fun and relaxation.

4.3

Parkade Bar & Grill

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine at Parkade Bar & Grill, a culinary gem in the heart of Kennewick, Washington.

4.2

Out And About

Discover the pulse of Pasco's nightlife at Out And About, where great drinks, music, and fun come together in a vibrant setting.

4.3

Best shops in Kennewick

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Columbia Center

Discover Columbia Center, Kennewick's premier shopping destination with diverse stores, dining, and entertainment for a perfect day out.

4.2

Castle Megastore - Kennewick, WA

Explore Castle Megastore in Kennewick, WA: Your ultimate destination for adult entertainment, lingerie, and unique gifts.

4.7

T.J. Maxx

Shop T.J. Maxx in Kennewick for unbeatable deals on fashion and home goods, perfect for budget-conscious travelers seeking unique finds.

4.2

Infinite Frontiers Collectibles

Explore Infinite Frontiers Collectibles in Kennewick, WA – a paradise for comic enthusiasts and collectors of all ages, featuring books, figurines, and miniatures.

4.8

Explore Kennewick on the Map

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

Kennewick Essentials

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.

When is the best time to visit Kennewick?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Kennewick

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 Kennewick. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- 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 ....)]

History of Kennewick

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.