Yakima, Washington Travel Guide

Yakima, Washington: Discover the sun-soaked vineyards, scenic trails, and vibrant local culture in the heart of Washington's wine country.

Nestled in the fertile Yakima Valley, Yakima is a charming city known for its vibrant agriculture, burgeoning wine industry, and stunning natural landscapes. As the sunniest city in Washington State, Yakima offers an inviting climate perfect for outdoor activities and exploration. Whether you're a wine enthusiast, an outdoor adventurer, or a lover of fresh, local food, Yakima has something special to offer. Yakima's wine country is a must-visit, boasting over 120 wineries and vineyards. Take a scenic drive through rolling hills and lush vineyards, stopping to sample award-winning wines along the way. The Yakima Valley AVA is renowned for producing some of the country's best wines, particularly its Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah. For those seeking outdoor adventures, Yakima provides ample opportunities. The Yakima Greenway offers miles of walking, biking, and hiking trails that wind along the Yakima River. Nearby, Mount Rainier and the Cascade Mountains provide stunning backdrops for hiking, skiing, and wildlife watching. Don't miss out on the chance to explore Yakima's numerous parks and nature reserves, where you can enjoy bird watching, fishing, and picnicking. Yakima's downtown area is a vibrant hub of activity, featuring a mix of historic architecture, boutiques, art galleries, and local eateries. The Yakima Farmers Market is a highlight, offering fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious food from local vendors. Year-round events and festivals, such as the Central Washington State Fair and Fresh Hop Ale Festival, add to the city's lively atmosphere. With its rich agricultural heritage, Yakima is also a haven for food lovers. The valley's orchards produce a bounty of apples, cherries, and other fruits, which you can sample at local farm stands and U-pick farms. Culinary enthusiasts will enjoy the diverse dining scene, which features farm-to-table restaurants, craft breweries, and artisanal food shops.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit during the harvest season (late summer to early fall) to enjoy fresh produce and wine tasting events.
Pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring the Yakima Greenway and downtown area.
Check out the local festivals and events calendar to make the most of your visit.
Don't forget sunscreen and a hat, as Yakima enjoys plenty of sunshine.
Rent a bike to explore the scenic trails and vineyards at your own pace.
Make time to visit the Yakima Valley Museum to learn about the region's history and culture.
Sample local craft beers at one of Yakima's many breweries, known for their use of local hops.

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

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

Best attractions in Yakima

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Franklin Park

Experience the natural beauty and recreational charm of Franklin Park, Yakima's premier destination for relaxation and outdoor fun.

4.5

Yakima Area Arboretum

Explore the Yakima Area Arboretum: A 46-acre haven of botanical beauty, community events, and educational experiences in Washington's scenic Yakima Valley.

4.7

Yakima Area Arboretum

Explore the Yakima Area Arboretum, a beautiful botanical garden and nature preserve that highlights the Pacific Northwest's diverse flora and tranquil landscapes.

4.7

Chesterley Park

Discover the beauty and tranquility of Chesterley Park, a perfect blend of nature and recreation in the heart of Yakima, Washington.

4.3

Best landmarks in Yakima

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Cowiche Canyon Kitchen & Ice House Bar

Experience the flavors of Yakima at Cowiche Canyon Kitchen & Ice House Bar, where American cuisine meets a vibrant bar atmosphere.

4.5

Yakima SunDome

Discover the vibrant energy of Yakima SunDome, the premier arena for sports and live entertainment in Washington, perfect for all ages.

4.2

Famous Burger & Teriyaki Sandwich

Discover the delicious burgers and teriyaki sandwiches at Famous Burger & Teriyaki Sandwich in Yakima, where flavor meets affordability in a casual dining experience.

4.7

Franklin Park

Explore the natural beauty and recreational delights of Franklin Park, a serene escape in Yakima, Washington, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families.

4.5

Best restaurants in Yakima

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Olive Garden Italian Restaurant

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Olive Garden Yakima - where every meal feels like family!

4.3

Cowiche Canyon Kitchen & Ice House Bar

Discover Cowiche Canyon Kitchen & Ice House Bar in Yakima: where American cuisine meets vibrant nightlife in a cozy atmosphere.

4.5

El Mirador 2

Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at El Mirador 2 in Yakima – where every meal tells a story.

4.3

Bob's Burgers & Brew - Yakima

Discover delicious gourmet burgers and American classics at Bob's Burgers & Brew in Yakima – perfect for families and food lovers!

4.3

Best bars in Yakima

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Best Bars

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Cowiche Canyon Kitchen & Ice House Bar

Experience the taste of Yakima at Cowiche Canyon Kitchen & Ice House Bar, where American cuisine meets local charm in a vibrant setting.

4.5

Second Street Grill

Experience the best of Yakima's local cuisine at Second Street Grill, renowned for its flavorful grilled dishes and welcoming atmosphere.

4.4

Bill's Place

Experience the vibrant flavors of Yakima at Bill's Place, a top-notch grill and bar offering delicious American cuisine and a lively atmosphere.

4.5

The Dutch

Discover the vibrant flavors of Yakima at The Dutch, a grill that offers a delightful range of dishes in a cozy atmosphere perfect for everyone.

4.2

Best nightclubs in Yakima

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Hoops

Discover Yakima's lively nightlife at Hoops, the go-to bar for craft drinks, live music, and friendly vibes.

4.2

The Warehouse Sports Bar and Grill

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grill options at The Warehouse Sports Bar and Grill, your go-to spot in Yakima for food and fun.

4.3

Sky Bar & Lounge

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Sky Bar & Lounge in Yakima, where exceptional cocktails meet a lively atmosphere.

4.1

Johnnys Lounge

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Johnny's Lounge, Yakima's premier spot for great music, delicious drinks, and unforgettable memories.

3.9

Best shops in Yakima

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Valley Mall

Explore Valley Mall in Union Gap, WA: a vibrant shopping destination with diverse stores, delicious dining, and entertainment for every visitor.

4.1

Target

Explore Target in Yakima for diverse shopping, from fashion to home goods, all in one vibrant location.

4.1

Sweet Relief CBD, Wellness, Gifts

Explore Sweet Relief CBD in Yakima, WA for a unique selection of wellness products and artisanal gifts, blending health and creativity in one charming boutique.

4.3

Westpark Shopping Center

Discover the ultimate shopping experience at Westpark Shopping Center in Yakima, WA - a vibrant hub for retail, dining, and entertainment.

4.2

Explore Yakima on the Map

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

Yakima Essentials

Yakima is located in Central Washington and can be accessed by various means. The closest major airport is Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), about 150 miles west of Yakima. From Seattle, you can rent a car or take a bus to Yakima. The Yakima Air Terminal-McAllister Field (YKM) also offers limited commercial flights connecting to Seattle. Yakima is accessible by major highways, notably Interstate 82, which connects to Interstate 90 and Interstate 84.
Yakima offers several transportation options. The Yakima Transit system provides bus services within the city and to nearby areas. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also available. For more flexibility, consider renting a car, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding wine country and outdoor attractions. Biking is another popular mode of transport, with several bike-friendly routes throughout the city.
The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Yakima, including in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. Mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Wallet are also increasingly popular.
Yakima is generally a safe city for tourists, but it's important to exercise standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Certain neighborhoods, such as parts of East Yakima, have higher crime rates and should be approached with caution. Always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Yakima has several medical facilities, including Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital and Virginia Mason Memorial. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. The local police station is also available for assistance.
Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can vary. Casual attire is generally acceptable. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. There are various places of worship, so be considerate. Public Transport: Do be polite and respectful on public transit. Offer your seat to elderly passengers. Avoid eating or drinking on buses. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly smile or a handshake. Yakima residents are generally warm and welcoming. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods and wine. Yakima is known for its wineries and fresh produce. Don't forget to tip, as it is customary in the U.S.
To experience Yakima like a local, visit the Yakima Farmers Market for fresh produce and local crafts. Explore the Yakima Greenway for outdoor activities like biking and walking. Attend local events such as the Central Washington State Fair or the Fresh Hop Ale Festival. Don't miss out on the Yakima Valley wine tours, which offer a taste of the region's renowned wines.

When is the best time to visit Yakima?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Yakima

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

- HelloYakima Salutations
  [yuh-kih-muh sah-loo-tay-shuns]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yah]
- YesYep
  [yep]
- NoNope
  [nohp]
- Please/You're welcomePlease n' thank ya
  [pleez n' thangk yah]
- Thank youThanks a bunch
  [thangs uh buhnch]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me
  [pahr-dun me]
- How are you?How ya doin'?
  [how yah doo-in]
- Fine. And you?Doin' alright. How 'bout you?
  [doo-in all-ryt. how 'bout yoo]
- Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [yah speak ing-glish]
- I don't understandI'm lost
  [ahm lost]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check out the menu?
  [kan eye chek out thee men-yoo]
- I don't eat meatI'm veggie
  [ahm veh-jee]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCan I settle up, please
  [kan eye set-ul up pleez]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Scram!
  [skram]
- Call the Police!Ring the cops!
  [ring thee cops]
- Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [get uh dok]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [ahm lost]
- I'm illI'm feelin' under the weather
  [ahm feel-in un-der thee weh-thur]
- I'd like to buy...I'm lookin' to purchase...
  [ahm look-in tuh per-chays]
- I'm just lookingJust browsin'
  [just brow-zin]
- How much is it?What's the damage?
  [whats thee dam-ij]
- That's too expensiveThat's spendy
  [thats spen-dee]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya knock sum off?
  [kan yah nok sum off]
- What time is it?What's the time?
  [whats thee time]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its one]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [half past ten]
- MorningMornin'
  [morn-in]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [after-noon]
- EveningEvenin'
  [even-in]
- YesterdayYestuh-day
  [yes-tuh-day]
- TodayToday
  [to-day]
- TomorrowTomorruh
  [tom-or-uh]
- 1One
  [wun]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [for]
- 5Five
  [fahyv]
- 6Six
  [siks]
- 7Seven
  [sev-uhn]
- 8Eight
  [ayt]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the... at?
  [wheres thee at]
- What's the address?What's the addy?
  [whats thee add-ee]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya show me (on the map)?
  [kan yah show mee]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus) comin'?
  [whens thee next com-in]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [uh tik-it (to)]

History of Yakima

Long before European settlers arrived, the Yakama Nation, a confederation of several Native American tribes, thrived in the Yakima Valley. The Yakama people have lived in the region for thousands of years, drawing sustenance from the area's abundant natural resources. They fished in the rivers, hunted in the forests, and gathered roots and berries in the valleys. Their rich cultural heritage and deep connection to the land are still evident in the region today.
The first European settlers arrived in the Yakima Valley in the early 19th century. These pioneers were primarily fur traders and missionaries. The establishment of Fort Simcoe in 1856 marked a significant turning point, as it became a central point for trade and interaction between settlers and the Yakama Nation. The fort was also a military outpost designed to enforce the treaties signed with the indigenous tribes.
The Yakama War (1855-1858) was a pivotal conflict between the Yakama Nation and the United States government, sparked by increasing encroachment on tribal lands and resources. The war ended with the Yakama Nation being forced onto a reservation, as outlined in the Treaty of 1855. Despite the treaty, tensions and conflicts over land and resources continued for many years.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Yakima Valley transformed into a thriving agricultural hub. The construction of the Sunnyside Canal and other irrigation projects in the early 1900s enabled large-scale farming. The valley's fertile soil and favorable climate made it an ideal location for growing a variety of crops, including apples, hops, and wine grapes, which remain key industries in the region today.
The city of Yakima was officially incorporated in 1883 and quickly became a central hub for commerce and transportation. The arrival of the Northern Pacific Railway in 1884 further accelerated growth, connecting Yakima to larger markets and facilitating the export of its agricultural products. Over the years, the city has continued to grow and diversify, with a robust local economy and a rich cultural scene.
Yakima is host to a variety of cultural festivals and events that celebrate its diverse heritage. The Central Washington State Fair, held annually in Yakima, attracts visitors from across the region with its agricultural exhibits, concerts, and rodeos. The Yakima Folklife Festival and Fresh Hop Ale Festival are other popular events that highlight the area's cultural and agricultural traditions.
Today, Yakima is a vibrant community that blends its rich historical heritage with modern innovation. The city is home to a thriving arts scene, numerous wineries and breweries, and a growing tech industry. Efforts to preserve and promote the history and culture of the Yakama Nation continue to be an important aspect of the community. The Yakima Valley Museum and other cultural institutions play a key role in educating residents and visitors about the region's past.