Yakima, Washington is the largest city in the state and one of the two largest cities in the Pacific Northwest region. This means that there are a lot of amazing things to do in Yakima. The city is also part of a metropolitan area with an estimated population of 463,000 people which includes all things from Asotin County to Benton County.
The total land area for Yakima sits at around 144 square miles or about 73,680 acres while its total water surface has been measured at 17 square miles or 7,690 acres according to the latest census data from 2010 – 2012.
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Yakima’s population sits at just over 78 thousand people as of July 2016 and it ranks as being among one of America’s fastest-growing cities within terms of population.
A few words about Yakima’s history
Yakima has a long history that began back in the 1700s with the establishment of Fort Naches. The city was established in 1884 and it has continued to grow ever since.
Today, Yakima is home to many attractions including venues like the Yakima Valley Museum and several wineries. The city also has things like a hot air balloon festival, regular events at the Yakima SunDome which is an indoor stadium, and things like Canyon Park which is also known as Yakima’s largest park.
The Palm Springs of Washington
Yakima’s official slogan is the “Palm Springs of Washington” because the city has things like a Mediterranean-style climate and things like hot, dry summers.
In terms of things to do in Yakima, Washington, there are things like wineries, golfing, hiking trails at places like Ahtanum Ridge, and things like the Selah Rodeo. Yakima also has things like plant tours at the Rattlesnake Mountain Botanical Garden and things like the Wine Country Film Festival.
Things to do in Yakima, WA
If you plan to travel to Yakima, you should know that the city has a lot to offer. We gathered the most amazing things to do in Yakima and prepared a comprehensive list. The list features the most popular and highest-rated things to do in Yakima, WA, from the biggest travel review websites.
Yakima Area Arboretum & Botanical Garden
The first of the many things to do in Yakima, WA, is The Yakima Area Arboretum & Botanical Garden. It is a beautiful place to visit, with plenty of things to see and do. The arboretum has a large variety of plants, trees, and flowers, as well as a number of gardens. There’s also a playground for the kids and a nature trail that winds through the woods. Yakima is well known for its cherry orchards, but this arboretum has plenty of other plants to see too. Yakima Area Arboretum & Botanical Garden is a Yakima landmark.
The Yakima Area Arboretum and Botanical Garden opened in Yakima in 1988 and has been growing ever since. Yakima is known for its cherry orchards, but this arboretum has much more to offer the Yakima Valley Region. There are a wide variety of plants, flowers, and trees from all over the world.
Johnson’s Orchards
Johnson’s Orchards is a great place to go for a day trip. There are apple and pear orchards, a pumpkin patch, and a petting zoo. You can also buy fresh produce, jams, and baked goods. Johnson’s Orchards is a fun place to go with friends and family.
Yakima Valley Museum
Next on our list of things to do in Yakima is the Yakima Valley Museum which is a great place to visit if you’re interested in the history of the area. They have a variety of exhibits that showcase everything from the region’s Native American history to its agricultural heritage. They also have a great gift shop, and the museum staff is always happy to answer any questions you may have.
Cowiche Canyon Trail
The Cowiche Canyon Trail is a moderate 4.5-mile hike that takes you through the Cowiche Creek Canyon. The hike is a great way to see the canyon and the wildlife that call it home. The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, making it a great option for hikers of all levels.
The Cowiche Canyon Trail is a great option for hikers, dog walkers, and people out for a day hike. The trail takes hikers to Cowiche Creek, where they can see the Cowiche Falls and enjoy the natural pools. Cowiche Canyon Trail is a great way to spend a Saturday or Sunday afternoon.
The Cowiche Canyon Trail is one of many hiking trails in Cowiche, Washington.
Bale Breaker Brewing Company
If you’re looking for a great brewery to check out in Yakima, WA, Bale Breaker Brewing Company is definitely worth a visit. They make some of the best beer in the area, and their taproom is a great place to hang out and relax. They also have a pretty impressive food menu, so you can enjoy a full meal while you’re there.
Capitol Theatre
The Capitol Theatre is a great place to catch a movie in Yakima, WA. They often have independent and art films playing, as well as the latest Hollywood blockbusters. They also have a great selection of snacks and drinks, and the theater itself is really beautiful. It’s definitely worth checking out!
With its 1500 seat capacity, the theater hosted a lot of great artists and performances. Among the famous performances was the Yakima Symphony Orchestra.
Single Hill Brewing
Single Hill Brewing is a brewery in Yakima that has a lot to offer visitors. There’s always something new on tap, and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable. The taproom is spacious and comfortable, and there’s even a patio where you can enjoy the fresh air. Single Hill also offers tours of the brewing process, and you can even take home some of your favorite brews!
Portteus Vineyards
Portteus Vineyards is a beautiful winery in Yakima, Washington, that offers stunning views of the valley and delicious wine. The vineyard has been family-owned and operated for over four generations, and their fine wines have won numerous awards. They offer wine tastings, tours, and events, and their wines are available for purchase online or at select retailers.
Kana Winery
Another great entry on our list of things to do in Yakima, WA, is Kana Winery. It is a local winery in Yakima that offers wine tastings, tours, and private events. Kana Winery is open Thursday-Monday from 11 am to 6:30 pm. The winery offers wine tastings for $5 per person. Kana Winery offers tours for $10 per person. Kana Winery offers private events for $75 per hour. They also host the first Friday tasting events.
Yakima Sportsman State Park
Yakima Sportsman State Park is a great place to go fishing, camping, and hiking. The park has a number of beautiful lakes that are perfect for fishing, and there are also many hiking trails that wind through the forest. The park is also home to Yakima Sportsman Campground, which is a great place to stay overnight.
So, if you like nature and outdoor activities, then you shouldn’t miss visiting Yakima Sportsman State Park.
Berchman’s Brewing Company
If you’re a fan of beer, Yakima, Washington is the place to be. Berchman’s Brewing Company is a local brewery that offers some of the best beer in town. They have a wide variety of beers on tap, and they’re always brewing something new. If you’re looking for a great place to relax and have a few beers, Berchman’s tasting room is the place for you.
Fort Simcoe State Park
Fort Simcoe State Park is a beautiful place to visit, and there are plenty of things to do while you’re there. Some of the highlights include hiking and biking trails, a playground, picnic areas, and Fort Simcoe itself, which is a reconstructed fort that offers interesting exhibits and educational programs.
Gilbert Cellars
Gilbert Cellars is a local winery in Yakima, Washington that offers wine tastings and tours which end in the winery’s tasting room. They have a variety of wines, and you can buy wine by the glass or bottle to enjoy on-site or take home. Gilbert Cellars also has a gift shop where you can buy wine-related gifts, including wine glasses, corkscrews, and wine racks.
Yakima Convention Center
The Yakima Convention Center is an amazing place to visit. It’s located in Yakima, Washington and it’s home to a number of different events and activities. Some of the things that you can do at the Yakima Convention Center include attending conventions, going to trade shows, participating in banquets or receptions, and so much more. If you’re looking for a great place to visit, the Yakima Convention Center is definitely worth considering.
Bonair Winery
Bonair Winery is a beautiful winery located in Yakima, Washington. They host a tasting room where you can taste their award-winning wines, and you can also purchase wine by bottle or case. Bonair Winery also offers wine accessories, wine country apparel, and gourmet foods.
Yakima Valley Visitors Center
The Yakima Valley Visitors Center is a great place to start your visit to Yakima. The center is located in the historic Naches Train Depot and offers exhibits and information on the Yakima Valley and its attractions. The center also has a gift shop, which is a great place to find souvenirs for your trip.
Sarg Hubbard Park
Sarg Hubbard Park is a beautiful place to visit. It has a large lake that is perfect for fishing, and there are also several hiking trails that wind through the park. The park is a great place to spend a day with the family, and there’s also a playground and a picnic area.
Central Washington Agricultural Museum
The Central Washington Agricultural Museum is a great place to learn about the history of agriculture in Central Washington. The museum has a variety of exhibits that tell the story of agriculture in the region, and they also offer educational programs for school groups. The museum is open from Tuesday-Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm, and admission is free.
Downtown Yakima
The next place on our list of things to do in Yakima is the downtown area. Downtown Yakima is a great place to spend an afternoon or evening. There are plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops to keep you occupied. The highlight of Downtown Yakima is the gorgeous historic buildings that line the streets. The Historic Downtown Yakima District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Downtown area has a number of free parking garages available, so there’s no need to worry about paying for parking or lugging your belongings far from the street.
Best time to take photos
Downtown offers an array of photo opportunities throughout the day, but my personal favorite time to photograph Downtown Yakima is the evening. The entire District is all lit up and it offers some great opportunities for cityscape photography. The city also hosts a lot of downtown summer nights events.
Yakima Greenway
Another entry on our list of things to do in Yakima is The Yakima Greenway. This is a fantastic place for a walk, run, or bike ride. It’s a beautiful paved path that winds through Yakima, and it’s perfect for a summer day. You can enjoy the views of the Yakima River, and there are plenty of places to stop and rest. The Yakima Greenway is also a great place to take your dog for a walk.
Yakima River Canyon
Yakima River Canyon is a beautiful place to visit, and there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained. The canyon is known for its Yakima River, but there are other things to do here. The Yakama Indian Reservation starts approximately 25 miles from Yakima, and it is a beautiful place to visit.
Yakima and Columbia Valleys are close to each other, so you might consider visiting the Columbia Valley too.
Yakima Farmers Market
The Yakima Valley is home to many farmers who grow fruit and vegetables. The Yakima Farmers Market is a place where these farmers can sell their produce. There is also a flea market that takes place at the same time. The Yakima Farmers Market features local produce, food trucks, live music, and family-friendly activities.
What time does the Yakima Farmers Market Open?
The market is open every Saturday from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm.
Yakama Nation Cultural Center
Our list of things to do in Yakima concludes with The Yakama Nation Cultural Center which is an amazing place to visit. It’s home to the Yakama Nation people and is a great place to learn about their culture and traditions. The center has a variety of exhibits that showcase the Yakama Nation’s history, art, and way of life. It’s also a great place to buy traditional Yakama Nation art and crafts.
Why is Yakima called the “Palm Springs of Washington”?
The climate in Yakima is known as the “Palm Springs of Washington” because it is incredibly hot and dry. The weather is perfect for growing grapes and other fruit, which is why there are so many vineyards in the area.
Is Yakima a good place to visit?
Yakima is a great place to visit because there are so many things to do. You can go fishing, hiking, biking, and camping at the local parks, or you can visit one of the many wineries in the area. Yakima is also home to the Yakima Convention Center, which is a great place to attend conventions, trade shows, and other events. If you’re looking for a great place to live, Yakima is a great option. The climate is perfect for growing grapes and other fruit, and there are plenty of job opportunities and recreational activities available.
Is there anything fun to do in Yakima, Washington?
If you’re looking for a great winter getaway, Yakima White Pass Ski Resort is a must-visit. With slopes for all experience levels and breathtaking views of Mount Rainier National Park, it’s no wonder this resort is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. And if skiing and snowboarding aren’t your things, there are plenty of other activities to keep you busy, including tubing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Yakima White Pass Ski Resort today!
This is a great place to visit because there are so many things to do in Yakima. You can go fishing, hiking, biking, and camping at the local parks, or you can visit one of the many wineries in the area. Yakima is also home to the Yakima Convention Center, which is a great place to attend conventions, trade shows, and other events. If you’re looking for a great place to live, Yakima is a great option. The climate is perfect for growing grapes and other fruit, and there are plenty of job opportunities and recreational activities available.
Popular questions about Yakima, WA
Is Yakima a desert?
No, Yakima is not a desert. The climate in Yakima is semi-arid, with hot summers and cold winters.
Is Yakima rural or urban?
Yakima is a rural area in general, but there are certain parts of the Upper Yakima that are slowly considered urban areas. The entire Yakima area has a population of roughly 250.000 people.
How many days of sunshine does Yakima WA get and what is the weather like?
The weather in Yakima is generally very sunny. The city experiences an average of 17 days of sunshine every month, around 200 days of sunshine every year. The weather is also mild, with winter temperatures rarely dropping below freezing. The summers are warm and dry, with average temperatures in the high 80s.
Yakima’s weather statistics are regularly featured in weather reports for local radio and TV, confirming it as one of the sunniest places in Washington.
The list of the 17 best things to do in Yakima, Washington
- Yakima Area Arboretum & Botanical Garden
- Johnson’s Orchards
- Yakima Valley Museum
- Cowiche Canyon Trail
- Bale Breaker Brewing Company
- Capitol Theater
- Single Hill Brewing
- Portteus Vineyards
- Kana Winery
- Yakima Sportsman State Park
- Berchman’s Brewing Company
- Fort Simcoe State Park
- Gilbert Cellars
- Yakima Convention Center
- Bonair Winery
- Yakima Valley Visitors Center
- Sarg Hubbard Park
- Mount Rainier National Park
- Yakima River Canyon
Final thoughts on what to do in Yakima, WA
If you plan to visit Yakima, WA, don’t forget to mark the tourist attractions you don’t want to miss. There are many activities like wine tasting, mountain biking, winery tours, private group tours if you are traveling with a group, and hiking trails in Yakima County.
So, the next time you visit this Pacific Northwest jewel, you’ll know what places to visit and what are the best things to do in Yakima to take part in.
If you want to find more fantastic places to visit, check out our North America travel destinations section.