Learn the top things to do in Yakima, Washington!!! Washington’s Yakima is the ideal spot for you! Situated in the lush Yakima Valley, this cute town offers a blend of picked natural sites, cultural hotspots, and outdoor adventures. 

Take a stroll along the picturesque Yakima Greenway, enjoying the serene beauty of the Yakima Arboretum and Botanical Garden.

Wine lovers, Yakima Valley Wine Country, too! Test some of the finest local wines accessible and admire the gorgeous wine-growing views. No matter what you’re into, Yakima provides many activities and attractions to guarantee a memorable experience!!!

So why wait? Discover the top things to do in Yakima, Washington, right now.

What is the best time to visit Yakima?

The best time to visit Yakima depends on your favourite season. If you love spring, which spans from March to May, the surrounding vineyards and orchards are ideal for outdoor activities such as trekking and sampling white wine. 

On the contrary, summer spans from June to August, offering outdoor adventures such as hiking, cycling, exploring the Yakima River, and various festivals. The rainy season brings moisture from September to November, yet it also marks the harvest season, showcasing stunning vegetation.

Harvesting apples and pumpkins will require visiting the orchards, but the vineyard harvest would also be busy, giving you a chance to sample wine.

Finally, winter lasts from December to February and is the only season Yakima experiences snow in the surrounding hills. The hotels provide winter sports activities and opportunities for snowboarding, including access to the White Pass Ski Area.

11 Exciting Things to do in Yakima

Here is a list of some exciting activities to experience in Yakima:

#1 Yakima Valley Museum

Yakima Valley Museum, behind Franklin Park in the downtown area, showcases the history and future of the Yakima River Valley. The museum showcases exhibits about native communities, early settlers, and the fruit industry, and it even includes a vintage soda fountain serving fizzy drinks.

It’s welcoming to children and open from Tuesday through Saturday, with a small fee; children under five enter for free.

In addition to the museum, the famous Franklin Park has trees for shade, picnic tables, and one of the city’s rare public swimming pools. This large green area is also ideal for practising fly fishing casts.

• Special Features: Special exhibitions, Petrified Miocene trees, horse-drawn vehicles, and historical exhibitions.
• Location: 2101 Tieton Drive, Yakima, Washington
• Phone No: +15092480747
• Timings: Tuesday-Saturday: 10 AM-5 PM; Closed on Sunday & Monday
• Official Website: http://www.yvmuseum.org/
• Google Maps: Get Direction

#2 Explore Franklin Park 

Franklin Park in Boston is an ample 527-acre green space designed for Frederick Law Olmsted. It’s the biggest park in Bon’s “Emerald Necklace.” The park has significant areas: “Ante Park,” which has playgrounds and sports spaces, and “Country Park,” quieter with meadows, woodlands, and a lake.

The park still houses the Franklin Park Zoo, which is worth a visit as it offers an excellent opportunity to see animals. Franklin Park is famous for picnics, jogging, walking dogs, and playing tennis.

• Special Features: Popular Spot for Picnic, Jogging, and playing tennis, Merci Car from WWI, and Franklin Park Zoo. 
• Location: 2101 Tieton Dr, Yakima, WA 98902, United States
• Phone No: +15095756020
• Timings: Monday-Sunday, 9 AM-9 PM
• Official Website: http://www.yakimaparks.com/parks/franklin/
• Google Maps: Get Direction

#3 Gilbert Cellars 

Another family-owned winery in downtown Yakima is Gilbert Cellars, renowned for its award-winning wines and welcoming atmosphere. The tastin’ room is a bit of an old-fashioned name, but it’s a cosy, inviting place to sit down, relax, and try some delicious wines ranging from cool, crisp whites to big, bold reds.

The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, eager to share their enthusiasm for winemaking. Whether you are a wine friend or just looking for a nice place to unwind, Gilbert Cellars offers an enjoyable experience with its excellent wines and charming vibe.

• Special Features: Tasting rooms, Different wines to try, and Friendly Staff. 
• Location: 2620 Draper Rd, Yakima, WA 98903, United States
• Phone No: +15092499049
• Timings: Monday-Thursday: 11 AM-4 PM, Friday-Saturday: 11 AM-8 PM, Sunday: 11 AM-4 PM
• Official Website: https://www.gilbertcellars.com/
• Google Maps: Get Direction

#4 The Capitol Theatre

Yakima has a vibrant art scene for a city of its size, and one of the best places to experience it is downtown’s Capitol Theater.  The theatre holds various shows, from Great American musicals to classic performances; it also has rock bands performing on many occasions. 

On the other hand, the venue occasionally hosts an enlightening and thoughtful Speaker Series with Yakima’s top experts joining the event to share their knowledge. Similarly, the audience can dine at one of the city’s best restaurants before or after the show.

Most of them cook from local farm-to-table, and most use the underground source from farmers in that area. It opens early in the morning to accommodate visitors until the evening. Seeing a concert at The Capitol Theatre is one of the most pleasant things in Yakima. 

• Special Features:. Historic Theatre, Classic Concerts, Rock Concerts, and the best place for shows and dining. 
• Location: 149 Westchester Ave, Port Chester, NY 10573, United States
• Phone No: +19149374126
• Timings: Open only on Friday & Saturday: 2 PM-6 PM
• Official Website: http://www.thecapitoltheatre.com/
• Google Maps: Get Direction

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#5 Yakima Greenway

When it comes to things to do in Yakima, exploring the Yakima Greenway is a must! This 20-mile path winds along the town’s edge from Naches to Union Gap, connecting various parks. For a fantastic starting point, visit Sarg Hubbard Park, which also houses the Greenway Park headquarters. You can find exciting spots here, especially if you’re into history.

One notable feature is the Merci Car, a vintage train car from World War I. It used to carry soldiers in France, and now one of these cars sits in Yakima as a thank-you gift from France to the U.S. Each state got one after the war, and Washington’s ended up here.

Plus, you’ll spot monuments dedicated to local soldiers who served in 20th-century wars. 

• Special Features: Boating, Fishing, Swimming, and the best spot for Biking, Walking, and Picnicking 
• Location: Washington, USA
• Google Maps: Get Direction

#6 Check out the Yakima River Canyon

One of the most enjoyable things to do in Yakima is to explore the Yakima River Canyon. This beautiful road between Yakima and Ellensburg has fantastic views of the desert and cliffs.

You’ll find some places to stop and have fun as you drive along. There are four main spots: Big Pines, Roza, Umtanum, and Lmuma Creek. You can camp and go to the river for boating, tubing, swimming, and fishing at these spots. It’s a great way to enjoy nature and have fun outdoors. 

• Special Features: incredible Desert, Cliff views, and the perfect place for camping, fishing, swimming, and boating
• Location: 46 846498 #120.461556, Ellensburg, WA 98926, United States
• Phone No: +12063434344
• Timings: Monday-Sunday, 7 AM-7 PM
• Official Website: Yakima River Canyon
• Google Maps: Get Direction

#7 Discover Yakima Farmers Market

Who does not enjoy food and handicrafts? The Yakima Farmers Markets are favourite places for all who support local farmers and artisans. It is seasonable and usually opens in May and ends in October.

Over a hundred stands provide fresh fruits, veggies, meats, and delicious homemade items. 
One can also obtain the creative efforts of local artisans, such as woodwork, metalwork, and jewellery.

In addition to shopping, visitors can enjoy live music and immerse themselves in a festive atmosphere. It’s an ideal place to purchase local goods, supports local farmers and artisans, and find high-quality products.

• Special Features: Fresh Food and Handmade stuff, Fun vibe and Live Music Concerts  
• Location: 15 W Yakima Ave, Yakima, WA 98901, United States
• Phone No: +15099612055
• Timings: Opens only on Sunday: 9 AM-1 PM
• Official Website: https://downtownyakimafarmersmarket.com/
• Google Maps: Get Direction

#8 Hike the Cowiche Canyon

The Cowiche Canyon Trails provide an ideal opportunity for hiking in Yakima. The paths accessible here are nearly 20 miles apart, each more beautiful than the last. And if hiking is not your thing, you may also ride on horseback or mountain bike through them!

Following that, the Cowiche Canyon Trackway is a 5-mile loop that winds through fields of wildflowers and alongside streams. The Cowiche Canyon Uplands trail is 3 miles long and offers a great view of the shrub-steppe landscape. Just bring water and wear sturdy hiking boots to explore the beauty of Yakima!

• Special Features: Beautiful Hiking Trails, Perfect for Bikers, Hikers and Horse Riders. 
• Location: J8CH+75, 12015 Summitview Rd, Yakima, WA 98908, United States
• Phone No: +15096652100
• Timings: Open 24 Hours
• Official Website: https://www.blm.gov/visit/cowiche-canyon-trail-system
• Google Maps: Get Direction 

#9 Johnson Orchards 

Johnson Orchards in Yakima, Washington, is a centuries-old family-operated orchard. They grow a variety of fresh, seasonal fruits year-round. You may select apples, cherries, peaches, and more depending on the season. They also operate a shop where you can purchase fresh fruit, homemade pies, and other locally made products.

It is the ideal opportunity to experience the delicacies of Yakima while bringing home a few delectable surprises. In conclusion, if you’re wondering what things to do in Yakima, look at our Johnson Orchards tribute.

• Special Features: Fresh Seasonal Fruits, Homemade pies and Delicious Treats
• Location: 4906 Summitview Ave, Yakima, WA 98908, United States
• Phone No: +15099667479
• Timings: Tuesday-Saturday: 9 AM-4 PM; Closed on Sunday & Monday
• Official Website: http://www.johnsonorchardsfruit.com/
• Google Maps: Get Direction

#10 White Pass Ski

If you like skiing or snowboarding, you must go to the White Pass Ski Area, which is not so far from Yakima. It has an extensive ski area, many wide trails, and some chairs that will take you uphill. Suitable for any level, from professional to one who has never stood on skis. 

The view of the mountains and Mount Rainier is simply breathtaking. You can also rent all necessary equipment or purchase skis, shoes, and everything else you might need. Several restaurants will help you to have some food. So this place is also suitable for day trips and the whole weekend.

• Special Features: Big ski area, many trails, chairlifts, amazing views of mountains, rental gear, shops, and places to eat.  
• Location: 48935 US-12, Naches, WA 98937, USA
• Phone No: +15096723101
• Timings: Monday-Sunday, 8:45 AM-4 PM
• Official Website: http://skiwhitepass.com/
• Google Maps: Get Direction

#11 Bonair Winery

Another excellent place for wine fans is Bonair Winery, which you can find in Zillah, not too far from Yakima. It’s a lovely winery with a beautiful view of the vineyards and countryside. You can taste different wines like reds, whites, and roses there.

The team at Bonair Winery is passionate about their work and incredibly welcoming. They’re happy to tell you all about wine if you’re interested. It’s an excellent spot to chill out, sip some wine, and enjoy the pretty scenery of the Yakima Valley.

• Special Features: Taste different Wines—reds, whites, and rosés.
• Location: 500 S Bonair Rd, Zillah, WA 98953, United States
• Phone No: +15098296027
• Timings: Monday-Sunday, 10 AM-5 PM
• Official Website: http://bonairwine.com/
• Google Maps: Get Direction

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Where to stay in Yakima?

Here are the top three hotels you should consider when visiting Yakima:

1. Hilton Garden Inn Yakima Downtown 

• Cost: $182 Per Night
• Location: 401 E Yakima Ave, Yakima, WA 98901, USA
• Phone No: +15094541111
• Check-in time: 3 PM
• Check-out time: 12 PM
• Official Website: Hilton Garden Inn Yakima Downtown 
• Google Maps Directions: Get Directions

It is a Downtown resort with an American dining establishment & lounge, an interior swimming pool & a workout area.

2. Finest Western Plus Yakima Hotel 

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• Cost:  9,913 Rs. Per Night
• Location: 1614 N 1st St, Yakima, WA 98901, USA
• Phone No: +15094538898
• Check-in time: 3 PM
• Check-out time: 11 AM
• Official Website: Finest Western Plus Yakima Hotel 
• Google Maps Directions: Get Directions

It’s a straightforward resort that provides complimentary morning meals, Wi-Fi & an indoor pool & fitness centre access.

3. The Hotel Y

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• Cost: 7,414 Rs. Per Night 
• Location: 1700 N 1st St, Yakima, WA 98901, United States
• Phone No: +15092485650
• Check-in time: 3 PM
• Check-out time: 11 AM
• Official Website: https://thehotely.com/
• Google Maps Directions: Get Directions

Interestingly, trendy classes and workshops coupled with comfortable resort rooms plus an outdoor pool & Wi-Fi.

Conclusion 

Yakima offers something for everyone, whether you’re a shopper, adventurer, food enthusiast, or nature lover. Whether it is just getting rid of your boredom or finding something new to do, whether enjoying wine, outdoors, or exploring, you will find plenty here to savour. A stroll to Vineyards near The Pick, a tour of the picturesque trails, and soak up the town’s atmosphere.

Get a taste of fresh, tasty local food at Yakima area restaurants, drive through the beautiful Yakima Valley, and gain insight into the rich cultural traditions of the area. It is time to fold your clothes and get on the road Westward to Yakima for an exciting travel adventure.

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