Ellensburg

Day Trips

Start your day at the Ellensburg Historic District, where you can admire the beautifully preserved architecture from the late 19th century. Grab a coffee from a local café and stroll along the charming streets, stopping to browse unique shops and galleries. Don't miss the chance to visit the Kittitas County Historical Museum to learn about the region's rich heritage.

After lunch at a cozy diner, head to the Ellensburg Rodeo, which is famous for its cowboy culture and vibrant atmosphere. You can watch thrilling rodeo events or explore the various vendor stalls showcasing local crafts and food. As the afternoon sun sets, take a leisurely walk through the Central Washington University campus, enjoying the beautiful landscaping and art installations.

For dinner, experience a true taste of Ellensburg at a farm-to-table restaurant that highlights local ingredients. Afterward, catch a live performance at the Clymer Museum of Art, which often hosts music and art events that celebrate local talent. Conclude your evening with a nightcap at a nearby bar, soaking in the friendly atmosphere.

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café before heading to the Yakima River for an outdoor adventure. Rent a kayak or canoe and paddle down the scenic river, surrounded by lush landscapes and wildlife. The morning light casts a beautiful glow on the water, making it a perfect time for photography.

After a refreshing morning on the river, enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the riverside parks while taking in the stunning views. Spend the afternoon fishing or hiking along the trails that line the river, with opportunities to spot local birds and other wildlife. For those looking for a bit more excitement, consider trying out some white-water rafting.

As the sun begins to set, return to town for dinner at a bistro known for its fresh, locally-sourced dishes. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through downtown Ellensburg, where you can enjoy the vibrant nightlife and perhaps catch a local band playing at a bar. End your evening with a delicious dessert from a local bakery.

Kick off your day with a breakfast featuring local produce before heading to the picturesque Kittitas Valley, known for its wineries. Spend your morning touring a couple of wineries, where you can learn about the winemaking process and taste some award-winning wines. The scenic vineyards offer a stunning backdrop for memorable photos.

After a delightful morning, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a winery restaurant, where you can pair your meal with their finest selections. Continue your wine adventure by visiting a few more vineyards, participating in tastings and perhaps even a vineyard tour. The friendly staff often share stories about the local terroir and wine history.

For dinner, return to Ellensburg and indulge in a meal at a restaurant that specializes in wine pairings. Enjoy the ambiance as you unwind and reflect on the day's experiences while sipping on your favorite wine from the valley. Wrap up your evening with a visit to a local gallery or art event to appreciate Ellensburg's vibrant arts scene.

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, then head to the Ellensburg Rodeo Grounds to learn about the history of this iconic event. Explore the rodeo grounds and check out the various displays and memorabilia that showcase its significance in the community. If you're visiting during rodeo season, this is the perfect opportunity to watch some practice events.

After your morning exploration, grab lunch at a nearby eatery and immerse yourself in the local cowboy culture. Spend the afternoon participating in a rodeo workshop or attending a local event that features demonstrations of roping and riding skills. This hands-on experience offers a unique insight into the lifestyle of Ellensburg's ranching community.

As the day winds down, enjoy a hearty dinner at a steakhouse that specializes in locally-sourced beef and traditional cowboy fare. After dinner, if the rodeo is in town, head back to the grounds to watch an exhilarating evening performance. Conclude your night with a stroll under the stars, reflecting on the exciting experiences of the day.

Begin your day with breakfast at a local diner before setting off for Umtanum Canyon, where adventure awaits. The morning light creates a stunning backdrop as you hike the trails that wind through the canyon, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for bird watching. Keep your camera ready for the diverse wildlife that calls this area home.

After a vigorous morning hike, enjoy a packed lunch at one of the scenic overlooks, taking in the dramatic landscapes. Spend the afternoon exploring more trails or try your hand at photography, capturing the beauty of the canyon's rock formations and flora. If time allows, consider a short drive to the nearby Yakima River Canyon for more outdoor exploration.

Return to Ellensburg in the evening and treat yourself to dinner at a restaurant that features outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy the fresh air. After your meal, take a leisurely walk through the city, stopping at local shops for souvenirs and crafts. Finish your day at a cozy café with a warm drink, reminiscing about your adventures.

Start your morning with breakfast at a café near Central Washington University, fueling up for a day of cultural exploration. Spend your morning wandering the university campus, where you can appreciate the beautiful architecture and art installations scattered across the grounds. Visit the CWU Museum of Culture and Environment to learn about the region's diverse heritage.

Enjoy lunch at one of the campus eateries before attending an afternoon lecture or event that showcases local artists or speakers. Explore the student art galleries and exhibitions that highlight the creative talents of the university community. If you're lucky, you may even catch a live performance from the university's performing arts department.

For dinner, choose a restaurant that offers a lively atmosphere, perhaps with live music or an open-mic night. After dinner, attend a campus event or performance, immersing yourself in the vibrant cultural scene of Ellensburg. Conclude your evening with a stroll around the university campus, enjoying the ambiance and energy of student life.

Start your day at the Ellensburg Farmers Market, held every Sunday, where you can experience the local produce and crafts. Stroll through the stalls, sampling fresh fruits, artisanal goods, and homemade treats from local vendors. This is the perfect place to grab breakfast, with plenty of options for fresh pastries and coffee.

After exploring the market, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby café, where you can experience dishes made from the fresh, local ingredients you just saw. Spend the afternoon exploring downtown Ellensburg, visiting boutiques and art galleries that showcase the work of local artisans. Take your time to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps pick up some unique souvenirs.

For dinner, choose a restaurant that emphasizes farm-to-table dining, allowing you to savor the flavors of the region. After your meal, head to a local brewery or distillery for a tasting session, enjoying the craftsmanship that goes into local beverages. End your evening with a relaxing walk along the river, soaking in the peaceful surroundings.

After breakfast at your accommodation, set off for the Wild Horse Wind Farm, located just outside of Ellensburg. Arrive in the morning to enjoy a guided tour of the wind farm, where you can learn about renewable energy and the technology behind the turbines. The views from the site are stunning, offering a panoramic look at the surrounding landscape.

After the tour, enjoy a packed lunch at one of the picnic areas with breathtaking views of the wind turbines against the backdrop of the Columbia River Gorge. Spend the afternoon hiking the nearby trails, where you can appreciate the unique flora and fauna of the region. If you're feeling adventurous, consider a short drive to the nearby Columbia River for more exploration.

Return to Ellensburg for dinner at a restaurant known for its sustainability practices, where you can enjoy a meal that reflects your day's theme. After dining, participate in a local event or lecture focused on renewable energy or environmental stewardship. Cap off your day with a night walk, reflecting on the importance of sustainable practices.

Begin your day with breakfast at a trendy café, then prepare for a day immersed in the art and music scene of Ellensburg. Visit local art galleries and studios, taking the time to engage with artists and learn about their work and inspirations. Look for unique pieces that resonate with you, perfect for bringing home.

After lunch, head to a local venue that features live music performances, where you can enjoy the sounds of local musicians. Spend the afternoon exploring different genres and styles, allowing the vibrant atmosphere to inspire you. Take breaks to chat with the artists and other attendees, deepening your connection to the local creative community.

For dinner, find a restaurant that often hosts live music or art events, creating a lively dining experience. After your meal, enjoy an evening performance at a local theater, where you can appreciate the talent of Ellensburg's performers. Conclude your night with a visit to a nearby bar known for its open-mic nights, where you can listen to local talent and perhaps even join in.