Things To Do
in Kennewick
Kennewick is one of the three cities that make up the Tri-Cities region in southeastern Washington, sitting on the south bank of the Columbia River. It blends a semi-arid, outdoor-oriented lifestyle with an expanding food, wine and craft-beer scene and easy access to riverfront parks and trails. The city is a practical hub for exploring local wineries, desert landscapes, and recreational opportunities like boating, fishing and hiking.
Visitors will find a friendly, small-city atmosphere with modern amenities and regional cultural ties to nearby Native American tribes and agricultural communities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your morning with a visit to the Kennewick Historical Society, where you can learn about the rich history of the region through engaging exhibits. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll down Kennewick's charming streets, admiring the historic buildings and quaint shops. Don’t forget to grab a coffee from a local café to energize you for the adventures ahead.
Head to the nearby Columbia Park, where you can enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by beautiful greenery and views of the river. After lunch, rent a bike and explore the scenic trails that weave through the park, offering picturesque spots for photos. Take some time to relax on the riverbank, watching boats glide by as you soak up the sun.
As the sun sets, dine at a waterfront restaurant, indulging in freshly caught fish or locally sourced dishes while enjoying the stunning views. After dinner, take a peaceful walk along the riverfront, where you can listen to the sounds of nature and watch the stars begin to twinkle in the night sky. End your evening with a stop at a local brewery for a taste of Kennewick's craft beer scene.
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner before setting out for an adventurous morning on the Columbia River. Join a guided kayak tour that takes you through the serene waters, where you can spot local wildlife and take in the breathtaking scenery. Feel the thrill of paddling as you navigate through calm waters, with the stunning landscape enveloping you.
After your kayaking adventure, enjoy a packed lunch at a riverside park, surrounded by nature. Spend the afternoon fishing or try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding, taking advantage of the river's warm currents. Enjoy the tranquility of the water while soaking up the sun, and don’t forget to capture some memories with photos.
In the evening, visit a local steakhouse for a savory dinner, savoring every bite of expertly grilled meats and seasonal sides. After your meal, make your way to a nearby theater to catch a live performance or movie, enriching your cultural experience in Kennewick. Wind down your day with a dessert at a quaint ice cream shop, reminiscing about the day's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Regular coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚕Local taxi / short rideshare | $8-20 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $80-150 |
| 🍺Domestic beer (pub) | $5-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Easy access to outdoor recreation (hiking, boating, fishing)
- Growing wine and craft-beer scene with local tasting rooms
- Friendly, small-city atmosphere with convenient regional services
- Lower cost compared to larger Pacific Northwest cities
- Hot, dry summers can be extreme for some visitors
- Limited late-night entertainment and fewer cultural amenities than a large city
- Car-dependent in many areas; public transit is limited
- Occasional wind and dust in exposed areas
Places to Visit in Kennewick
Visit one of these nice places.
Broad river views, riverwalks, statues and sunsets; ideal for golden-hour river reflections and wide panoramas.
Short hikes to ridgeline viewpoints offering sweeping vistas of the Tri-Cities, vineyards and the Columbia Basin — spectacular at sunrise or sunset.
Historic river confluence, interpretive exhibits and riverside settings that are photogenic and culturally interesting.
Street art, local architecture and small-business facades provide colorful urban photography opportunities.
Rows of vines and tasting-room architecture create classic wine-country scenes, especially during spring bud-out and autumn colors.
Food in Kennewick
Kennewick Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Seasonal cherries, apples, peaches and pears from local orchards — best at farm stands and the summer farmers market.
Must-Try!
Grilled or cedar-planked salmon appears on many menus; found in sit-down restaurants and riverside eateries.
Authentic tacos, tamales and regional specialties are widely available in family-run restaurants and taquerias across Kennewick.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal farmers market (spring–fall) offering fresh produce, baked goods, prepared foods and local crafts — great for sampling orchard fruit and local honey.
Casual truck gatherings and rotating pop-ups around downtown and near breweries where you can try tacos, wood-fired pizza and fusion street food.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
People tend to be laid-back and polite—casual dress is normal. Greet with a simple 'hello' and expect friendly small talk.
Respect private property, vineyards and orchards: follow posted signs, stay on trails and dispose of trash properly. Ask before picking fruit on private land.
Be respectful of the local Native American tribes and tribal lands; follow signage and guidance when visiting tribal museums or reservation areas.
Safety
Tipping in Kennewick
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in the U.S.: 15–20% at sit-down restaurants, $1–2 per drink at bars, and 10–15% for delivery or takeaway if service is notable. Tip taxi or rideshare drivers about 10–15% and hotel housekeeping $2–5 per night if you want to reward service.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common. Carry some cash for small vendors, farmers markets or tips, but most vendors accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild, often pleasant weather with blooming fruit trees and budding vineyards; good for outdoor activities though occasional windy days and late cool snaps occur.
Hot and dry—temperatures frequently reach the 80s–90s°F (27–35°C) or higher. Ideal for water recreation on the Columbia but bring sun protection, hydrate and plan outdoor activities for early morning or evening to avoid peak heat.
Comfortable temperatures, harvest season at wineries and orchards, and crisp evenings. Great time for wine tasting, fall festivals and hiking with cooler conditions.
Generally cool and wet compared to other seasons, with occasional frost and rare snow accumulations; many outdoor activities remain accessible and the region is quieter for off-season visits.
Kennewick at Night
Hiking in Kennewick
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular short to moderate hike with well-maintained trails and sweeping views of the Tri-Cities and Columbia River; good for sunrise and sunset photography.
Short, family-friendly climb with panoramic vistas over Kennewick and the river; trail can be steep in parts but is rewarding.
A paved multi-use trail that follows the Columbia River for miles, ideal for walking, cycling and easy riverside exploration.
A longer drive from Kennewick but offers remote hikes and unique basalt ridge views; check access and trail conditions before heading out.
Within driving distance for more rugged hiking, unique rock formations and scenic viewpoints — suitable for day trips from Kennewick.
Airports
How to reach Kennewick by plane.
Primary regional airport located in Pasco, about a 15–25 minute drive from Kennewick; offers scheduled flights to major hubs (Seattle, Salt Lake City, etc.) and rental car services.
Larger airport about 2.5–3 hours drive northeast, with more flight options and international connections.
Major international airport about a 4–5 hour drive (or short connecting flight from PSC); useful for long-haul international arrivals or wider flight choices.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families in the region have agricultural ties spanning generations, contributing to local orchards and vineyards.
A sizable Hispanic/Latino population contributes strongly to the cultural and culinary landscape of Kennewick.
Nearby tribal nations (including the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation) have cultural connections to the area; tribal events and sites are part of the regional identity.
The Tri-Cities attract people relocating for jobs in healthcare, energy, agriculture and research, bringing younger families and professionals.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local support for college athletics and community baseball; regional college teams draw fans and community events.
Recreational fishing and river boating are widely practiced and central to local outdoor life.
Golf is popular with several local courses used by residents and visitors alike.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kennewick.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Several restaurants and cafés offer vegetarian options—salads, grain bowls, veggie burgers and seasonal vegetable plates. Many tasting rooms and casual eateries can accommodate vegetarian requests if asked.
Vegan choices are less ubiquitous but available at progressive cafés and some restaurants; call ahead for best options or look for dedicated vegan-friendly spots in the Tri-Cities area.
Gluten-free menus or options are commonly available in sit-down restaurants; verify with staff for cross-contamination if you have celiac disease.