Things To Do
in Kennewick

Kennewick, Washington, is a vibrant city located in the eastern part of the state, known for its stunning landscapes and rich history. It is part of the Tri-Cities area, along with Richland and Pasco, and sits at the confluence of the Columbia, Snake, and Yakima Rivers. The city boasts a diverse community, excellent outdoor recreational opportunities, and a growing wine industry.

Visitors can enjoy a mix of urban attractions and natural beauty, making it a unique destination for travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Kennewick
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, then visit the East Benton County Historical Society Museum to learn about the area's history.

afternoon
:

Head to the Columbia Park, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk or rent a bike to explore the scenic bike trails along the river.

evening
:

Dine at a popular local restaurant, followed by a stroll through the vibrant downtown area to check out shops and art galleries.

day 2
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Have breakfast at a nearby diner, then take a trip to Badger Mountain for an invigorating hike with panoramic views.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby wineries for wine tasting and enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the vineyards.

evening
:

End your day with dinner at a steakhouse and experience some live music at a local venue.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Fast Food Meal$8
Coffee$4
🍕Pizza$12
🚌Bus Fare$2
🏨Hotel (per night)$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful outdoor scenery and recreational opportunities.
  • Rich cultural experiences and local history.
  • A growing food and wine scene.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • Hot summers may not appeal to everyone.
  • Fewer urban attractions compared to larger cities.

Places to Visit in Kennewick

Visit one of these nice places.

Columbia Park

A picturesque park with scenic views of the river, perfect for sunset photography.

Badger Mountain

Offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Tri-Cities and is a great spot for landscape photography.

Waterfront Park

A serene location by the river, ideal for capturing nature and wildlife shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kennewick

Kennewick offers a delightful array of culinary experiences, highlighting the region's agricultural bounty and diverse flavors.

Kennewick Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Walla Walla Sweet Onions

Famous for their mild flavor, these onions are often grilled or used in various dishes.

Must-Try!

Columbia Valley Wine

The region is known for its exceptional wines, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kennewick Farmers Market

A vibrant market featuring local produce, artisanal goods, and tasty street food options every Saturday.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kennewick experiences a semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters. Summers can see temperatures soar into the 90s °F (32-37 °C) with low humidity, while winters typically bring cooler temperatures in the 30s °F (1-4 °C). Rainfall is minimal, concentrated mainly in late fall and winter, making it ideal for year-round outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Friendly greetings and polite manners are appreciated; saying 'please' and 'thank you' goes a long way.

Respect for Nature

Visitors are encouraged to respect local parks and wildlife by following Leave No Trace principles.

Punctuality

Being on time for meetings and social gatherings is considered respectful.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kennewick is generally considered safe for visitors. However, it's prudent to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in less populated areas at night. Emergency services are readily available, and it’s advisable to keep emergency contacts handy.

Tipping in Kennewick

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Standard tipping is around 15-20% in restaurants, and rounding up is common in bars.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is also used, especially in markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a beautiful time to explore parks and outdoor activities.

Summer

Hot and dry with plenty of sunshine, perfect for water sports and outdoor festivals.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and vibrant fall foliage provide a stunning backdrop for hikes and photography.

Winter

Cold with occasional snowfall; a peaceful time for indoor activities and cozy dining.

Nightlife Guide

Kennewick at Night

Kennewick's nightlife is diverse, featuring a mix of bars, live music venues, and casual lounges. The downtown area comes alive in the evenings, with many establishments offering local craft beers and cocktails. Live music is a highlight, with various venues hosting bands and open mic nights, catering to a range of musical tastes.

Hiking in Kennewick

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Candy Mountain

A short but steep trail that rewards hikers with panoramic views of the Tri-Cities and surrounding areas.

Snoqualmie Pass

Located a bit further away, this area features numerous trails for hiking, offering stunning mountain scenery.

Airports

How to reach Kennewick by plane.

Tri-Cities Airport (PSC)

Located approximately 6 miles from downtown Kennewick, this regional airport offers flights to major cities and is the primary airport serving the Tri-Cities area.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kennewick is fairly walkable in certain areas, particularly around downtown where many shops, restaurants, and parks are within walking distance. However, some suburban neighborhoods may require a vehicle to access amenities. The city has made efforts to improve pedestrian pathways and bike trails, making it easier to explore on foot or by bike.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Hispanic Community

A significant portion of Kennewick's population identifies as Hispanic, contributing to the local culture, cuisine, and festivals.

Agricultural Workers

Many residents are involved in agriculture, reflecting the region's strong farming economy and influencing local traditions and events.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Kennewick is home to the Tri-City Dust Devils, a minor league baseball team that draws local fans during the summer.

Basketball

Basketball is popular at both youth and adult levels, with many local leagues and teams participating in regional competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kennewick is generally manageable, with peak congestion occurring during rush hours. Public transportation options include local buses, which provide service throughout the Tri-Cities, although many residents rely on personal vehicles. Overall, the city is easy to navigate by car and has ample parking in most areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kennewick.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options, with labels on menus.

Gluten-Free Choices

Several eateries provide gluten-free menu items and are accommodating to dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Kennewick has a range of healthcare facilities, including hospitals and urgent care centers, providing comprehensive medical services. The Trios Health system is a major provider in the area, ensuring residents and visitors have access to necessary medical care. Emergency services are reliable and accessible throughout the city.

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