Yakima

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Yakima's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Downtown Yakima
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at one of Yakima's charming cafes, where you can savor freshly brewed coffee and local pastries. After breakfast, take a stroll through the historic downtown area, soaking in the unique architecture and vibrant murals that tell the city's story. Don’t miss the Yakima Valley Museum to gain insight into the region's rich heritage and culture.

afternoon
:

For lunch, head to a local bistro to enjoy delicious regional cuisine, perhaps featuring locally sourced ingredients. Afterward, spend the afternoon exploring the Yakima Farmers Market, where you can sample fresh produce, artisanal goods, and handmade crafts from local vendors. This lively atmosphere is perfect for picking up unique souvenirs and enjoying live music from local performers.

evening
:

As the sun sets, dine at a popular local restaurant known for its farm-to-table options, where you can enjoy seasonal dishes paired with local wines. After dinner, take a scenic drive through the Yakima Valley, admiring the breathtaking views of the rolling hills and vineyards. End your evening with a visit to a local brewery to sample some craft beers and unwind in a relaxed setting.

day 2
Wine Tasting Tour in Yakima Valley
morning
:

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a vineyard café, where you can enjoy views of the sprawling vineyards while fueling up for a day of wine tasting. After breakfast, embark on a guided tour of some of Yakima Valley's most renowned wineries, learning about the winemaking process and the unique varietals produced in the region. The morning will be filled with scenic drives through picturesque vineyards and rolling hills.

afternoon
:

For lunch, enjoy a picnic at one of the wineries, complete with local cheeses, charcuterie, and fresh fruits paired with a selection of wines. Continue your wine tasting adventure, visiting smaller boutique wineries that offer unique and lesser-known wines, often with personalized tastings. Each stop provides an opportunity to meet the winemakers and learn about their passion for viticulture.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with dinner at a winery restaurant, savoring a meal that perfectly complements the wines you’ve tasted throughout the day. As the evening unfolds, enjoy live music or an outdoor event hosted by one of the vineyards, creating a perfect ambiance to relax and celebrate your wine-filled day. Return to your accommodation with a newfound appreciation for Yakima Valley's wine culture.

day 3
Adventure at Mount Rainier National Park
morning
:

Kick off your adventure early with breakfast at your hotel before heading out to Mount Rainier National Park, just a short drive from Yakima. Upon arrival, take in the stunning views of the majestic mountain surrounded by lush forests and wildflower meadows. Prepare for a day of outdoor exploration by choosing a scenic hiking trail that suits your skill level, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the park.

afternoon
:

After a refreshing hike, enjoy a packed lunch at one of the park's picnic areas, taking in the breathtaking surroundings and perhaps spotting some wildlife. Continue your exploration with a visit to the park’s visitor center to learn more about the unique ecosystems and geology of the region. As you hike or drive along the scenic routes, capture photos of the stunning landscapes and diverse flora.

evening
:

As the sun begins to set, make your way back to Yakima and stop for dinner at a local eatery known for its hearty comfort food. Reflect on your day’s adventures while enjoying a delicious meal, perhaps themed around mountain cuisine. End your evening with a leisurely stroll along the Yakima River, taking in the tranquil environment and starry sky.

day 4
Yakima River Recreation
morning
:

Start your day with a light breakfast at a riverside café before heading out for a morning of fun on the Yakima River. Rent a kayak or paddleboard and take to the water, enjoying the gentle currents and serene landscapes surrounding you. This is a great way to spot local wildlife and appreciate the natural beauty of the river valley.

afternoon
:

After a thrilling morning on the river, take a break for lunch at a nearby picnic area or a riverside restaurant, where you can indulge in fresh, local fare. Spend the afternoon relaxing by the riverbank, perhaps sunbathing or enjoying a game of frisbee with friends or family. If you're feeling adventurous, you might try fishing or exploring one of the hiking trails that follow the river.

evening
:

As evening approaches, unwind with a scenic float down the river, taking in the stunning vistas as the sun sets. Once back on shore, enjoy a casual dinner at a local restaurant known for its outdoor seating and river views. Conclude your day with a peaceful walk along the river, relishing the tranquility of the water under the evening sky.

day 5
Cultural Day at Yakima Valley Museum
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a local diner, indulging in classic American fare before heading to the Yakima Valley Museum. Spend your morning exploring the museum's diverse exhibits, which showcase the cultural, historical, and artistic heritage of the Yakima Valley. Don't miss the interactive displays and artifacts that highlight the region's Native American history and agricultural development.

afternoon
:

For lunch, visit a nearby café that features locally inspired dishes and fresh ingredients. Afterward, continue your cultural exploration by visiting the nearby Yakima Art Museum, where you can admire contemporary art and rotating exhibitions from local artists. Engage with the community through workshops or art classes often offered in the museum.

evening
:

As the day winds down, enjoy dinner at a restaurant that focuses on local flavors and ingredients, allowing you to experience the culinary culture of Yakima. Consider attending a live performance or cultural event at the Capitol Theatre, where you can enjoy everything from concerts to theater productions. Finish your evening by strolling around the city center, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps stopping for dessert at a local café.

day 6
Nature and Wildlife at Lmuma Nature Preserve
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café before heading to the Lmuma Nature Preserve, known for its beautiful landscapes and abundant wildlife. Spend the morning exploring the extensive trails, where you can observe various bird species and enjoy the serenity of the natural environment. Bring your binoculars for an up-close look at the fauna in their natural habitats.

afternoon
:

After a morning of exploration, enjoy a packed lunch at one of the nature preserve's scenic picnic spots, surrounded by the sounds of nature. In the afternoon, take part in an organized guided nature walk or workshop, learning about the local ecosystems and conservation efforts. This interactive experience will deepen your appreciation for the area's biodiversity.

evening
:

As the day comes to a close, return to Yakima and dine at a restaurant that celebrates the flavors of the Pacific Northwest. After dinner, consider visiting a local park for a sunset stroll, where you can reflect on the day's experiences in nature. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning views as the sun sets over the Yakima Valley.

day 7
A Day of Local Craft Breweries
morning
:

Kick off your morning with a hearty breakfast at a local eatery known for its breakfast burritos or pancakes. Afterward, prepare for a day of tastings by visiting the first of several craft breweries in Yakima, where you’ll embark on a guided tour to learn about the brewing process. Enjoy sampling a variety of beers, each showcasing the unique flavors and ingredients characteristic of the region.

afternoon
:

For lunch, stop by a food truck or brewery that offers delicious bites to pair with your favorite brews, making for a casual and laid-back atmosphere. Continue your brewery tour, visiting more establishments where you can sample seasonal and small-batch beers that highlight Yakima's brewing scene. Engage with the brewers themselves to gain insight into their creative processes and passion for craft beer.

evening
:

End your day with dinner at a gastropub that features a rotating selection of local craft beers on tap, alongside a menu filled with inventive dishes. As the evening unfolds, participate in a trivia night or live music event at one of the breweries, ensuring a fun and lively atmosphere to wrap up your day. Reflect on your newfound knowledge of local brews as you enjoy the camaraderie of fellow beer enthusiasts.

day 8
Harvesting Fun at a Local Orchard
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a farm-to-table café, enjoying fresh produce sourced from local orchards. Afterward, head to one of Yakima's famous apple or fruit orchards for a morning of picking your own fruit, experiencing the joy of harvesting seasonal delights straight from the tree. Engage with local farmers who are happy to share their knowledge about the different varieties of fruit grown in the area.

afternoon
:

For lunch, enjoy a picnic in the orchard, featuring the fruits of your labor alongside local cheeses and artisan bread. Post-lunch, participate in an orchard tour where you can learn about the cultivation processes, and perhaps try your hand at making cider or jam. This hands-on experience will deepen your appreciation for the agricultural heritage of Yakima Valley.

evening
:

As the day winds down, return to Yakima for dinner at a restaurant that specializes in dishes featuring local fruits and vegetables. Take a stroll through the town square, where you might find a local farmer's market or craft fair, showcasing the talents of local artisans. Conclude your evening with dessert at a charming ice cream shop, savoring seasonal flavors inspired by the fruits of Yakima.

day 9
Relaxing Spa Day and Scenic Views
morning
:

Kick off your day with a nutritious breakfast at a local café before indulging in a relaxing spa treatment at a wellness center in Yakima. Experience a morning of pampering, where you can choose from massages, facials, or body treatments that rejuvenate and refresh you. This tranquil start will set the tone for a day of relaxation and self-care.

afternoon
:

After your morning of wellness, enjoy a light lunch at a health-focused restaurant that offers fresh salads and smoothies. Spend the afternoon visiting the scenic overlooks around Yakima, such as the Ahtanum Ridge, where you can take in panoramic views of the mountains and valley below. Perfect for photography enthusiasts, this area offers stunning backdrops for capturing the beauty of nature.

evening
:

As evening approaches, return to Yakima for dinner at a fine dining restaurant that emphasizes locally sourced ingredients and exquisite presentation. Reflect on your day of relaxation while savoring a gourmet meal paired with a glass of local wine. End your evening with a peaceful walk through a local park or garden, where you can appreciate the tranquility and beauty of Yakima under the stars.

Discover Yakima

Read more in our Yakima 2025 Travel Guide.

Yakima Travel Guide