10 Fun Things To Do Near Kennewick, Washington (Benton County)
Looking for things to do in and around
Kennewick, Washington? Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway in the Tri-Cities or you already live in
Benton County and just need fresh ideas, this guide has you covered.
Kennewick sits right along the Columbia River and is part of the popular
Tri-Cities area (Kennewick, Pasco, and Richland). You’ll find sunny weather, river views, wineries, family activities, and plenty of space to explore.
Below are
10 fun things to do near Kennewick that are great for couples, families, and solo travelers.
1. Stroll the Columbia Park Trail Along the River
One of the best ways to get a feel for Kennewick is to head straight to the water.
Columbia Park stretches for miles along the Columbia River, right between Kennewick and Richland. There’s a paved trail that’s perfect for:
- Walking or jogging
- Casual bike rides
- Skating, scootering, or stroller walks
You’ll enjoy big river views, grassy picnic areas, and playgrounds for the kids. On a warm evening, the sunsets over the water can be pretty amazing.
If you like simple, low-cost things to do in Kennewick, this is a great place to start. Bring a picnic, toss a frisbee, or just sit on a bench and watch boats go by.
2. Sample Local Wine at Benton County Wineries
The Tri-Cities area is in the heart of Washington wine country, and
Kennewick wineries are a big draw.
Within a short drive, you can find tasting rooms that pour everything from bold reds to crisp whites. A few popular areas nearby include:
- Red Mountain AVA (about 20–30 minutes from Kennewick)
- Wineries scattered along the Columbia River
- Tasting rooms in and around downtown Kennewick
Not a wine expert? That’s okay. Most tasting rooms are casual and happy to share suggestions. You can ask questions, try small pours, and figure out what you actually enjoy.
If you’re visiting with friends, consider planning a mini “wine day,” hitting two or three wineries and stopping for lunch in between. Just be sure to have a designated driver or use a local ride service.
3. Have a River Day: Boating, Fishing, and Paddleboarding
Kennewick sits where three rivers meet: the Columbia, Snake, and Yakima. That means there’s no shortage of ways to get on the water.
Depending on your comfort level, you can:
- Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the shoreline
- Launch a boat at one of the nearby marinas
- Cast a line for bass, walleye, and other local fish
Even if you’re not a big angler, an easy-going fishing trip with family or friends can be a fun, relaxing way to spend a sunny morning.
If you prefer to stay dry, just hanging out on the riverbank with snacks and a good book still counts as enjoying “river life” in Kennewick.
4. Visit the REACH Museum for Local History & Columbia River Stories
If you like to understand the places you visit, stop by the
REACH Museum in nearby Richland (about a 10–15 minute drive from Kennewick).
The museum shares the story of:
- The mighty Columbia River
- Local wildlife and landscapes
- The nearby Hanford site and its World War II history
The exhibits are easy to follow, and there are hands-on displays that kids usually enjoy. It’s a good way to cool off on a hot day, and you’ll come away with a better sense of what makes this slice of Washington so unique.
If you enjoy road trips, you can also use the REACH as a starting point to learn about scenic drives along the river and through Benton County.
5. Explore Downtown Kennewick: Shops, Art, and Coffee
Downtown Kennewick has a relaxed, small-city feel that’s perfect for a slow afternoon. You can:
- Browse local boutiques and antique stores
- Check out murals and public art
- Grab coffee or ice cream and people-watch
Every now and then, you’ll find events like farmers markets, car shows, or art walks that bring more energy to the streets.
If you like finding unique souvenirs or gifts that aren’t from big box stores, downtown Kennewick is a good place to look. It’s also a nice break if you’ve been outdoors all morning and just want something laid-back and indoors.
6. Walk, Bike, or Drive Over to Clover Island
Right where Kennewick and Pasco meet, you’ll find
Clover Island, a small but fun spot along the Columbia River.
You can:
- Walk or bike across the bridge
- Check out the lighthouse and river views
- Stop by one of the nearby restaurants or bars
It’s a nice place to stretch your legs, snap a few photos, and enjoy a different angle of the river. On a clear evening, the reflections on the water can be beautiful.
If you’re staying in a nearby hotel, an evening stroll over to Clover Island can be a simple but memorable part of your Kennewick visit.
7. Enjoy the Outdoors at Badger Mountain & Local Trails
If you’re up for a little exercise and some big views, head toward
Badger Mountain, just northwest of Kennewick in Benton County.
The
Badger Mountain Centennial Preserve has popular hiking trails that locals love. The trails are well-used and not overly technical, but you’ll still want sturdy shoes and water, especially on a hot day.
From the top, you can see:
- Wide-open views of the Tri-Cities
- Rolling hills and vineyards
- Snowy peaks in the distance on clear days
If you’re traveling with older kids or teens, this is a great way to burn off energy and get some Instagram-worthy photos at the top.
8. Catch a Game or Event at the Toyota Center
Looking for things to do in Kennewick at night? Check the schedule at the
Toyota Center, one of the main event venues in the Tri-Cities.
Depending on the time of year, you might find:
- Hockey games or other sports
- Big-name concerts and touring shows
- Family events like ice skating shows or kids’ performances
It’s an easy way to add some extra excitement to your trip. Grab dinner in town, then head over for the game or show. If you’re local, it can turn an ordinary weeknight into something special.
9. Play a Round (or Just Hit the Range) at a Local Golf Course
If you enjoy golf—even just casually—Kennewick and nearby cities have several courses to choose from.
You can:
- Book a full 18-hole round with friends
- Practice your swing at a driving range
- Play a shorter, easier course if you’re just learning
The dry, sunny climate in Benton County means many days are perfect for being out on the fairway. Even if you’re not a serious golfer, a relaxed afternoon on the course can be a fun way to soak up the sunshine and scenery.
10. Explore Local Parks and Family-Friendly Spots Around Kennewick
Beyond Columbia Park, Kennewick and Benton County have plenty of other parks and family-friendly places that are easy to enjoy without much planning.
Depending on the season, you might:
- Visit a neighborhood park with splash pads or playgrounds
- Check out seasonal festivals and fairs
- Find indoor fun like bowling, arcades, or trampoline parks when the weather doesn’t cooperate
If you’re traveling with kids, it can help to mix “big” activities (like museums or hikes) with simple park time. Sometimes those low-key moments—like playing on swings or feeding ducks at a pond—are what children remember most.
Planning Your Trip to Kennewick, Washington
Kennewick and the rest of Benton County offer a mix of
outdoor adventure, river fun, wine tasting, local history, and family activities. You don’t have to plan every detail. Pick a few things that sound fun, leave some space for lazy river walks or coffee breaks, and let the trip unfold.
If you enjoy:
- Warm, sunny weather
- Open skies and river views
- Small-city charm with plenty to do
…then Kennewick, WA should be on your Washington travel list.
Share Your Favorite Things To Do in Kennewick
Have you been to
Kennewick or the Tri-Cities before?
- What was your favorite place—Columbia Park, a local winery, a hike, or something else?
- Did you discover a hidden gem I didn’t mention?
I’d love to hear your stories and tips.
Drop your thoughts in the comments, and if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with friends or family who are planning a trip to Kennewick, Washington. Your shares and comments help other travelers discover new things to do in this sunny corner of the state.
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