10 Fun Things To Do In and Around Pasco, Washington (Franklin County)
Looking for a laid‑back getaway in Washington’s Tri‑Cities area?
Pasco, WA, in
Franklin County, is a sunny spot along the Columbia River with more to do than most people realize.
Whether you’re road‑tripping through Eastern Washington, visiting family, or just curious about the Tri‑Cities (Pasco, Kennewick, and Richland), this guide breaks down
10 fun things to do near Pasco that are easy, affordable, and great for all ages.
1. Stroll or Bike the Sacagawea Heritage Trail
One of the best ways to get a feel for Pasco is by getting close to the river. The
Sacagawea Heritage Trail is a paved, mostly flat trail that loops about 23 miles around the Columbia River through Pasco, Kennewick, and Richland.
You don’t have to do the whole loop, of course. In Pasco, you can hop on the trail near several riverfront parks and just walk a mile or two.
- Great for: Walking, biking, jogging, strollers
- Views: Columbia River, bridges, boaters, birds
- Tip: Early morning and evenings are cooler and less crowded in summer.
If you’re traveling with kids or grandparents, this is an easy way to stretch your legs and still enjoy some beautiful
Tri‑Cities river views.
2. Relax at Chiawana Park on the Columbia River
If you only have time for one riverfront stop in Pasco, make it
Chiawana Park. This big, grassy park sits right on the Columbia River and is perfect for a lazy afternoon.
You’ll find:
- Plenty of shade trees and open fields
- A boat launch and river access
- Walking paths and picnic tables
- Room to toss a football or play frisbee
Bring a blanket, a simple picnic, and just enjoy the wide open sky. On hot days, the breeze off the river feels amazing.
If you like sunsets, this is one of the best free spots in
Pasco, Washington to watch the sky change colors.
3. Explore Sacajawea Historical State Park
Just a short drive from Pasco, at the confluence of the
Columbia and Snake Rivers, you’ll find
Sacajawea Historical State Park. This park is full of Lewis and Clark history and calm river views.
Inside the park, you can:
- Walk quiet paths along the water
- Read interpretive signs about the Lewis and Clark expedition
- Learn about Sacagawea and the Native peoples of the region
You’ll need a
Discover Pass to park (a day pass is inexpensive), but it’s worth it if you enjoy nature, history, or photography.
If you’ve ever read about Lewis and Clark in school and wondered what their route looked like in real life, this is a neat place to connect the dots.
4. Spend a Day at Gesa Stadium: Go Tri‑City Dust Devils!
Love baseball? Or just love ballpark snacks and a fun evening outside? In Pasco, you can catch a
Tri‑City Dust Devils game at
Gesa Stadium. This Minor League team brings a classic small‑town baseball vibe to Franklin County.
Why go?
- Tickets are usually very affordable
- Family‑friendly crowd and relaxed atmosphere
- Fireworks nights and theme nights during the season
Even if you’re not a huge baseball fan, there’s something special about sitting under the lights on a warm summer night, hot dog in hand, cheering with locals. It’s a simple, very American way to experience
Pasco nightlife.
5. Sample Local Flavors at the Pasco Farmers Market
From spring through fall, downtown Pasco hosts the
Pasco Farmers Market—one of the oldest open‑air markets in Washington. If you want to taste the real flavor of the Tri‑Cities, this is where you go.
You’ll usually find:
- Fresh local fruits like cherries, apples, peaches, and berries
- Vegetables straight from nearby farms
- Fresh baked bread, tamales, salsas, and snacks
- Crafts and handmade goods from local makers
Walk through with a coffee in hand, talk to farmers, and pick up snacks for the rest of your trip. Eastern Washington is big farm country, and you can taste how fresh everything is.
6. Enjoy Riverfront Fun at Schlagel Park and Other Pasco Parks
Besides Chiawana, Pasco has several smaller parks along the river that are perfect for quick stops.
Schlagel Park is one local favorite, especially for families.
You’ll find:
- Playground equipment for kids
- Views of the river and passing boats
- Room to walk, toss a ball, or just sit and relax
If you’re doing a
Tri‑Cities road trip, these small parks are ideal for a 30‑minute stretch break. Pack a simple lunch, find a picnic table, and enjoy the sunshine Pasco is known for—it averages well over 200 sunny days a year.
7. Go Wine Tasting in the Tri‑Cities Wine Country
You don’t have to drive all the way to Walla Walla or Yakima to try Washington wine. The Pasco and Tri‑Cities area is surrounded by
vineyards and wineries, many within a short drive.
While some well‑known wineries are across the river in Richland or Kennewick, they’re still part of the same local experience. You can:
- Visit tasting rooms with patios overlooking vineyards
- Sample local reds, whites, and rosés
- Combine your tasting with a simple cheese or charcuterie plate
If you’re new to wine, don’t worry. Most tasting room staff are happy to explain things in simple terms and help you figure out what you like. It’s a relaxed, grown‑up way to experience
the Tri‑Cities near Pasco.
8. Learn Local History at Franklin County Historical Society & Museum
Right in downtown Pasco, the
Franklin County Historical Society & Museum gives you a closer look at how this area grew from a railroad and farming community into the modern Tri‑Cities.
Inside, you might see:
- Old photographs of early Pasco
- Displays on the railroad, agriculture, and local families
- Stories about how dams and irrigation changed the region
It’s not a huge museum, but it’s packed with interesting details. If you enjoy learning how places came to be—or you’re traveling with kids who are curious about “old time” life—this is an easy, affordable stop.
9. Go Fishing, Boating, or Paddling on the Columbia or Snake River
If you like being on the water, Pasco is a great base. With both the
Columbia River and
Snake River close by, you’ve got options.
Popular activities include:
- Fishing from the shore or by boat
- Kayaking or paddleboarding on calmer stretches
- Boating and watersports in warmer months
Several parks and launches in and near Pasco make it easy to access the water. Just be sure to check local regulations for fishing licenses and safety rules.
On a quiet morning, watching the sun come up over the river while you cast a line feels a world away from city life—yet you’re just minutes from town.
10. Take a Scenic Drive Through Franklin County’s Farm Country
One of the simplest but most surprising things to do near Pasco is just…drive. Franklin County is surrounded by farmland, orchards, and rolling hills, and it makes for a peaceful, classic Eastern Washington scene.
Here’s how to enjoy it:
- Head out of Pasco on country roads and just follow your curiosity.
- Watch for farm stands selling seasonal produce along the way.
- Stop safely to snap photos of wide‑open fields, big skies, and old barns.
If you’re from a big city, the open space can feel almost unreal. In late summer and early fall, the golden fields and changing light make for beautiful drives and great photos.
Planning Your Trip to Pasco, Washington
A few quick tips to make your visit smoother:
- Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall for warm, sunny weather and outdoor activities.
- Getting around: A car is the easiest way to explore Pasco and the rest of the Tri‑Cities.
- Combine with: Nearby Kennewick and Richland for more restaurants, breweries, and museums.
Pasco may not be as famous as Seattle or Spokane, but that’s part of its charm. It’s relaxed, friendly, and full of simple pleasures: river views, local food, baseball games, and wide‑open skies.
What Will You Do First in Pasco?
Are you more excited about
walking riverfront trails,
catching a Dust Devils game, or
exploring local history and wine?
If you’ve been to Pasco or the Tri‑Cities before,
what was your favorite thing to do?
Share your experiences and tips in the comments—they can really help other travelers planning their own trip to Pasco, Washington.
And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with friends or family who are thinking about exploring Eastern Washington. The more people discover places like Pasco, the more these small cities can thrive and grow.
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