10 Fun & Easy Things To Do Near Yakima, Washington
Looking for
fun things to do in Yakima, Washington? Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway from Seattle or road-tripping through Central Washington, Yakima is a great spot to slow down, sip some wine, and soak up sunshine.
Yakima sits in the heart of
Yakima County, surrounded by rolling hills, orchards, hop fields, and vineyards. The weather is usually dry and sunny, which makes it perfect for outdoor adventures, wine tasting, and exploring local farms.
Below are
10 things to do in and around Yakima that give you a real feel for this part of Washington State.
1. Stroll the Yakima Greenway Along the Yakima River
If you like easy walks, bike rides, or just sitting by the water, the
Yakima Greenway is a must.
This paved trail system runs for about 10 miles along the
Yakima River, connecting parks, ponds, and picnic areas. You’ll see ducks, geese, and sometimes deer in the early morning or evening.
- Great for walking, jogging, and biking
- Plenty of benches and picnic tables
- Family-friendly and dog-friendly (on leash)
On my last visit, I grabbed a coffee from downtown Yakima and headed straight to the Greenway. Within minutes, city noise faded and it was just the sound of the river and birds. It’s a simple pleasure, but honestly, that’s part of Yakima’s charm.
2. Taste Local Wine on the Yakima Valley Wine Trail
Yakima Valley is known as
Washington’s first official wine region, and it shows. Vineyards stretch in almost every direction, and many are just a short drive from downtown Yakima.
You’ll find wineries both big and small. Some feel fancy; others are laid-back with picnic tables and lawn games.
Popular spots include:
- Treveri Cellars – Known for sparkling wines and a big patio overlooking the valley.
- Wilridge Vineyard – A small organic winery with trails and great sunset views.
- Kana Winery – In downtown Yakima, easy to visit if you’re staying nearby.
If you’re new to wine, don’t worry. The vibe here is casual. Just tell the staff what you usually like to drink, and they’ll guide you through a tasting flight.
3. Explore Downtown Yakima’s Shops, Murals, and Breweries
Downtown Yakima has a relaxed, slightly old-school feel, with brick buildings, murals, and a growing food and drink scene.
A few easy things to do downtown:
- Check out Street Art and Murals – Perfect for photos and a quick walk.
- Grab a craft beer at Single Hill Brewing or Bale Breaker’s downtown taproom.
- Browse local shops for gifts, outdoor gear, and Yakima Valley-themed souvenirs.
Yakima is a major hop-growing area, so the
beer really matters here. If you’re a craft beer fan, downtown Yakima is a great place to taste how fresh hops can change the flavor of a brew.
4. Visit the Yakima Farmers Market for Fresh Fruit & Local Flavors
If you happen to be in town on a Sunday (typically spring through fall), swing by the
Yakima Farmers Market in or near downtown.
You’ll find:
- Fresh cherries, apples, peaches, and berries in season
- Local honey, jams, and baked treats
- Crafts, flowers, and sometimes live music
Yakima County is one of the biggest fruit-producing areas in the country. Eating a crisp apple or sun-warmed cherry here just hits different. It’s like tasting the valley in one bite.
5. Step Back in Time at the Yakima Valley Museum
Want to understand
how Yakima became what it is today? Head to the
Yakima Valley Museum in Franklin Park.
Inside, you’ll see:
- Exhibits on local Native American history
- Displays on early settlers, farming, and irrigation
- A fun vintage soda fountain that kids (and adults) love
It’s a great stop if you’re traveling with family or if the weather turns windy or cold. Plan about 1–2 hours here, then enjoy a walk through the surrounding park.
6. Drive Scenic Canyon Road to Naches
If you enjoy a good scenic drive, don’t miss the route along
Old Highway 10 / Canyon Road toward
Naches and eventually up into the mountains.
This drive takes you through:
- Rocky canyon walls and twisting bends
- River views with spots to pull over and take photos
- Access to picnic areas and trailheads
Keep going up Highway 12 from Naches and you’ll climb into forested areas with cooler temps, campgrounds, and hiking trails. It makes a nice half-day escape from the warmer Yakima Valley in summer.
7. Go Fruit Picking at Local Orchards
One of the most memorable things to do near Yakima is to pick your own fruit. Depending on the season, you can find:
- Cherries – early summer
- Apricots and peaches – mid to late summer
- Apples and pears – late summer into fall
Many
U-pick farms sit just outside Yakima in the surrounding Yakima County. You’ll usually pay by the pound and can walk among the rows of trees with buckets or bags.
There’s something almost meditative about wandering an orchard on a warm evening, picking fruit right off the branch. If you have kids, this is an easy, hands-on activity they usually love.
8. Catch a Game or Event at State Fair Park
State Fair Park is home to the
Central Washington State Fair, usually held in late September. If you’re visiting then, expect:
- Rides and games
- Livestock shows
- Concerts and classic fair food
The grounds also host events throughout the year, from car shows to rodeos. It’s worth checking the local calendar before your trip to Yakima—there’s often something going on.
Even if big events aren’t your thing, watching a local game or rodeo can be a fun way to experience Yakima County’s community spirit.
9. Hike or Bike at Cowiche Canyon & Wilridge Vineyard
Just a short drive northwest of town,
Cowiche Canyon offers easy to moderate trails through a rocky, open landscape. The views stretch across hills and fields, and in spring and early summer you’ll see wildflowers dotting the slopes.
A few tips:
- Wear sturdy shoes; some areas are rocky.
- Bring water and a hat—shade can be limited.
- Check trail maps; there are different loops and difficulty levels.
Nearby,
Wilridge Vineyard combines hiking with wine. You can walk the trails and then reward yourself with a glass of wine while looking out over the valley. It’s a very “Yakima Valley” way to spend an afternoon.
10. Take a Day Trip to Mount Rainier (Chinook Pass Route in Season)
If you’re willing to drive a bit farther, Yakima makes a solid base for a day trip to the east side of
Mount Rainier National Park (in season).
From Yakima, you can:
- Take Highway 12 and 410 toward Chinook Pass (usually open late spring to fall).
- Stop at overlooks with sweeping views of the mountains and valleys.
- Visit trailheads for shorter hikes with big scenery.
On a clear day, seeing Mount Rainier rise above the surrounding peaks is unforgettable. Just be sure to check road conditions and closures, especially in early summer or late fall.
Planning Your Trip to Yakima, Washington
Here are a few quick tips to make your Yakima visit smoother:
- Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall for sunshine, fruit, wine, and outdoor activities.
- Getting around: A car makes life easier; many wineries, farms, and trails are spread out across Yakima County.
- Weather: Summers can be hot (often in the 80s or 90s), but evenings cool down. Bring layers if you head into the mountains.
Yakima isn’t a flashy, high-speed city. Instead, it’s a place to breathe, slow down, and enjoy simple, good things: fresh fruit, local wine, river walks, and wide-open skies.
What Did We Miss? Share Your Yakima Favorites
Have you visited
Yakima, Washington or anywhere in
Yakima County?
- What was your favorite winery, hike, or farm stand?
- Did you find a hidden gem coffee shop or taco spot?
Drop your tips and stories in the comments—they help other travelers plan better trips.
And if you found this guide to
things to do in Yakima helpful, please
share it with a friend or on your social media. It might just inspire someone’s next sunny weekend in Central Washington.
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