Tri-Cities
In the fertile region where the Yakima River and Snake River join the Columbia River, eastern Washington’s Tri-Counties Region serves up fun, recreation and fantastic food. The action is centered around a cluster of three cities — Richland, Pasco and Kennewick — that are known for abundant sunshine, ample green spaces and agricultural goodies.
Sunny Skies in Washington
Visitors from the east arrive in the Tri-Cities on Interstate 82, which connects with Interstate 182 near Richland, the smallest of the trio of towns. Continuing west, you’ll find Pasco and Kennewick, situated across from one another on the banks of the Columbia River. With its location near Oregon, this region is easily reachable from the west via Interstate 84. The Tri-Cities has a semi-arid climate, known for dry and hot summers.
Cast a Line
With miles of river in the Tri-Cities region, watersports are a top draw. Anglers will find thriving populations of Chinook salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, bass and more in the Columbia, Snake and Yakima Rivers. Paddlers can explore the Columbia’s dramatic White Bluffs, watch for wildlife in the Yakima River Delta area or set out on a day trip to find white waters near the Cascades. The Northwest Discovery Water Trail includes 150 sites along a 300-plus mile route. Those seeking lake fun will find it at Potholes State Park. The wetland habitat of McNary National Wildlife Refuge makes it a top pick for waterfowl hunting, while big and small game hunters will want to visit Umatilla National Forest and the Blue Mountains west of the Tri-Cities.
Jet skiing on the Columbia River.
Tantalizing Tri-Counties
You may find yourself eating and drinking your way across the Tri-Cities region, thanks to its location near the heart of Washington’s wine country and bustling agricultural industries. To the west lies the Yakima River Valley and to the east lies the Walla Walla Valley. Both are filled with vineyards and farms. Farmers markets and produce stands are local favorites, offering up bounties of fruits and vegetables plucked straight from the earth. The Pasco Farmers Market is one of the largest. The fertile grounds are also perfect for growing a variety of grapes. Over 200 vineyards are found across the region, each offering a different experience to savor.
Savoring Spuds
Some people know the Tri-Cities region as the home of the Spudnut, a donut type made with potato flour. The Spudnut Shop in Richland has been serving up melt-in-your-mouth glazed donuts, cinnamon rolls and more from a tiny strip-mall joint since 1950. Since then, they’ve risen to the top of many national “best donut” lists.
Water Wonders
If you’re searching for the biggest thrill in the region, you’ll find it at Kennewick’s annual Tri-Cities Water Follies, which features adrenaline-charged hydroplanes racing along the Columbia River at speeds over 200 mph. Packed with three days of fun, this festival offers an air show, vintage hydroplane display, a kids’ zone and more.
Atomic Legacy
Part of the Tri-Cities region’s growth can be credited to the construction of the Hanford Nuclear Site nearby in 1943, as part of the Manhattan Project. Workers flocked to the region until production ceased after the Cold War. Learn more about this fascinating time period with a tour of the B Reactor National Historic Landmark or a visit to the Hanford Reach Interpretive Center, which shares the natural and living history of the region. The Hanford Reach National Monument preserves some of the lands that surrounded the site, which offers wild locales for outdoor recreation. A piece of modern history can be found at the 9/11 World Trade Center Memorial Monument in Kennewick. Three massive steel beams from the Twin Towers provide a spot for solemn reflection.
Sacajawea Was Here
You might notice a number of places bearing the name of Sacajawea —a Lemhi Shoshone woman from North Dakota — while visiting the Tri-Cities. In 1805, explorers Lewis and Clark, along with Sacajawea, traveled through the region on the Columbia River. When they arrived at the confluence of the Columbia and Snake Rivers, they set up camp, replenished their resources and met with local Native American tribes, with Sacajawea serving as an interpreter. The Sacajawea State Historical Park marks this spot and provides an opportunity to learn more about the journey. Also named in her honor, the Sacajawea Heritage Trails offers a 23-mile loop for hiking and biking the Tri-Cities. Aside from outstanding scenery, a number of interpretive markers share the region’s history.
Golf
Going by the moniker of the Evergreen State, Washington’s coniferous forests and marine climate lend themselves to ideal grass-growing conditions. Golf is immensely popular in Washington State, and the Tri-Cities are home to some of the Pacific Northwest’s top courses.
For More Information
Tri-Cities Visitor and Convention Bureau
800-254-5824
www.visittri-cities.com
Washington Tourism Alliance
800-544-1800
www.experiencewa.com
