Yakima

Yakima is known as the fruit bowl of the nation. A sagebrush prairie until irrigation turned things around, Yakima now produces large quantities of apples, berries, cherries, peaches, pears and plums. Also veggies like beans, peas, peppers and squash. For size, color, quality and quantity the Yakima Valley is considered unequaled in the world!

Wines from the rattlesnake Hills are abundant and varied. You can get red wines, pink table wines and white blends. Or chardonnay, muscat, port, sherry and sparkling wines. These and many more wines can be found at wineries located near small towns like Zillah, Sunnyside and Grandview.

The Yakima Greenway provides ten miles of paved pathway for outdoor sports enthusiasts who relish biking, hiking, fishing, running and picnicking. There are three parks for observing nature and relaxing, two good fishing lakes and river access landings. Special events like Eagle and Earth Day are held occasionally.

Some major events to keep in mind are A Case of the Blues & All That Jazz in August, Central Washington State Fair in September, Red Wine and Chocolate in February and The Arbor Festival in April.

History buffs will enjoy a stroll through the Old North Yakima Historic District containing nine buildings dating back to 1889-1914. The Yakima Valley Community Band, started in 1919, presents “Concerts in the Parks” during the summer; Seasons Performance Hall and Music Festival attracts and brings in well-known jazz and classical musicians for special entertainment throughout the year. The Millennium Arts Plaza in downtown Yakima is a work of art with links to the past, present and future. Visitors find excellent hotels, motels, and restaurants in the downtown area.

On Third Street and Yakima Avenue, check out the Yakima Farmers Market which takes up a full block in town and is open Every Sunday during the year. In back of the market, the Capital Theatre offers a venue for the Yakima Symphony Orchestra & Chorus, Town Hall and community concerts.

For 300 days of sunshine and only about ten inches of rain a year, amazing fruits, veggies and wines, and plenty of activities, places to stay and eat, include Yakima in your travel plans.

Thank you Shirley Dever for the information!