Located in the heart of Washington’s Wine Country, Tri-Cities sits at the confluence of the Snake, Yakima, and Columbia rivers. Plan a mid-week or weekend trip to explore the three thriving destinations of Richland, Kennewick, and Pasco and immerse yourself in adventure, history, and a thriving wine and food scene.
Tri-Cities Itinerary
To make the most of your three days, consider using a car. You can make the drive from Spokane, Seattle, or Portland in 2-3.5 hours or hop on a direct flight into the Tri-Cities Airport and rent a car. If arriving in the evening, head to dinner at Ice Harbor Brewery on Clover Island for a craft beer along with a 100% American Wagyu burger or hand-cut halibut and chips.
Day 1: Kennewick
Start your day at Just Juice for a refreshing cold-pressed juice or coffee before heading out to explore historic downtown Kennewick.
Shop in Downtown
In downtown, you’ll find antique stores, hobby shops, and more. The Public Market is home to more than 60 local vendors, from art galleries to snacks at Layered Cake Artistry. This year-round, indoor market emphasizes local makers, with every product at the market produced or originating in the Tri-Cities.
Visit Columbia Gardens Artisan Market
Next, grab lunch from a food truck at Columbia Gardens. This urban wine and artisan village is home to food vendors, shops, and more. Stroll the pedestrian-friendly waterfront and scenic nature trail before sampling local wine at one of the on-site tasting rooms.
Ride the Gesa Carousel of Dreams
This lovingly restored carousel got its start in Michigan in 1910 before finding its way to Kennewick’s Columbia Park. Featuring hand-carved horses and other animals, it’s a nostalgic attraction and delightful ride for kids and adults alike. Nearby playgrounds and picnic areas make for an easy, family-friendly outing in the Tri-Cities.
Get Dinner & Drinks
Finish off the evening at PROOF Gastropub for craft beer and cocktails along with familiar but elevated food. Try burger of the month, pork belly tacos, or a honey serrano chicken sandwich. Meat lovers should consider nearby Porter’s Real Barbecue. Porter’s serves authentic barbecue slow-smoked for 14 hours and cut to order along with homemade sides.
Day 2: Richland
Fuel up for day two with breakfast at Endive Eatery. Their seasonal menu features everything from eggs benedict options, vegan breakfast burritos, and almond croissant French toast.
Visit Murals & Shops
Head to the outdoor Uptown Shopping Center to check out some of Richland’s murals. Explore by foot or rent bikes from Reborn Bike Shop. Nearby, The Parkway is home to small local businesses like The Little Plant Shop for unique houseplants or Roma House for home decor and artisan goods. Find apparel, accessories, stationary, and more sourced mainly from women-owned companies at The Teal Box.
Also See: Discover Washington’s Murals
Go Wine Tasting
For lunch, head out to the Red Mountain AVA for a wine tasting at Terra Blanca Vineyard Grill. If you’d like to sample wine from multiple locations, be sure to designate a driver or arrange a guided tour in advance. Visit Hedges Family Estate to learn about biodynamics and tour the gardens or enjoy a relaxing wine-tasting experience overlooking the vineyards at Fidélitas. Most wineries have open tasting room hours, but it’s best to book a reservation in advance.
Explore a Park or Museum
The riverfront Howard Amon Park is the perfect way to experience the natural beauty of Richland. Hire a boat and set out on the Columbia River, take a stroll along the extensive riverside path, or relax on the beach. Depending on when you visit, you may have the chance to catch an art festival or music event at the park.
History buffs should consider a visit to the REACH Museum. This family friendly interpretive center and performing arts amphitheater tells the fascinating stories of the mid-Columbia region. Learn about wildlife, Ice Age floods, the area’s connection to the Manhattan Project, and more.
Get Dinner and Drinks
For dinner, head over to Dovetail Joint Restaurant for a farm-to-table dining experience. You’ll find craft cocktails, Latin and Mediterranean-inspired dishes, and a mix of small plates to share. Another dinner option is LULU Craft Bar & Kitchen where you can find everything from fish tacos to chicken and waffles. If you’re not ready for the night to end, head to Moniker for dessert and a nightcap.
Day 3: Pasco
For your last day, it’s time to explore Pasco and more of the greater Tri-Cities. Fuel up with a hearty meal at Magill’s Restaurant, a family-owned eatery and catering company that specializes in breakfast. Choose from an extensive selection of bennies, omelets, breakfast burritos, and sweet offerings.
Take a Hike or Visit a Park
Start the morning with a hike at Candy Mountain. This relatively easy trail takes you 3.6 miles roundtrip taking you into a preserve and then up to the summit for a beautiful view of the valley. For nature with a side of history, head to Sacajawea State Park, where Lewis and Clark camped in 1805. Sitting at the confluence of the Snake and Columbia rivers, the park spans 267 acres with hikes, freshwater shoreline, sandy beaches, and plenty of wildlife. Visit the Sacajawea Interpretive Center to learn more about the role and life of Sacagawea, as well as the Corps of Discovery. The park is open April through October.
Explore the Farmer’s Market
If you’re visiting on a Saturday from May to October, check out the area’s largest farmers market. Located downtown, the Pasco Farmers Market is open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and is the perfect place to find locally grown fruits and vegetables, plants, artisan goods, food vendors, and more.
Also See: Farmers Markets in Washington
Go Axe Throwing
Ward off the after-lunch lull with urban axe throwing. AXE KPR offers 45 and 90-minute sessions, and walk-ins are welcome. Try your hand at throwing axes, hatchets, or ninja stars, no experience necessary. The staff are available to teach you proper safety and technique, along with games to play. Note that closed-toed shoes are required to participate.
Get Dinner
After a day of adventure, relax with a comforting dinner at Ciao Trattoria. Enjoy fresh salads, handmade pasta dishes, and classic Italian desserts in a cozy and romantic atmosphere.
Where to Stay in Tri-Cities
The Lodge at Columbia Point, Richland
The Lodge at Columbia Point is a beautiful 82-room boutique hotel along the Columbia Point Marina. Each room is dedicated to a winery or vineyard within Washington state. Featuring custom rooms, tastings of local wines, spa services, and more.
Courtyard by Marriott Pasco Tri-Cities Airport, Pasco
Opposite Tri-Cities Airport, this laid-back airport hotel is a 12-minute walk from the Bechtel National Planetarium and a mile from the Pasco Aviation Museum.
Clover Island Inn, Kennewick
Situated on the Columbia River, Clover Island Inn offers waterfront views, an outdoor pool, and the renovated Crow’s Nest Bar & Grill. Easily explore Kennewick’s historic waterfront with coffee shops, breweries, shopping, and more.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Kennewick
Conveniently linked to the Three Rivers Convention Center. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as this venue hosts concerts and serves as the home for the Tri-City Americans. Enjoy easy access to a variety of dining options and shopping destinations.