Washington’s Wine Country region

Discover the Destination

With long, sun-drenched days perfect for growing grapes, Washington’s Wine Country boasts more than 300 wineries producing world-class wines. Stretching from the east Columbia River Gorge to the Idaho border through southeast Washington, explore the region as you sip syrahs, merlots, and chardonnay overlooking scenic vineyards and rolling hills. The region covers multiple AVAs, including the Columbia Valley, Walla Walla Valley, Yakima Valley, Red Mountain, and Horse Heaven Hills.

But wine isn’t all this region has to offer. Scenic vistas and abundant outdoor recreation opportunities also abound. Visitors can take to the Columbia, Snake, and Yakima rivers for watersports and fishing, and the area also offers ample hiking trails. Thanks to its agricultural roots, you’ll also find plenty of farm stands and U-pick opportunities.

Airports: Airports in Washington Wine Country include Tri-Cities Airport (PSC), Walla Walla Regional Airport (ALW), and Yakima Air Terminal (YKM)

Major Highways: I-82, US-12, SR-14, US-395

Climate/Seasonality: Washington’s Wine Country Region has hot, dry summers, cold winters, and a pleasant spring and fall.

Washington Wine Country Highlights

Multiple American Viticultural Areas (AVAs), wineries, and vineyards
U-picks, orchards, and fruit stands
Craft beer and hop production
Access to Palouse Falls, Washington’s official state waterfall
Hanford and other science and technology attractions
Access to Hells Canyon, the deepest river gorge in North America

Washington’s Wine Country Destinations

Mark VanDonage / Courtesy of Visit Walla Walla

Walla Walla

Situated in the southeast of Washington’s Wine Country, Walla Walla boasts 130+ wineries stemming from a huge range of varietals. Wineries and tasting rooms are spread, with 45+ tasting rooms available in the city’s charming downtown. The city, which is home to Whitman College, is also perfect for foodies. Visitors will find everything from fine dining and casual fare to dessert bars and food trucks, all with a local twist.

Yakima Valley

A lush agricultural region, the Yakima Valley area boasts fresh produce and plenty of wine tasting opportunities, with more than 90 wineries and five AVAs within 70 miles. In addition to wine, the area is known for craft beer (the valley produces about 75% of the country’s hops), making it a perfect base for wine and beer lovers alike. Visitors can also explore charming small towns like Prosser, Union Gap, Toppenish, and more.

Tri-Cities

Nestled at the confluence of the Columbia and Snake rivers in the heart of Wine Country, the Tri-Cities (Kennewick, Pasco, and Richland) offer fantastic outdoor recreation and more than 200 wineries within a one-hour drive. Long before the Tri-Cities became known for wine, the area was picked to build the world’s first full-scale nuclear reactor as part of the Manhattan Project, kicking off an age of innovation. Today, the Tri-Cities offers science and history attractions for all ages.

Columbia River Gorge

The Columbia River Gorge blends dramatic landscapes with exceptional wine. Sip your way through boutique wineries where cool-climate grapes thrive. To the east, explore artisan shops in White Salmon-Bingen or get your heart pumping with windsurfing or a hike. Don’t miss the Stonehenge Memorial, a World War I tribute set above the river offering panoramic views and a unique historic stop.

Lewis Clark Valley & Hells Canyon

Straddling the Washington-Idaho border, the Lewis Clark Valley offers a rich blend of history, wine, and outdoor recreation. The Lewis Clark Valley AVA features boutique wineries and tasting rooms alongside the confluence of the Snake and Clearwater rivers and spans both Washington and Idaho. This section of the state is also home to river adventures, including access to Hells Canyon, the deepest river gorge in North America.

Palouse Falls

The official state waterfall, Palouse Falls sits about an hour north of Walla Walla, making it the perfect destination for a day trip from Washington Wine Country. This stunning natural attraction in Palouse Falls State Park cascades down nearly 200 feet to the Snake River and is a mecca for photographers. The area is also known for its lake of light pollution and stargazing opportunities.

Blue Mountains & Umatilla National Forest

Located in the Blue Mountains, Umatilla National Forest runs from southeast Washington into northeast Oregon. Hike, camp, and view wildlife in the summer, or enjoy snow sports in winter. This secluded corner provides a tranquil escape in Washington’s Wine Country region.

Cougar Digital / Courtesy of Tour Prosser

Small Towns

Wine Country has numerous small towns, many of which can be found in the Yakima Valley. Sample award-winning handmade tamales in Union Gap, go horseback riding through the vineyards in Prosser, view an extensive collection of murals in Toppenish, spot dinosaurs in Granger, and much more.