Summer in the Yakima Valley means long sunny days perfect for floating the river or sipping craft beer on a patio. This slice of Washington Wine Country is known for its outstanding wineries and breweries, fresh produce, and fantastic outdoor recreation, so there are plenty of activities to keep you busy.
To make the most of your time, plan to rent a car and spend at least three days exploring the area, leaving room for day trips. The drive from the Seattle area takes between two to three hours. You can also choose to fly directly into the regional airport in Yakima.
With so much to do, here’s a suggested summer itinerary that combines outdoor adventure, dining, and world-class beer and wine.
Yakima Valley Summer Itinerary
Whether you’re flying or driving, you’ll likely arrive in the late afternoon. Once you get into town, drop your bags at your hotel and then head out for dinner and drinks. The Yakima Valley is part of Washington’s expansive Wine Country region and also produces over 70 percent of the nation’s hops. For dinner, Freehand Cellars boasts sweeping views of the surrounding orchards and a menu of shareable appetizers and flatbreads.
If beer is more your speed, head to Bale Breaker Brewing. This family owned operation brews its beers using hops from their fourth-generation farm. Grab a beer and a bite from the on-site food truck and settle in at one of the outdoor picnic tables.
Day 1
Fuel up for your day at MAK Daddy Coffee Roasters in downtown Yakima. Named after the first initial of the founder’s three daughters, this coffee shop and local roastery offers avocado toast, breakfast burritos, and more quick bites, making it a great choice before you hit the road to enjoy some outdoor adventure.
Float the Yakima River
After breakfast, head out to float the Yakima River through the scenic Yakima River Canyon. Marvel at the basalt cliffs and rolling hills as you lounge on an inner tube. Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, you can arrange a guided float tour with outfitters like Rill Adventures and Red’s Fly Shop. For those looking for a more DIY experience, Red’s Fly Shop also offers a shuttle service so you can float the river in our own tubes. Aim to budget at least 4 hours for this experience.
Tip: A Discover Pass or $5 day fee is required to park at the Umtanum Creek Recreation Site. Cell phone reception can be scarce, so plan accordingly and download offline maps. If floating the river, be sure to come prepared with proper sun protection, water, and gear.
After your float, you’ve earned a relaxing lunch. Head to Outskirts Brewing Co. in Selah to enjoy lunch on their expansive patio. Try the signature bison burger or a seasonal salad with a side of truffle fries.
Explore Downtown Yakima
Back in Yakima, head out to visit the local shops. Browse fine jewelry, art, and a well-curated selection of crystals and stones at The Alignment Co., or check out locally made soaps at The Little Soapmaker. Find other shopping spots here.
Enjoy Dinner in Tieton
Wrap up your first full day with dinner in Tieton at Nomad Kitchen & Mercantile. Surrounded by orchards and the foothills of the Cascade Mountains, this farm-to-table restaurant’s menu changes based on the seasons. If you have time, grab a pre-dinner beer at Shorthead Brewing.
Also See: Yakima Valley Spring Itinerary
Day 2
Explore Cowiche Canyon
Beat the heat and get an early start today. Stop by Viera’s Bakery & Deli for tasty grab-and-go options before making your way to Cowiche Canyon. Managed by the Cowiche Canyon Conservancy, the area boasts around 20 miles of trails. The Cowiche Canyon Trail (2.9 miles one way) winds through the canyon, surrounded by steep sagebrush slopes. From the east or west trailheads, you can choose to walk the entire trail or branch off to explore other areas.
Tip: Temperatures can heat up quickly in summer and shade can be sparse, so bring sun protection and plenty of water. You’ll also want to keep an eye out for snakes.
Take a Wine or Beer Tour
With so many wineries and breweries to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. Spend the afternoon on a guided outing with Little Hopper Tours and leave the planning and driving to the pros. This local company offers private and small-group tours focused on Yakima Valley’s hop culture, breweries, and wineries, offering behind-the-scenes access and educational tastings. Explore the wineries around Yakima or venture out to Zillah, Prosser, or Red Mountain.
Due to the valley’s size (Prosser is about 50 minutes east of Yakima), a tour is a convenient and safe option if you want to visit multiple wineries or breweries. For a more active outing, consider a guided e-bike tour with Kickstand Tours.
Also See: Explore Wine Touring Areas and AVAs
Catch a Show at the Capitol Theatre
In the evening, it’s time for some entertainment. Theater lovers can watch touring Broadway shows, live music, symphony concerts, and community performances in an elegant setting. Originally built in 1920, the Capitol Theatre burned to the ground and was lovingly restored to its former glory, reopening in 1978.
Enjoy Tacos and Tamales
For dinner, head to one of the many restaurants serving up fresh tacos and tamales. Los Hernandez, a James Beard award-winning restaurant in Union Gap and Yakima, is known for homemade tamales using a traditional family recipe. Specialties include pork and chicken, plus asparagus tamales in the spring. Tammy’s Mexican Restaurant serves up classics, while JJ’s Birrieria and Antojitos offers succulent birria in queso tacos and ramen for a fun twist. For more delicious options, check out the Taco & Tamale Trail, which was created in partnership with the Central Washington Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
Also See: Discover Washington Food Trails
Day 3
Head West on Highway 410
For your final day, check out and make your way toward Mount Rainier and the Cascades. In Naches, stop for fresh fruit at Thompson’s Farm Market before continuing on to Whistlin’ Jack’s Outpost & Lodge. The Fireside Lounge & Restaurant has been serving travelers since the early 1900s and boasts a menu of classic favorites.
Go Hiking at Chinook Pass
Located along Highway 401, Chinook Pass is the perfect pit stop if returning to the Seattle area. From the trails around Tipsoo Lake, visitors can enjoy views of Mount Rainier. Come July, wildflowers blanket the meadows, creating an even more magical hiking experience. On a hot summer day, cool off with a dip in Sheep Lake. At 3.6 miles round-trip and only 400 feet of elevation gain, this is a great option for families looking to experience a serene alpine lake.
Where to Stay
Hotel Maison Yakima Tapestry Collection by Hilton
The Hotel Maison in downtown truly represents the history and character of Yakima. Built by the Yakima Masons to house their temple in 1911, this boutique hotel offers all the historic elegance with modern convenience.
Hilton Garden Inn Yakima Downtown
The Hilton Garden Inn Yakima Downtown is centrally located just one block from downtown attractions such as The Capitol Theatre. The Ummelina Yakima Valley Spa Retreat is adjacent to the hotel.
Canyon River Ranch
A 25-minute drive toward Yakima brings guests to Canyon River Ranch on the scenic Yakima River. This lodge is the perfect base for those looking for an extended stay and easy access to outdoor recreation.
Oxford Suites
Located along the Yakima River near downtown, the Oxford Suites is another convenient option. Families will appreciate the complimentary breakfast and indoor pool.