Yakima is a medium-sized city in the beautiful Columbia River Plateau region of south/central Washington State. The town, popular with wine lovers, is situated between the large Yakama Indian Reservation and the US Military Reservation Yakima Training Center and is reputed to have the best apples in the region.
The name comes from the Yakama Nation, and with so many quality outdoor attractions near the town, Yakima makes a great base to visit them. The Yakima River runs through Yakima and is used for fishing and recreation in the summer. A park, walking and biking trail and a wildlife sanctuary also follow the river.
Downtown Yakima is loaded with shops and shopping malls while the Sunday summer Farmer’ Market features some excellent hand crafted items. If you’re here in late September, the Central Washington State Fair should not be missed; perhaps the most impressive fair in the state.
Highlights
Capitol Theater: built in 1919 and on the National Register of Historic Sites, the theater features a large program of community concerts and the Yakima Symphony Orchestra.
Yakima Valley Sundome: also hosting concerts and trade shows, the Sundome is massive and very popular during the Central Washington State Fair.
Yakama Indian Nation Cultural Center: learn more about the Yakama people at this fascinating museum with its impressive dioramas and exhibits.
Mount Rainier National Park: not far northwest of Yakima, Washington’s most famous park is active year round with great skiing in the winter and camping and hiking in the summer.