Things To Do
in Ellensburg
Ellensburg is a charming city located in central Washington state. It is known for its beautiful scenic surroundings, including the nearby Cascade Mountains and the Yakima River. The city is home to Central Washington University, giving it a lively and youthful atmosphere.
Ellensburg also hosts the famous Kittitas County Fair, a popular annual event that draws visitors from near and far.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Kittitas County Historical Museum to learn about local history. Enjoy a leisurely walk around the historic district to appreciate the charming architecture.
Grab lunch at one of the local eateries downtown, then explore the Central Washington University campus. Don't miss the beautiful sculpture park for some great photo opportunities.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant famous for its farm-to-table cuisine. Wind down by attending a live music event or checking out a local brewery.
Head out to the nearby Umtanum Creek Recreation Area for a morning hike. Experience the stunning scenery and lookout points.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the great outdoors. After eating, explore the trails further or try birdwatching in the area.
Return to Ellensburg and have dinner at a cozy cafe. Consider visiting the local farmers market if it’s open for some fresh local produce.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery with nearby mountains and rivers for outdoor activities.
- Strong sense of community and small-town charm.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
- Home to Central Washington University, providing educational and cultural opportunities.
- Access to local festivals and events throughout the year.
- Limited job opportunities in certain industries.
- Cold winters with significant snowfall.
- Relatively isolated, requiring longer travel for big city amenities.
- Limited public transportation options.
- May lack diversity in cultural experiences compared to larger metropolitan areas.
Best Activities in Ellensburg
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience one of the top rodeos in the United States with thrilling events, rodeo performances, and live entertainment.
Enjoy scenic views and outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and biking along the Yakima River Canyon.
Visit this stunning park to see the breathtaking Palouse Falls, with opportunities for hiking, photography, and enjoying nature.
Explore the expansive network of trails for walking, running, or mountain biking with beautiful country views.
Hike toward the iconic Mount Stuart, offering challenging trails and panoramic views of the Cascade Mountains.
Engage in outdoor activities like kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and bird watching on the beautiful riverfront.
Visit the outdoor market to enjoy local produce, crafts, and live performances while soaking up the community atmosphere.
Take a self-guided tour of the wind farm and witness the impressive turbines while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding area.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ellensburg with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ellensburg
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the city of Ellensburg and the Kittitas Valley.
Provides picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and the valley below, making it a great spot for photography.
Features beautiful scenery and opportunities for capturing the natural landscapes and wildlife through photography.
Food in Ellensburg
Ellensburg Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A juicy beef burger topped with bacon, cheddar cheese, and tangy barbecue sauce, capturing the essence of the famous Ellensburg Rodeo. Found at Valley Cafe.
Must-Try!
Fresh and succulent Alaskan salmon, expertly grilled and served with seasonal vegetables, showcasing the region's commitment to sustainable seafood. Available at Yellow Church Cafe.
A classic American dessert featuring locally grown Yakima Valley apples in a flaky, buttery crust, best enjoyed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Indulge at The Palace Cafe.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ellensburg better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market showcasing a plethora of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and handcrafted goods. It's an excellent spot to savor local flavors and meet the producers themselves.
A regular gathering of food trucks offering diverse cuisines, from gourmet tacos to wood-fired pizzas. It's a fantastic opportunity to savor a wide range of street food in one location.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ellensburg, as in many parts of the United States, maintaining a comfortable personal space when interacting with others is important. Avoid standing too close and acknowledge the individual comfort levels of those you are speaking with.
Residents of Ellensburg often value friendliness. A simple 'hello' or a smile can go a long way in establishing rapport. This is especially true in community settings or while engaging with local businesses.
Ellensburg is home to various local traditions and events, such as the annual Ellensburg Rodeo. Participating in or showing respect for these events fosters goodwill and demonstrates an appreciation for the community's culture.
Safety
Tipping in Ellensburg
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ellensburg, like much of the United States, tipping is customary in service industries such as restaurants, bars, and hospitality. A standard tip ranges from 15% to 20% of the total bill, depending on the quality of service received. It is common to tip delivery drivers, hairdressers, and other service providers as well. Tipping is seen as a way to reward good service and supplement the income of service workers.
Payment methods in Ellensburg are diverse, with cash, credit cards, and mobile payment options widely accepted. Many establishments have adopted contactless payment technologies to enhance convenience and safety. Local businesses often encourage the use of credit cards due to the speed of transactions. Some businesses also offer loyalty programs that can provide discounts or rewards for frequent customers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Ellensburg, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. The city comes alive with outdoor events and activities, and you can enjoy beautiful scenery as the surrounding nature starts to awaken.
Summer is another popular time to visit Ellensburg, with warm and sunny weather. This is the perfect time for outdoor adventures such as hiking, fishing, and river rafting. You can also experience local festivals and events during the summer months.
Fall brings beautiful foliage and cooler temperatures to Ellensburg. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy the changing colors of the trees and the crisp autumn air. You can also take part in harvest festivals and enjoy local produce.
Winter in Ellensburg can be cold and snowy, but it's a great time to visit if you enjoy winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding. The surrounding mountains offer plenty of opportunities for snow-filled adventures, and the city itself hosts winter events and activities.
Ellensburg at Night
Hiking in Ellensburg
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, suitable for all skill levels.
A beautiful hike along Umtanum Creek with opportunities for wildlife viewing and exploring unique geological formations.
A challenging hike that rewards adventurers with breathtaking vistas at the summit, perfect for experienced hikers.
A moderate trail featuring diverse landscapes and plenty of wildflowers during spring, ideal for a family outing.
An easy-to-moderate trail that traverses a canyon with a variety of ecosystems, great for leisurely walks and picnics.
Aiports
How to reach Ellensburg by plane.
The primary international airport serving the Seattle metropolitan area, located approximately 110 miles west of Ellensburg.
The main airport serving the Spokane area, located roughly 150 miles northeast of Ellensburg.
The major airport serving Portland, Oregon, located about 200 miles southwest of Ellensburg.
An airport serving the Tri-Cities area in Washington, located around 130 miles southeast of Ellensburg.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly non-Hispanic white individuals make up the largest demographic group in Ellensburg.
This group includes individuals of Hispanic or Latino origin, representing a significant portion of the population.
A smaller percentage of the population identifies as Black or African American.
The Asian demographic includes individuals from various Asian backgrounds, accounting for a small segment of the population.
Individuals identifying as two or more races represent a growing demographic in Ellensburg.
This group includes individuals identifying as American Indian or Alaska Native, comprising a small portion of the population.
This demographic is the least represented within the population of Ellensburg.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely popular sport played in schools and local leagues in Ellensburg, featuring various age groups and competitive teams.
A significant sport in Ellensburg, with high school football games attracting large crowds and fostering community spirit.
An increasingly popular sport among youth and adults in Ellensburg, with many organized leagues and clubs.
A prominent sport especially in schools, with students participating in various events and competitions throughout the year.
A popular indoor and outdoor sport, with local clubs and school teams engaging in competitive play.
A traditional American pastime enjoyed by various age groups, with local teams participating in leagues during the summer.
A competitive sport at the high school level, with a strong tradition in the community and successful local teams.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ellensburg.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Ellensburg offer creative vegetarian and vegan dishes, utilizing the abundance of fresh produce from local farms. The Yellow Church Cafe, in particular, is known for its diverse vegetarian and vegan selections.
Visitors with gluten intolerance will find accommodating menus at various establishments in Ellensburg. Both Valley Cafe and The Palace Cafe provide delectable gluten-free options, ensuring a delightful dining experience for all.