Things To Do
in Walla Walla
Walla Walla is a charming city located in southeastern Washington state, known for its historic downtown and picturesque landscapes. The city is renowned for its flourishing wine industry, with numerous vineyards and wineries offering tastings and tours. Walla Walla is also home to Whitman College, adding a youthful energy to the community.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as hiking, cycling, and camping in the surrounding Blue Mountains and Palouse region.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh pastries and coffee. Afterward, visit a nearby vineyard for an early wine tasting experience.
Spend the afternoon exploring the Walla Walla Farmers Market, where you can sample local produce and artisan goods. Don't miss a lunch at a farm-to-table restaurant featuring seasonal ingredients.
In the evening, dine at a renowned fine dining restaurant paired with selected wines from the region. Take a stroll downtown to soak in the local art scene and vibrant nightlife.
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner. Then, head to the Walla Walla River for a scenic hike along the trails.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst nature or stop by a local sandwich shop for takeout. After lunch, visit the Fort Walla Walla Museum to learn about the region’s history and heritage.
As the sun sets, unwind with a leisurely dinner at a local bistro. Take a night walk in the park to relish the serene atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor recreational opportunities, including nearby mountains and rivers.
- A strong sense of community with friendly residents.
- Rich in wine culture, known for its vineyards and wineries.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
- Access to a variety of cultural events and local festivals.
- Limited job market with fewer employment opportunities in some sectors.
- Public transportation options are limited, making a car essential for mobility.
- Some may find the small-town atmosphere less appealing, especially those used to urban environments.
- Harsh winters can deter some people from living in the area.
- Limited options for shopping, dining, and entertainment compared to larger cities.
Best Activities in Walla Walla
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails of the Blue Mountains for stunning views and a variety of hiking experiences.
Visit the many wineries in the area for world-class wine tasting experiences amidst picturesque vineyards.
Enjoy cycling through scenic routes and challenging courses during the annual Tour of Walla Walla event.
Tours
Uncover the best of Walla Walla with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Walla Walla
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers scenic views and great photo opportunities with the lake and surrounding hills.
Provides panoramic views of the Blue Mountains and beautiful natural surroundings.
Features historic buildings and picturesque landscapes ideal for photography.
Food in Walla Walla
Walla Walla Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy, golden rings of Walla Walla sweet onions, a local specialty renowned for their mild, sweet flavor. Best enjoyed at The Marc Restaurant.
Must-Try!
A delectable dish featuring locally caught salmon, rice, and aromatic seasonings, wrapped in flaky pastry. Head to Whitehouse-Crawford for an exceptional rendition of this classic.
Treat yourself to the unique sweet-tart flavor of huckleberries in a creamy scoop of locally made ice cream, available at Bright's Candies.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Walla Walla better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore a vibrant outdoor market where local farmers, bakers, and artisans showcase their wares, offering fresh produce, handcrafted cheeses, bread, pastries, and more.
For a casual and diverse culinary experience, visit Graze where food trucks gather to offer an array of global street food delights, from tacos and falafel to gourmet grilled cheese.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Walla Walla, it's important to respect the personal space of others and avoid standing too close during conversations or interactions.
Being on time is valued in Walla Walla, so it's respectful to arrive promptly for social gatherings, meetings, and appointments.
Showing an interest in and appreciation for local customs and traditions, such as the Walla Walla Sweet Onion festival, is a way to demonstrate respect for the community.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Walla Walla with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Walla Walla
Ensure a smooth experience
In Walla Walla, the customary tipping practice is to leave a gratuity of 15-20% at restaurants, cafes, and bars. Tipping is also expected for services such as haircuts, taxi rides, and hotel staff.
Most businesses in Walla Walla, including restaurants, shops, and service providers, accept major credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. Some places may also accept digital payment methods like Apple Pay or Google Pay.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Walla Walla.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Walla Walla, with beautiful blooming flowers, warmer weather, and outdoor activities like wine tasting and hiking.
Summer in Walla Walla offers sunny and hot weather, perfect for outdoor activities, festivals, and events. It's the peak season for wine tasting and enjoying the local produce.
Fall is a popular time to visit Walla Walla, with comfortable temperatures, stunning fall foliage, and the harvest season for the region's wineries. It's a great time for wine enthusiasts and outdoor enthusiasts.
Winter in Walla Walla can be cold and sometimes snowy, but it's a quieter time to visit and enjoy the cozy atmosphere. Visitors can still enjoy wine tasting, dining, and indoor activities.
Walla Walla at Night
Hiking in Walla Walla
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail offering beautiful views of the Walla Walla Valley and opportunities to spot wildlife.
This challenging trail provides stunning panoramas of the Columbia Basin and is known for its diverse flora and fauna.
An accessible trail that winds through picturesque landscapes, perfect for hiking with family and friends.
A tranquil hike around a peaceful lake, offering great opportunities for picnicking and bird watching.
A bit further out, this park features breathtaking waterfalls with several hiking options nearby.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Walla Walla through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Walla Walla by plane.
Located approximately 230 miles northwest of Walla Walla, SEA is the largest international airport in the Pacific Northwest, serving as a major hub for domestic and international flights.
Situated about 250 miles west of Walla Walla, PDX is a major airport serving the Portland area, with numerous international and domestic destinations.
Approximately 120 miles northeast of Walla Walla, GEG offers a variety of flights to both domestic and international destinations.
Located roughly 290 miles southeast of Walla Walla, BOI serves as the main airport for Boise, Idaho, with several connections to other cities in the U.S. and some international flights.
About 40 miles north of Walla Walla, PSC primarily serves the cities of Kennewick, Pasco, and Richland, with limited domestic and some international service.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Approximately 80% of the population identifies as White or Caucasian.
Around 15% of the population identifies as Hispanic or Latino, contributing to the diversity of the area.
Approximately 3% of the population identifies as Asian, including individuals from various countries.
About 2% of the population identifies as Black or African American.
A small percentage of the population, around 1%, identifies as Native American.
A minority of residents, approximately 2%, identify as belonging to two or more races.
The Soul of Walla Walla
Discover the essence of Walla Walla through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Walla Walla has a rich baseball history, including the presence of the Walla Walla Sweets, a collegiate wood-bat team that plays in the West Coast League.
Basketball is popular at both the school and community levels, with many local teams and events fostering engagement and competition.
Soccer has gained popularity among youth and adults, with various leagues and clubs promoting the sport for all skill levels.
Tennis is enjoyed recreationally and competitively, with local parks and facilities offering courts for play.
Running and road racing events are popular in Walla Walla, with community events like marathons and fun runs attracting participants of all ages.
Cycling is a popular activity in and around Walla Walla, with scenic routes and trails that attract both recreational and competitive cyclists.
Golf is enjoyed by many in the area, with several golf courses available for both casual and serious players.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Walla Walla.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most establishments offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, with innovative plant-based creations showcased prominently on many menus.
Many restaurants and cafes in Walla Walla accommodate gluten-free dietary needs, with numerous gluten-free menu items and dedicated preparation protocols.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Walla Walla with these cultural adventures.