Central Washington

Snow-capped peaks, sun-soaked valleys, big rivers, and some of the best fruit and wine country all call Central Washington home. Additionally, welcoming cities like Wenatchee with its apple orchards, Leavenworth’s unique European Bavarian charm, Yakima at the center of wine and hop country, and Chelan on the banks of the 50-mile long lake make exploring exhilarating.

Located in the rain shadow of the Cascades, people visit Central Washington for the sunshine, scenery, and the slower pace. Stretching from the Cascade Mountains to the Columbia River, this semi-arid region averages more than 300 sunny days a year, which makes outdoor adventure a top attraction.

Nature enthusiasts and fans of sightseeing can hike the foothills, raft the rivers, fish, ski near the Cascades, or paddle on Moses Lake. Foodies can savor a Central Washington getaway by enjoying its dynamic culinary scene. Fresh apples and cherries, along with award-winning wines from the Yakima Valley, make their way to farm-to-table restaurants across Central Washington, creating world-class cuisine.

With celebrated award-winning wineries and vibrant communities, the calendar stays busy with events, including the Ellensburg Rodeo, harvest festivals, and lively wine-tasting weekends.

Central Washington carries a rich history, from indigenous Plateau cultures who lived along these rivers for thousands of years to the farming and railroad boom that shaped the towns you see today. Irrigation further transformed the dry land into one of the nation's most productive growing regions.

Whether you want adventure, good food, or quiet time outdoors, Central Washington has room for it all!