If you love exploring Washington, you probably already have a favorite tourist town, a top wine destination, a beloved waterfront community, and a city or two where you mainly just go to eat and indulge. But what if you could have everything in one place, all while getting plenty of exercise and relaxation during your stay? The Tri-Cities, which sit right on the rolling Columbia River and offer sweeping views of those unbeatable Eastern Washington sunsets, should be your next weekend getaway destination.
Washingtonians, we’ve been sleeping on the Tri-Cities. This once-rural community still has plenty of small town charm (in all three of its mini cities), but along with its peaceful riverfront vibes, there is also plenty to explore, taste, sip and take in. And thanks to its abundance of hiking trails, park paths, yoga studios and day spa and healthy local cuisine, you just might leave feeling better than when you arrived.
Stay
There’s no shortage of accommodations in the Tri-Cities area, but there are truly two hotels that can’t be beat. The Homewood Suites in Richland is a perfect resting place for small groups, offering everything from studio king suites to two-bedroom, two-bathroom suites with kitchenettes and water views. Your stay also includes free daily breakfast and access to a stellar seasonal outdoor pool.
Just down the street from Homewood Suites is the beloved Lodge at Columbia Point, an ideal destination for couples or a restful solo getaway. The wine-themed rooms and suites are luxurious and calming, many of which have stunning water views. The on-site restaurant and bar, spa services and fitness room make it difficult to leave…but you still should, as the area is worth exploring.
Do
Thanks to its close proximity to Red Mountain AVA and its prime grape-growing conditions, the Tri-Cities is becoming a well-known wine destination. But it’s also a highly underrated wellness destination! You’ll find dozens of hiking trails within 20 miles of town, some of which are accessible in every season. And Lifted Lotus Yoga Studio in Kennewick is the perfect place to start or end your day, as they offer a full range of classes from early morning vinyasa to evening Mind/Body Restore sessions — and it’s donation-based.
From farmers’ markets to niche gift shops, the shopping in the Tri-Cities is delightful.
For a true adventure, head over to Uptown Shopping Center in Richland, an eclectic strip mall that looks straight out of the 1980’s in all the best ways. Let your intuition guide you at Blu Journey, a welcoming metaphysical and crystal shop ready to help you celebrate your spiritual journey with unique treasure, yoga and intuitive readings. Next, you can browse the antiques at Uptown Antique Market or even commemorate your visit with new ink at one of the tattoo parlors.
Since the best shopping tends to include food and drinks, make sure to make a stop at ROMA House in Richland, the perfect place to shop, snack and sip. Browse the collection of kitchen gadgets, one-of-a-kind gifts and specialty foods before treating yourself to a beautiful charcuterie board snack and a glass of local vino. You’ll be wondering why there isn’t a ROMA House in every city.
If you enjoy adventures that include wine (no judgment), book a wagon ride with Red Mountain Trails. The ladies at Red Mountain will guide you through the gorgeous red mountain vineyards in a horse-drawn wagon, ending with a tasty wine flight by the fire pit.
Drink
The Tri-Cities area has an abundance of local wine, beer and spirits that will knock your socks off. But if you’re going for more of a wellness trip or you’re living a sober life, you can still indulge when you visit Kindred Spirits. Owned by a local couple who decided to forego drinking themselves, this sober bar offers alcohol-free wine, beer and mocktails for those who would prefer to have an alternative to boozing while still enjoying the atmosphere of gathering at a bar. If you like what you drink here, you can take a bottle or two to-go from the bottle shop.
If you do imbibe, take a break from the wine and head to Solar Spirits. Produced with 100 percent renewable energy, this cozy distillery produces award-winning spirits fermented in-house with an emphasis on Washington grain and fruit. Choose from a selection of craft cocktails, or put in a request for your favorite drink.
As for nightlife options, you can’t go wrong with Wine Social, a fairly new wine and cocktail bar in Richland. This place also offers a great selection of alcohol-free options, and the staff often joins the party, especially on karaoke night.
Eat
Please bring your appetite when you visit the Tri-Cities. From low-key taquerias to fine dining, this part of Washington truly has it all, showcasing the best the state has to offer. Dovetail Joint Restaurant at Uptown Shopping Center is a foodie’s dream come true, serving fresh, locally sourced food that is always made from scratch. The rotating menu has a ton of small plate offerings, so take a few friends and dine family-style.
Several of the local wineries have on-site restaurants that are to die for, and it’s impossible to pick the best one — but Tagaris Winery just might be it. The taverna looks straight out of Old World Europe, with an expansive dining room and seasonal patio. The menu is just as expansive, with an array of tapas, soups and salads, and hearty entrees, all of which pair perfectly with the wine list. Tagaris also has a fantastic selection of alcohol-free options.
Before you leave town, take a trip to West Richland and discover the joy of a brunch at the locally owned Endive Eatery. The ambiance is casual and cozy, and you’ll be surrounded by plants and lively conversation. Ordering is a breeze and is done right from the table, making it entirely too easy to feast on multiple courses.
The Tri-Cities is subject to the weather of all four seasons, but there’s truly never a bad time to visit. If one of your resolutions is to explore more of Washington, consider starting here.