Spend several days in the vineyards, museums and boutiques of Walla Walla. Join tours and tastings at the area’s renowned wineries producing great varietals on 2,800 acres (1,100 hectares) surrounding the town.
The region’s excellent growing conditions have supported production of large, delicious Walla Walla Sweet Onions since the late 1800s. The climate and terroir have also attracted passionate winemakers for more than 30 years. See the area’s two oldest and most celebrated wineries, Woodward Canyon and L’Ecole No. 41 Winery to understand the origins of southeastern Washington winemaking. View grapes on the vine and tour production operations. Savour flavours of cabernet sauvignon, merlot and syrah in tasting rooms.
Arrange transportation to travel safely from vineyard to vineyard as you sample premium vintages at some of the area’s 130 wineries. On other days, tour downtown Walla Walla and choose from more than 20 winetasting rooms. Select your favourite wines and have a case shipped to arrive at your home upon your return.
Downtown Walla Walla also offers excellent shopping and non-wine attractions. Stop at the Fort Walla Walla Museum, Whitman Mission and the Kirkman House Museum to learn about the area’s history. Browse boutiques for chic clothing and have lunch, dinner or cocktails at one of the many establishments, ranging from coffee shops to casual bistros to fine-dining restaurants.
Take the kids to Pioneer Park to play in the open spaces and see the birds in the free outdoor aviary. Look for the endangered nene or Hawaiian goose as well as pheasants and ducks. Note the park’s design, created by Frederick Law Olmsted, who was responsible for landscape delights at Central Park and the Biltmore Estate. Bike and play golf or ski nearby in winter.
Visit in June for the Walla Walla Sweet Onion Festival. Check the community calendar for wine festival weekends several times during the year. Find accommodation in Walla Walla’s quaint inns, national chains or historic hotels. The town is about 250 miles (400 kilometres) from Seattle, Portland or Boise.
