While Ellensburg is perhaps best known for the Ellensburg Rodeo (yee-haw) and for Central Washington University, this small town more to offer to visitors. Here are some place to check out next time you’re in Ellensburg.
Visit the Kittitas County Historical Museum
This free museum offers a hands-on learning approach to the county’s history. Walking through will take you anywhere from one hour to 90 minutes. Displays vary from antique cars to guns and kitchen utensils. It’s located in downtown Ellensburg and is open Tuesday through Saturday.
Sip Wine at Gard Vintners
If the museum left you feeling thirsty, walk on over to Gard for a sustainable wine tasting (one of the few in the state!) Open seven days a week, this family owned Winery is beloved by residents in Walla Walla, Woodinville and Ellensburg alike. Their wines are affordable, world-class and local! Doesn’t get much better than that.
Eat At The Yellow Church Cafe
By now you’re probably feeling the urge for some food in your belly, and we recommend heading to The Yellow Church Café. Voted one of “The 15 Best Restaurants in Washington State” in 2017, this restaurant has a full history. It was originally built in 1923 as a German Lutheran Church. Throughout the years ownership has changed, but don’t let that fool you. They are serving up delicious locally sourced and freshly made food daily.
Irene Rinehart Riverfront Park
Along the Yakima River, just outside of town, you’ll find the Irene Rinehart Riverfront Park. Complete with bathrooms, grills, a volleyball pitch, trails and a picnic shelter, this is the ideal spot to spend a warm summer afternoon. Take a dip in the river before heading back into town. The park is open seasonally, so check the website before you go.
Visit The Japanese Garden at CWU
Finally, no trip would be complete without wandering the CWU campus. Here you’ll find a hidden gem, the Japanese Garden. Complete with lanterns, statues and a rock garden, this is the perfect place to stop and take a deep breath. It is open to the public year-round.
Did we miss something special in Ellensburg that you want to tell us more about? Leave a comment below and tell us your favorite spot in this Central Washington town.
Photos by: Kittitas County Historical Museum, Gard Vintners, CWU and Yellow Church.
