Vinman's Bakery cinnamon rolls Ellensburg
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A Visit to Vinman’s Bakery in Quiet Ellensburg

When I was in high school, I had the good fortune to be an exchange student in Switzerland. On my return from this life-changing experience, one of the things I missed the most was crusty European bread. Fast forward to the present and one can find bakeries making real bread all over America, hurrah! Even…

Jolly Mountain views
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Hiking and Exploring Jolly Mountain

As I write this from the north Pasco countryside, early on a Friday afternoon, I look out the window of my study toward Badger Mountain, the Horse Heaven Hills and Jumpoff Joe. Typically, I would be able to see all three (although the wild roses growing outside my window obstruct my view of Jumpoff Joe,…

Gingko petroglyphs
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A Day at the Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park

Central Washington is home to a multitude of state parks, each with their own unique features and viewpoints. If you’re looking for a daylong adventure through a beautiful park with river views and hiking paths, you’re in luck because the Ginkgo Petrified Forest has been patiently waiting for your visit.  Starting your journey east, coasting…

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Dining at Ellensburg Pasta Company

Although much of life has been changing over the past few months, one thing stays consistent — support for local restaurants. While some businesses have chosen to close during this time, Ellensburg Pasta Company (EPC), a local staple of Kittitas County, has kept their doors open with modifications to the usual dining room experience.  From…

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Visiting Olmstead Place State Park

As the cool Ellensburg breeze sweeps across your face, you watch the trees sway back and forth and listen to the frenzy of birds chirping above you. Breathing in the fresh air, you exhale a large sigh and look at the beauty before your eyes — Olmstead Place Historical State Park. Although not the typical…

cinnamon rolls
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Visiting Daily Bread and Mercantile in Ellensburg

Are you looking for a family-friendly restaurant with a community feel? Because you’re in luck! Daily Bread and Mercantile, nestled in the heart of Central Washington, is your next lunch destination. Located in Ellensburg, this restaurant is a local secret and the perfect stopping point for your next road trip through the state. And while…

Ellensburg downtown
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Pit Stop in Ellensburg

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…

man on horse
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What You Gotta Know About the Ellensburg Rodeo

The world-famous Ellensburg Rodeo happens annually every Labor Day Weekend, and we thought it was important that visitors get a bit of background on this special event.   How It Began Rodeo as a sport is relatively young. Dating back to the last quarter of the 19th century, most of the rodeos in the West were…

CWU Featured image of several campus buildings
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History of Central Washington University

Did you know that Central Washington University has actually gone through four name changes? It’s only been CWU since 1977. Originally founded in 1891, its first name was “Washington State National School in Ellensburg.” How’s that for a mouthful? Now it is filled with over 11,000 students annually, and was ranked “Top-rated four-year University in…