Travel bug: Discover Walla Walla
Approaching Walla Walla as summer slips into fall, shimmering wheat fields lead to the surprise of a bustling downtown and farmers market, cultural attractions, tasting rooms, and memorable dining. Walla Walla feeds people well, nourishing body, mind, and spirit.
Despite its small-town vibe, Walla Walla is rich with history, cultural experiences, and lush wine country Those who enjoy a relaxed getaway with a walkable downtown, farm-to-table dining, and beauty with breakfast count Walla Walla as a favorite annual destination.
Weatherwise, September is the sweet spot, with daily highs of 78 and mild nights. October cools to low 60s, with occasional rain. Winter brings a festive clime reminiscent of George Baily’s Seneca Falls.
While away the day
I love starting the day at the downtown farmers market, then exploring local shops, galleries, and tasting rooms. The Whitman College sculpture garden delivers an art fix, and Fort Walla Walla Museum’s exhibits on the region’s military, agricultural, and pioneer past are a must for history buffs. A more sobering history of the PNW’s colonization is found at Whitman Mission.
Seasonal festivals and special events are also on tap. September harvest season brings estate winery lunches and vineyard tours. The grape crush is on, filling the air with a sweet, earthy perfume. The town’s signature classic car gathering finds hundreds of vintage rides lining downtown streets.
Harvest continues in October, with festivals and fun on the farm. Many restaurants offer seasonal farm-to-table “crush pad” lunches. The big wine event happens in November, when wineries debut their highly anticipated vintage releases. Christmas brings the delight of simpler times, with small yet vibrant events like the Parade of Lights, festive wine tastings, concerts, a holiday market, and a Jingle Bus light tour. Thinking ahead, June is a profusion of blooms in the lavender fields, and farm stores brim with goodies.
One of my favorite experiences was a cooking class at East Alder Table. Connections and conversation came easy while the chef taught us trade secrets for cooking with cast iron and blending flavors. Such a fun experience!
Lodging options range from luxe to more budget friendly. A great home base near downtown, The Courtyard by Marriott, offers the comfort and amenities many of us like and trust, just right after a day of enriching experiences and great eats.
Speaking of dining, a few spots I recommend include TMACS, whose lobster mac n’ cheese transforms comfort food into a special occasion. Waterbrook Winery pairs wine flights with easy bites like salad, olives, and almonds. The Salted Mill offers a little polish with dishes like curried spring salad and coriander-crusted Ahi tuna.
For breakfast, Bacon & Eggs features a hot sauce bar with countless flavors. Clarette’s invites diners to indulge with a Sweet Onion and Bacon Omelet and caramel-cinnamon French toast.
Three days give you time for history, art, vineyards, and unforgettable meals. My visit in June featured gorgeous lavender fields, fabulous wine tasting, and relaxed downtown strolls. For me, the cooking class gave the trip its soul, turning a pleasant getaway into something more personal, one cast-iron lesson and shared dish at a time.
Things to know before you go
- While there, plan your route before leaving the hotel to avoid unnecessary road time between highlights.
- Pack for weather; the four seasons are in full effect here.
Getting there
- Driving or flying is best. A beautiful fall road trip, Walla Walla is just under 4 hours from Portland, 4.5 from Salem, 5.5 from Eugene.
- The closest major airport is Tri-Cities Airport in Pasco.
The author shares her experience after being hosted in Walla Walla.
Julie Diebolt Price
50plus Magazine
Julie Diebolt Price is a seasoned photographer, author, and syndicated travel writer with footsteps on four continents and 48 states.