There are plenty of things to do in the Tri-Cities for everyone, young and old, outdoorsy and not so outdoorsy. Whether you are looking for sports, culture or nature, you can find something to do in the Pasco, Kennewick and Richland area. Spend an hour, an afternoon, or all weekend exploring these fun activities in the Tri-Cities.
Enjoy Some Water Sports
The Tri-Cities are known for being an aquatic playground, with the Snake, Yakima and Columbia Rivers winding through the region. Try paddleboarding, wakeboarding, boating or sailing. If you are looking for something unique to do on the water, try a pedal kayak provided by Greenies. Greenies has kayak rentals and stand-up paddleboard rentals in Richland. If you prefer to get on the water but not be too active, try WATER2WINE Cruises. They have an assortment of cruises that change year-round, including happy hour, themed and murder mystery cruises.
Go Golfing
Golf in the Tri-Cities is a big attraction to locals and visitors alike. With close to 15 courses, you have choices anytime you want to play. With just under eight inches of rainfall annually, the Tri-Cities area has plenty of good golfing days. Be sure to check out Columbia Point Golf Club, which is always ranked in the Where You Can Rip It listing by Western Golf Alliance. If you are looking for lodging in Tri-Cities with golf packages, try the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Pasco-Tri Cities or TownePlace Suites by Marriott.
Visit the Chamna Natural Preserve
If getting back to nature is your thing, then a visit to the Chamna Natural Preserve in Richland is a definite must. More than 276 acres await you with plenty of things to do and see. Chamna Natural Preserve is open year-round, and has fun activities each season to keep you coming back. The trails (over 11 miles worth) are great for walking, as well as mountain bikes and horses. It’s also dog friendly. In the winter, you can cross-country ski or even snow shoe, if there is enough snow. Nature lovers will enjoy the chance to see wildlife at Chamna Natural Preserve, which is home to many birds, deer, rabbits, beaver, porcupines, coyotes and river otters. The Preserve is maintained by Tapteal Greenway, and you can visit their website for up to date information.
Ride the Gesa Carousel of Dreams
History buffs, those with kids and the young at heart will want to ride the Gesa Carousel of Dreams in Kennewick. The carousel is the result of 12 years of careful restoration by a team of people passionate about preserving a piece of American history that was created in 1910 in St. Joseph, Michigan. There are two modern horses on the carousel, one carved by Tri-Cities local Michael Thorton. They also have a banquet room where you can host events, including kids’ birthdays and company parties.
Visit a Distillery
Ever wondered how spirits are made? A visit to a Tri-Cities distillery can answer that question! Choose from two very different distilleries. Black Heron Spirits in West Richland has its roots in the past with a roaring ‘20s theme. They have a small tasting room available by appointment only. Solar Spirits Distillery in Richland has its eye on the future with all of their spirits being produced with sustainable technologies, including 100 percent renewable energy. They focus on using Washington State grains and fruits in their spirits. Drop by during their tasting room hours to learn how they create their environmentally friendly spirits.
Go Fishing
Fishing in the Tri-Cities is a dream come true for anyone who likes to catch their dinner. The Columbia, Snake and Yakima rivers have plenty of species of fish to attract any fishermen, including Chinook and Coho salmon, steelhead, catfish, bass and sturgeon. With such a wide variety, you can fish almost year-round in the area. And you don’t have to have a boat! Gone Fishing Guide Service can take you out, or try fishing from the shore at Columbia Park, Bateman Island by the marina, Howard Amon Park and the fishing pond by the Playground of Dreams.
Catch a Game
A family outing as American as apple pie and cracker jacks, heading to a sports game is always fun. During the summer, head to Gesa Stadium to watch the Tri-City Dust Devils, the local minor league baseball team. Gesa Stadium is gorgeous and the tickets are a reasonable price, making it a great summer evening activity. Then, in from September to March, head to the Toyota Center to watch the Try-City Americans hockey team cut it on the ice. They are the oldest sports team in the Tri-Cities area and not to be missed!
