Walla Walla Travel Guide: What to Do, Where to Stay & When to Visit

Walla Walla, known for its world-class wineries, historic downtown, and thriving culinary scene, is the perfect destination for anyone looking to sip award-winning wines and unwind in the countryside. This guide covers the best things to do, where to stay, and more, to help you plan an unforgettable trip to Washington’s premier wine country.

Walla Walla is Washington’s premier wine region. Thanks to its fertile soil and ideal grape-growing climate, this charming town has become a hotspot for winemakers. With over 120 wineries in the area, it’s no surprise that wine lovers return to this gem on the eastern edge of Washington time and time again.

But Walla Walla isn’t just about wine. These same lush farmlands produce an incredible variety of crops, including wheat, asparagus, strawberries, potatoes, and, most famously, the legendary Walla Walla Sweet Onions. In neighboring counties, you’ll find apple, pear, cherry, peach, and nectarine orchards adding to the region’s bounty.

What does all this have to do with vacationing in Walla Walla? It means you’re in for a culinary experience like no other. The town boasts a thriving farm-to-table dining scene, with local restaurants showcasing fresh, seasonal ingredients. Walla Walla is even home to a respected culinary school, further proving its dedication to exceptional food and drink.

And if you’re a beer enthusiast, you’re in luck—Walla Walla’s craft beer scene is on the rise, with local breweries serving up small-batch brews that give wine a run for its money. In fact, the food and drink scene alone makes this town worth a visit.

Beyond its award-winning wineries and top-tier restaurants, Walla Walla is filled with boutique shops, art galleries, book stores, and inviting sidewalk cafés. Whether you’re here to sip, savor, or simply soak in the town’s charm, Walla Walla promises a memorable getaway.

Now, let’s dive into everything you need to know—from the best things to do and must-visit restaurants to top places to stay—so you can start planning your perfect Walla Walla weekend!

How To Get To Walla Walla, Washington

Walla Walla is located in southeastern Washington (right near the Oregon border) and although it seems remote, the city is actually quite easy to get to by plane, and accessible by car from Seattle, Spokane, Boise, and Portland.

GETTING TO WALLA WALLA BY CAR: Here are the driving distances from major cities in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho.

Driving is one of the most scenic ways to reach Walla Walla. If you’re coming from Seattle, expect about a 4.5-hour drive via I-90 and I-82. From Portland, it’s a 4-hour drive through the Columbia River Gorge. Travelers from Spokane can reach Walla Walla in around 2.5 hours via US-395 and US-12.

GETTING TO WALLA WALLA BY PLANE: The Walla Walla Regional Airport (ALW) offers direct flights from Seattle (SEA) via Alaska Airlines, making it the most convenient option for those flying in.

Alternatively, you can fly into Tri-Cities Airport (PSC) in Pasco, about an hour’s drive away, which has more flight options from major hubs like Denver, Salt Lake City, Burbank, Las Vegas and Phoenix. Rental cars are available for the final leg to Walla Walla.

Best Time To Visit Walla Walla

Walla Walla is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to experience. Each season offers something unique, from vineyard blooms in spring to harvest season in fall and festive events in winter.

Spring in Walla Walla is lush and vibrant, with vineyards coming to life and the rolling hills turning a brilliant green. Daytime temperatures range from the 50s to 70s, making it a perfect time for hiking, and cycling. April’s Spring Release Weekend is a great time to visit, as wineries debut their newest vintages.

Summer is peak travel season, with hot, dry weather (often in the 80s and 90s) and long sunny days. It’s the best time for outdoor wine tastings, hot air balloon rides, and patio dining in downtown Walla Walla. If you can handle the heat, summer offers a lively atmosphere with events like concerts at the wineries and the Walla Walla Sweet Onion Festival in July.

Autumn is harvest season, making it the most popular time for wine enthusiasts to visit. Crisp mornings, warm afternoons, and golden vineyard views create the perfect setting for winery tours, grape stomping events, and fall festivals. September and October are especially busy with Fall Release Weekend, when winemakers open their doors for behind-the-scenes experiences.

Winter in Walla Walla is quiet, with fewer tourists and a cozy ambiance. While some wineries slow down, many tasting rooms remain open. The Holiday Barrel Tasting event in December is a highlight for those looking to enjoy special winter wine releases. Snow dusts the Blue Mountains, and temperatures hover between the 30s and 50s, making it a great time to sip wine by the fire or explore the town’s boutique shops and restaurants.

Best Things To Do in Walla Walla

Visit Fort Walla Walla Museum

Located on the historic grounds of a 19th-century military fort, Fort Walla Walla Museum offers a fascinating look into the rich history of the Walla Walla Valley. With over 50,000 artifacts and photographs, the museum brings to life the stories of the people who shaped the region—from early pioneers and military personnel to farmers and settlers.

One of the museum’s highlights is the Pioneer Village, an immersive glimpse into daily life in the late 1800s and early 1900s. This village features fifteen original buildings, all constructed in Walla Walla, including log cabins, a blacksmith shop, and a one-room schoolhouse. Walking through these structures feels like stepping into a different era, making it a must-visit for history lovers of all ages.

Whether you’re interested in pioneer history, military heritage, or simply a fun activity beyond wine tasting, Fort Walla Walla Museum offers a captivating journey through time and a unique way to explore the valley’s past.

Stroll through historic downtown Walla Walla

One of the best ways to experience Walla Walla is by exploring its charming downtown. You’ll be welcomed by beautifully restored 19th-century buildings, tree-lined streets, and a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere.

The best place to start is Main Street, where you can wander through boutique shops, sip coffee at cozy cafés with inviting outdoor patios, and pop into local wine bars.

The shopping scene in Walla Walla is a delightful mix of chic clothing stores, high-end Western wear, and unique home décor shops, making it easy to find one-of-a-kind treasures.

Take your time browsing independent bookstores, eclectic art galleries, and specialty shops, then grab a bite at one of the town’s fantastic restaurants. Whether you’re here to shop, sip, or simply soak up the friendly, small-town charm, downtown Walla Walla is the perfect place to slow down and enjoy the moment.

Go wine tasting at Walla Walla’s renowned wineries

Walla Walla’s biggest attraction—and the main reason many visitors come—is its incredible wine scene. With over 120 wineries spread throughout the valley, there’s no shortage of places to sip and explore. Needless to say, if you’re a wine lover, one trip won’t be enough!

For a quick tasting experience, head to downtown Walla Walla, where numerous wine tasting rooms offer a convenient way to sample the region’s best wines without leaving town.

Some standout options within walking distance include Seven Hills Winery, known for its rich, velvety Merlot, and L’Ecole No 41 Heritage Wine Bar, housed inside the historic Marcus Whitman Hotel.

If you have a full weekend or longer to explore, consider venturing out to the vineyards for a more immersive experience. The region is known for growing a wide variety of grapes, but the top five varietals produced here are Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Malbec, making it a paradise for red wine lovers.

Booking a winery tour is a great way to visit multiple estates without worrying about transportation, allowing you to soak in the stunning landscapes and savor award-winning wines stress-free.

Sip on local brews in Walla Walla

Not a wine drinker? No problem! While Walla Walla is best known for its wineries, the city also boasts a growing craft beer scene with a few standout breweries worth visiting.

Our top pick is Big House Brew Pub, a laid-back spot in downtown with delicious beers on tap, friendly staff, and live music to set the mood. The raspberry wheat ale was our personal favorite, closely followed by the Walla Walla Wheat, but IPA lovers will also find plenty to enjoy.

If you’re feeling hungry, their pub grub hits the spot—especially the Sweet Onion Rings, made with Walla Walla’s famous onions. They’re huge, crispy, and packed with that signature sweet flavor.

Another great option nearby is Crossbuck Brewing, where you’ll find a lineup of Pilsners, IPAs, Hefeweizens, Stouts, and Porters. Our drink of choice? The coconut porter, a smooth and flavorful brew you’ll enjoy if you like dark beer!

Want to turn your visit into a full-fledged brewery tour? You’re in luck! There are even more craft breweries in Walla Walla waiting to be explored, so skip the usual wine tastings for a day and add these spots to your itinerary instead 🍻

Explore the vibrant culinary scene in Walla Walla

Walla Walla’s culinary scene is just as impressive as its wine, offering everything from morning pastries and casual bites to upscale dining experiences. No matter what you’re craving, you’ll find a restaurant that delivers big on flavor and hospitality.

For a true taste of Walla Walla, take a leisurely stroll through downtown, where many of the best restaurants are conveniently clustered near the wine tasting rooms along Main Street.

A longtime local favorite, T-Macs offers an elegant farm-to-table dining experience, with standout dishes like lobster ravioli and the Greek lamb burger, topped with crumbled feta and a tzatziki olive tapenade—pure perfection!

One of the hot spots in town is AK’s Mercado, a lively eatery specializing in smoked meats and bold, flavor-packed tacos inspired by New Orleans, Mexico, and Central America. With a laid-back vibe and a prime outdoor patio, it’s the perfect place to people-watch and soak in the charm of downtown Walla Walla.

Visit Blue Mountain Lavender Farm

Just on the outskirts of town, Blue Mountain Lavender Farm offers a tranquil and picturesque escape into the agricultural heart of the Walla Walla Valley.

The farm itself is a beautiful destination, with vibrant lavender fields set against the stunning backdrop of the Blue Mountains—making it a must-visit for landscape photographers or anyone who appreciates the beauty of the countryside.

Beyond the fields, the Farm Boutique offers a variety of artisanal lavender products, from dried bouquets and lavender-scented bath and body items to a tempting selection of lavender-infused treats. And for a truly hands-on experience, visitors can even pick their own lavender straight from the field.

The farm is open seasonally, from June 1st to July 15th, so make sure to plan your visit during the blooming season for the full lavender experience!

Sip and savor at Blue Mountain Cidery

Located in the historic Watermill Building, a former fruit packing plant built in 1944, Blue Mountain Cidery carries on the region’s agricultural legacy—only now, it’s all about crafting exceptional cider. This is where the fermenting, aging, and bottling take place, turning locally grown apples into crisp, flavorful hard cider.

The Brown family, who own and operate the cidery, farm over 1,400 acres in the Walla Walla Valley, growing more than 15 different apple varieties. Unlike many mass-produced ciders, they take pride in using only estate-grown apples, never relying on juice concentrate.

Their commitment to quality and sustainability means that every sip comes from freshly pressed, organically and sustainably farmed fruit.

Blue Mountain Cidery grows a mix of American and European cider apples, including Jonagold, Golden Russet, Gravenstein, Winesaps, and Pippins. These apples contribute to a cider with enhanced tannins, balanced acidity, and a depth of flavor that stands apart from ciders made with dessert apples or concentrates.

Just 10 miles from downtown Walla Walla, their Milton-Freewater taproom offers flights, tasters, and pints of their signature ciders, alongside a rotating selection of local microbrews. The space also features a large game room, complete with a pool table, foosball, darts, pinball machines, and cornhole, making it the perfect spot to kick back and enjoy a laid-back afternoon.

Sample artisan cheese at Walla Walla Cheese Company

If you’re a cheese lover, a stop at Walla Walla Cheese Company in Milton-Freewater is a must. This family-run shop crafts an impressive variety of cheeses, including Havarti, Gouda, Jack, and Cheddar—all made with skill and care.

What sets them apart are their creative flavors. Imagine savoring coffee-infused cheddar, dill Havarti, caraway Havarti, or sweet onion and garlic cheese curds. They even offer beer-infused varieties, and my favorite, Haloumi cheese! With so many tempting options, resisting the urge to stock up will be nearly impossible.

The family behind Walla Walla Cheese Company honed their craft over 25 years of dairy farming in Tillamook, Oregon, before trading the coastal rain for the sunnier Walla Walla Valley in 2005. Ever since, they’ve been delighting visitors with top-quality, small-batch cheeses.

If you’re lucky, the friendly staff might treat you to a behind-the-scenes look at their cheesemaking process—and, of course, a few samples of their delicious creations.

Soar over Walla Walla in a Hot Air Balloon

For a truly unforgettable experience, take to the skies with a sunrise or sunset hot air balloon ride over Walla Walla. Walla Walla Balloon Flights and Seattle Ballooning offer shared and private flights that will take you soaring above the Walla Walla Valley, giving you a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of the Columbia River, Blue Mountains, and the rolling vineyards and farmland.

Drifting peacefully above the countryside as the golden light stretches across the horizon is nothing short of magical. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to soak in the beauty of Eastern Washington from a new perspective, a hot air balloon ride is a bucket-list-worthy adventure.

Catch a movie at the Drive-In

For a nostalgic and fun-filled evening, cross the Washington border into Milton-Freewater, Oregon, and experience a classic drive-in movie night. The Milton-Freewater Drive-In Theater, owned and operated by the Speiss family since 1961, is a beloved local gem where you can watch the latest films from the comfort of your car.

Whether you’re planning a family-friendly outing or a romantic date night, this retro experience is a great way to enjoy a movie under the stars. Screenings take place Friday through Tuesday nights, with a rotating lineup of films. Start times vary with the seasons—during summer, expect the first movie to begin around 8:30 p.m.

Check their current movie schedule before you go, and don’t forget to bring snacks, blankets, and cozy up for a night of big-screen magic!

Other Fun Things To Do in Walla Walla That Are Weekly, Monthly or Annual Events

Walla Walla Food Truck Night: The first Monday of the month from April to October is Food Truck Night. Hosted by Burwood Brewing, the event kicks off at 4 PM and features a rotating lineup of vendors, including Smokin’ Bandits BBQ, Polynesian Grill, Fiasco Pizza, and more. For the latest details, check out their Facebook page.

Downtown Farmers Market: Every Saturday from May to October you can visit the Downtown Farmers Market where you’ll find fresh produce, fresh cut flowers, cheese, honey, and other goods from local vendors. Hours of operation: 9am-1pm.

Walla Walla Balloon Stampede: Every year in October, Walla Walla hosts an annual hot air balloon festival over the long weekend. Visitors can watch over two dozen balloons soar across the skies at the third oldest hot air balloon event in the country.

Walla Walla Sweet Onion Festival: Walla Walla celebrates its iconic crop every year at the Walla Walla Sweet Onion Festival, a lively weekend filled with music, games, and delicious food. This annual event is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the town’s fun, festive spirit—one sweet bite at a time.

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Have you been to Walla Walla? What was your favorite thing about visiting and which restaurants did you love? Let us know in the comments!