News & Blog

Travel Washington

Ellensburg: A Harvest Haven in Central Washington

Ellensburg: A Harvest Haven in Central Washington

 

Discover the heart of Central Washington and let Ellensburg, WA charm its way into your day trip plans. Ellensburg is often celebrated as a friendly college town, but as the leaves start to change, it transforms into a fall haven brimming with charm, flavor, and natural beauty. It doesn’t matter if you're a history buff, a nature lover, or just someone looking to savor the season's bounty—Ellensburg offers a perfect autumn escape and will give you a day to remember.

Morning: Savor the Season at Ellensburg Farmers Market

Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the Ellensburg Farmers Market, held every Saturday from May through October, 9:00 a.m. through 1:00 p.m. This local market is full of fresh, local produce, artisan goods, and seasonal treats that are perfect for a crisp fall morning. Here, you'll find everything from juicy apples and pumpkins to homemade jams and baked goods that capture the essence of fall.

A few favorites: Kittitas Valley Greenhouse and Garibo’s farm won’t disappoint with their fresh produce. Gypsy Wagon Jewelry’s high-end pieces offer a special touch with unique designs that would complement anyone’s style. Get personal, and chat with local farmers and community members. One thing you will notice is the friendliness of people in Ellensburg—everyone treats everyone like a friend, a neighbor. While you’re at it, sample a few treats, and pick up some goodies to enjoy later in the day or to bring back home. If you have your littles with you, Alison’s Face Painting can turn your little stinker into a little lion, Spiderman, or fairy princess. This gives you a break to sit down and savor some of the treats you picked up while your little one has to sit still for a moment.

Midday: Dive into Local History at the Kittitas County Historical Museum

After a morning spent taking in the sights and flavors of the market, a short walk over to the Kittitas County Historical Museum is next on the list. This museum is a hidden gem that offers a fascinating look into Ellensburg’s past, from its early days as a frontier town to its development into a cultural hub. The exhibits feature everything from pioneer artifacts to antique automobiles, providing a comprehensive look at the region's rich history. For those intrigued by the unique quirks of small-town America, the museum’s collection of oddities and vintage ephemera is sure to delight.

Afternoon: Explore the Scenic Ellensburg Canyon

As the afternoon sun begins to cast its golden light, there's no better way to experience Ellensburg’s natural beauty than by taking a scenic drive through Ellensburg Canyon. This winding route follows the Yakima River and offers striking views of the colorful fall foliage that paints the landscape in shades of red, orange, and yellow. The canyon shows off Central Washington’s diverse geography.

If you’re up for a bit more adventure, consider stopping for a hike along the Umtanum Creek Trail. This trail is a local favorite, offering a moderate hike that leads you through the canyon’s diverse ecosystems, with chances to spot wildlife and capture stunning fall photos.

Evening: Enjoy a Cozy Dinner in Downtown Ellensburg

After a day of exploring, head back to downtown Ellensburg for a cozy dinner at one of the town’s charming eateries. Whether you’re in the mood for farm-to-table cuisine or comfort food with a twist, Ellensburg’s dining scene has something to offer. A local favorite to put on your list is Smokey’s on Pearl Street. This cozy BBQ joint has friendly service and juicy BBQ that will make you think you’re in Memphis instead of Ellensburg.

Travel Washington Footer Logo

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Integer adipiscing erat eget risus sollicitudin pellentesque et non erat.

Contact Information

  • 123 Street St., City
  • (123) 123-1234
  • info@travelwashington.org

Quick Links

Follow Us