If you like road trips like I do, there are countless reasons to visit Wenatchee, Washington. Here are 15 of those reasons I discovered on my road trip in the fall of 2023.
15 Reasons Wenatchee
1. Apple Capital: Wenatchee is known as the “Apple Capital of the World” because of its extensive apple orchards. Visitors can take tours of these orchards, learn about apple cultivation, and even participate in apple picking during the harvest season.
Beer, Wine, Hard Cider
2. Wine, Beer, and Hard Cider Tasting: The region is home to many wineries that offer tours and tastings. Visitors can explore the winemaking process and enjoy some of the finest wines in the Pacific Northwest.
Farmer’s Markets
3. Farmers Markets: Wenatchee’s lively farmers’ markets provide an opportunity to purchase fresh, locally grown produce, homemade items, and artisan crafts.
Dining in Wenatchee
4. Farm-to-Table Dining: Many local restaurants take pride in using locally sourced ingredients, offering a genuine farm-to-table dining experience.
5. Cherry Blossom Season: In the spring, the cherry orchards burst into bloom, creating a stunning and picturesque landscape.
6. Beekeeping Tours: Learn about the vital role of bees in agriculture and even have the opportunity to suit up and observe a hive up close.
7. Sustainable Agriculture: Many farms in the area practice sustainable farming methods and offer tours to educate visitors about these practices.
Hiking in Wenatchee
8. Hiking Trails: Wenatchee is surrounded by beautiful trails that wind through orchards, vineyards, and farmland, offering stunning views of the agricultural landscape.
9. Fruit Festivals: The city hosts several fruit festivals throughout the year, celebrating the harvest of apples, cherries, and pears.
10. Agricultural Museums: Explore the region’s farming history by visiting local museums.
Fishing and Water Conservation
11. Fishing: The Columbia River provides great fishing opportunities, and local farms often have stocked ponds for fishing. Nothing compares, however, to a visit to Rocky Reach Discovery Center.
12. Horseback Riding: Many farms offer horseback riding as a unique way to explore the agricultural landscape.
13. Cooking Classes: Some farms and wineries offer cooking classes where you can learn to prepare meals using locally sourced ingredients.
Birding in Wenatchee
14. Bird Watching: The region’s farms and orchards attract a variety of bird species, making it a great spot for bird watching.
15. Scenic Drives: The drives through Wenatchee’s agricultural areas offer breathtaking views, especially during harvest season when the trees are laden with fruit.
Interested in agritourism? Learn more here.
If you are looking for another interesting road trip on the other side of the country, read about North Carolina.