If it grows in the Pacific Northwest, there’s a good chance it grows in abundance in the Yakima Valley—home to five American Viticultural Areas (AVAs), more than 120 wineries, and over half of Washington State’s grape production. The Yakima Valley also grows more than 40 different commercial crops, including more than 75 percent of the United States’ hops, so we’re not exaggerating when we say this region is singlehandedly responsible for keeping the beer and wine industries thriving. Stroll your way through the farms, orchards and vineyards and you’re likely to get an impromptu tour from the winemakers and farmers that are proud to call this valley home. Many of the wineries feature venues for intimate concerts, and the valley is fast becoming a hub for great live music. And the Yakima Valley welcomes Fido too, with tons of pet-friendly wineries, breweries, and restaurants. So pack your sunglasses, fine-tuned palate, and the dogs and discover the Yakima Valley!
 

BEER COMES FROM HERE

The world has plenty of great beer destinations, but they wouldn’t be able to brew beer without hops from the Yakima Valley. The right combination of soil, climate, and water access have made the Yakima Valley one of the most important hop-growing regions in the entire world. It’s one of the few places where you can sip an IPA that was made with hops growing right outside the brewery’s back door. During harvest time, enjoy the aroma of freshly picked hops drifting throughout the entire valley.
 

FIVE GREAT FALL TRIPS

Taste new wines and ciders 

As the harvest season draws to a close, it’s a great opportunity to sample the creations of the award-winning local wineries and cideries.

Explore wine country on horseback

There’s no better way to experience the wineries of the Rattlesnake Hills and Red Mountain AVA’s than from the back of a well-trained horse.

See hops being harvested

The Yakima Valley grows over 75% of our nation’s hops, and every single hop cone gets harvested in September each year.

Pick your own produce

Yakima Valley has the largest variety of crops in the Pacific Northwest. Bring plenty of boxes!

Bike through the vineyards

Pedal your way through the Cowiche Canyon trails to the fertile vineyards of the Naches Heights AVA.

TWO GREAT FALL EVENTS

Fresh Hop Ale Festival

Experience a beer festival that only the hop capitol of the nation can host. Brewers from all over the U.S. descend on Yakima to showcase their special Fresh Hop beers that will only be served at the event on September 30.

Catch the Crush

This annual celebration of the end of grape harvest on October 14 and 15 features many festive activities, from grape stomps to tours to dancing under the stars.

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