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 single-handedly 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 grown right outside the brewery’s back door. During harvest time, enjoy the aroma of freshly picked hops drifting throughout the entire valley.
FIVE GREAT SPRING TRIPS
1. Wander through blooming orchards In mid-March through April thousands of stone fruit orchards bring the Yakima Valley to life with colorful blooms and aromas.
2. Explore wine country on horseback Experience the wineries of the Rattlesnake Hills and Red Mountain AVAs on the back of a well-trained horse.
3. Cinco de Mayo celebrations On the weekend of May 5–7 downtown Yakima comes alive with live entertainment and authentic Mexican everything.
4. Pick your own produce Yakima Valley has the largest variety of crops in the Pacific Northwest. Bring plenty of boxes!
5. Bike through the vineyards Pedal your way through the Cowiche Canyon trails to the fertile vineyards of the Naches Heights AVA.
FOUR GREAT EVENTS
1. Spring Barrel Tasting Weekends Be one of the first to sample new vintages straight from the barrel on the last two weekends in April.
2. Roots & Vines Festival Celebrate Americana, roots, bluegrass music, and craft beverages on the night of May 14.
3. Fresh Hop Ale Festival Come to the source on October 7 and sample harvest beers from craft brewers across the Pacific Northwest.
4. Catch the Crush This annual event on October 13–15 features many celebratory activities from grape stomps to tours to dancing under the stars.
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