Washington’s Yakima Valley Wine District
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The Yakima Valley, in Washington State, is home to over 60 percent of the wine grapes grown in that state. The region, located in the southern end of the Columbia River basin, is also a major producer of hops (used to make beer) and a whole range of fruits. Visitors to the area will find plenty to explore–wineries, orchards, museums, the scenic Yakima Canyon, and even a Native American-run casino.
The wineries
The Yakima Valley is home to some of Washington’s best-known wineries, including Columbia Crest Winery and Hogue Cellars. Most have tasting rooms where you can sample the local vintages, often for free.
Nature and its bounty
The Yakima Valley region is also a major producer of fruit–cherries, plums, peaches and pears. Visitors can drive the Zillah Fruit Loop, a circuit around many of the region’s orchards, dotted with roadside stands.
Other sights
In addition to orchards and wineries, the Yakima Valley is known for producing hops. Over 75 percent of the US production comes from this area. To celebrate this, the area is home to the American Hops Museum, which tells the story of hops over the years–here and abroad. Other area attractions include the Yakima Canyon, a favorite of hikers, bikers and kayakers, and Yakima’s many antique stores.