Places to visit in Tri-Cities, WA.
Located at the confluence of the Columbia, Snake, and Yakima Rivers, the Tri-Cities are three closely connected cities: Kennewick, Pasco, and Richland. The area is known as the Columbia Basin of Eastern Washington. Known for its natural beauty and the abundance of wildlife, the area has many things to do. This area of Washington has covered whatever you’re looking for from your vacation. Whether you’re a nature lover, outdoors enthusiast, or history buff, we’re sure you’ll find plenty to keep you busy in this area.
Howard Amon Park in Richland Washington
Howard Amon Park is one of the finest riverfront parks in the Tri-Cities area. It’s located on the Columbia River in Richland, Washington. This park is well-maintained and offers a variety of recreational opportunities. There is a playground, a pavilion for events, a paved bike path, and a lake. The water in the lake is calm, making it ideal for fishing.
In addition to the many water-based activities, Richland is a great town for hiking and mountain biking. There are also several challenging golf courses.
Richland is the heart of the state’s wine country. There are more than 200 wineries in the area. Art is a big part of the local culture. Many buildings are designed with art created by local artists.
Art in the Park is the Northwest’s most significant annual summer art show. Every year, more than 250 vendors showcase their creations in the park. In addition, live music is performed during the event, food trucks are on hand, and a kids’ zone is available.
McNary National Wildlife Refuge
McNary National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area that spans over fifteen thousand acres. It is located along southeast Washington’s east bank of the Columbia River. The refuge protects many different species of birds and other wildlife.
Located close to Pasco, Tri-Cities, and Walla Walla, McNary Refuge is an excellent place to see native species, enjoy the outdoors, and watch waterfowl. Waterfowl are abundant in the refuge, and sightings are possible year-round.
A popular place for bird watching is the Burbank Slough Wildlife Trail, which includes a one-mile loop. Observers can see a variety of species, including painted turtles. An additional bonus is that the trail has a bird blind.
The shelter provides a quiet spot to observe the wildlife while offering protection from the wind. Visitors also have the option of hiking along the river.
John Dam Plaza in Richland Washington
The City of Richland, Washington, has several fun and exciting things to see and do. But if you’re looking for a bit of holiday cheer, the best place is John Dam Plaza. It’s a great location to check out the lights while enjoying a free show by the Richer High Band and Drumline.
There are also some other events and activities for the entire family. In addition to the annual Winter Wonderland, you can visit the HAPO Community Stage for some of the city’s best live performances. Plus, the plaza is well-equipped with safety features year-round. From its impressive lighting displays to its numerous restrooms, you’ll find everything you need to make your visit a success.
The HAPO stage also features a state-of-the-art sound system and backstage facilities, including dressing rooms, restrooms, and a mezzanine. This is the perfect setting for a live performance of any kind.
Columbia River Washington Temple
The Columbia River Washington Temple is a temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is located near Richland in the state of Washington. This temple is the 107th operating temple of the Church.
The temple’s spire features a statue of Angel Moroni and a multi-level spire with decorative columns. There is also a celestial room that was said to be a bit of a buzz-getter, if only because it was rumored to hear voices.
Another cool thing about the Columbia River Washington Temple is its use of a cross stitch design. In addition to its impressive architecture, the building is an example of a religious industry that has become a mainstay in the Tri-Cities.
On the exterior, the temple is constructed of Bethel Vermont granite, the whitest in the United States. This granite comes from Joseph Smith’s birthplace in Vermont.
Badger Mountain Centennial Preserve
The Badger Mountain Centennial Preserve is one of the most popular parks in the Tri-Cities. This park is located in eastern Washington in the Columbia Basin geology. It offers eight miles of hiking trails for the public to enjoy.
The Badger Mountain Preserve is a 640-acre property. It’s open to hiking and biking all year. One of the most popular parks in the area, the preserve has a yearly visitor count of 200,000.
The Friends of Badger Mountain has recently built a new trail. The Sagebrush Trail is a primarily wide gravel trail that runs through the preserve. At the end of the trail, visitors can connect to the city’s Trailhead Park.
Visitors can explore the mountain’s geology, which is unique to the Tri-Cities. The lava has shaped rock formations on the slopes and flows from the Columbia River Basalt Group. They date to at least 8 million years old.