The Ultimate Guide to Women-Owned Businesses in the Tri-Cities
The celebration of Women’s History Month continues in Tri-Cities! At Visit Tri-Cities, we celebrate the women and their legacies who have played a significant role in shaping the region into the thriving metropolitan area it is today.
From Sacagawea, the Lemhi Shoshone women who was vital to the Lewis and Clark Expedition that traversed the Columbia Basin, to Leona Woods Marshall Libby, the physicist who helped build the first nuclear reactor as part of the Manhattan Project, to today’s leaders and trailblazers—the Tri-Cities has been shaped by women with incredible skills and vision from the very beginning.
While you’re visiting the Tri-Cities, take the chance to explore some of the women-owned and operated businesses that serve the many visitors that come to the area. Below is our list of women-owned and women-led businesses so you can support local female entrepreneurs.
Things to Do
When life’s got you down, it’s time to throw an axe, or have a smash party. AXE KPR Axe Throwing, owned and operated by Valery Lawson, is an indoor urban axe throwing experience fit for ages 8+, get in and get throwing. Along the same vein, Brigette Rose, owner of Take a Break, offers smash therapy, along with a paint splash room. Yes, this is as satisfying as it sounds.
Appreciate local art from the mother and daughter duo operating Bristle Art Gallery in Historic Downtown Kennewick. They also provide various art classes if you are looking to get creative yourself. Continue to unleash your creativity while indulging in delicious food and wine. We all know Barnard Griffin Winery for its amazing wines and heritage as pioneers of the Washington Wine Industry, but did you know it’s home to a glass studio? Glass Studio at Barnard Griffin offers a variety of glass fusing classes.
Get out to explore the great outdoors. Taste Washington’s acclaimed Red Mountain AVA by wagon, horse or bicycle with Red Mountain Trails. Owner Teresa Owens is a longtime local who knows the wines, trails and friendly folks of the region. She shares stories, details and expertise on these wine centric adventure tours.
Where to Eat
Grab your girlfriends and check out 3 Eyed Fish Kitchen + Wine Bar or Lu Lu Craft Bar + Kitchen for a lunch that will not disappoint! Owner, Cindy Goulet, has a passion to bring farm-to-table food to the Tri-Cities. Other great options include Frost Me Sweet Bakery & Bistro and HoneyBaked Ham Café!!
For dinner pop on over to Uptown Richland's Soi 705, a mother daughter duo serving some of the best craft asian street food in town. Down the road is the iconic Emerald of Siam Thai Restaurant & Lounge that doubles as a music venue. The owner, Dara Quinn left band touring life to run her family's legacy Richland restaurant - transforming it into a live music hot spot.
If you are craving something sweet whether it be a cupcake or a whole cake try out Layered Cake Artistry or Cupcakes Bakery & Deli, you can't go wrong. Want to try something new? Cupcakes Bakery & Deli's most requested flavor is their Dr. Pepper cupcake! And if you're seeking a little extra flair for your next party pop into Baum’s, locally owned and operated in the Tri-Cities since 1981 serving delectable chocolate treats.
Where to Drink
Few destinations are as thirst-quenching as the Tri-Cities thanks to the local women that are trailblazing the wine and craft beverage industry. Take in the brilliant views of endless vineyards on Red Mountain as you sip on bold red wines forged by Shae Frichette of Frichette Winery.
Looking for a more urban vibe? Make your way into town and relax at Columbia Wine Garden in Downtown Kennewick, where industry legend Amy Johnson pours her award-winning wine at Muret-Gaston Wine Bar, just one of her several wine ventures. One door down you will find yourself at the Gordon Estate Tasting Room, owned by community leader Vicki Gordon, serving wine grown from some of the area's most established vineyards.
If you are a beer and cider lover consider swinging through Lazy River Taphouse in West Richland. You will find Melissa Rabideau serving craft beer and gluten-free friendly food options. Marlys Aspinwall and her alcohol-free shop & sober bar, Kindred Spirits, brings the fun of wine, beer, and spirits to those looking for alternative options.
Where to Refresh
Sometimes on vacation, all you want is to relax and let go of your worries. Fortunately, the women of Tri-Cities have established numerous avenues for just that purpose! Jenna Waltze, the owner/operator of Nouveau Spa, has created the perfect atmosphere for unwinding, along with a comprehensive spa menu to choose from.
You can't go wrong with Sunny Swanby Meyer at Natural Serenity Massage, a boutique spa located in the Uptown Richland Shopping Center, offering Swedish massages and much more.
Also located in the Uptown Richland Shopping Center is Blu, which provides spiritual supplies and healing practices to nurture your soul. Owner Keena Tenorio offers card readings, sound bath sessions, and more to help you feel in tune with the world around you.
A must-visit in town is Red Jasper Studios, owned and operated by Bonnie Carter. Bonnie works behind the scenes to provide opportunities for fellow wellness business owners to thrive. It's a spot that offers a little bit of everything for relaxation and refreshment.
Where to Shop
Lemon Grass isn't just a store – it's a staple in the Tri-Cities shopping scene that's been serving the community for over 18 years! From quirky trinkets to elegant home decor, they've got goodies just waiting to be discovered. And if you're on the hunt for that perfect piece to spruce up your space, don't miss out on the irresistible selections at It’s All in the Details and ROMA House!
Looking to sprinkle some joy into your life or brighten someone's day? Look no further than the delightful blooms from Lucky Flowers or Shelby’s Floral & Gifts!
While we worked diligently to capture as many women-led tourism-related member businesses in the above list, we recognize there are likely more to be added! If we have missed a business, please let us know. We would love to connect!