How to Have the Best Wine Weekend Getaway
The Tri-Cities provides delightful opportunities to discover how the Heart of Washington Wine Country was named the New West Coast Wine Country by CNN Travel. Whether you’re new to trying wine, a seasoned wine aficionado, or an overall adventurist – there’s something for every kind of traveler with more than 200 wineries within a 50-mile radius. Our blend of small-town charm with cosmopolitan amenities allows for more intimate wine experiences, filled with robust and delicate wines and paired with our signature stunning sunsets.
FRIDAY
4 p.m. Check into your hotel. There are plenty of hotel options for the discerning wine connoisseur, whether riverside or closest to the vines, we have it in the Tri-Cities.
5 p.m. Relax with a glass of wine before dinner, with all of that travel, you’ve earned it!
6:30 p.m. Restaurants throughout the Tri-Cities region are working diligently to create an inviting, and safe, atmosphere as they prepare to re-open for dine-in service. Until then, call any one of the outstanding restaurants for delivery or takeout. Local favorites of wine aficionados include The Bradley and Tri-Cities Tap & Barrel. Pick up and head to Howard Amon Park along the river for spectacular sunset views.
7.30 p.m. Did you know dessert calories don’t count on vacation? Test this theory at Amethyst Creamery, which is near Howard Amon Park. From traditional flavors like chocolate and vanilla to uniquely Tri-Cities combinations such as Pirate’s Bounty and Elephant Tracks, this throwback ice cream shop is sure to satisfy.
SATURDAY
8 a.m. Relax, you’re on vacation. Banish any negative energy with a restorative standup paddleboard yoga session. In one short hour you’ll reach inner bliss and physical balance.
10 a.m. Instead of Breakfast at Tiffany’s, enjoy Brunch on the beautiful patio overlooking the Columbia River at Sterling’s. The first meal of the day has never tasted so good as when enjoyed in the Tri-Cities morning sunshine. May we also suggest the Bloody Mary Kit?
11:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. What time is it? Wine o’clock! Again, the current pandemic has altered things a little bit, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy an authentic wine experience in the Heart of Washington Wine Country. Wineries are adapting and offering unique experiences. Goose Ridge Estate Winery & Vineyard, Kiona Vineyards and Hedges Family Estate are just a few of the world-class wineries nestled in the vineyards.
4 p.m. – 5:15 p.m. Speaking of vineyards, saddle up for a horseback ride through the vines of Red Mountain with Red Mountain Trails. Not only is this a great opportunity to connect with nature but learn the history and tidbits of the people and wineries of the Red Mountain AVA.
6:30 p.m. Inside dining is scheduled to resume during Phase 2. Until then there are plenty of delicious restaurants throughout the Tri-Cities that offer take out, including the regionally, and in some cases nationally, recognized winery restaurants on famous Tulip Lane: The Kitchen at Barnard Griffin Winery; Fiction @ J. Bookwalter; and Taverna Tagaris. Your dinner will be best enjoyed at the Top of the World scenic outlook with spectacular vista views.
8 p.m. The temperature and evening light are perfect for a stroll along the river on the Sacagawea Heritage Trail. This paved path travels in a 23-mile loop along the impressive Columbia River.
SUNDAY
8 a.m. Enjoy breakfast at the hotel or spread your wings and visit one (or more) of the tasty pastry shops. Check out the Uptown Shopping Center not only gives off retro vibes, but is home to delicious morning (or really any time of day) eats. Visit the world-famous Spudnut Shop or its savory neighbor Some Bagels. A few doors down, Kagen Coffee & Crepes is another tasty options. Take your preferred breakfast food on the go and enjoy a walking tour of the retro murals that pay homage to the Uptown’s mid-century history. Best to stretch your legs before you hit the road!
9.30 a.m. – 11.30 a.m. You been on the road for about 25 minutes, watching the urban landscape give way to rolling vineyards and blossoming orchards. It’s time for break. Make a pit stop in Prosser at the Vintner’s Village. Here you will find a cluster of tasting rooms within walking distance. Pick up a wood-fired pizza at Wine o’Clock—try the Pear and Bacon, it will change your life.