Ellensburg city is a famous tourist destination because of its rich cultural heritage and small-town charm. Its population in 2021 was 19,596.
The city is the seat of Kittitas County, Washington, United States. It also houses Central Washington University (CWU).
The old buildings and highly decorated facades in the University are eye-catching. Upon entering, you will be amazed by the vibrant artistic traditions, special event celebrations, and beautiful eateries.
Another great highlight in Ellensburg is the Labor Day Weekend. Also, every first Friday of the month is Ellensburg’s First Friday Art Walk.
There is an abundance of activities and things to do to keep you entertained. If you are an art lover, there are many art locations. In addition, a history buff will never run out of options.
Are you planning to explore Ellensburg? Check out the best and fun things to do in Ellensburg, WA.
Things to Do in Ellensburg, WA
1. See Ellensburg Bull
Ellensburg Bull
It is without a doubt, one can say that Ellensburg Is an artistic city, and when it has to do with local art, the Ellensburg Bull is the most famous sculpture in the city.
Richard Beyer carved the Ellensburg Bull in 1986 on a Bench situated at the Rotary Pavilion, just a few distances from the Phoenix Rising.
It has turned out to become a famous landmark in this part of the country. The Ellensburg Bull was carved out successfully because of the earnest contributions of more than 200 indigenous citizens.
It makes up a perfect backdrop to take beautiful photos, so bring a camera to take lovely photos to post on your social media accounts.
Address: Unity Park, 417 N Pearl St, Ellensburg, WA 98926, United States
2. Visit Brightside Vintage Farm
Brightside Vintage Farm
The Brightside Vintage Farm is a beautiful location in Ellensburg that provides a top-class venue for wedding receptions and ceremonies. If you have an event or planning for one, do well to use this destination.
This location is ideal for couples searching for a venue with romantic spaces. This beautiful outdoor ceremony space has picturesque natural backgrounds and a luxuriant rose Orchard and Garden.
There is a private Brightside Vintage Farm if you want to have a covered reception for your wedding, and it comes with an expansive dance floor and window views.
The Farm has over 41 acres of pastureland. Their acreage offers limitless opportunities for beautiful countryside views. It also has a century-old dairy barn, a vintage Airstream trailer used as groom quarters, and a Bride’s Bungalow.
Address: 511 Moreau Rd, Ellensburg, WA 98926, United States
3. Wild Horse Renewable Energy Center’s Windmills
Wild Horse Renewable Energy Center’s Windmills
Guided tours are available to visitors at the Wild Horse Renewable Energy Center from April to November. This place is nestled in a hilly area and provides expansive vistas of the neighboring surroundings.
You can check out its 52 p solar panel, the turbine engine, and the wind turbine blades. You can also see the inside of the operational wind turbine base when you join the Renewable Energy Center Tour. About 150 wind turbines are available.
From the Wild Horse Renewable Energy Center’s Windmills, you can see the Columbia River Basin, Rainier, the Columbia River, Adams and the peaks of Hood.
Address: 25905 Vantage Highway, Ellensburg, WA 98926, United States
4. Downtown Ellensburg
Downtown Ellensburg
Another exciting activity to be part of when you visit Ellensburg is to go on a walk around the famous downtown area of Ellensburg. Do well to include it on your bucket list of top things to do in Ellensburg, WA.
Structures such as the Cadwell Building, which was constructed with millions of bricks, and the Elmira Block, New York Cafe, and the Farmer’s Bank make up the famous structures to see here.
You can also find restaurants while having a stroll, such as the Ellensburg Pasta Company, Palace Cafe, Valley Cafe, and many others, including breweries. Make sure to check in any of them to satisfy your food cravings.
You can also check out the Brix Elevage Wine Co, Starlight Lounge, Iron House Brewery, and Gard Vintners.
Address: 109 E 3rd Ave suite 1, Ellensburg, WA 98926, United States
5. Umtanum Creek Canyon Trail
Umtanum Creek Canyon Trail
One of the best things to do in Ellensburg, WA, is to go hiking along the Umtanum Creek Canyon Trails. There is a suspension bridge across the Yakima River, and you might choose to walk on the pathway under several train tracks.
When you reach the trail’s end, you will see Umtanum Creek, a serene running stream. Each season comes with its beautiful hues, which are for everyone’s viewing pleasure.
There are beautiful flowers to see in early spring, and you can find aspens in autumn. Elks and bighorn sheep can be seen in this area year-round.
Address: Selah, WA 98942, United States
6. Irene Rinehart Riverfront Park
The Park is located outside the town area of Ellensburg. It is a 117-acre park located on a large bend in the Yakima River. Suppose you are searching for what to do in Ellensburg, WA. There are lots of activities to indulge in at this destination.
Irene Rinehart Riverfront Park features amenities such as a grassy volleyball court, a river for swimming, bathrooms, picnic areas, trails, barbecues, and a boat launch.
The Park is available for visitors from May 16 to September 14, and admission is free. Remote control boat races are held occasionally in the Garden, providing fun and entertainment for everyone who visits.
The Park has also received many accolades for being a dog-friendly destination and for bird-watching opportunities.
Address: 1081 Umptanum Rd, Ellensburg, WA 98926, United States
7. CWU Japanese Garden
CWU Japanese Garden
CWU Japanese Garden, located at Central Washington University, provides visitors with a one-of-a-kind experience on campus.
Admission into the Japanese Garden is free for everyone. You can find cherry trees in the Garden provided by the Japanese Consulate General. You can also see lantern statues, Japanese architecture, and a rock garden.
The Garden tells of the mutual understanding and bond that the Central Washingtonians and the Japanese had.
Address: Ellensburg, WA 98926, United States
8. Red’s Fly Shop
There is no better location to learn fly fishing than the meeting point of five rivers and the different streams in Central Washington.
A popular guide in the area is the Red’s Fly Shop, which provides people with classes on how to fly fish in a manner they will easily understand; it is indeed an ideal place to learn.
Their introduction series to fly fishing covers various programs. Students who plan on visiting do not need to come with their fishing equipment, but they can bring edibles with them.
Upon completing the introductory series classes, visitors can enroll in their Specialty Classes to widen their horizons or engage in a destination outing. It is a 100 percent money-back guarantee for every class.
Address: 14706 WA-821, Ellensburg, WA 98926, United States
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9. Gallery One Visual Art Center
Gallery One Visual Art Center
If you are a lover of the arts, check out the Gallery One Visual Art Center.
The Gallery One Visual Art Center was entirely built in the fall of 1867. It has provided the people of Ellensburg and tourists with a spectacular environment to create, display and enjoy the visual arts in the Central area of Washington for over four decades.
Also, this Visual Art Center offers several quarterly seminars. It also has a gift shop, a low-cost studio area for artists, and a well-equipped ceramic studio.
Admittance into the Center does not cost a dime; you only need to prepare and visit.
Address: 408 N Pearl St, Ellensburg, WA 98926, United States
10. Irene Rinehart Riverfront Park
If you are searching for a place filled with nature away from the crowded cities and noise, make sure to stop by the Irene Rinehart Riverfront Park for a good time. It is one of the best places to visit in Ellensburg, WA.
Irene Rinehart Riverfront Park is situated right outside Ellensburg and is an excellent place to immerse yourself in nature.
The Yakima River features a great bend where the Irene Rinehart Riverfront Park is perched. The park comprises a boat launch, a volleyball court, picnic sites, and pathways if you choose to swim in the river.
Admission into the Park does not require any fee from May 16 till September 14.
Address: 1081 Umptanum Rd, Ellensburg, WA 98926, United States
11. Prospector Golf Course
If you are a golf enthusiast, check out the Prospector Golf Course. The Palmer Design Company designed the Prospector Golf Course. The golf course is a beautiful 7,100-yard, 18-hole golf course located in Washington State with magnificent views, undulating fairways, and average-sized greens.
This facility is perfect for all skill levels of golf players. It features many water elements to make your golfing experience exciting and challenging.
Visitors can choose to have a day trip or might want to extend their tour by lodging at the Inn at Suncadia.
Address: 3320 Suncadia Trail, Cle Elum, WA 98922, United States
12. Kittitas County Historical Museum
Kittitas County Historical Museum
The Museum also features a wide range of outstanding exhibits, such as the local pioneers and families, Native American beadwork and basketry, geological specimens, county-wide businesses, mining and logging, farming, military service, and lots more.
This establishment was founded in September 1961 and opened formally in 1962. It relocated in 1974 to the Caldwell Building and was open for visits in 1974.
Address: 114 E 3rd Ave, Ellensburg, WA 98926, United States
13. Gard Vintners
Gard Vintners was founded in 2006. It is a family-owned and managed winery. The word Gard means “farm,” commemorating the family’s Scandinavian history and farming practices.
The Gard Vineyards is well recognized and has earned for itself many awards. They also organize unique events like the First Friday Art Walk and Live Music, the Paint and Sip Event hosted with an indigenous artist, and the Third Friday Live Music.
Address: 311 N Pearl St, Ellensburg, WA 98926, United States
14. Museum of Culture and Environment
Museum of Culture and Environment
If you are a history lover or historian, one of the top things to do in Ellensburg, WA, is to check out the Museum of Culture and Environment.
Central Washington University houses the Museum of Culture and Environment. It is chiefly dedicated to creating a sound and energetic location for people to share viewpoints, ideas, and new research.
This idea led to the availability of several exhibitions to the public on Wednesdays to Fridays. It starts from 11 am till 4 pm and does not cost a dime. The Museum is also open for visits on Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm respectively.
The exhibitions here feature a range of artistic themes like Mexican Folk art and Planet Pluto, the Tapestries of Hope, Mammoth fossils discovered in the area, the Arpillera Movement in Chile, and Human Rights.
Address: 1200 N Wildcat Way, Ellensburg, WA 98926, United States
15. Iron Horse Brewery
The Iron Horse Brewery is a distinctive brewhouse for fans of great beer. The brew house, which is very much like its owner Jim Quilter can be perfectly described as unconventional.
The Iron Horse Brewhouse was founded in 2004. Still, it was formally opened to the general public in October 2006. It has been in the business of providing fine beer for the local community and tourists.
The produced beers come in various distinct flavors and impressive designs, making them easy for people to spot.
You can try out their local favorites, such as the smooth dark ale specially prepared with coconut, the Aloha Death, the vanilla milk stout, and the Cozy Sweater. Other beers include their Mid-Life Crisis, the Send It Pale Ale, High Five Hefe, and the Timothy Jay-Z.
Address; 1621 Vantage Highway, Ellensburg, WA 98926, United States
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16. Thrall & Dodge Winery
The Thrall And Dodge Winery have long since been a local brand. It is located just a few miles north of Ellensburg in Kittitas Valley. It is the first profit-oriented winery in this region.
One of the most famous attractions in Kittitas Valley, known as Manastash Ridge, is at the convergence between Boylston and Saddle Mountains.
The Thrall and Dodge Winery features beautiful views of the surrounding areas and the Stuart Mountain Range while still producing delicious wines. It has a unique tasting room, bocce ball court, and picnic sites, all available for visitors.
Address: 111 Dodge Rd, Ellensburg, WA 98926, United States
17. Colockum Wildlife Area
The Colockum Wildlife Area is located on the North Side of Ellensburg. This Colockum Wildlife Area is ideal for people who have a keen interest in wildlife and ecology.
Visitors who come here get the chance to explore this vast terrain ranging from its subalpine and diverse forest of great heights, Pine foothills, prairie bunch grass near the Columbia River shores, and the shrub-steppe ridge country.
Because of the primitive roads in the area, visitors should go on this tour using a four-wheel drive car or make use of mountain bikes, walk on foot, or even horses.
Upon visiting, visitors can capture views of local elk herds, mule deer, bighorn sheep, and coyotes. Here is an excellent place to watch birds and closely interact with varieties of birds such as chukar, quail, hawks, partridge, eagles, and grouse.
Address: Wenatchee, WA 98801, United States
18. Dick and Jane’s Spot
Dick and Jane’s Spot
Dick and Jane’s Spot’s early beginnings started in a typical backyard. It transformed into a famous open gallery in Ellensburg as the years went by.
This art gallery is owned and managed by Dick Elliot and his wife, Jane Orleman. With their collaboration, they have raised this gallery to a high standard.
Both couples are art enthusiasts, and in 1978 they began collecting bottles, trees, art sculptures, and multi-colored light reflectors.
Their collection grew tremendously over the years. The paintings and sculptures of Jane and the many shiny colored geometric compositions of her husband can be seen on the wall of the gallery
together with works done by Northwest artists.
Address: 101 N Pearl St, Ellensburg, WA 98926, United States
19. Ellensburg Rodeo
Ellensburg Rodeo
The Ellensburg Rodeo started a ranchers’ competition among locals. With time, it became a more professional annual event with more than 600 contestants challenging for the winning prize cash of over $450,000. Attending this competition, which has been held for the last 87 years, is one of the fun things to do in Ellensburg, WA.
It features a state-of-the-art arena, and the very best cowboys and cowgirls can be seen competing against each other.
The show kicks off on Friday afternoon and finishes under the stars. The competition is breathtaking and exciting, and you will surely love every time you spend here.
Address: 1010 E 8th Ave, Ellensburg, WA 98926, United States
20. Clymer Museum of Art
Clymer Museum of Art
If you want to learn about the life and history of John Clymer, make sure to stop by the Clymer Museum of Art. John Clymer is a resident of Ellensburg, famous for his straightforward approach to matters of life.
John Clymer got many accolades due to his illustrations in the Saturday Evening Post, and he became famous due to his comprehensive and precise renderings of the aesthetics of Northwestern America.
Clymer received different awards and accolades from other parts of the world, such as the Prix de West and the Cowboy Hall of Fame inductee.
Magazine covers, posters, and several paintings can be seen in this museum, together with fascinating artifacts and tales about his life.
Clymer Museum of Art has a unique gift shop that features comfy seats, a beautiful ambiance, and items of John Clymer that can only be seen in Ellensburg.
Address: 416 N Pearl St, Ellensburg, WA 98926, United States
21. Cornerstone Pie
Cornerstone Pie
Looking for what to do in Ellensburg, WA? Make sure to stop by the Cornerstone Pie to treat your stomach to delicious treats with your friends and family.
A lot of ideas and research were well examined in the design of the current Cornerstone Pie Building.
A sizable 8,000-pound wood stone oven provides visitors with the best Northwest Neapolitan pizza.
Every ingredient used to prepare their foods is fresh and locally sourced. So you can enjoy their 11 pizza flavors, fresh salads, appetizers, and desserts.
Address: 307 E 5th Ave, Ellensburg, WA 98926, United States
22. The Worley Bugger Fly Co.
If you are searching for a place to have a one-of-a-kind experience fly fishing, make sure to stop by the Worley Bugger Fly Company with headquarters in Ellensburg, WA.
They are the perfect deal to give you the best fly fishing experience, no matter your skill level.
They have an excellent, experienced, knowledgeable staff, always ready to provide you with all the necessary information you need to have a worthwhile experience fly fishing.
Their professional fly fishing guide team comprises a group of proficient individuals with many years of experience in fly fishing.
Address: 1713 South, 1713 Canyon Rd #100, Ellensburg, WA 98926, United States
23. Ellensburg Angler
If you are a fishing enthusiast, one of the fun things to do in Ellensburg, WA, is to go fishing on the many creeks and rivers nestled in the Kittitas Valley.
This fishing guide service provides you with everything you need to have a great experience. There are six professional guides, and they offer tours of the five rivers.
If you would love to go fishing or wading on a complete day trip, it might interest you to know that no charges are collected for boats or waders on full-day trips. Non-alcoholic beverages, a gourmet riverfront BBQ lunch, and snacks are part of the package.
Half-day tours do not have the lunch and refreshment package. If you would like the riverbank lunch included in the half-day trip, you will be required to pay an extra $15.
Address: 32 Thorp Hwy S, Ellensburg, WA 98926, United States
24. Wing Central’s Roadhouse Grill
Wing Central’s Roadhouse Grill
Make a stop at Wing Central’s Roadhouse Grill for an incredible dining experience with your friends and family.
This energetic, spacious venue has a nostalgic ambiance with old-style Diner decor and red Formica tables. It is an ideal place to host your colleagues at work or business partners.
The foods on their menu are top-notch all-American specialties, classic wings and burgers, and various salads. It also provides visitors with 16 brewed beers on tap, served using an ice-cold glass.
You can bring the kids with you, especially on Tuesdays when they get served in the restaurant for free. The Roadhouse Grill is famous because of the large crowd who come here after work to relax.
Address: 101 E Umptanum Rd, Ellensburg, WA 98926, United States
25. Olmstead Place State Park
Olmstead Place State Park
A youthful farmer named Samuel Bedient Olmstead and his family 1875 traveled across the Snoqualmie Pass to settle on the sparsely crowded Valley in Ellensburg.
As the years went by, the Olmstead family started a large farm cultivated and managed by three generations.
The farm was bequeathed in 1968 to the State Park. This place tells the Olmstead family life, their activities, farming history, the historic equipment they used, sheds and coops that have a history stretching back to the late 19th century, a 1908 hay barn, and smaller barns.
You can even walk through the gorgeous historic gardens graced with an abundance of flowers during warm seasons. You can also explore the Altapes Interpretive Trail located beside Coleman Creek.
Address: 921 N Ferguson Rd, Ellensburg, WA 98926, United States
26. Ellensburg Pasta Company
Pasta
Stop by the Ellensburg Pasta Company if you are craving to eat pasta in Ellensburg.
It is a family-owned and operated Pasta Company nestled in the downtown area of Ellensburg. It provides visitors with freshly made in-house pasta, burgers, sandwiches, salmon, and steaks.
They have a great selection of locally produced wines and beers that are perfect for your family-friendly dinner and other occasions.
Ellensburg Pasta Company also features a banquet room with a capacity that can host 50 people together with complete catering options. You can also buy their favorite lemon garlic dressing in the numerous retail shops.
Address: N Main St, Ellensburg, WA 98926, United States
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Plan Your Trip to Ellensburg
If you are planning on having a perfect getaway experience with your family members and friends, then the ideal place to be is in Ellensburg, WA. It has many things to do and places to visit that will pique any traveler’s interest.
Start planning a trip to Ellensburg. Have a fun time!