Discover Ellensburg, WA: A Haven for Art, Wine, and Outdoor Enthusiasts
Nestled in the heart of Central Washington, Ellensburg beckons with its blend of artistic charm, culinary delights, and breathtaking natural beauty. As the newest certified creative district of Washington State, Ellensburg is a vibrant destination that promises a wealth of experiences for visitors. Whether you're a foodie, an art lover, or an outdoor enthusiast, Ellensburg has something special in store for you.
Art
Begin your journey into Ellensburg's artistic soul at Nuwave Gallery, where local and national artists showcase their talents in a myriad of mediums. Then, immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene at Gallery One, a community arts center that hosts a variety of exhibitions and events throughout the year. For a taste of the region's rich artistic heritage, don't miss The Clymer Museum, featuring the stunning works of Western artist John Ford Clymer, or Palace Gallery, showcasing contemporary art from emerging and established artists alike.
Nuwave Gallery: Located in downtown Ellensburg, Nuwave Gallery showcases the work of local and national artists. Explore a diverse range of art styles and mediums, from vibrant paintings to stunning sculptures. In collaboration with Fortuity Cellars Tasting Room, it is a space for people to come together, enjoy/create art, sip wine, and be inspired.
Gallery One: Gallery One is a community arts center that hosts exhibitions, workshops, and events featuring local and regional artists. Immerse yourself in Ellensburg's vibrant arts scene at this unique venue.
The Clymer Museum: The Clymer Museum features the art of renowned Western artist John Ford Clymer. Explore his stunning paintings that depict life in the American West, offering a glimpse into the region's rich history and culture.
Palace Gallery: Palace Gallery showcases a collection of contemporary art, including paintings, sculptures, and mixed media works. Discover emerging artists and established talents at this dynamic gallery.
Food
Ellensburg's culinary scene is a delightful fusion of flavors, with a diverse array of dining options to suit every palate. Indulge in upscale dining at The Pearl, where locally sourced ingredients take center stage in contemporary dishes. For a cozy breakfast or brunch experience, head to The Early Bird and savor their signature pancakes and gourmet coffee. In the evening, treat yourself to artisanal pizzas at The Night Owl, paired with a local craft beer or a glass of wine. Craving comfort food? The Mule and Red Horse Diner offer classic favorites in a nostalgic setting, perfect for a satisfying meal.
The Pearl: Experience upscale dining at The Pearl, where you can enjoy contemporary dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. It is a local gathering place with craft cocktails, great food, and a passion you can taste
The Early Bird: Start your day off right at The Early Bird, a charming cafe known for its delicious breakfast and brunch menu. Try their signature breakfast bowls or gourmet breakfast charcuterie board for a delightful morning treat.
The Night Owl: For a memorable dining experience, visit The Night Owl, a cozy eatery serving unique, fresh, family-style Korean fusion dishes and scratch cocktails.
The Mule: Craving comfort food? Head to The Mule for gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches and savory soups. It's the ultimate destination for a satisfying meal.
Red Horse Diner: Step back in time at the Red Horse Diner, a classic diner serving all-American favorites. Enjoy burgers, fries, and milkshakes in a retro-inspired setting.
Beverage
Ellensburg is a haven for wine and beer enthusiasts, with a selection of tasting rooms and breweries to explore. Start your journey at Fortuity Cellars Tasting Room, where you can sample exquisite wines crafted from locally sourced grapes. Then, venture to Gard Vintners Tasting Room for a tasting flight of premium wines sourced from vineyards in the Columbia Valley. Beer lovers will delight in the local breweries, including Iron Horse Brewery, Whipsaw Brewing, and Rock and Reef Brewing, each offering a unique selection of craft beers that showcase the best of the Pacific Northwest's brewing tradition.
Fortuity Cellars Tasting Room: Adjacent to Nuwave Gallery, Fortuity Cellars offers a unique wine-tasting experience. Sample exquisite wines crafted from locally sourced grapes in a cozy atmosphere with excellent friendly service.
Gard Vintners Tasting Room: Gard Vintners Tasting Room offers a selection of lovely wines. Enjoy a tasting flight of their acclaimed wines, sourced from vineyards in Washington State.
Iron Horse Brewery: Known for its creative brews and laid-back atmosphere, Iron Horse Brewery is a must-visit for beer enthusiasts. Try their signature beers and seasonal offerings for a taste of Ellensburg's brewing culture.
Whipsaw Brewing: Another top destination for craft beer lovers, Whipsaw Brewing offers a variety of handcrafted beers that showcase the best of the Pacific Northwest's brewing tradition. Don't miss their rotating tap list for new and exciting flavors.
Rock and Reef Brewing: A newcomer to the Ellensburg brewing scene, Rock and Reef Brewing has quickly gained a following for its unique brews and welcoming atmosphere. Stop by to try their flagship beers and seasonal releases.
Outdoors
For outdoor enthusiasts, Ellensburg offers a wealth of natural beauty to explore. Take a leisurely stroll along the Yakima River at Irene Rinehart Riverfront Park, or hike the trails of Manastash Ridge for panoramic views of the valley. Umtanum Creek Recreation Area is perfect for birdwatching and wildlife viewing, while Olmstead Place State Park offers a glimpse into Ellensburg's agricultural past. Don't miss the breathtaking views of the Yakima River Canyon, perfect for hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching.
Irene Rinehart Riverfront Park: Irene Rinehart Riverfront Park offers a picturesque setting along the Yakima River, perfect for picnicking, fishing, and relaxing. Take a leisurely stroll along the riverbank or explore the park's trails for stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Manastash Ridge: Hiking trails on Manastash Ridge offer panoramic views of Ellensburg and the surrounding valley. The ridge is known for its diverse flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Umtanum Creek Recreation Area: Located just outside Ellensburg, Umtanum Creek Recreation Area features a scenic canyon with hiking trails along the creek. The area is ideal for birdwatching, wildlife viewing, and exploring the unique geology of the region.
Olmstead Place State Park: Olmstead Place State Park is a historic farmstead that offers a glimpse into Ellensburg's agricultural past. Explore the park's trails, tour the historic buildings, and learn about the area's rich history through interpretive exhibits.
Yakima River Canyon: The Yakima River Canyon offers breathtaking views of the river winding through rugged cliffs and canyons. Explore the area by hiking, fishing, or wildlife watching, and don't forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning scenery.
Wild Horse Wind Farm: Experience the impressive sight of wind turbines harnessing the power of the wind at the Wind Farm. Tours are available twice a day, offering a unique opportunity to learn about renewable energy and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Why Visit Ellensburg, WASHINGTON?
Ellensburg's designation as a certified creative district of Washington State is a testament to its vibrant arts scene and commitment to fostering creativity and innovation. Whether you're interested in exploring the city's rich artistic heritage, indulging in culinary delights, or immersing yourself in nature, Ellensburg offers a unique blend of experiences that are sure to captivate and inspire. Plan your visit today and discover all that this charming city has to offer.
