About Kennewick
Kennewick, Washington, is a thriving city in the heart of the Tri-Cities region along the scenic Columbia River. Well-known for its sunny climate, it provides a warm ambiance, combining contemporary conveniences with a fascinating past. The city has a solid agricultural base, contributing to its growing wine industry, and is a hub for outdoor activities, business opportunities, and community events. Kennewick’s diverse cultural scene and natural beauty make it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.
Top 6 Stunning Attractions That Define the Beauty of Kennewick
Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Kennewick
1. Gesa Carousel of Dreams – Children’s Amusement Centre
The Gesa Carousel of Dreams is a beautifully restored 108-year-old carousel that offers a whimsical and nostalgic experience for visitors of all ages. Located in Kennewick, Washington, this family-friendly attraction is a centerpiece of the Southridge Sports and Events Complex, delighting children and adults alike with its vibrant, hand-carved wooden animals and classic charm.
Location:
The Gesa Carousel of Dreams is located within the Southridge Sports and Events Complex at 2901 Southridge Blvd, Kennewick, WA.
Key Attractions:
- Restored 1910 Carousel: Carousel from 1910: Experience a nostalgic trip with hand-carved wooden horses and other fantastical creatures on this vintage carousel.
- Interactive Play Area: Ideal for younger children, the adjacent play area adds to the fun with interactive elements.
- Pavilion Rentals: A covered pavilion offers space for birthday parties, gatherings, and community events.
Things to Do:
- Explore the Splash Park: Let the kids enjoy the refreshing water features at the nearby Splash Park.
- Host Special Events: Rent the pavilion or book private carousel sessions for parties, celebrations, and special occasions.
- Enjoy Family Time: Spend quality time at the amusement center, combining rides, picnics, and playtime for a perfect family outing.
2. Columbia Center – Shopping Centre
Columbia Center is the largest shopping mall in Kennewick, southeastern Washington. It is positioned along N Columbia Center Boulevard and offers a central location in the Tri-Cities area, making it a hub for retail, dining, and entertainment. The mall features many stores and services, catering to diverse shopping needs and providing a comfortable indoor shopping environment.
Location:
Conveniently located at 1321 N Columbia Center Blvd, Kennewick, WA 99336, Columbia Center invites visitors with nearby attractions and easy access from major highways.
Key Attractions:
- Macy’s: A significant department store offering a variety of clothing, home goods, and beauty products.
- JCPenney: Another anchor store is known for its wide selection of apparel and household items.
- H&M: A trendy clothing store offering affordable fashion for men, women, and children.
Things to Do:
- Shopping: More than 125 stores sell everything from technology and home items to clothing and accessories.
- Attend Special Events: Columbia Center hosts various seasonal events, such as fashion shows, holiday events, and family-friendly activities.
- Window Shopping and Walking: Stroll through the mall, enjoy the ambiance, and people-watch in its comfortable, air-conditioned space.
3. Playground of Dreams – Playground
The Playground of Dreams is a popular, family-friendly playground within Columbia Park in Kennewick, Washington. Originally built with the help of local volunteers, the playground offers a safe and imaginative space for children to explore, with vibrant structures and interactive elements that inspire creativity.
Location:
The playground is located within Columbia Park along the Columbia River, making it easily accessible from all parts of the Tri-Cities.
Key Attractions:
- Colorful Castle Structure: A large play area that resembles a castle, perfect for imaginative adventures.
- Climbing Walls: Fun, kid-friendly climbing walls for young adventurers.
- Slides and Swings: Multiple slides and swings to entertain kids of all ages.
Things to Do:
- Picnicking: Bring a picnic to enjoy in the shaded areas while the kids play.
- Walk or Bike: The nearby trails in Columbia Park are perfect for a family stroll or bike ride along the river.
- Enjoy Scenic Views: Relax and take in views of the Columbia River while your children enjoy the playground.
4. WSU Master Gardener Demonstration Garden – Community Garden
The WSU (Washington State University) Master Gardener Demonstration Garden in Kennewick is an educational and community-focused garden where volunteers share their expertise on sustainable gardening practices. This garden showcases diverse planting techniques and environmentally friendly landscaping solutions, offering visitors a hands-on experience in horticulture.
Location:
The garden is accessible to locals and visitors and conveniently located next to the Kennewick Library at 1600 S. Union St. in Kennewick.
Key Attractions:
- Themed Garden Beds: Features include herb gardens, pollinator gardens, and native plant displays, each highlighting specific types of plants and their care.
- Composting Area: This interactive section educates visitors on effective composting techniques for enhancing home garden sustainability and productivity.
- Orchard and Vegetable Gardens: Demonstrates how to grow various fruits and vegetables in the local climate.
Things to Do:
- Take a Self-Guided Tour: Walk through the garden sections and learn from the labeled plantings and informational signs.
- Attend Workshops: Master gardeners lead educational workshops and seasonal events on pruning, soil health, and sustainable gardening.
- Volunteer: Participate in volunteer opportunities to help maintain the garden and expand your knowledge.
5. Bartholomew Winery – Winery
Bartholomew Winery is a boutique winery in Kennewick known for crafting unique, high-quality wines from lesser-known grape varieties. Established with a focus on creating distinctive, approachable wines, this winery offers a relaxing atmosphere for wine enthusiasts to explore and savor exceptional flavors.
Location:
Located at 421 E Columbia Dr., Kennewick, Bartholomew Winery is situated near the scenic Columbia River, easily accessible for both locals and visitors exploring the Tri-Cities wine region.
Key Attractions:
- Tasting Room: A welcoming space where visitors can sample various Bartholomew’s wines.
- Unique Varietals: Specializes in lesser-known grapes like Carménère, Tannat, and Albariño, offering an exceptional tasting experience.
- Boutique Atmosphere: A smaller, intimate winery that allows for a personalized wine-tasting experience.
Things to Do:
- Wine Tasting: Sample a range of unique wines, including red and white varietals.
- Join a Wine Club: Become a Bartholomew’s Wine Club member for exclusive access to new releases and special events.
- Attend Special Events: Participate in seasonal events, winemaker’s dinners, or release parties to deepen your appreciation for the wines.
6. Columbia Park – Park and Garden
Columbia Park is a sprawling 400-acre riverside park along the Columbia River in Kennewick. It provides a range of leisure pursuits, beautiful scenery, and family-friendly attractions. As one of the most popular outdoor spaces in the Tri-Cities area, the park caters to nature lovers, athletes, and families looking for a relaxing day out.
Location:
Situated along Columbia Park Trail, the park spans both Kennewick and Richland, providing easy access from major highways and downtown Kennewick.
Key Attractions:
- Playground of Dreams: A large, interactive playground designed for children of all ages, rebuilt with the community’s help.
- Columbia River Walking Trail: The Columbia River Walking Trail features a scenic paved path perfect for walking, jogging, and biking, offering breathtaking views and fresh air.
- Fishing Pond: A designated fishing area for kids, stocked with various fish to ensure a fun and engaging family activity, fostering outdoor enjoyment and quality time together.
Things to Do:
- Walking and Biking: Enjoy the miles of paved trails that run through the park, providing beautiful views of the Columbia River.
- Play Sports: Use the park’s sports fields for friendly games, including baseball diamonds and disc golf.
- Attend Events: Attend Events: Take part in neighborhood gatherings like Columbia Park’s annual Water Follies or live music series.
Culinary Delights
Kennewick offers a diverse culinary scene that reflects the area’s rich agricultural heritage and the flavors of the Pacific Northwest. Here are seven culinary delights to explore in Kennewick:
- Wine from Local Wineries: The Tri-Cities region is known for its exceptional wines. Visit local wineries like Bartholomew Winery and Col Solare for tastings of unique varietals, including Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and lesser-known grapes.
- Farm-to-Table Restaurants: Enjoy fresh, locally sourced ingredients at restaurants such as The Olive Garden and Kimo’s. These establishments often feature seasonal dishes that showcase the best of the region’s produce.
- Craft Beer: The craft beer scene in Kennewick is expanding. Visit River City Brewing Company or Badger Mountain Brewing to sample some local brews, which range in style from stouts to IPAs.
- Mexican Cuisine: Experience authentic flavors at local favorites like El Fat Cat and Los Hernandez Tamales, where you can indulge in delicious tacos, tamales, and enchiladas made with fresh ingredients.
- Barbecue: Try the mouthwatering smoked meats at Smokey’s Barbecue, known for its tender brisket, pulled pork, and flavorful sides. BBQ enthusiasts should visit this location.
- Asian Cuisine: Discover diverse flavors at restaurants like Mikasa Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Ya, where you can enjoy sushi, hibachi, and other Japanese dishes. You can also explore Chinese cuisine at Hunan Garden.
- Sweet Treats: Don’t miss out on local dessert spots like Frost Me Sweet, which offers a range of delightful cupcakes and pastries, or Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, known for its delicious chocolates and confections.
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