How to Spend a Day Trip in Yakima
Fruit stands, fresh eats, playgrounds, and wine — all just 2 hours from Wenatchee
If you’re looking for a change of scenery that still feels close to home, Yakima is a fun and underrated spot for a day trip. It’s just about 2 hours south of Wenatchee, making it the perfect destination for a Saturday adventure, a summer weekday escape with the kids, or even a spontaneous girls' day.
Here’s how to spend the perfect day in Yakima — whether you’re rolling deep with toddlers or sneaking in a grown-up getaway.
Morning: Fuel Up & Play Hard
Essencia Bakery
Start your morning with coffee and baked goods from this cozy downtown spot. Their croissants, scones, and breakfast sandwiches are a hit with both kids and adults. Grab something to go or linger a bit on the patio.
Mom Tip: Their lavender latte is divine.
Sarg Hubbard Park & Yakima Greenway
Let the kids run off the car ride at this beautiful riverside park. It’s got wide open grass for throwing a ball, a nice playground, and access to the Yakima Greenway Trail — a paved path that’s stroller and scooter-friendly.
Late Morning: Hit a Fruit Stand or Farm
Depending on the season, there are dozens of fruit stands and small farms to visit — some even let you pick your own!
Johnson’s Orchards (seasonal)
One of the oldest orchards in Yakima, offering U-pick options and a cute farm store with apples, peaches, jams, and baked goods.
Washington Fruit Place at Barrett Orchards
A Valley Moms favorite! Gorgeous peaches, cherries, and apples in season, plus a little shop filled with local goodies. Great photo ops, too.
Kid Tip: Many orchards have chickens, tractors, or small picnic spots to explore.
Lunch: Local Eats with Yakima Flavor
Cowiche Canyon Kitchen + Icehouse Bar
Trendy, farm-fresh, and super kid-welcoming during the day. They’ve got a great kids’ menu, and the adult options (like the Korean BBQ beef or brick chicken) are worth the drive.
Second Street Grill
Classic American eats with tons of kid-friendly options and outdoor seating: great service and a local favorite.
Afternoon: Explore + Shop Local
Yakima Valley Museum
A hidden gem! It’s fun for kids (vintage fire truck, ice cream parlor) and interesting for adults (regional history, pioneer life, and fruit industry exhibits). Cool in the summer and not too crowded.
Downtown Yakima
Walkable and full of cute shops and murals. Pop into Vintage Me for eclectic finds, or Inklings Bookshop if you love supporting local bookstores.
Optional Add-On: Wineries (If It’s a Grown-Up Trip)
Yakima has some of the best wineries in the state — and many of them are super welcoming to moms on a much-needed break. If you’ve got a babysitter or you’re kid-free for the day, try:
Treveri Cellars – sparkling wines, beautiful patio
Gilbert Cellars – chic tasting room downtown
Freehand Cellars – wine with a view just outside town
Designated driver tip: Grab a charcuterie box from The Little Soapmaker gift shop before heading to the wineries!
Before You Head Home: Treat Stop
Yakima Ice Company
Craft scoops with fun flavors, and they offer flights (yes, ice cream flights!) if you’re indecisive. Grab a cone and enjoy it outside before the drive back.
What to Pack:
Reusable shopping bags (for fruit stands)
Water bottles + sunscreen
Snacks for the drive
A light blanket for impromptu picnics or park lounging
Final Thoughts
Yakima is way more than farmland and freeway exits. With a little planning (and maybe a nap on the drive home), you can have a relaxing, refreshing, and fruit-filled day that everyone enjoys.
Let us know if you go — and tag @valleymoms when you do!
