Wenatchee Bucket List for Newcomers with Kids
If you're new to the Wenatchee Valley — welcome! Whether you landed here for work, adventure, or a slower pace of life, you’re in good company. This place has a way of drawing in families who want space to breathe, room to roam, and community to grow with.
We put together a family-friendly Wenatchee bucket list to help you explore the Valley, meet other moms, and start building your village one outing at a time.
1. Visit the Big 3 Parks
Wenatchee has so many great parks, but these three are the locals’ go-tos:
Wenatchee Riverfront Park (The Apple Park): Newly renovated, stellar equipment, walking distance from coffee
Walla Walla Point Park: On the river, close to Pybus, playground + beach access.
Sage Hills Playground: Fully fenced, coffee on site, and tons of equipment for all ages.
2. Pick Your Own Fruit
U-pick is a Wenatchee tradition. Depending on the season, head to:
Stutzman Ranch for apples, cherries, and grapes
Annie’s Fun Farm for all your fruit needs
Let your kids pick straight from the tree, and leave with sticky fingers and sweet memories.
3. Walk (or Bike) the Apple Capital Loop Trail
This paved trail loops along both sides of the Columbia River and is perfect for:
Stroller walks
Balance bikes
Scooter rides
Snack stops + playground breaks
Start at Pybus Market and loop as far as your crew can handle.
4. Visit the Pybus Public Market
It’s more than a farmers market — Pybus is a hub of local flavor. Grab a coffee, check out live music, or visit during a seasonal event like the Pybus Kids Market or trick-or-treating bash.
5. Get a Library Card and Join a Story Time
Both the Wenatchee Public Library and Eastmont Library have fantastic children’s programming, including:
Weekly story times
Play areas
Free activity kits
Summer reading programs
Plus, your kids can choose their own books — and maybe give you five minutes to drink hot coffee.
6. Explore the Wenatchee Riverfront Rock Wall
Located near the loop trail, this free climbing wall is toddler-height and designed for safe, supervised fun. Bonus: it’s near a small beach area for throwing rocks and splashing.
7. Attend a Community Event
There’s always something happening, from Apple Blossom Festival in spring to Santa at the Train Station in winter. Look out for:
Outdoor movies
Seasonal markets
Touch-a-truck days
Cultural festivals
You’ll meet other local families and get plugged into the rhythm of the Valley.
8. Try a “Treat Tour”
Pick a weekend and try local favorites like:
Ice cream from Zully’s
Donuts from Glaze
Coffee and treats from Coffee Caboose
Let your kids vote on their favorites and turn it into a sweet tradition.
9. Find Your “Mom Spot”
Whether it’s Cafe Columbia, Steamer’s West, or Au-to Mocha, every mom needs that one place where the barista learns your name and your kids can color while you caffeinate.
10. Say Hi to Another Mom at the Playground
We saved the most important for last — building your village starts with just one conversation. If you see another mom nearby, say hi. Compliment her shoes. Ask how old her kids are. Share a snack.
It might feel awkward at first, but it could be the start of your own little Wenatchee crew.
Final Thought
Moving somewhere new with kids can feel overwhelming, but the Valley is full of warm people, beautiful places, and family-friendly rhythms that make it easier to settle in and feel like you belong.
So start small — one park, one outing, one hello at a time. You’re not just checking things off a list — you’re planting roots.
Welcome to Wenatchee. We’re so glad you’re here.
