12 Things to Do in Wenatchee
Wenatchee is a scenic, picturesque city nestled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountain range and situated next to the Columbia and Wenatchee Rivers. Being so close to the mountains and rivers makes Wenatchee an ideal vacation spot for adventurers and families alike. Wenatchee is located in Chelan county in Washington state and is the largest city in the county. Also known fondly as the “Apple Capital of the World”, Wenatchee valley is full of wonderful apple orchards. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or with families, here’s a list of some great things to do around the Wenatchee area.
1. Mission Ridge Ski and Board Resort
For those winter sports fans, the Mission Ridge Ski and Board Resort is a great place to spend the day in powder. It’s located around 12 miles from Wenatchee so it’s a close drive. Their ski area is established in a 2,000 acre basin of East Cascade Mountain range. With an average of 300 sunny days, the snow is a light, dry powder. It’s a great snow experience. They have a total of 36 runs for variety. They are open 7 days a week and also offer lessons, equipment rentals, and food. Full day passes run anywhere from $15-$97 depending on age. We definitely recommend checking their website for the weather and snow report before going.
7500 Mission Ridge Rd.
Wenatchee, WA 98801
(509) 663-6543
2. Rocky Reach Dam Park
Rocky Reach Dam Park is a great place to take your family on an adventure. The park itself is huge with 17 acres to explore, watch fish, find a geocache, take in some beautiful landscaping, and play on the playground. The park is open seasonally from April 1st to the end of October. The Rocky Reach Discovery Center is also located at the park. It’s open year round with tons of hands-on activities to learn, play, and explore. It’s also free admission. They’ve got a new augmented reality app that lets you swim with the salmon. They also have a cafe in the discovery center so take in a bite after playing all day. The Dam itself started construction in 1956 and has eleven generators. It’s nationally recognized for its ongoing efforts to protect the natural environment. They have installed a first of its kind juvenile fish bypass system that helps young steelhead and salmon make their way to the ocean.
https://www.chelanpud.org/parks-and-recreation/our-parks/day-use-parks/rocky-reach-dam-park
5000 State Hwy 97A
Wenatchee, WA 98801
(509) 663-7522
3. Axe Bliss Axe Throwing
If you want a unique, fun experience, you’ve got to check out Axe Bliss Axe Throwing. We’ve been interested in learning how to throw an axe since our first Renaissance fair but there have been a ton of viral axe throwing videos that make it seem like a blast. Rather than going out to the backyard and giving one a toss, head here to learn how to safely throw from trained professionals, not your neighbor two beers in. The prices are very reasonable. It’s $25 plus tax per person for an hour and 20 minutes of coaching and throwing. One of their rules is that you MUST wear closed toed shoes so make sure you don’t show up in flip flops. Kids 10 and over are welcome to throw but they must be strong enough to throw safely. No alcohol is allowed on premise for obvious reasons. They’re open from Thursday through Sunday and you must pre-book your throwing lane in advance.
15 Yakima St. Suite 201
Wenatchee, WA 98801
(509) 881-8595
4. Wenatchee Valley Super Oval
If you’ve got the need for speed, there is no better place around than the Wenatchee Valley Super Oval. Built in 1969, this quarter-mile asphalt track is one of the fastest in the world. It’s one of the premier short tracks in all of the northwest. Race season runs from April through September. There is a race for every interest from super late models, sprint cars, semi trucks, monster trucks, and more. Opening night for 2022 is scheduled for April 16th. It looks to be a nail-biting event. The “Save our racecars” race will feature 3 different classes of cars and a spectacular fireworks show. Check their website for ticket and pass information.
2850 Gun Club Rd.
East Wenatchee, WA 98802
(509) 884-8592
6. Apple Blossom Festival
The Apple Blossom Festival is an annual festival held in honor of the apple and the local apple industry. The first festival was held over 100 years ago in 1921 and is still a much loved, anticipated event for the community. The festival is traditionally held from the last weekend of April to the first weekend of May. Over 100,000 visitors come each year to enjoy food, drinks, entertainment, a musical, carnival, parade, races, and more. Once you attend one Apple Blossom Festival, you’ll want to come back for every one. There is a certain magic and charm that envelops you.
2 South Chelan Avenue
Wenatchee, WA 98801
(509) 662-3616
7. Lincoln Rock State Park
Lincoln Rock State Park is a great place to be on a hot, summer day in Wenatchee. Conveniently located seven miles north of Wenatchee on Entiat Lake, it’s a popular place for swimmers, boaters, and water skiers. This state park is both a day use and an overnight camping location. As such, you will need either a one day or Discover pass to use but you won’t be disappointed. Lincoln Rock covers 86 acres and has a boat launch, park and playground, public swim beach, ball fields, tennis and basketball courts, geocaching, and more. You can hike or walk the Rocky Reach Trail which connects to the Apple Capital Loop trail. Lincoln Rock State Park campground has 94 tent/rv sites, 8 cabins, lots of shaded spots, and daily sprinklers which help cool you down on those sweltering days. There is also a snack shack and place to rent jet skis so no need to bring your own.
https://parks.state.wa.us/541/Lincoln-Rock
13253 US-2
East Wenatchee, WA 98802
(509) 884-8702
8. Apple Capital Loop Trail
The Apple Capital Loop Trail is a 10 mile looped trail that’s perfect for all fitness levels. The trail is all asphalt and concrete lined which makes it wheelchair and stroller accessible. Loop Trail is great for biking, walking, cross country skiing, and fishing along the Columbia. The trail starts at Lincoln Rock State Park, #8 on our list, and runs south along the river to Hydro Park. There are distinct environments between the west and east sides of the trail. The west side runs through urban areas while the east side reminds you of a stroll through the country. There are restrooms on the trail so no need to worry.
https://www.chelanpud.org/parks-and-recreation/our-parks/apple-capital-loop-trail
Trailheads : Lincoln Rock State Park and Hydro Park
(509) 661-4551
9. Ohme Gardens
A day spent at Ohme Gardens feels like you spent a day in a fairy tail. 9 acres of meadows, trees, and gorgeous vista views await. Originally built by Herman and Ruth Ohme for a family retreat, they soon realized that the area was just too beautiful to keep to themselves and opened it up to the public. It remained in the Ohme family until 1991 when they sold it to Washington State Parks for preservation for future generations. Kids of all ages can join in on the fairy and gnome hunt so keep your eyes peeled. Spotted throughout are pools, picnic tables, restrooms, and has a gift shop with refreshments. We recommend taking a picnic lunch and resting a bit. Don’t forget to visit the wishing well and make a wish before you leave. Admission is $8 for adults, $4 for kids 6-17, and kids 5 and under are free with an adult. A note worth mentioning: The beautiful rock paths are uneven and there are numerous steps which prevent the use of wheelchairs, walkers, and strollers.
3327 Ohme Road
Wenatchee, WA 98801
(509) 662-5785
10. Columbia Valley Brewing
Enjoy great craft beer, food, and music at Wenatchee’s first brewery, Columbia Valley Brewing. Enjoy the NCW Blues Jam which is held every 2nd and 4th Monday of the month. Take advantage of their happy hour, indoor or outside seating, and their rotating brews on tap. We recommend Columbia Valley Brewing Riverwalker Porter with its hints of chocolate and caramel mixed with delicious English hops. Their burgers are great. You can get toppings stuffed, chopped in, or put on top. We recommend the chopped Bomb burger which has caramelized onion, blue cheese, and mushrooms chopped in with the meat.
538 Riverside Dr
Wenatchee, WA 98801
(509) 888-9993
11. D-Olivo
D-Olivo is a specialty food shop that is a must-shop when you’re in Wenatchee. Located in the Prybus Public Market, D-Olivo has an extensive collection of premium olive oils and aged balsamic vinegars as well as gourmet and luxury delicacies like egg, cholesterol, and gluten free imported pasta from Italy, plump, flavorful Spanish table olives, and an extensive selection of herbs, spices, and seasonings. The staff at D-Olivo are welcoming, helpful, and extremely knowledgeable. Try out their ghost pepper salt on your next meal if you’re adventurous enough.
https://www.dolivotastingbar.com/
Located in Prybus Public Market
7 N Worthen St. Suite W1
Wenatchee, WA 9881
(509) 888-7380
12. Squilchuck State Park
A stay at Squilchuck State Park puts you right in the heart of the mountains that are located just outside of Wenatchee. Squilchuck State Park is 8 miles south of Wenatchee, close to Mission Ridge. This park is immense, covering 249 acres. This is THE park for the outdoor enthusiast. Take advantage of the numerous trails that allow you to hike, mountain bike, cross-country ski, snowshoe, sled, and ride your horse. Spring and fall nature hikes are popular. Squilchuck is both a day use/overnight camping area. The overnight camping is designed for groups and can accommodate 20-160 people. You will need either a day pass or a Discover pass to enter. If you’re looking for a trail with beautiful views, we recommend Clara and Marion Lake trail. It is rated as a moderate trail so you might want to check and make sure it meets your activity level.
https://parks.state.wa.us/589/Squilchuck
2805 Mission Ridge Rd.
Wenatchee, WA 98801
(509) 664-6373
Lodging in Wenatchee
Here are some popular lodging options in Wenatchee.
