15 Reasons to Visit Walla Walla, Washington This Summer
Let’s get this out of the way first: yes, Walla Walla is fun to say. Yes, it’s famous for its onions. And yes, we did eat our body weight in cherries, foraged mushroom soup, and smoothies during our time there. But if all you know about Walla Walla are the vegetables it produces, then you’re missing out on one of the most unexpectedly charming towns in the Pacific Northwest.
Located in southeastern Washington, Walla Walla is the kind of place that sneaks up on you. One minute you’re road-tripping through the Columbia River Gorge, and the next, you’re sipping Rhône-style reds at a vineyard with panoramic views and wondering if you could maybe… live here?
This past June, Walla Walla made history by hosting its very first downtown Pride celebration—an event years in the making. And let me tell you, it wasn’t just good. It was joyful, heartfelt, and packed with local support. Businesses had Pride flags in their windows, queer-owned spots were buzzing, and Heritage Park lit up with music, drag, and plenty of pride. As someone who’s traveled the world chasing both good food and good vibes, I can say with confidence: Walla Walla showed up.
But Pride is just one reason to visit. Whether you’re an LGBTQ+ traveler looking for a welcoming weekend getaway, a wine lover on the hunt for your next favorite bottle, or someone who simply enjoys being well-fed and slightly sunburned in a walkable town, Walla Walla is serving it up fresh.
In the span of a single weekend, we stayed at a design-forward boutique motel, danced to an ABBA tribute band in the foothills of the Blue Mountains, drank single-origin espresso, met alpacas, and had one of the best French dinners we’ve ever had in a town where cowboy hats could still very much be a thing. It’s that mix of high-low charm that makes Walla Walla so fascinating.
Summer is the perfect time to go. The weather’s warm, the wine is flowing, the farmers market is in full bloom, and the events calendar is stacked. Plus, it’s small enough to feel cozy, but big enough to keep you exploring all weekend long.
In this guide, I’m sharing the best places to eat, drink, stay, and play in Walla Walla during the summer, especially if you’re LGBTQ+ and looking for a spot that’s both inclusive and low-key fabulous. Consider this your cheat sheet for small-town summer bliss, Walla Walla edition. Whether you’re driving in from Portland, hopping a flight, or just bookmarking for future you, trust me: this town’s worth the trip.
1. Stay at The FINCH
If you want a place that’s modern, stylish, and walking distance to everything, The FINCH is your spot. This open-air, design-forward motel sits in the heart of downtown and features clean, stylish rooms, sturdy and comfortable for unpacking and winding down. The atmosphere is extremely welcoming. The accommodation is designed to allow for meeting others and connecting. There’s an outdoor fireplace with seating and s’mores, coffee and popcorn always available in the lobby, yard games like corn-hole and bocci ball in the courtyard, and a food truck with delightful meals ready for you. The bonus: It’s just steps away from local coffee, food, and tasting rooms.
2. Catch a Vineyard Party at Tranche Estate
The first highlight of our weekend was the Bonfire Party at Tranche Estate. Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Mountains, the vineyard holds stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area. During the month of June, Tranche hosts an annual bonfire event with food trucks, live music, and yes, multiple bonfires! Plus, after hours, there’s a DJ that spins under the stars. Local eats from La Monarca and The Mill round out the party. It’s the kind of evening that starts classy and ends with you belting “Mamma Mia” in the vines.
Apart from the party, Tranche is always a fantastic place to grab a glass, relax, and taste some of the Walla Walla valley’s fine wines.
3. Wake Up with Single-Origin Coffee at Carte
If you’re picky about coffee (hi, it’s us), Carte Coffee is a dream. They rotate top roasters and serve single-origin espresso. With a certified Q Arabica grader on staff, they treat each bean like a masterpiece. Their shop is small and mighty, naturally lit and airy. It’s a comfortable space, and the coffee is top-notch. They also host cupping experiences where you can take part and learn a bit of the art of coffee making.
4. Smoothies, Charcuterie, and Fresh Recipes at The Mill
Located just off Rose Street, The Mill provides a range of goodies from smoothies, pastries, and charcuterie. It’s perfect for fueling your stroll through the farmers market. The Mill cooks and bakes its fresh dishes daily. This is a fantastic place to pick up wholesome, high-quality ingredients for a healthy snack or filling meal. We’re still thinking about the OG peanut butter smoothie. It’s creamy, rich, and made us feel a bit of euphoria just sipping it. You can catch their mobile cart at the Saturday market too.
5. Shop and Snack at the Farmers Market
Open Saturdays from 9am–1pm, the Downtown Walla Walla Farmers Market is full of fresh produce, baked goods, flowers, and artisan products. This is your Washington cherry stop. Yes, you’ll buy too many… but no, you won’t regret it. The Farmers Market has live music and a very laid-back atmosphere. Make this a weekend must, pick up some unbeatable produce, and don’t forget to try some Walla Walla sweet onions!
6. Sip Bubbles at DAMA Wines
One of the few woman-owned wineries in Washington, DAMA Wines is all about strength, art, and elegance. We stopped by for a Pride Kickoff party and were blown away by the welcoming vibes, gorgeous bottles, and vibrant labels. Bonus: the owner is a former opera singer… and their Rosé truly sings too. With interiors as artistic as the wine labels, it's a stunning stop whether you're into bubbles or bold reds. Great for tastings in the heart of downtown.
7. Visit the LGBTQ+ Owned McGovern & Parsons Herb Co.
This place is magic. Think moody Tudor-inspired apothecary, filled with herbs, tinctures, incense, candles, and strange fascinating objects. McGovern & Parsons feels like stepping into another time, but the remedies and products are deeply grounding. With a wide variety of rare and lesser-known herbs, the shop is full of knowledge that may make you just want to bring something back to integrate into your life or recipes at home. Queer-owned, incredibly aesthetic, and full of smells you’ll want to live in. It’s the witchy gift shop of your dreams.
8. Grab Greek Souvlaki at Yamas
If you’re craving something savory and fresh, Yamas Greek Eatery has you covered. The Greek fries with feta are a must, and their souvlaki hits the spot. To be honest, some Greek restaurants tend to fall flat, but this one leaped over every level on the taste scale. The meat was juicy, the hummus was smooth and flavorful, and the pita warm. Everything we tried was authentic and delicious. Make sure to get some of the house-made tzatziki. You’ll want to dip everything in it.
9. Dine French at Brasserie Four
Brasserie Four offers one of the best meals you’ll have all weekend. We tried the foraged morel mushroom soup and calamari in tomato-white wine broth—each dish better than the last. Their wine list leans heavily local, and the vibe is cozy, upscale, and unpretentious. On a summer evening, choose from dining al fresco, or inside where the tables are drenched with the orange setting sun. The environment’s romantic, and the food is extremely high quality.
10. Treat Yourself to Brunch at The Marc
Located in the historic Marcus Whitman Hotel, The Marc Restaurant serves a delicious brunch. Of course, I got the avocado toast. The avocado was smashed to perfection, topped with micro-greens and a nutty olive oil, all atop fresh-baked sourdough. However, the baked breakfast potatoes stole the show. The outside skins were crisped with flaked salt. And yes, you can absolutely order wine with breakfast. No judgment.
11. Shop Plants at Frog Hollow Farm
This is where your plant-parent dreams come true. We stopped at Frog Hollow Farm on our way out of town and left with $1 plants in the backseat and zero regrets. This is the type of place where their plant starters actually go on sale, and they hold a wide variety of healthy and gorgeous blooms. They also offer U-pick produce and the kind of wholesome energy that makes you want to start a garden of your own (if you haven’t already)! You’ll want to take home everything.
12. Feed the Alpacas at Old Homestead
Old Homestead Alpacas is serotonin on a farm. Located extremely close to the border of Oregon and Washington, but still just 15 minutes outside of the city center, this place is part alpaca sanctuary, part flower farm, part artisan workshop. The owner, Elaine Vandiver, turns alpaca fiber into gorgeous dyed knits using flowers she grows onsite. It’s peak cottagecore meets sustainability goals. Also, feeding an alpaca? It’s wildly therapeutic.
13. Explore Walla Walla Pride (if you’re visiting in June)
Walla Walla Pride has grown into a vibrant festival featuring live music, vendors, and performances. Held at Heritage Park, the event brings together locals and visitors alike to celebrate visibility, unity, and joy. It’s fun, heartfelt, and a perfect snapshot of the community here. It’s a small-town Pride, with big and loving energy.
14. Enjoy a Scenic Drive through Columbia River Gorge
On your way into town (especially from Oregon), the drive through the Columbia River Gorge is jaw-dropping. Rolling hills, river views, and epic cliffs make it one of the most beautiful routes in the United States. Honestly, it’s hard to keep your eyes on the road, which is why we recommend a co-pilot with snacks and a great Spotify playlist. It’s like the way there is an experience in and of itself.
15. Just… Wander Downtown
Even if you don’t have a plan, just walking around downtown Walla Walla feels good. The streets are clean, the shops are cute, and there are murals, wine tasting rooms, and boutiques around every corner. It’s walkable, calm, and filled with little surprises, like the best lemon lavender scone you didn’t know you needed. Window-shop, people-watch, grab an ice cream at Pine Cone Creamery, or just sit on a bench and vibe.
Final Thoughts
Walla Walla delivers way more than you’d expect for a town of its size. It’s got food, wine, scenery, and a friendly, inclusive vibe that makes you feel welcome right away. Whether you're there for a summer celebration or a calm weekend reset, there's no shortage of places to eat, sip, shop, and smile.
Bookmark this list for your next trip. Or better yet, just start planning it now. Summer is calling!!
Let’s get this out of the way first: yes, Walla Walla is fun to say. Yes, it’s famous for its onions. And yes, we did eat our body weight in cherries, foraged mushroom soup, and smoothies during our time there. But if all you know about Walla Walla are the vegetables it produces, then you’re missing out on one of the most unexpectedly charming towns in the Pacific Northwest.
Located in southeastern Washington, Walla Walla is the kind of place that sneaks up on you. One minute you’re road-tripping through the Columbia River Gorge, and the next, you’re sipping Rhône-style reds at a vineyard with panoramic views and wondering if you could maybe… live here?