Ritzville Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Ritzville with our comprehensive guide. Explore its natural and cultural attractions, food scene, local customs, and more!


Introduction to Ritzville

Ritzville is a charming town located in Adams County, in the heart of the Columbia River Plateau region of Washington state, in the Pacific Northwest of the United States. It is a true oasis in the middle of the arid landscape, surrounded by wheat fields and rolling hills. Ritzville is rich in history and culture, with several museums and historical landmarks, as well as natural attractions that offer breathtaking outdoor experiences. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure-packed vacation, Ritzville will not disappoint.

List of Places to Visit in Ritzville

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • (1) Carnegie Library: It was built in 1911 and now serves as a museum that showcases the local history and culture of Ritzville.
  • (2) Milwaukee Road Depot: It was once a major rail stop and is now a museum that features exhibits on the history of the railroad in Ritzville.
  • (3) Ritzville Historic District: It is a charming area of the town that has been preserved with original buildings and architecture from the early 1900s.
  • (4) Washington State Wheat Land Heritage Center: It is a museum dedicated to the wheat industry that has been vital to the area’s economy for over a century.
  • (5) Ronald Reagan Heritage Trail: It is a self-guided tour of the area where the famous American president once lived and worked.

Natural Attractions of Ritzville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • (1) Pioneer Park: It is a beautifully landscaped park that offers visitors picnic areas, walking trails, and a playground for children.
  • (2) Dusty Lake: It is a small lake that offers fishing, canoeing, and paddle boating during the summer months.
  • (3) Ritzville Reservoir: It is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming during the summer months.
  • (4) Palouse Falls State Park: It is a short drive from Ritzville and offers stunning views of a beautiful waterfall, hiking trails, and camping facilities.
  • (5) Steptoe Butte State Park: It is a scenic drive from Ritzville that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ritzville

  • (1) Fishtrap Lake: It is a 45-minute drive from Ritzville and offers a beautiful hiking trail around the lake.
  • (2) McCoy Lake Interpretive Trail: It is a short, easy walk through a wetland area that attracts a variety of animals and birds.
  • (3) Chief Timothy Park Trail: It is a longer hike that takes you through the forest and down to the Snake River.

Best Things to Do in Ritzville: Activities and Tours

  • (1) Horseback Riding: There are several local businesses that offer horseback riding tours of the area.
  • (2) Golfing: Ritzville has a beautiful 9-hole golf course that is open to the public.
  • (3) Wine Tasting: Ritzville is part of the Palouse Wine Region, and there are several local wineries that offer wine tastings.
  • (4) Fishing: Visitors can enjoy fishing in the nearby Ritzville Reservoir, as well as in other nearby lakes and rivers.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ritzville

Day Activity
1 Visit the Carnegie Library and the Milwaukee Road Depot.
2 Explore the Ritzville Historic District and the Washington State Wheat Land Heritage Center.
3 Take a tour of the Ronald Reagan Heritage Trail and visit Pioneer Park.
4 Visit Dusty Lake and the Ritzville Reservoir.
5 Take a day trip to Palouse Falls State Park.
6 Hike the Chief Timothy Park Trail in the morning and go horseback riding in the afternoon.
7 Golf in the morning and go wine tasting in the afternoon.

Food and Drink Scene of Ritzville

Must-Try Dishes

  • (1) Wheat Berry Salad: A refreshing dish made with locally grown wheat berries, fresh vegetables, and a light dressing.
  • (2) Cowboy Steak: A juicy and tender steak served with a side of mashed potatoes and gravy.
  • (3) Apple Pie: A classic dessert made with locally grown apples and served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Local Beverages

  • (1) Palouse Wineries: Ritzville is part of the Palouse Wine Region, and there are several local wineries that offer delicious wines.
  • (2) Craft Beer: There are several local breweries that offer a variety of craft beers.

Where to Stay in Ritzville: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • (1) Best Western Plus: A modern hotel with comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and an indoor pool and hot tub.
  • (2) Cedars Inn and Suites: A charming hotel with a cozy atmosphere, a continental breakfast, and an outdoor pool.
  • (3) Top Hat Motel: A budget-friendly option with clean rooms and friendly service.
  • (4) Peach Tree Inn: A family-friendly hotel with spacious rooms and a hot tub.

What to Buy in Ritzville: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • (1) Wheat Products: Ritzville is known for its wheat production, and there are several local stores that offer a variety of wheat products, such as flour, bread, and cookies.
  • (2) Handmade Crafts: There are several local artisans that offer handcrafted items, such as pottery, jewelry, and artwork.

Local Culture and Customs of Ritzville

Ritzville is known for its friendly and welcoming community. Visitors should respect local customs and traditions, such as being polite and courteous to others, respecting private property, and being mindful of the environment.

Best Time to Visit Ritzville

The best time to visit Ritzville is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the outdoor attractions are in full swing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ritzville

Do:

  • (1) Respect local customs and traditions.
  • (2) Enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
  • (3) Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • (1) Litter or damage the environment.
  • (2) Trespass on private property.
  • (3) Ignore the rules and regulations of the parks and attractions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ritzville

Ritzville is a safe and friendly town, but visitors should take precautions to ensure their safety. They should lock their vehicles and secure their belongings, especially when leaving them unattended. They should also be aware of their surroundings and avoid walking alone at night.

Health in Ritzville

Visitors should bring any necessary medication with them, as there are limited medical facilities in the area. In case of an emergency, they should call 911 or go to the nearest hospital, which is located in Moses Lake, about 30 miles from Ritzville.

Getting to Ritzville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ritzville

The nearest airport to Ritzville is the Spokane International Airport, which is about 85 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Ritzville

Greyhound offers several bus routes that stop in Ritzville.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or take a taxi to reach Ritzville.

How to Get Around in Ritzville

Visitors can explore Ritzville by car, bike, or on foot. There are also several local businesses that offer tours of the area, such as horseback riding and wine tasting tours.

Where to Go Next from Ritzville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • (1) Moses Lake: A nearby city that offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as boating, fishing, and camping.
  • (2) Spokane: A larger city that offers museums, restaurants, and shopping.
  • (3) Coeur d’Alene: A scenic town that offers beautiful scenery, outdoor activities, and a charming downtown area.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a quiet and charming getaway, Ritzville is the perfect destination. From its natural and cultural attractions to its delicious cuisine and friendly community, Ritzville has something for everyone. Plan your trip today and experience all that this hidden gem has to offer!