Sunnyside Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and naturally beautiful Sunnyside in Washington with this comprehensive travel guide including places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, safety tips, and transport options.


Introduction to Sunnyside

Sunnyside is a small yet charming city located in the Columbia River Plateau region of Washington, known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture. The city’s close proximity to the Yakima River and the Rattlesnake Hills offers a plethora of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, while the museums, historic sites, and vineyards make it a cultural paradise as well. This comprehensive travel guide for Sunnyside will take you through the best places to visit, hiking and biking routes, must-try dishes and drinks, where to stay, local customs, and much more.

List of Places to Visit in Sunnyside

Sunnyside has an abundance of cultural and natural attractions. Here is a list of must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Sunnyside Historical Museum: With exhibits showcasing the history of the city, the museum is a great place to start your cultural journey in Sunnyside.

  2. American Hop Museum: This museum sheds light on the history and impact of hop industry on the development of the region.

  3. Maryhill Museum of Art: Located just an hour away, this museum showcases art from around the world and has an extensive collection of Native American artifacts.

Natural Attractions of Sunnyside: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Rattlesnake Hills: This scenic region offers stunning views from the summit such as vineyards and orchards and hiking routes for nature lovers.

  2. Yakima River: This river offers a range of water activities such as kayaking, white-water rafting, and fishing.

  3. Snipes Mountain Trail: With panoramic views of the Yakima Valley, this trail is ideal for hiking and mountain biking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sunnyside

Sunnyside is a hiker’s paradise, with numerous trails and routes. Here are some of the popular ones:

  1. Snipes Mountain Trail: This trail offers beautiful views of the valley and passes through vineyards and orchards.

  2. Horse Heaven Trail: This trail is ideal for horse riders and takes you through lush green landscapes and along the Yakima River.

  3. Sagebrush Trail: A moderate trail, this route offers stunning vistas of the Rattlesnake Mountains.

Best Things to Do in Sunnyside: Activities and Tours

  1. Tasting tours: Sunnyside is known for its wineries and vineyards, and the wine tasting tours are a must-try.

  2. River activities: Kayaking, paddleboarding, and white-water rafting are some of the popular water activities on the Yakima River.

  3. Public art tours: Explore the vibrant art scene of Sunnyside by taking a guided tour and discovering the colorful murals that adorn the city streets.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sunnyside

Here’s an itinerary to explore all the must-visit places and experiences in Sunnyside:

Day 1: Explore the Sunnyside Historical Museum and indulge in a winery tour.

Day 2: Hike on the Snipes Mountain Trail, followed by river activities on the Yakima River.

Day 3: Take a trip to the American Hop Museum and explore the Rattlesnake Hills area.

Day 4: Visit the Maryhill Museum of Art and indulge in wine tasting.

Day 5: Take a public art tour in the downtown area followed by some local shopping.

Day 6: Enjoy horse riding on the Horse Heaven Trail and soak in the scenic views.

Day 7: Relax and rejuvenate in a spa or hot spring.

Food and Drink Scene of Sunnyside

Sunnyside has a vibrant food and drink scene, with an emphasis on locally sourced produce and traditional recipes.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Yakima Valley cherries: Sunnyside is known for its delicious cherries, and you can enjoy them in various forms like pies, jams, and ice-creams.

  2. Tacos al Pastor: A local favorite, this dish comprises juicy pork, marinated in pineapple and served with fresh salsa.

  3. Grilled Peaches with Honey and Yogurt: A refreshing dessert comprising fresh peaches, yogurt, and honey, this dessert is quintessential summer in a bowl.

Local Beverages

  1. Wine: As Sunnyside is situated in the Yakima Valley, it is home to numerous wineries, and the wine tasting tours are a must-try.

  2. Craft Beer: The region has an up-and-coming craft beer scene, with breweries such as Yakima Craft Brewing Co. and Valley Brewing Co. to explore.

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

Sunnyside has several accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some options:

  1. Best Western Plus Grapevine Inn: A comfortable and affordable hotel near downtown.

  2. Sunnyside Inn Bed & Breakfast: A charming bed and breakfast located near many of the attractions.

  3. Budget Inn Yakima: This budget-friendly accommodation is ideal for those on a tight budget.

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

  1. Yakima Valley Cherries: A signature product of the region, cherries and cherry products make an excellent souvenir.

  2. Craft Beer or Wine: Bring home a bottle or two of local wine or beer as a perfect memory of your trip to Sunnyside.

Local Culture and Customs of Sunnyside

Sunnyside is a multicultural city and has a diverse range of customs and traditions. A few customs to keep in mind include respecting vineyards and farms, friendly behavior, and wearing comfortable clothing for outdoor activities.

Best Time to Visit Sunnyside

The best time to visit Sunnyside is during the summer months (June to September) when the weather is mild and sunny, and the outdoor activities are in full swing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sunnyside

Do:

  1. Respect the natural environment and local customs.

  2. Try the local cuisine and beverages, especially wine.

  3. Pack comfortable clothing and shoes for outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  1. Litter or disturb the wildlife.

  2. Wear revealing clothing in public places.

  3. Disrespect the vineyards and orchards.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sunnyside

Sunnyside is generally a safe city. However, it is essential to be cautious while hiking or taking part in water activities. Always follow the standard safety procedures, including wearing a life jacket while kayaking or white-water rafting.

Health in Sunnyside

Sunnyside has good healthcare facilities, with several hospitals and clinics available.

Getting to Sunnyside: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Sunnyside

The nearest international airport to Sunnyside is Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), located roughly 170 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Sunnyside

Greyhound Lines has a terminal located in Sunnyside.

Other Options

Driving is the most convenient way to get around Sunnyside, and car rentals are readily available.

How to Get Around in Sunnyside

The best way to get around Sunnyside is by car, although renting a bike is also an alternative.

Where to Go Next from Sunnyside: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Sunnyside is an excellent base to explore the surrounding areas such as Yakima, Richland, and Walla Walla. These towns offer numerous attractions like wineries, national parks, and museums.

Conclusion

Sunnyside is a fascinating city that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. From outdoor adventures to art tours and wine tasting, there is something for every traveler. This comprehensive travel guide will help you explore the best of Sunnyside and make unforgettable memories.