Zillah Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Zillah, Washington with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Zillah

Zillah is a charming city located in the Columbia River Plateau region of Washington. The city is known for its beautiful wineries, stunning natural attractions, and rich history. Zillah is a perfect destination for travelers who want to experience the beauty of Washington’s wine country, explore the beautiful outdoors and learn about the local history and culture.

List of Places to Visit in Zillah

Zillah has a lot to offer to every kind of traveler. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s cultural attractions or want to spend time in nature, Zillah has something for you. Here are some of the best places to visit in Zillah:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Teapot Dome Service Station: A historic gas station built in the 1920s and famous for its unique teapot shape.
  • Northern Pacific Railway Museum: Learn about the history of the railway system in the Pacific Northwest and explore the historic railway cars and artifacts.
  • Bon Vino’s Bistro and Bakery: A charming restaurant housed in a restored 1906 farmhouse, serving delicious food and drink with a countryside vibe.
  • Applewood Outfitters: An outfitting company of cowboys that provides guided horseback tours through the beautiful nature of Zillah.

Natural Attractions of Zillah: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Toppenish National Wildlife Refuge: A wildlife sanctuary that spans over 17,000 acres and offers a perfect place for bird watching, fishing, and hiking.
  • Tapteil Vineyard Winery: A family-owned and operated winery that boasts incredible views of the Yakima Valley and offers wine tasting and events.
  • Zillah Lakes: Take a dip in the clear waters and enjoy a picnic with family and friends at this beautiful lake surrounded by pine trees.
  • Chorro Creek Bog and Wetlands Conservation Area: A natural wonderland home to rare and endangered species of flora and fauna.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Zillah

If you are interested in exploring the outdoors of Zillah, then there are plenty of hiking and biking routes to explore. Some of the best trails include:

  • Cowiche Canyon Trailhead: A 2-mile trek that takes you through the breathtaking landscape of Cowiche Canyon.
  • White Pass Scenic Byway: The byway spans over 100 miles and offers stunning views of the Cascade Mountains.
  • Umtanum Creek Trail: This trail takes hikers through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Yakima River Canyon.
  • Yakima Greenway: A scenic trail stretching over 20 miles, offering picturesque views of the Yakima River.

Best Things to Do in Zillah: Activities and Tours

From exploring the local wineries to taking a hot-air balloon ride, there are numerous activities and tours in Zillah. Some of the best things to do in Zillah include:

  • Wine Tasting Tours: With dozens of local wineries, there are plenty of options for wine lovers to indulge in a wine tasting tour.
  • Hot Air Balloon Rides: A unique way to explore and appreciate the beauty of Zillah’s natural landscape.
  • Zillah’s Farmers Market: This markets offers fresh local produce, artisanal products, and delicious food.
  • Micro-brewery and pub hopping: With various craft breweries and family-friendly pubs around Zillah, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Week-Long Itinerary for Zillah

Day 1 - Visit the historic Teapot Dome Service Station and the Northern Pacific Railway Museum. Enjoy a delicious meal at Bon Vino’s Bistro and Bakery.

Day 2 - Spend the day at Toppenish National Wildlife Refuge, taking in the stunning nature views while bird watching, fishing, and hiking.

Day 3 - Explore the local wineries like Tapteil Vineyard Winery and enjoy the Yakima Valley’s gorgeous wine country scenery.

Day 4 - Visit the natural wonderland of Chorro Creek Bog and Wetlands Conservation Area and take guided horseback tours at Applewood Outfitters.

Day 5 - Hike the Cowiche Canyon Trailhead or take a hot-air balloon ride for breathtaking views of Yakima River Canyon.

Day 6 - Experience the local culture and taste the produce in Zillah’s Farmers Market and finish the day exploring local pubs and micro-breweries in Zillah.

Day 7 - Spend the day at Zillah Lakes, lounging and taking a refreshing dip in the clear waters!

Food and Drink Scene of Zillah

Zillah’s food and drink culture is a reflection of its rich history and beautiful countryside vibe. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Zillah:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fresh local produce including fruits, vegetables and artisanal cheeses
  • Bison Burgers from local bison farms
  • Fresh Trout from the nearby Yakima River
  • Handcrafted ice cream using local ingredients at local shops

Local Beverages

  • Yakima Valley Wine: This region is famous for its wines, and Zillah has numerous local vineyards and wineries for you to choose from.
  • Craft Beer: Enjoy some deliciously brewed beer from nearby breweries like Bale Breaker Brewery, one of the top-rated breweries on the West Coast.

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

Zillah offers various options for lodging, including hotels, hostels, and cozy guesthouses. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Cherry Wood Bed Breakfast and Barn: This cozy guesthouse offers beautiful panoramic views of the valley.
  • Best Western Plus Vintage Valley Inn: This beautiful hotel is perfect for families and travelers seeking a peaceful stay.
  • Yakima Valley RV Resorts: A family-friendly RV resort with numerous amenities, including a pool, laundry, and car wash facilities.

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

Zillah boasts numerous locally produced products from the area’s wineries, farms, and artisans. Here are some of the top local souvenirs and products to bring back home:

  • Local Wines and craft beer: Experience Zillah’s wine country and bring back a bottle or two from the vineyards and wineries.
  • Handcrafted Artisanal Cheese: These cheeses are made with the freshest local milk, offering unique flavors and a taste of Washington.
  • Local produce: Bring home the freshest fruits like apples, blueberries, and cherries that are produced in the region.

Local Culture and Customs of Zillah

Zillah has a rich culture that reflects its diverse history and natural beauty. The locals pride themselves on the city’s rural charm, natural landscapes, and thriving agriculture.

Best Time to Visit Zillah

The best time to visit Zillah is during the summer months between June and September when the temperature is pleasant, and nature is at its best.

Do’s and Don’ts of Zillah

Do:

  • Visit the local wineries and breweries, and experience the unique flavors of Yakima Valley.
  • Explore the beautiful outdoors of Zillah and take advantage of the numerous hiking and biking trails.
  • Be respectful towards the local culture and customs.

Don’t:

  • Do not litter or harm the natural environment of Zillah.
  • Avoid visiting during the winter when the weather is cold, and many of the outdoor activities are unavailable.

Safety and Health

Safety in Zillah

Zillah is a relatively safe city with a low crime rate. However, it is always recommended to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings while traveling.

Health in Zillah

Zillah has excellent healthcare facilities, which offer medical assistance and emergency services to both tourists and residents alike.

Getting to Zillah: Transportation Options and Logistics

Zillah is easily accessible by road, air, and bus. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Zillah

The closest airports to Zillah are Yakima Air Terminal, Pasco International Airport, and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. Both Yakima and Pasco are within an hour’s drive of Zillah.

Bus Stations Near Zillah

Greyhound Bus Lines offers services to and from Yakima and Pasco, which are the closest bus stations to Zillah.

Other Options

You can also rent a car or take a taxi for a more personalized and comfortable travel experience.

How to Get Around in Zillah

Zillah is a relatively small city, so walking and biking are great options to explore the city. Taxis and rental cars are also available. Bike rentals are also widely available.

Where to Go Next from Zillah: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Zillah is surrounded by some of Washington’s top attractions, including Yakima, the Hanford Reservation, and Mount Rainier National Park, which are all within easy reach. Other notable nearby destinations include Toppenish and Prosser.

Conclusion

Zillah is a beautiful destination that offers something for every kind of traveler. From exploring the local vineyards and wineries to hiking the diverse landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, Zillah has it all. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your next trip and make the most of your time in Zillah, Washington.

Teapot Dome Gas Station Teapot Dome Gas Station