Location: Walla Walla
Top Things to do in Walla Walla
6 Museums in Walla Walla That You Shouldn't Miss
Wineries are beginning to rival the sweet-tasting Walla Walla onion as the hallmark of this lovely town at the foot of the Blue Mountains. In fact, the combination of excellent wineries and appealing scenery has put Walla Walla on the map as one of the country's hottest new wine-touring regions. The town's rich history, starting with the Indian tribes who first settled here followed by the early pioneers, the establishment and subsequent tragic demise of a famous mission and then a gold rush, is also a tourist draw. Fascinating museums and historic attractions bring this past to life. Music and the arts are a vital part of this culturally conscious college town, which boasts one of the oldest symphony orchestras west of the Mississippi, frequent summertime blues and jazz concerts, arts festivals and at least 15 art galleries. A revitalized downtown features restored 19th-century buildings, restaurants, galleries and wine-tasting rooms. If you're itching for outdoor fun, head east for hiking, mountain biking and fishing in the Blue Mountains or take the relatively easy Stateline Loop bike trail to Oregon and back.
Restaurants in Walla Walla
1. Children's Museum of Walla Walla
2. Combine Art Collective
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3 reviews
Reviewed By lisakhansen
What a fabulous place to find unique items from local talents! A variety of mediums makes for a total can't-miss experience.
3. Whitman Mission
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 292 reviews
This National Historic Site marks the location of the Waiilatpu Mission, a Presbyterian mission ministering to the Cayuse Indians from 1836 to 1847. The mission, a way station for Oregon Trail pioneers, ended tragically with the killing of missionaries by the Cayuse.
Reviewed By FSTPTCH291
If you are interested in a glimpse of the native american and pioneer struggle this is a fascinating snap shot. The documentation of what happened to the Whitman family and is a story that stretches time. I went with my 4 year old and she walked the entire park. The interpretive center was full of things for her little hands to touch and the Ranger was very kind in explaining everything too.
4. Fort Walla Walla Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 303 reviews
Fort Walla Walla Museum is a walking museum located on 17 acres, and is a must-see for visitors. As the primary caretaker of the cultural and historical heritage of the Walla Walla Valley, the Museum features four large exhibit halls housing thousands of artifacts, a pioneer village, a 33-mule team hitched to a wooden combine, and more. The Entrance Building features several galleries, including one for rotating special exhibits, and an admission-free Museum Store filled with books and heritage gifts. On the lower level of the grounds is a Pioneer Village with 17 buildings, many of them furnished, for guests to explore. There are more than 40 living history performances every year that take place in the village. The Museum also hosts additional activities, classes, and events—like the free Museum After Hours presentation series, which features thought-provoking topics on everything from history to conservation. The Fort Walla Walla Museum provides a memorable experience for the whole family, and you’re sure to learn something new during every visit. Come see what’s new at the old fort today!
Reviewed By Bear_over_mountain - Oregon City, United States
This Museum should not be missed! We brought our friends along for our second visit to this indoor/ outdoor collection of historical artifacts and buildings related to the development of the region, including the military base, the agriculture, the early settlers and even the local prison. A great place to bring children ( there is even a play structure to climb) and make sure you leave time to browse through the gift shop.
5. Kirkman House Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 62 reviews
We are currently on Winter hours. Visit one of Walla Walla's oldest mansions and learn how a young textile salesman from England made his fortune in Americas Wild West. William Kirkman became a pillar of the community and completed this grand home in 1880. Today it is a place to tell his story and that of early Walla Walla through permanent and temporary exhibits and events. The home is populated with family heirlooms and period pieces to illustrate daily Victorian life.Visit the museum web site for all the latest news on exhibits and events. In 2018 we opened a permanent interactive exhibit featuring actor Adam West. Adam is from Walla Walla and the exhibit follows his life from childhood and is heavily weighted towards his version of Batman. If you love his Batman you won't want to miss this experience. We are also open by appointment so if you know you will be here on an off day let us know at least a week ahead and we will be happy to show you around. It's best to use email.
Reviewed By RicheleL7 - Walla Walla, United States
We gathered a group of eight friends for a fun night of playing the murder mystery at the museum game. It was the best time! We each chose a Walla Walla historic character and went through the dark house collecting clues with only a lantern to guide us. It was spooky and super fun! The Kirkman House did a wonderful job putting this together. It's just like Clue only WE were the characters!
6. Art Gallery at the Marcus Whitman Hotel & Conference Center
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 45 reviews
Reviewed By 1Buckster - Bellevue, United States
Well-worth a visit to understand the early days...especialy of the tragic event w/the Whotman family.
