48 Hours in Walla Walla - A Long Shadows Itinerary
We believe Walla Walla is one of the most gorgeous and vibrant cities in the Northwest. It is extremely walkable, friendly, full of character, and home to world-class bakeries, restaurants, and wineries.
As you plan your next adventure to visit, we offer you some of our favorite spots to explore for a quick 48 hours in Walla Walla.
FRIDAY
While there are many wonderful hotels, inns, and B&Bs in the area, nothing is more convenient than the Marcus Whitman, in the heart of downtown. It's also the tallest building in the area giving you an easy beacon to orient yourself.
As you come into town you may want to check out Blue Mountain Lavender Farm with its tours, gifts, and you-pick lavender, or the celebrated Frog Hollow Farm that offers gorgeous local produce, prepared food, and crafts.
After checking in, head over for a delightful tasting at D’Olivo Olive Oil Tasting Bar to sample their artisan oils and vinegars. They also have a great selection of home goods, loose leaf teas, and other gifts.
For dinner consider reservations at Brasserie Four, where you can enjoy moule frites or boeuf bourguignon along with a comprehensive wine list. Or, dig into a juicy prime rib or melt-in-your-mouth filet mignon at Walla Walla Steak Co. located in an old downtown train depot.
After dinner, take a stroll through the rest of downtown to get familiar with your next day's adventure, taking in the cute shops, public art, and interesting architecture.
SATURDAY
Your Saturday, in all likelihood, will be all about wine tasting.
Before heading out, you'll want to stock up on provisions. Colville Street Patisserie is the place to grab classic French pastries and cakes to start the day. You may also want to explore the vibrant downtown Farmer's Market (9am to 1pm) where you can find all sorts of goodies. Depending on your lunch and/or picnic plans, you could swing by FoodScape and Butcher Butcher to stock your cooler with breads, cheeses, and charcuterie. After all, it's better to be prepared than to be hungry.
With your car fully stocked it's time to start your wine tasting day with us at Long Shadows, a quick 15 minute drive from downtown. We were recently voted the #1 tasting room in the country by USA Today. Our Chihuly Tasting Room features a museum-level collection of Chihuly glass art. We have a variety of tasting and food pairing options, and reservations are recommended.
We invite you to enjoy our outdoor patio with views of the Blue Mountains, and be sure to try your hand at a little pétanque while sampling our Bordeaux-inspired wines: Pedestal, Pirouette, and Feather.
When you head back to Walla Walla for dinner, put Passatempo Taverna on your list. We love the marinated olives, meatballs, classic bolognese, and the prosciutto pizza. Boun appetito! They also feature a robust wine list sure to delight your senses.
If you’re looking for some farm-to-table, seasonal fine dining, you should check out Kinglet. They offer a fixed tasting menu that is simply amazing. Sit back and be in the moment as your courses come to you in perfect harmony.
After dinner you can enjoy some live music. Every Saturday (4pm to 10pm) through early September the Summer Concert Series in Heritage Square Park on Main Street features local musicians and lively entertainment.
SUNDAY
Of course, if you intend to enjoy another day of wine tasting, please do not let us stop you!
Before you head out, grab a hearty breakfast at Bacon and Eggs. This locavore restaurant features all of your favorites from classic omelets to decadent brioche French toast to Eggs Benedicts four different ways.
If you eschew the wine tasting and want to spend a little time outside, we suggest heading toward the Blue Mountains to explore one of the many premier hiking adventures. There’s Mill Creek and Bennington Lake just a short drive from town with over 20 miles of trails to explore. Or, a short, scenic 30-minute drive from Walla Walla is the West Tiger Creek Trail in the Umatilla National Forest which offers a 4-mile out and back hike year round.
Back in town, indulge your sweet tooth (you’ve earned it!) with a trip to Bright's Candies, a Walla Walla institution since 1934, for some fresh chocolates, confections, and caramel corn. Or, cleanse your palate with premium hand-crafted small batch ice cream at Pine Cone Creamery. The bourbon caramel pecan and honey lavender are not to be missed.
With your sweet tooth satisfied you can explore a few more shops like Tra Vigne’s expansive collection of antiques, art, and furniture or 35th and Butter, a downtown gift shop where you can grab souvenirs for your friends and family.
We hope you enjoy our recommendations and they’ve ignited a love for our special piece of the world. We know you'll be back, and we’ll be waiting for you!