When you need to relax, unwind, enjoy delicious local cuisine and taste some of Washington’s best wine… where do you go? The Tri Cities probably isn’t the first area that comes to mind — but perhaps it should be. This part of the state is often overlooked, but the truth is that it’s shockingly underrated (especially if you love good food). There’s a lot to see and do in the Tri Cities, and no Washingtonian should miss out.
First, do yourself the favor of booking a stay at The Lodge at Columbia Point.
The Lodge at Columbia Point / Facebook Here, the rooms after named after local vineyards, the service is friendly, and the amenities are plentiful.
You can’t beat the location of this hotel. It sits in a quiet neighborhood in Richland, directly on the Columbia River.
The Lodge at Columbia Point / Facebook Many of the rooms have beautiful river views. But even if yours doesn’t, you can enjoy a nightcap in the lobby or by the outdoor fire pits.
The rooms are cozy and comfortable, and each come has its own fireplace and all the comforts of home.
The Lodge at Columbia Point / Facebook Room service is available from the on-site restaurant, so you can relax as much as you’d like. The only place more relaxing is the hotel’s spa.
The Tri Cities is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with trails for hiking and biking in every direction.
The Lodge at Columbia Point / Facebook If you stay at The Lodge at Columbia Point, you’ll have the Richland Riverfront Trail right outside your door. The trail spans seven scenic miles, and you’re welcome to borrow a bike from the hotel if you’d like to see it all.
If you grew up in Washington, you may remember a time when some claimed there weren’t many good dining options in this area… and we’re pleased to report those days are long gone.
Tagaris / Facebook The amount of delicious food in the Tri Cities is almost overwhelming. However, it doesn’t get much better than Tagaris Taverna.
Tagaris is recognized by ZAGAT as “1 of 8 wineries in the world with fabulous food,” which is quite an honor.
Tagaris / Facebook Rest assured, this place lives up to its reputation. Not only is the ambiance gorgeous, but the menu is fantastic. Deciding which direction to go with your food (Tapas? Seafood? A burger?) is no easy task… and there’s no wrong choice.
Obviously, the wine list here is phenomenal, and the cocktails are quite creative.
Tagaris / Facebook If you go on a warm evening, try some frozé.
J. Bookwalter Winery also has an incredible on-site restaurant called Fiction, which is quite clever.
J Bookwalter Wines / Facebook This is a farm-to-table dining spot, the definition of casual elegance.
The menu here is almost overwhelming, offering everything from appetizers and pizzas to hearty entrees like Jidori Fried Chicken and Beef Tenderloin.
Jessica Wick The baked brie here just might ruin you for all other baked bries everywhere. Order it anyway.
Fiction is open for lunch and dinner daily, and they serve a tasty Sunday brunch from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
J Bookwalter Wines / Facebook Residents of the Tri Cities definitely eat well.
As luck would have it, the Tri Cities happens to be minutes away from Red Mountain AVA, which has become a world-class wine region.
Terra Blanca Winery & Estate Vineyard / Google Terra Blanca is a must-see when you’re in the area. The estate vineyard is breathtaking, with Tuscan-inspired architecture and sweeping views.
Terra Blanca’s Vineyard Grill is the perfect place to top for lunch before your tasting.
Jessica Wick The Cabernet Burger consists of hand-pressed beef, smoked bacon, gorgonzola cheese aioli, spring mix, tomato cabernet sauce, and a brioche bun. It’s the perfect lunch to have with (you guessed it) a glass of Cabernet.
There are quite a few places to taste vino in this area, but Col Solare definitely has some of the best views.
Jessica Wick Climb the stairs and enjoy looking out over the peaceful vineyards.
The Col Solare building has a Tuscan vibe, and that’s not an accident.
Col Solare / Facebook This winery is a partnership between Tuscany’s Marchesi Antinori and Washington State’s Chateau Ste. Michelle. It’s bringing a little bit of Italy to Washington, which seems to be working well for them since their wine is delightful.
When you’re ready to leave the driving to someone else, head to Red Mountain Trails and go for a horse-drawn carriage ride through the vineyards.
Jessica Wick You can also take a horseback tour, but you’ll have to reserve it ahead of time and bring your boots.
Red Mountain Trails is owned and operated by Theresa and Jeff Owens, a couple born and raised in the area.
Jessica Wick They purchased Theresa’s family home from her mother’s estate a decade ago and combined their love of horses and wine in the best way. There’s nothing like tasting wine by the campfire after a beautiful trail ride.
Even the nightlife in the Tri Cities is having a moment, especially since Wine Social quietly opened its doors in Richland in 2020.
Wine Social Opening a new business during a pandemic, especially a lounge, is risky business indeed – but the place is thriving.
This elegant lounge is the perfect place to come when you want to enjoy a good local wine but have no idea what to drink.
Jessica Wick You’re welcome to pick a bottle from the “wine wall” or have your server help you pick the perfect glass.
Despite its name, wine isn’t the only thing on the list at Wine Social.
Jessica Wick There’s a fantastic cocktail list as well as some snacks and small bites in case you get hungry.
The next time you’re in need of a weekend getaway, don’t overlook this beautiful region. This is where a lot of our local food and wine is born, and there are all kinds of delightful local spots just waiting to be discovered.
The Lodge at Columbia Point / Facebook
Here, the rooms after named after local vineyards, the service is friendly, and the amenities are plentiful.
Many of the rooms have beautiful river views. But even if yours doesn’t, you can enjoy a nightcap in the lobby or by the outdoor fire pits.
Room service is available from the on-site restaurant, so you can relax as much as you’d like. The only place more relaxing is the hotel’s spa.
If you stay at The Lodge at Columbia Point, you’ll have the Richland Riverfront Trail right outside your door. The trail spans seven scenic miles, and you’re welcome to borrow a bike from the hotel if you’d like to see it all.
Tagaris / Facebook
The amount of delicious food in the Tri Cities is almost overwhelming. However, it doesn’t get much better than Tagaris Taverna.
Rest assured, this place lives up to its reputation. Not only is the ambiance gorgeous, but the menu is fantastic. Deciding which direction to go with your food (Tapas? Seafood? A burger?) is no easy task… and there’s no wrong choice.
If you go on a warm evening, try some frozé.
J Bookwalter Wines / Facebook
This is a farm-to-table dining spot, the definition of casual elegance.
Jessica Wick
The baked brie here just might ruin you for all other baked bries everywhere. Order it anyway.
Residents of the Tri Cities definitely eat well.
Terra Blanca Winery & Estate Vineyard / Google
Terra Blanca is a must-see when you’re in the area. The estate vineyard is breathtaking, with Tuscan-inspired architecture and sweeping views.
The Cabernet Burger consists of hand-pressed beef, smoked bacon, gorgonzola cheese aioli, spring mix, tomato cabernet sauce, and a brioche bun. It’s the perfect lunch to have with (you guessed it) a glass of Cabernet.
Climb the stairs and enjoy looking out over the peaceful vineyards.
Col Solare / Facebook
This winery is a partnership between Tuscany’s Marchesi Antinori and Washington State’s Chateau Ste. Michelle. It’s bringing a little bit of Italy to Washington, which seems to be working well for them since their wine is delightful.
Jessica Wick
You can also take a horseback tour, but you’ll have to reserve it ahead of time and bring your boots.
They purchased Theresa’s family home from her mother’s estate a decade ago and combined their love of horses and wine in the best way. There’s nothing like tasting wine by the campfire after a beautiful trail ride.
Wine Social
Opening a new business during a pandemic, especially a lounge, is risky business indeed – but the place is thriving.
You’re welcome to pick a bottle from the “wine wall” or have your server help you pick the perfect glass.
There’s a fantastic cocktail list as well as some snacks and small bites in case you get hungry.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: 530 Columbia Point Dr, Richland, WA 99352, USAAddress: 894 Tulip Ln, Richland, WA 99352, USAAddress: 844 Tulip Ln, Richland, WA 99352, USAAddress: 34715 Demoss Rd, Benton City, WA 99320, USAAddress: 50207 Antinori Road, Benton City, WA 99320, USAAddress: 27314 E Ambassador Pr NE, Benton City, WA 99320, USA
