(Listed in order of Trip Advisor rankings)
Wild Horse Renewable Energy Center
Located about a half hour’s drive from downtown Ellensburg, this is one of the area’s most highly-rated attractions. Learn about renewable energy while taking in ridgetop views of the Cascade volcanoes, Kittitas Valley, and Columbia Basin. Wind turbine tours daily at 10 am and 2 pm, or by appointment.
Kittitas County Historical Museum
Spanning Kittitas County history from ancient to modern times, this little museum is situated right downtown and described as a “hidden gem” and “must do” destination. Features Native American artifacts, geologic specimens and historic technology such as old telephones and cars, among many other treasures. Free of charge.
Dick and Jane’s Spot
A private residence whose yard is filled with handmade art: fanciful sculptures made of found objects and decorated with colorful painting. As one reviewer described it: “The decor is like a curiosity shop born from junkyard and thrift store parents.”
Irene Rhinehart Riverfront Park
Walking trails, picnic spots, swimming and wildlife viewing (reports of salmon and beavers!), and an off-leash dog swimming area.
Iron Horse Brewery
Craft brewery and tap room less than a mile east of campus. Known for its popular “Death Family” of beers (Irish Death, Mocha Death, etc.), but featuring a variety of other brews as well.
Olmstead Place Historical State Park
Located 4 miles east of Ellensburg, this park preserves a pioneer homestead and depicts farming life in the late 19th century. Check out the historic buildings, Visitor Center, and creekside interpretive trail. Free guided tours offered on weekends and additional days by arrangement. Open daily 6:30 am to dusk. Entrance requires a one-day ($10) or annual ($30) WA State Recreation Discover Pass.
Clymer Museum of Art
A blend of art and history, this museum/gallery features the historical paintings of John Ford Clymer (1907-1989) as well as rotating exhibits by current-day Western artists. Reviews mention a nice Western-themed gift shop. Located in downtown Ellensburg and open Wed – Fri 11:00-5:00, Sat 12:00-3:00. Admission is free/by donation.
Gård Vintners
A downtown Ellensburg tasting room for the Gård Estate of the Columbia Valley. Wine flights for $20 or complimentary with 2-bottle purchase. Also offers wines by the glass, craft beer, artisan food, gifts, and live music. Described as “hip” and “not inexpensive but worth it.”
Umtanum Canyon Trail
Find this scenic hike about 25 minutes south of CWU (directions in link below). Cross the Yakima River on a “wiggly” suspension bridge to hike along a creek flanked by towering basalt formations. Visitors report a fairly easy trail, wildlife sightings, including eagles, bighorn sheep and rattlesnakes(!). There is a $5 parking fee.
