Here is info about tent camping, camper van and RV parking, and restaurants near Central Washington University. Housing and dining are also available on the CWU campus amidst Zimfest activities. CWU is close to downtown Ellensburg, within short driving distance of over 700 motel rooms and 35 restaurants.
Hotels
A planned-for Zimfest group discount at the Red Lion Hotel and Conference Center in Ellensburg did not work out due to a misunderstanding between our volunteer and the hotel management, and an apparent missed deadline. Unfortunately, our research did not turn up any other possible hotels offering discounts.
Tent Camping
Tent camping is not allowed on the CWU campus, but we have been fortunate to secure ample space for Zimfest campers at the Kittitas Valley Event Center. KVEC is the home of the famed Ellensburg Rodeo! It is a quiet spot when no events are scheduled, and is within easy walking distance of our CWU festival site.
These inexpensive dry camping (tents only) sites are located at the Yakama Village, at the NE corner of Alder St and 8th Ave. Campers can register and pre-pay for space through Zimfest registration (scheduled to open in early May) at $20 per night, per tent.
Tent Camping Area at KVEC (click to expand)
The Yakama Village is a pleasant grassy area on the north side of a running creek, with lots of shade trees. Public restrooms with toilets and showers are available nearby at KVEC Western Village by heading west on E 8th St. Zimfest will rent additional port-a-potties to be placed right at the grassy edge of the Yakama Village.
Camper Van and RV Parking
Neither Zimfest venue allows RV parking. And no RV parks near Ellensburg have been found that we can recommend. However, we have been informed that it is legal to park vehicles such as camper vans on public thoroughfares off-campus, and N. Adler Street which runs between the CWU campus and the KV Event Center is recommended. Parking here would be free, but at your own risk!
Restaurants Closest to CWU Campus
These places are located along University Way, on the south edge of campus, about a 6-minute walk from the SURC.
Campus U-Tote-Em
Retro Burger, Fry & Shake joint.
810 E University Way • (509) 925-1600
Island Fusion
Caribbean, Pacific Island and African food.
702 E University Way • (360) 919-4044
Utopia Frozen Yogurt & Coffee House
Like the name says, plus bagels, sandwiches and a nice atmosphere.
706 E University Way • (509) 933-1400
Winegar’s Coffee & Creamery
Housemade ice cream and coffee drinks.
1013 E University Way • (509) 933-1821
Starbucks
908 E 10th Ave • (509) 925-7877
Subway
1005 E University Way • (509) 925-4422
Restaurants Nearby (1/2 to 1 mile from SURC)
Cornerstone Italian Kitchen
Fire-roasted pizzas, sandwiches, beer & wine.
307 E 5th Ave • (509) 933-3600
The Early Bird
Breakfast!!
412 N Main St • (509) 968-5288
Ellensburg Pasta Company
Italian café with gluten-free options, local beer & wine.
600 N Main St • (509) 933-3330
Fidelina’s
Classic, fresh Mexican fare with vegan options.
119 W 5th Ave #103 • (509) 962-2347
The Red Pickle
Formerly a food truck, this “easygoing eatery” serves burgers, fries, tacos, beer and cocktails.
301 N Pine St • (509) 367-0003
Sugar Thai Food
Traditional Thai favorites like curries and noodles, plus beer and wine.
306 N Pine St • (509) 933-4224
Taste of India
Cozy café atmosphere with generous portions.
207 N Main St • (509) 933-1313
