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Kennewick traces its roots back to the late 19th century, when it was founded as a railroad town along a major railway line in 1892. Native tribes had inhabited the area along the Columbia River for thousands of years before European settlement.
The city gained national attention in 1996 with the discovery of the Kennewick Man, a 9,000-year-old skeleton found along the river bank. This find became one of the most significant archaeological discoveries in North American history.
The city was incorporated in 1904 and grew rapidly as an agricultural hub, becoming part of the Tri-Cities region alongside Pasco and Richland. Today, Kennewick offers visitors a fascinating mix of ancient history and modern attractions.
Visitors to Kennewick can explore the Columbia Park waterfront, a sprawling 400-acre park along the river featuring playgrounds, picnic areas, and a fishing pond. The park’s family-friendly atmosphere makes it a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike.
Catch a Tri-City Americans hockey game at the Toyota Center for an exciting evening of sports entertainment, or attend a concert or convention at the Three Rivers Convention Center. The Southridge area offers excellent shopping, dining, and a lively community atmosphere.
Wine enthusiasts should explore the Red Mountain AVA, one of Washington’s premier wine regions, located just minutes from downtown. This acclaimed area is known for producing world-class Cabernet Sauvignon and other bold red wines.
The Columbia River provides excellent opportunities for boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing, with several public boat launches available throughout the area. These water activities are a defining feature of life in the Tri-Cities.
Hikers can explore the Badger Mountain Centennial Preserve, which features well-maintained trails leading to panoramic views of the Tri-Cities and the distant Blue Mountains. The summit offers a rewarding destination for hikers of all skill levels.
The Chamna Natural Preserve offers 11 miles of trails through riparian habitat and sagebrush country, ideal for trail running, hiking, and observing local wildlife. Nearby, the Sacagawea Heritage Trail provides a 23-mile paved path perfect for cycling and leisurely walks.
The East Benton County Historical Museum showcases local history with exhibits on the Kennewick Man, pioneer life, and the region’s agricultural development. It provides an excellent introduction to the area’s fascinating past.
Families will enjoy the Ges Carousel of Dreams, a beautifully restored 1910 Charles Looff carousel that delights visitors of all ages. Science enthusiasts should visit the REACH Museum, which interprets the natural history and Ice Age floods that shaped the Columbia Basin landscape.
The Columbia Gardens Wine Village offers a unique urban winery experience with multiple tasting rooms in one convenient location. The Cable Bridge, an iconic cable-stayed structure spanning the Columbia River, serves as a stunning architectural landmark visible from many vantage points around the city.
The best time to visit Kennewick is during spring and fall, when temperatures are mild and outdoor activities are most enjoyable. Spring brings beautiful wildflower blooms on Badger Mountain with daytime temperatures ranging from the comfortable 60s to 70s.
Fall offers the grape harvest season in the nearby Red Mountain AVA, along with vibrant autumn colors and numerous wine events and festivals throughout the region. Summer can be quite warm with temperatures often reaching the 90s and above, though the river provides a refreshing escape.
Winter is generally mild with occasional snowfall and temperatures in the 30s and 40s, making it a quiet and pleasant time to explore indoor attractions, tasting rooms, and museums without the crowds.