One of the best things about visiting Walla Walla, Washington, is easy access to relaxing outdoor activities. Because of the Walla Walla Valley’s location next to the Blue Mountains, visitors are free to fill their stay with scenic hikes, wine tasting with up-close views of vineyards, or something in between.
In this list, we’ll explore four activities that can get anyone outside in green and gorgeous Walla Walla.
1. Golfing at One of Walla Walla’s Three Golf Courses
Walla Walla’s climate makes it the perfect place for a day on the course. The city’s three golf courses – Walla Walla Country Club, Veterans Memorial Golf Course, and Wine Valley Golf Club – bring their own unique personality to the green.
If you can secure a tee time at the Walla Walla Country Club, be sure to enjoy the trees along the course! During the last 30 years, the course has undergone a comprehensive reforestation program to diversify the plantings. On the edge of downtown, Veterans Memorial Golf Course boasts a traditional course and driving range with reasonable fees, including a reduced rate for players ages 18-30. The picturesque Wine Valley Golf Club – the newest course in the area – was recently named one of Golf Digest’s 100 Greatest Public Courses, one of only three Washington courses to be selected.
2. Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddle Boarding at Bennington Lake
Hardly five minutes east of Walla Walla is Bennington Lake, a treasure trove of outdoor recreation.
The lake becomes a hot spot in the warmer months due to excellent trail and water access, with one of the best ways to experience Bennington being a day on the lake itself. Fishing, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding are popular and accessible water activities at Bennington Lake, and you’re almost guaranteed to see others enjoying the water view while biking or running on the surrounding trails.
Local outfitter Adventure-Fit can rent any equipment you might need to immerse yourself in the lake’s natural beauty.
3. Ooh La La! Pétanque in Walla Walla Wine Country
There’s a good chance you’ll come across a group of friends playing this popular game during your time in Walla Walla, and we highly recommend that you give it a try! Pétanque is an outdoor bowling game of French origin in which two teams compete over who can land metal boules closest to a small wooden ball known as the jack, but the real fun of the game lies in the camaraderie with other players.
This friendly game is easy to pick up for all ages and abilities, with the Walla Walla Pétanque Club hosting open play on Sundays at Patterson Cellars. You can learn to play while enjoying a glass of wine against the backdrop of the stunning Blue Mountains.
4. Play a Game of Pickleball at Pioneer Park
In addition to beautiful grounds, recreational spaces, an aviary, a rose garden, and walking paths year-round, our city’s oldest park is also popular for America’s new favorite pastime – pickleball. The six courts located at the northeast corner of Pioneer Park draw visitors and locals alike to test their skills. Eight additional courts opened in fall 2023 at the Mill Creek Sportsplex.
Grab a paddle and some friends, and get your game on!