300 days of sunshine, great Northwest wines, microbrews made with locally grown hops, the best cherries in the world and beautiful scenery are just a few of the things that bring visitors to Yakima and the surrounding Yakima Valley. Situated in South Central Washington where the Naches and Yakima Rivers come together, Yakima is also known for outdoor activities that include "blue ribbon" fly fishing and "lazy rafting" through incredible river-carved basalt rock formations.

In Yakima itself, the North Front Street Historical District includes a 22-car train filled with restaurants and shops along with the turn-of-the-century Capitol Theatre. There is also the Yakima Valley Museum, which includes an "underground" children's museum and an award-winning old-fashioned soda fountain. From town, it's easy to access the Greenway, a 10-mile path that follows the Yakima and Naches Rivers. Great for walkers, runners, cyclists and in-line skaters, the Greenway also provides access to parks, playgrounds and nature trails.

A trip south through the Yakima Valley will take you through several interesting smaller cities and right into the heart of Washington State's wine country. The 50 or so wineries in the area range from well-known labels like Columbia Crest to a myriad of small, family owned operations that are happy to share their stories and vintages with you. Along the way, be sure to stop in Toppenish, the "City of Murals," for a taste of the Old West, and the Yakama Nation Cultural Center for an understanding of the history and present life of the Yakama Tribe.