Nestled in the heart of Washington wine country, Walla Walla offers a wine tasting experience unlike any other—rich in hospitality, character, and flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned sipper or a first-time visitor, having the right itinerary can turn a good trip into a great one. This guide walks you through a full weekend of tasting, dining, and exploring all the best Walla Walla wine country has to offer.
Day 1: Explore the Vineyards of the Southside and Eastside
Start your weekend immersed in the rolling hills and views that make Walla Walla vineyards so iconic. The wine districts just outside of town—especially the Southside and Eastside—are home to some of the region’s most celebrated estate wineries.
Morning Tastings: Eastside
Begin your day at wineries that open early, so you can beat the crowds and ease into your wine tasting experiences at some of the best wineries in walla walla.
Consider visiting:
- Abeja Winery – Idyllic, rustic, and by appointment-only. This experience includes a winery tour!
- Tranche – Known for their welcoming vibe, beautifully balanced wines, and vineyard views.
- Walla Walla Vintners – One of the valley’s founding wineries with sweeping views and refined reds. Wine tasting tip: book a La Dolce Picnic to enjoy lunch here on the lawn or patio—it’s one of the best hidden gems for a midday break!
Afternoon Delights: Southside
After lunch, continue your wine journey with some of the region’s boldest and most distinctive producers.
Afternoon picks include:
- Va Piano Vineyards – Tuscany style paired with laid-back hospitality.
- Pepper Bridge Winery – Wine and food pairings, winery tours, and more!
- Caprio Cellars – A peaceful estate with food pairings and friendly winery dogs.
Day 2: Downtown Tastings & Experiences
Your second day is all about convenience, charm, and connection. Head downtown to explore Walla Walla’s walkable core of tasting rooms, where you can sample a wide range of styles without ever getting in a car.
Downtown Tastings
Downtown is bursting with energy—and tasting rooms that bring the vineyard to the city. Expect passionate pourers, artful design, and wines you won’t find anywhere else. Most downtown tasting rooms are great for walking in, so we recommend starting at your hotel and seeing where the day takes you!
Lunch Downtown
There’s tons of incredible food to be had downtown! Some of our favorites include Brasserie Four, TMACS, or Yamas Greek Eatery.
Evening Ideas
After a full day of tasting, Walla Walla offers plenty of ways to unwind and keep the good vibes going.
Consider:
- Live Music – Many local wineries like Tranche and Mercer host live music on the weekends—perfect for enjoying a final glass outdoors.
- Something Sweet – Stop by Bright’s Candies for handmade chocolates or ice cream after dinner!
- Theatre Magic: Check out The Little Theatre of Walla Walla or the Gesa Power House Theatre to see what live shows are happening during your visit!
Where to Eat in Walla Walla
Walla Walla’s restaurant scene punches well above its weight. These are our go-to recommendations for pairing great food with local wine.
- Saffron Mediterranean Kitchen – Bold spices, intimate setting, and a standout wine list.
- The Marc at The Marcus Whitman – Elegant, seasonal cuisine in one of Walla Walla’s most iconic buildings.
- Passatempo Taverna – A lively spot with handmade pastas, rustic charm, and a deep wine program.
- Maple Counter – The best breakfast in Walla Walla! Breakfast served all day, plus lunch items and an at-home feel.
- Cleveland Commons: The dining facility located at Whitman College is accessible to all, and with its beautiful campus atmosphere and incredibly affordable prices, it’s an excellent destination! As a bonus activity, take a stroll around the stunning grounds of Whitman College while savoring a coffee or snack from Cleveland Commons—an ideal way to pas an afternoon when you feel like taking a break from wine tasting.
Where to Stay in Walla Walla
Whether you’re looking for luxury, family-friendly lodging, or something in between, Walla Walla accommodations have you covered!
- The Marcus Whitman Hotel – A historic hotel in downtown Walla Walla with all the modern comforts. Bonus: Walla Walla Vintners club members save 15% on their stay—just give us a call if you’d like help booking.
- The FINCH – A boutique, design-forward hotel perfect for families and younger travelers who want to stay close to the action.
- The Inn at Abeja – Upscale and tranquil, located on a working winery just outside of town.
Wine Tasting Tips for a Memorable Weekend
- Book ahead. Wineries fill up fast, especially on weekends.
- Pace yourself. Plan no more than 3–4 tastings per day and include time for food and breaks.
- Mix it up. Try both large and small producers, old-school and modern.
- Leave room for discovery. Some of your favorite finds will be unexpected.
Final Thoughts
Walla Walla is a wine lover’s paradise—charming, unpretentious, and packed with personality. With a bit of planning, you can create a weekend that’s as relaxing as it is unforgettable. Whether you’re sipping bold reds among the vines, picnicking on a winery patio, or discovering a new favorite bottle in a downtown tasting room, your Walla Walla wine weekend starts with saying yes to the experience.
