Distance from downtown Seattle:
270 miles; 4 hours, 30 minutes

At the foot of the Blue Mountains in the southeastern corner of Washington lies Walla Walla Valley, one of our state’s most well known wine regions. Walla Walla (a Native American term for “many waters”) is nourished by waters streaming down from the mountains, which provide irrigation for the valley’s grapevines, fruit orchards, and farms. This lush valley is sprouting wineries and growing grapes so quickly that it’s hard to keep up, but the latest stats say there are close to 100 wineries and over 1,600 acres of vineyards. Walla Walla. Surprise, surprise.

Visit the Family Vineyards
Just 12 miles northeast of Walla Walla among the picturesque wheat fields of the Corkrum-Derby homestead lies Spring Valley Vineyard, a true Washington estate winery. The family’s wines are made right here, where they live and where they grow their own fruit, on land that has been in the family for five generations. Today, Spring Valley Vineyard is planted with 115 acres of varietals including Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, and Malbec. The wines reflect the distinctive character of this land and are named in honor of the family’s ancestors. Perhaps the winery’s biggest honor, however, is that its flagship wine, Uriah, has been on Wine Spectator’s list of “Top 100 Wines in the World” four times in its eight-vintage history.

Follow the North Star of Merlot
Southeast of Walla Walla lies Northstar. The name says it all. This winery is a guiding light whose sole goal is producing “the best Merlot on the planet.” Northstar’s grapes are chosen from nearly two dozen vineyard blocks around the Columbia Valley, a majority of which are over 15 years old. Combining the art of old-world winemaking with new-world innovation, Northstar has helped put Washington on the map as one of the world’s most acclaimed Merlot-producing regions. “Washington is one of the most exciting wine regions in the world,” says winemaker David Merfeld, “and Washington Merlot is the purest expression of our unique terroir.” For an interesting comparison, try Northstar’s two flagship Merlots, Columbia Valley and Walla Walla Valley.

Drink in the Tranquility
Waterbrook Winery's northwest inspired, contemporary tasting room offers visitors the perfect opportunity to take in the picturesque landscape of Walla Walla incuding the awe inspiring Blue Mountains. Relax on the patio while sipping a class of Sangiovese Rose or Melange Blanc or take in a game of bocce ball on the professionally constructed courts. Either way, it's easy to rest your cares away and bid the sun adieu at Waterbrook.

Get Schooled on Winemaking
On your way in or out of town, stop at L’Ecole N° 41 in the historic 1915 Frenchtown Schoolhouse. Founded in 1983, L’Ecole is one of Washington state’s pioneering artisan wineries. Ring the school bell then enter the charming tasting room with original chalkboards announcing new releases from their Walla Walla Valley Estate Seven Hills Vineyard. Taste award-winning wines and record your notes in chalk on the slate tasting bar. But it’s not all fun and games here—they take winemaking very seriously! L’Ecole was recognized by Wine & Spirits as Winery of the Year in its 2010 Annual Buying Guide. L’Ecole has won this award, given to only 100 wineries in the world, eight consecutive years, earning the winery a permanent place in Wine & Spirits’ Hall of Fame.

Relish in Classic Comfort
The Marcus Whitman Hotel opened in 1928 as the most luxurious hotel for miles around. Located in the heart of historic downtown Walla Walla, this beautifully renovated hotel features modern conveniences and old-world elegance. Those who stay will find themselves within walking distance of all that downtown Walla Walla has to offer.

Join the Party
A multi-faceted concept housed in a historic downtown building, Walla Faces is a unique gallery space with wine, art and entertainment all in one. Owners Rick and Debbie Johnson have combined their passions for wine, art and travel to create a  mecca for the Walla Walla tourism. In addition to their winery and gallery space, visitors can choose between two small Inns in which to stay - one on their scenic vineyard and the other in the mix of downtown. With winemaker Matt Loso at the helm of winemaking and their own in-house artist producing their labels, Walla Faces wines are an interesting tribute to people and local life. Stop in at the right time and you can enjoy live entertainment while taking in the "wall of faces" art wall along with Walla Faces wines.

Try your Luck
Only a short drive south on Highway 11 in Pendleton, Oregon lies the Wildhorse Resort & Casino, a first-class entertainment destination. More than a hotel casino, Wildhorse Resort houses a golf course, a culural institute dedicated to preserving local tribal history and will soon offer a Cineplex and an entertainment center just for kids. The resorts's many dining options are combined with an extensive Northwest wine list.

Take Home the Sweetness
What better way to celebrate Walla Walla's legendary sweet onions that to attend the Annual Walla Walla Sweet Onion Festival? This year's 27th festival will be held the weekend of July 16th and will feature street dancing, live music, a 5K run, street fair and of course, delectable sweet onion inspired foods and treats. And don't forget to pick up some Walla Walla Sweet Onions to take home!