History
Wine and nature lovers, have we got a treat for you! Begin your day with a home-style breakfast at the SagePort Grille in Richland, and then wander across the street to the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Overlook on Bateman Island, the furthest point up-river on the Columbia that Lewis and Clark ever explored. Take a leisurely stroll (or a brisk run – your choice) along the 23-mile Sacagawea Heritage Trail that winds its way through the three cities of Pasco, Richland and Kennewick, the three cites that make up the Tri-Cities.

The Sacagawea Heritage Trail honors Sacagawea, the Lemhi-Shoshone woman who served as an interpreter, guide and representative of peace for Captains Meriwether Lewis and William Clark on their expedition. The group which travelled in and around this area back in the fall of 1805 and spring of 1806 is highlighted at the interpretive center along with the area tribes of the Columbia Plateau that met with and assisted the expedition.

Nature
While in Richland, be sure to take in the Hanford Reach National Monument, the last free-flowing section of the Columbia River within the United States, carved by the massive Ice Age Floods that originated in Lake Missoula some 20,000 years ago. The best way to see it is to take an exhilarating water tour with Columbia River Journeys. They offer visitors a sneak peek into the seldom-seen lands and waters of the Reach, where coyotes outnumber people. Giant White Pelicans (endangered in most portions of the West, but common on the Reach) gracefully glide by on ten foot wingspans, trophy mule deer browse along the shores, and Great Blue Herons, terns, beaver, porcupines and other species are often seen. This special tour is generally accessible only by shallow-draft boat, and fall is a glorious time for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Wine
Now for more history: The Washington wine industry really began to take shape in the 1970’s, when traditional agriculturists started turning themselves into renegade wine grape growers, and many of them started right here in the Tri-Cites. First stop: Preston Premium Wines in Pasco. These Washington wine pioneers planted their vineyards in 1972 and set up shop here in 1976 – literally - they have a great gift shop where you’ll find bottles of their Merlot and other great reds, along with wine accessories, home decor, artisan beaded jewelry, cookbooks, and more.

Down the road, Gordon Brothers Family Vineyards chooses fruit for their wines exclusively from their own vineyards. The 2006 Merlot has a rich, well-balanced mouth-feel, and a wonderful smooth finish - a great wine to pair with your favorite grilled meats and potatoes. After all, Jeff Gordon, wife Vicki, and brother Bob began farming here in 1977 - with potatoes. Call ahead for an appointment.

For dinner, enjoy Bin No. 20 Steak and Seafood Restaurant, at the Red Lion Hotel in Pasco. This wine-centric restaurant features a comprehensive selection of Washington State wines by the glass or bottle, paired with Chef Doug Metzger’s seasonal dishes – crisp salads, wine-braised meats, artisan cheeses - that showcase the region’s agricultural bounty. Plus- you don’t have to walk far to your bed.