Outdoor Walla Walla
An itinerary with recommendations from Robert Campisi, Winemaker for Dunham Cellars
This itinerary was a part of WWander Walla Walla Valley Wine in the fall of 2019.
Robert Campisi, Winemaker, Dunham Cellars
There is no shortage of great ways to enjoy the outdoors in the Walla Walla Valley. Activities range from sipping wine on a patio to playing a round of golf. Regardless, the autumn views of the Blue Mountains and the changing leaves provide a stunning backdrop to enjoying a day in Walla Walla.
Pioneer Park, photo courtesy of City of Walla Walla Parks & Recreation
Morning
Get your day started & blood pumping with some activity. One option is setting up a tee time at Wine Valley Golf Club. If you are an early riser, you can select an early bird tee time for a discounted rate. If you don’t want to play a full round, hit the practice range for just $16 an hour.
If golf is not your scene, head over to Pioneer Park, designed in part by Frederick Law Olmstead, who designed New York City’s Central Park. Check out the Aviary, which is home to a wide variety of birds and fowl. Take a stroll around the beautiful grounds of the park, which is full of color during the fall, and maybe play some pickleball or outdoor ping pong while you are at it. I also like to bring a football, soccer ball or a frisbee to play around with in the big fields.
Afternoon
Head down the street to Public House 124 in downtown Walla Walla to enjoy lunch and a drink on their patio before you dive into wine tasting for the day.
If you need a little pick me up, stop in at the Walla Walla Roastery before beginning your wine tastings. I recommend an espresso.
When you’re ready, head over to Dunham Cellars for a tasting appointment.. If you are looking to have a little fun, head outside and play cornhole on our lawn. Make sure to say hi to our winery dog Sadie – you’ll see her wandering around the grounds.
Rosé on the lawn at Dunham Cellars
Next, head over to one of our Airport District neighbors. I recommend SMAK Wines (open Thursday-Sunday. SMAK produces rosé wines exclusively and has a different rosé for each season. Enjoy rosé all year on their patio.
Photo courtesy of Quirk Brewing
If you need a break from wine, stop by Quirk Brewing for a beer and maybe a snack from resident food truck Agapas Mexican Cravings (open Thursday-Saturday). Quirk crafts some unique brews, and you can’t go wrong, but this time of year a Stout hits the spot. They also have cornhole, if you are ready for round two.
Finish your day of wine tasting with a tasting appointment or two up Mill Creek Road at Walla Walla Vintners and ALUVÉ (open Friday-Saturday only, or by appointment).
Both have beautiful views and exquisite wines. If you are looking for round 3 of cornhole head over to Walla Walla Vintners and play a game while tasting and taking in views of one of our estate vineyards, Kenny Hill Vineyard. Alternatively, head down the road to ALUVÉ’s new tasting room and taste wines from JJ & Kelly Menozzi, who previously worked harvest and crush for Dunham Cellars.
Patio dining at Hattaway’s on Alder
Evening
When evening rolls around, head to downtown Walla Walla and take a stroll down historic Main Street. Once you’re ready for dinner, head over to Hattaway’s on Alder for locally inspired dishes with a southern twist. Make sure to order a drink from their extensive cocktail list.
Disclaimer: Please note that currently most Walla Walla Valley wineries are recommending that guests reservations to ensure social distancing and the best wine experience. Browse wineries and make reservations here.