Welcome to Eastern Washington Windermere

YAKIMA COUNTY

County Offices
128 North 2nd Street
Yakima 509-574-1100
https://yakimacounty.us/

Chamber of Commerce
10 North 9th Street
Yakima 509-248-2021
https://www.yakima.org/

Yakima County attracts newcomers with a blend of employment opportunities, superior medical resources, excellent educational opportunities, affordable real estate, and world-class recreation. Proud of its agricultural heritage, Yakima County is the 12th largest farming area in the nation and has the highest level of agricultural activity by value in Washington State. Adding strength and diversity to the economy, other major industries include warehousing, manufacturing, services, and healthcare. The latter has been a significant generator of new jobs and local employment over the past decade. Serving as a healthcare hub for a seven-county region, Yakima County is home to local hospitals, numerous specialty clinics, and a growing array of medical services. This area has also emerged as the region’s financial and commercial center for accounting, legal, financial, and insurance firms.

Both livable and affordable, Yakima County is well-served by bus, air, and highway. The local Yakima Air Terminal-McCallister Field supports business jets and lightweight aircraft along with commercial airline service to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. Even the location of the Yakima Valley is an important asset. Surrounding points of interest and premier recreational destinations include Mount Rainer National Park, Goat Rocks and William O. Douglas wildernesses, Wenatchee National Forest, Yakima River Canyon Scenic Byway, three wildlife areas, Ahtanum Multiple Use Area, Toppenish National Wildlife Area, White Pass Scenic Byway, and Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail. Newcomers will find an impressive array of affordable housing options, from starter homes and quiet country living to luxurious properties in suburban settings or custom builds on generous lots.

Services

Students of all ages will find quality educational opportunities in and near Yakima County, an area that excels in alternative and innovative learning environments. Choices include private and parochial schools, Discovery Lab, homeschool co-ops, and online programs. Those looking for an emphasis on STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) will find summer programs, robotics courses, and new partnerships with businesses for student apprenticeships to bridge school and career. High school students can earn college credit or acquire relevant skills and training at Yakima Valley Tech. Career training or transfer degrees can begin close to home at Yakima Valley College, while Perry Technical Institute provides programs leading to in-demand jobs. In the city of Toppenish, the private Heritage University offers more than 40 majors in 20 different departments that include a Physician Assistant Educational Program and Bachelor of Science in Nursing as well as graduate degree options and online degree programs. The campus for Central Washington University is located in Ellensburg, offering more than 135 majors and 32 master’s degree programs. The most recent addition to this impressive list is Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences, a medical university that confers doctoral degrees in osteopathic medicine.

Access to state-of-the-art healthcare resources and facilities is assured throughout Yakima County, anchored by Astria Regional Medical Center and Astria Heart Institute in Yakima. Comprehensive services include open-heart surgery, robotics, neurosurgery, and nationally ranked inpatient rehabilitation. Located in Sunnyside, Astria Sunnyside Hospital is a Level I cardiac facility with emergency care, cancer care, and specialized services that include nephrology, rheumatology, endocrinology, oncology, podiatry, and sleep medicine. The 63-bed Astria Toppenish Hospital in Toppenish has recently expanded capabilities in surgery and imaging and added a beautiful state-of-the-art maternity center. Independent and locally operated, Yakama Valley Memorial provides comprehensive services and specialties that include a cancer center, mammography center, hospice and respite care, pain management, an advanced NICU unit, and Children’s Village for advanced services. Throughout the county, clinics for primary care and physician specialties meet most healthcare needs close to home.

Lifestyle

Newcomers to Yakima County can look forward to a truly exceptional quality of life, from easy access to regional destinations like Mount Rainer National Park and Wenatchee National Forest to hiking the ridges of Yakima Valley. Eight national protected areas cover more than one million acres of forest. Families will appreciate more than 200 miles of kid-friendly hiking and biking trails, 46 acres of pristine parks and the Yakima Arboretum, local swimming pools, summer campus, and family fun centers. Outdoor adventures close to home or within a short drive include horseback riding, mountain biking, fly-fishing, camping, kayaking and winter sports from snowboarding and skiing to snowmobiling. Local eateries, food trucks, and restaurants reflect the colorful diversity of this lively region with countless options for authentic Mexican food along with Thai, Brazilian, French, Vietnamese, Italian, Indian, Greek, and farm-to-table cuisine. Whether you enjoy mall shopping or charming downtown districts, the county is filled with boutiques, specialty retail shops, book and gift stores, and antique dealers. This area is also famous for craft beverages like artisanal beer, cider, spirits, and fine local wine.

Appreciation for the arts is equally evident throughout Yakima County, where attractive venues host everything from outdoor summer concerts to world-class productions. Home to the Yakima Symphony Orchestra, the gloriously refurbished 1,500-seat Capitol Theatre fills the calendar with exciting events and performances for audiences of all ages. Seasons Performance Hall showcases the majesty of 17th century Italian architectural design elements including stunning stained-glass windows and a soaring arched ceiling for exceptional jazz and classical concert acoustics. Larsen Gallery is the premier destination for curated, diverse exhibits and special events. For a more intimate experience, the area is home to 4th Street Theatre, Akin Center Theatre, and Warehouse Theatre. Wonderful museums preserve and interpret the region’s history and culture in venues like Yakama Nation Cultural Center in Toppenish, the Central Washington Agricultural Museum, Fort Simcoe Historical State Park, Northern Pacific Railway Museum, and Yakima Valley Museum. Throughout the year, Yakima County communities host annual events, holiday celebrations, and festivals with great food, games, music, and old-fashioned fun. Crowning a truly exceptional array of attractions and advantages, the greatest asset in Yakima County lies in the friendly and caring people who call it home.

COMMUNITIES

Grandview
Municipal Offices
509-882-9200
https://grandview.wa.us/

Chamber of Commerce
509-882-2100
https://www.visitgrandview.com
The small but lively city of Grandview is located midway between Yakima and the Tri-Cities of Richland, Pasco, and Kennewick for easy access to expanded urban amenities, services, and resources. The area is well-known for its rich variety of agricultural activity from hops, corn, wheat, and dairy to vegetables and fruits. Supporting these industries, Grandview is home to several processing plants and cold-storage facilities. The city’s name was derived from an idyllic location that offers “grand views” of majestic Mount Rainier and Mount Adams to the west, and Rattlesnake Hills and Horse Heaven Hills to the north and south. This progressive community enjoys the vitality of a re-imagined six-block area of the downtown district that was transformed by the “Downtown Alive!” initiative. Streetscape improvements included flower pots, textured paving, and the natural beauty of shade trees and shrubs. Garnering two state awards that were based in part on community involvement, Grandview now stands as a model for other cities that want to replicate its success in creative planning and funding.

Granger
Municipal Offices
509-854-1725
http://www.grangerwashington.org/

Chamber of Commerce
509-854-7304
http://www.grangerchamber.net/
The small, welcoming city of Granger offers the slower pace of life and intimacy of a close-knit community where neighbors greet each other by name. The Granger Dinosaurs are an intriguing hallmark of the city, a project that began in 1994 that grew and expanded over the decades. From the seed of an idea to give the community a theme and revitalize Main Street, scores of hand-crafted dinosaurs now capture the imagination, draw regional visitors, and create a national roadside attraction. Many of these whimsical cement creatures are concentrated in Hisey Park, then spill northward into the downtown district. Other appealing aspects of community life include the new Splash Zone in the Main City Park, free movie nights, a local family golf and fun center, and the annual Granger Flea Market and 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament. Most of the city’s recreational highlights are also located in Hisey Park, including an amphitheater, stocked fishing pond, boat launch, and Yakima River fishing. For the best of small-town living near expanded urban amenities, Granger stands in a class of its own.

Mabton
Municipal Offices
509-894-4096
https://www.cityofmabton.com/

Chamber of Commerce
509-248-2021
https://www.yakima.org/
The small town of Mabton offers quiet, rural living in the heart of the Yakima Valley, a region surrounded by breathtaking beauty and premier recreational activities in mountain and forest environments. Highlights in Mabton include a local library, good public schools, and four parks totaling 10 acres with amenities that include a playground, basketball court, sand volleyball court, picnic areas, a soccer field, and tetherball courts. In addition to offering a full-service hospital for advanced healthcare needs, the nearby city of Prosser expands the opportunities for shopping and cultural enrichment. The historical landmark of the Princess Theatre hosts performances by the Valley Theater Company, while Prosser Conservatory Theater for Children combines performances with dramatic arts instruction. The Historic Downtown is filled with unique shops including the 6th Street Art & Gift Gallery that hosts work by 40 artisans. Each year, artists from all over the Pacific Northwest join residents and visitors at the Prosser Art Walk & Wine Gala.

Moxee
Municipal Offices
509-575-8851
https://cityofmoxee.us/

Chamber of Commerce
509-248-2021
https://www.yakima.org/
Self-described as “Hop Capital of the World,” the small city of Moxee nestles in the fertile Moxee Valley to the east of the Yakima River floodplain. To the north is Yakima Ridge and Rattlesnake Hills are visible to the south. Yakima River and the city of Yakima are both less than five miles away to the west. Residents enjoy a slower pace of living and a close-knit community atmosphere at the edge of Yakima’s well-developed amenities, services, and resources. In addition to the agricultural activity that has long been a mainstay of this area, a few local industries are also at home in Moxee. Serving as the heart of Central Washington, nearby Yakima is Washington’s 10th largest city. Highlights include the main campus of Yakima Valley College and Perry Technical Institute, Yakima Air Terminal-McCallister Field, and regional healthcare institutions including Astria Regional Medical Center, Astria Heart Institute, and Yakima Valley Memorial. The city of Yakima is also home to elegant venues for showcasing the visual and performing arts, including Larsen Gallery, Capitol Theatre, and Seasons Performance Hall.

Selah
Municipal Offices
509-698-7328
https://selahwa.gov/

Chamber of Commerce
509-698-7303
http://theselahchamber.com/
Located near the junction of Highway 12 and Interstate 82 just north of Yakima, the charming community of Selah claims three important markets: agriculture, outdoor recreation, and competitive sports tourism in softball and baseball. Rooted in the apple industry for which Yakima Valley has gained such renown, Selah excels in opportunities for outdoor adventure and exploration. Residents and visitors enjoy hiking and rock-climbing at Umtanum Ridge and Tieton River trails, nature study at the Oak Creek Wildlife Viewing Area near Naches, golfing on challenging courses, and skiing the White Pass slopes. Yakima River Canyon adds water sports including river floats, biking, fly fishing, hunting, backpacking, cross-country skiing, and camping. The city is proud of its historic downtown district and the pedestrian-friendly main streets and neighborhoods that give the entire community an accessible, friendly feeling. Metropolitan Yakima is just minutes from home, offering college campuses, state-of-the-art healthcare and regional hospitals, expanded shopping and dining experiences, and beautiful venues for the visual and performing arts.

Sunnyside
Municipal Offices
509-836-6305
http://www.sunnyside-wa.gov/

Chamber of Commerce
509-248-2021
https://www.yakima.org/
Centrally located in the heart of Washington’s fertile agricultural land, Sunnyside nestles between the Rattlesnake Hills and Prosser wine regions. Warmed by the Yakima Valley’s bright sunshine, this culturally diverse community is surrounded by lush green hillsides and picturesque vineyards, orchards, and pasture land. The leading metropolitan areas of Seattle, Spokane, and Portland, Oregon are only a three-hour drive away. In addition to an abundance of farm-fresh produce, the city is home to two popular wineries and food truck favorites. Residents and visitors alike enjoy world-class Mexican cuisine each may during Cinco de Mayo festivities, while autumn features the annual Sunshine Days Parade, beauty pageant, and a carnival with street vendors. During the winter, the town hosts the Lighted Farm Implement Parade with more than 50 pieces of decorated farm equipment. Located in the downtown district, Sunnyside Historical Museum preserves pioneer memorabilia, Native American artifacts, and local history. Routine and advanced healthcare needs can be met close to home thanks to the presence of Astria Sunnyside Hospital. Families will appreciate the abundance of parks in Sunnyside that offer a variety of amenities from walking trails to a swimming pool.

Toppenish
Municipal Offices
509-865-2080
http://cityoftoppenish.us/

Chamber of Commerce
509-865-3262
https://www.visittoppenish.com/
The city of Toppenish welcomes newcomers to a place “Where the West Still Lives.” Visitors flock to this small town for glimpses of the old West, lively rodeos, and Native American traditions. Voted as one of the “prettiest painted cities” in America, Toppenish features a cityscape that showcases more than 75 historically accurate murals. Nestled in the Yakima Valley within the boundaries of the Yakama Indian Reservation, the city is known for its local art, farm-fresh produce, a passion for history, and the home of the private Heritage University. Along with larger-than-life murals, Toppenish offers the one-of-a-kind American Hop Museum, Northern Pacific Railway Museum in a 1911 depot, and Yakama Nation Cultural Centers. Named among the 20 Best Places to Live in the West by American Cowboy magazine, the town revels in celebrating its unique appeal with colorful events and festivals throughout the year. Other local attractions include nearby award-winning wineries, a famous rodeo, and casino entertainment.

Union Gap
Municipal Offices
509-248-0432
https://uniongapwa.gov/

Chamber of Commerce
509-248-2021
https://www.yakima.org/
With its centralized location, Union Gap serves as a gateway to cities in both Eastern and Western Washington as well as the rich, fertile Lower Yakima Valley. Harmonizing yesterday’s treasures with new development, the city showcases stately historic homes and structures just a few blocks away from contemporary shops, theaters, restaurants, and modern industries. Even the town slogan is “The old town with new ideas.” Small in size but big in attractions, Union Gap serves as a regional destination for shopping anchored by Valley Mall and is well-known throughout the Yakima Valley for the variety and quality of its dining experiences. Residents and visitors alike enjoy everything from popular national chains to local eateries and unique restaurants that serve family recipes. In addition to world-class snowmobiling in Ahtanum Forest, this area supports a wide range of outdoor activities and adventures. Locally, the city maintains 130 acres of developed area including four parks, 1.5 miles of pedestrian pathway, beautiful green spaces, and the Youth Activities Park.

Wapato
Municipal Offices
509-877-2334
https://wapato-city.org/

Chamber of Commerce
509-248-2021
https://www.yakima.org/
The small town of Wapato is located between metropolitan Yakima and the unique community of Toppenish with its colorful Old West atmosphere, history museums, famous murals, and private university. As the heart of Central Washington and the state’s 10th largest city, Yakima provides a world of urban advantages and amenities. The city is home to the main campus of Yakima Valley College and Perry Technical Institute for premier two-year degree and career training programs. Every healthcare need can be met close to home at one of Yakima’s regional medical centers: Astria Regional Medical Center, Astria Heart Institute, and Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital. Other highlights in Yakima include elegant venues for visual and performing arts like Larsen Gallery, Capitol Theatre, and Seasons Performance Hall as well as first-rate shopping and dining, entertainment centers, and family attractions. Abundant opportunities for outdoor enjoyment are available throughout the region, including the nearby Yakama Nation Wildlife, Range & Vegetation Resources Management Program, where seasonal hunting is available on the ecologically diverse 1.2 million-acre reservation.

Yakima
Municipal Offices
509-575-6000
https://www.yakimawa.gov/

Chamber of Commerce
509-248-2021
https://www.yakima.org/
Home to 35 percent of Yakima County’s total population, the city of Yakima is the 10th largest in Washington State and serves as the heart of Yakima Valley. To the north is towering Mount Rainier with Yakima Ridge-Cleman Mountain in the foreground and Naches River flowing through the valley. Rattlesnake Hills-Ahtanum Ridge with Mount Adams in the background are visible to the south. With more than 3,000 farms in this fertile valley, Yakima pulsates with taprooms, tasting rooms, craft beverage experiences, coffee houses, eateries, and restaurants featuring farm-to-table cuisine. Live music, interesting boutiques, vintage shops, and the Downtown Yakima Farmers Market keep the city humming with activity. The arts scene is equally rich with a full calendar of events and performing arts in elegant venues like Seasons Performance Hall and Capitol Theatre. Acres of local parks are available for active and passive recreation including movie nights and free concerts. The city is home to two college campuses and two major health systems that serve a regional population with clinical excellence and centers of specialized care. Residents of surrounding small towns and countryside communities look to Yakima for the finest in urban amenities from entertainment centers to services. For an unmatched quality of life in one of Washington State’s most picturesque areas, look no further than Yakima.