Wenatchee, WA

Wenatchee, Washington, is a bustling city located on the west bank of the Columbia River, just east of the Cascade Mountains. The scenic location of this city, coupled with the extensive orchards and farms around it, make it an ideal location for outdoor activities and farming. The city has a population of around 28,000.

Just across the Columbia River is East Wenatchee. Although East Wenatchee is a separate city, in a different county, the two cities share a strong sense of community, along with many resources and attractions.

ECONOMY AND INDUSTRIES

Agriculture is a major industry in Wenatchee, with important crops of apples, pears, cherries, peaches and apricots. One of the area's top employers is Stemilt Growers, a company that specializes in the growing, packaging and shipping of apples.

Healthcare is another important industry in the area. The biggest employers in that field are Wenatchee Valley Medical Center and Central Washington Hospital.

Other major employers include:

• Wenatchee School District
• Goodfellow Bros., Inc.
• Pacific Aerospace and Electronics, Inc.
• Public Utility District 1 of Chelan County
• County of Chelan

NEIGHBORHOODS AND DISTRICTS

Wenatchee's neighborhoods run the gamut from isolated rural areas to the densely populated downtown:

• Appleyard: This neighborhood in the southern part of Wenatchee follows the west bank of the Columbia River. It is a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood with a good mix of home styles that is fairly affordable.
• Downtown Wenatchee: The downtown area of Wenatchee is well-populated. It contains some smaller homes and high-rise apartment buildings and features an interesting mix of senior citizens and college students, which gives the area a diverse urban feel. This area was also awarded the "2003 Great American Main Street Award" by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
• Mission Street/Kittitas Street: Located on the western side of the Columbia River, this artsy urban area boasts historic and older homes and a culturally diverse population.
• Stiss Canyon Road: Located to the west of downtown Wenatchee, this area is quiet, featuring mostly older homes in good repair; it's populated mainly by executives.
• Sunnyslope/West Wenatchee: This neighborhood is the most expensive area of Wenatchee. Single-family homes are set on large lots, giving this residential area an almost rural feeling.

BEST BETS

With its breathtaking scenery, it's no wonder that Wenatchee has plenty to offer in terms of outdoor activities:

• Agri-tourism: The Cascade Foothills Farmland Association offers maps of interesting and locally important agricultural sites, including orchards, fruit stands, Christmas tree farms, and corn mazes.
• Apple Capital Loop Trail: This paved trail begins and ends at the Riverwalk Crossing Pedestrian Overpass in downtown Wenatchee, forming a loop over the scenic Columbia River. Cyclists, pedestrians and skaters are welcome.
• Art on the Avenues: Public works of art line area streets; some are permanent exhibits, but most change regularly.
• Cascade Loop Scenic Highway: Wenatchee is a prominent stop on this driving tour. Puget Sound, the Cascade Mountains and the Columbia River Valley are some of the other key attractions of the roughly 400-mile loop.
• Columbia River Bridge: Built in 1908, this pedestrian-only bridge was the first wagon bridge to connect Wenatchee and East Wenatchee. It offers incredible views of the Wenatchee Valley and Cascade Mountains.
• Mission Ridge: This ski area offers groomed runs and open slopes, as well as trails and runs for all skill and age levels.
• Ohme Gardens: This alpine garden boasts pools, trails and seasonal flower groundcover.
• Wenatchee Riverfront Park: This park is nestled along the banks of the Columbia River and is home to the Wenatchee Riverfront Railway, a miniature steam train.

FOR VISITORS

Wenatchee offers plenty of indoor fun as well:

• Owl Soda Fountain: Built in 1926, this old-fashioned soda fountain offers traditional sundaes and cherry lemon sours.
• Wenatchee Valley Museum and Cultural Center: Local and regional art and history exhibits focus on Columbia River petroglyphs, railroads and ancient artifacts.
• Wineries: The region is home to many wineries, most of which offer tasting and tours.
• Performing Arts Theater of Wenatchee: Ballet, dramatic theater and children's performances are held each regularly.
• Wenatchee Symphony: Musical performances include classical and orchestral concerts.

EVENTS

Wenatchee's festivals draw locals and visitors from throughout the region:

• Hog Loppet Ski Trek: This challenging, 21-mile, cross-country ski trek takes place at the end of February. The name of the event is taken from a Swedish phrase meaning "citizen's high-country ski trek."
• Washington State Apple Blossom Festival: The oldest major festival in the Washington, this two-week to-do kicks off at the end of April. It features parades, a car show, an arts and crafts fair, a Mariachi festival and a fiddle contest.
• Andrew York Lineman Rodeo: This June rodeo in Walla Walla Point Park is focused on enhancing community awareness of the dangers of driving while impaired. The event features area law enforcement and firefighters. All proceeds go to the Andrew York Memorial Scholarship Fund.
• Flake Festival: Visitors are invited to sip hot chocolate as they watch the official lighting of the city Christmas tree every December.

LOCAL MEDIA

Wenatchee residents are kept up-to-date by the community's local daily newspaper, Wenatchee World, which has been serving the community since 1905.