Pasco

Pasco is a vibrant city in Washington state, located in the sunny region of the northwestern USA. When planning a trip to Pasco, you will appreciate the convenience of local transport connections, as you can get here by plane, train, bus, or car. Regardless of the method chosen, the question of how to get to Pasco is easily solved thanks to the region's developed infrastructure.

For travellers, a huge advantage is the fact that Pasco has its own airport — Tri-Cities (PSC). It serves as the main aerial gateway to the region and is located just a few minutes' drive from the city centre, which saves tourists from the need to make long transfers after landing.

The airport handles regular flights from major transport hubs in the USA. It is convenient to get here with connections via cities such as Seattle, Salt Lake City, Denver, Las Vegas, and Minneapolis. Thanks to the developed route network, you can plan a flight to Pasco from almost anywhere in the country or the world.

For those who appreciate the charm of rail travel, a trip to Pasco will be an excellent choice. The city has its own railway station — Pasco Intermodal Train Station, which is an important transport hub and welcomes passengers right within the city limits, eliminating the need to look for complex connecting routes.

Trains of the national Amtrak network regularly arrive here, including those following the legendary Empire Builder route. This journey across the USA allows you not only to reach your destination in comfort but also to enjoy the scenic views of the American Northwest. The station is conveniently located, so upon arrival, tourists can quickly get to their hotel or the city centre.

Bus services connect Pasco with neighbouring cities, offering tourists a comfortable and affordable way to travel around Washington state. For example, a trip from picturesque Walla Walla will take about an hour, allowing you to cover 80 kilometres of the journey without hassle and enjoy the views of the valley.

Travellers also often choose routes from Pendleton, located in neighbouring Oregon; travel time here is usually less than 60 minutes. In addition, excellent transport connections have been established within the Tri-Cities metropolitan area, allowing you to quickly and conveniently reach the Pasco bus station from neighbouring settlements.

Travelling by car to Pasco promises to be comfortable and scenic thanks to high-quality highways. Since the city is an integral part of the Tri-Cities metropolitan area, the drive from neighbouring Richland or Kennewick will take just 10–15 minutes across the bridges over the Columbia River. If you are heading from the renowned scenic region of Walla Walla, the journey along US-12 will be about 80 kilometres and will take approximately one hour, revealing views of the valley's rolling landscapes.

Another popular route leads from the city of Pendleton in the neighbouring state of Oregon: moving along Interstate I-82, you will cover 110 kilometres in just over an hour. For those who do not plan to rent a car, taxis and ridesharing services operate between the cities. The cost of a trip from distant points like Pendleton will be higher, whereas moving within the "Tri-Cities" will be significantly cheaper.

Preparing for your trip to Pasco will make your journey through the Tri-Cities region as comfortable and carefree as possible. We have collected several useful recommendations that will help you adapt faster to local features and avoid common mistakes.

1. Clothing and Seasonality: The climate here is semi-arid, so in summer be sure to take light clothing, a hat, and sunglasses — the heat often exceeds +30°C. In winter, despite sunny days, it can be cold and windy, so a warm windproof jacket and comfortable shoes will be necessary.
2. Transport: Although the Ben Franklin Transit public transport system operates in the city, it is better to rent a car for comfortable movement. This will give you the freedom to explore not only the city but also the picturesque surroundings, orchards, and parks along the Columbia River.
3. Finances and Payment: In the USA, credit and debit cards are accepted everywhere, even for small purchases. However, it is recommended to carry some cash (bills of 1, 5, and 10 dollars) to pay for fares on certain types of transport or for tipping staff.
4. Health and Safety: Medical services for foreigners are very expensive, so having medical insurance is strictly mandatory. The single number for emergency services (police, ambulance, fire) is 911.
5. Language Barrier: The official language is English, but a large Spanish-speaking community lives in Pasco, so Spanish is heard very often here. Knowledge of basic phrases in English is necessary for communication in the service sector.
6. Local Etiquette: Tipping is an important part of the culture. In restaurants, lounges, and taxis, it is customary to leave 15–20% of the bill amount, as service is usually not included in the check. Americans value personal space but are open and friendly in communication.
7. What to Avoid: Do not violate traffic rules, even if you are a pedestrian — crossing the street in the wrong place may result in a fine. Also, do not leave valuable items in plain sight in the car to avoid attracting unnecessary attention.
8. Sun Protection: The Tri-Cities region is famous for having about 300 sunny days a year. Always use sunscreen, especially if you plan to relax by the water or take long walks, regardless of the season.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid minor organizational difficulties and fully focus on your holiday. Pasco is a welcoming city where, with the right preparation, every tourist will feel confident and safe.