How to get to Yakima

Planning a trip to Yakima, located in the fertile valley of Washington State, tourists discover the "fruit bowl" of the nation and the agricultural centre of the Northwest. This cosy city, while not a huge metropolis, offers travellers developed infrastructure and convenient logistics, allowing you to get here both by air and via scenic land routes. Whether you choose a flight or a journey by car on the roads of the USA, the path to this sunny corner will provide plenty of pleasant impressions.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the city is to take a flight to the local Yakima Air Terminal (YKM). This air hub receives regular flights and is well connected to the city, allowing travellers to get to the centre as quickly as possible and begin exploring the region.

Alternatively, you can consider flying to neighbouring cities located within a radius of 100–120 km. Airports in Wenatchee, Tri-Cities, or Pasco may offer other schedule options, after which only a short trip by ground transport remains.

There is no railway station in Yakima itself, so it is not possible to get here exclusively by train. However, railway enthusiasts can travel to the nearest stations in neighbouring cities, such as Wenatchee or Pasco.

From these transport hubs to the final destination, you will have to cover a distance of about 90–120 kilometres by rental car or bus. This combined route will allow you to enjoy views of the American countryside from the train window before transferring to another mode of transport.

Intercity bus service connects the valley with neighbouring settlements, offering a budget-friendly travel option. A fairly fast and convenient route runs from Tri-Cities: the bus covers the distance of 164 km in approximately 3.7 hours. A similar travel time, about 3.9 hours, will be taken by a trip from the city of Pasco.

If you plan to depart from Wenatchee, it is worth carefully studying the schedule: some routes can be complex and take up to 21 hours, despite the distance. It is recommended to check flight details in advance to choose the most optimal transfer option.

Travelling by car is one of the most popular ways to get to Yakima, allowing you to manage your own time. The fastest trip awaits you from Tri-Cities: the distance of 125 km can be covered in just 1.2 hours. Slightly more time, about 1.3 hours, will be taken by the road from Pasco.

Also, a scenic route leads from Wenatchee (172 km), which will require about 1.9 hours of driving. Roads in this region are generally in good condition, making a trip by car or taxi a pleasant part of your holiday.

To ensure your trip to Yakima is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant memories, we have prepared several important recommendations. Given the features of the region, these tips will help you better plan your trip.

1. Clothing for the Season: The climate here is arid, with hot summers and cool winters. In summer, a head covering and sunscreen are mandatory, while in winter and the off-season, a warm jacket and comfortable walking shoes will come in handy.
2. Transport: Public transport is not as widely developed as in major metropolises. For maximum freedom of movement around the valley and visiting the orchards, it is highly recommended to rent a car.
3. Finances and Tipping: The official currency is the US Dollar. Cards are accepted almost everywhere, but having some cash for small expenses is useful. In restaurants, it is customary to leave a tip of 15–20% of the bill.
4. Health: Medical care in the USA is high quality but expensive. Be sure to take out travel insurance before your trip. In emergencies, call 911.
5. Language: The main language of communication is English. However, given the agricultural nature of the region, Spanish is also frequently heard here.
6. Visiting Etiquette: When visiting local venues and farms, maintain a reserved and friendly demeanour. It is important to respect local customs and safety regulations, especially if you are driving.
7. Safety: Yakima is generally a calm city, but as everywhere, it is worth avoiding walking alone in poorly lit areas at night and not leaving valuables in the car in plain sight.
8. Local Tip: Be sure to try the local apples and seasonal produce — the region is famous for them all over the world.

By following these simple rules, you can avoid common tourist mistakes and fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the hospitable Yakima Valley.