The three cities that comprise Tri-Cities have a combined population of 153,610 people. The two countries represented contain 224,800 residents. Interestingly, Pasco is the county seat for Franklin County; Richland and Kennewick are part of Benton County. A map distinctly shows Pasco being on the opposite side of the Columbia River from the other two cities.

Three impressive rivers flow through or are near the Tri-Cities; the mighty Columbia, the Snake and Yakima Rivers. Rattlesnake Mountain is the tallest treeless mountain in the western hemisphere. There are nine National Wildlife Refuges in the vicinity and four National Historic Register sites.

The Tri-Cities boast of about 300 days of sunshine each year which makes this region ideal for fruit growing. Over 200 varieties of fruit are grown here and are purchased at three farmers markets and many roadside fruit stands.

This area happens to be our nation’s second largest wine-producing region with 150 wineries in a 60-mile radius. Tourists love to view the Columbia river up close on the Columbia Voyager which offers a two-hour narrated sight-seeing tour.

The Hanford Reach is the free flowing stretch of the Columbia River that foes past the Hanford Site, formerly known as the Hanford Nuclear Reservation. The 32-mile stretch of the Columbia is a last major spawning spot for certain salmon.

A must see landmark in this area is the Cable Bridge in Kennewick which was opened in 1978. It was formerly called the Pasco-Kennewick Bridge. In 1998 night illumination was added to the bridge’s beauty.

Golf is a popular year-round sport here. Ardent golfers are thrilled with the well-landscaped courses to choose from.

Wildlife refuges like McNary National Wildlife Refuge lure outdoor lovers. History buffs appriciate twelve museums plus visitor centers. Of special interest is the Washington State Railroad Historical Society Museum, one of the largest in the Northwest.

Year-round outdoor recreation in this sunny climate attracts travelers to the seven waterfront parks and 67 miles of paved trails for hikers and bikers. Sailing enthusiasts as well as power and pleasure boaters enjoy the rivers. There is also wakeboarding, surfing and swimming along this fascinating inland waterway.

As for accommodations, select a hotel, motel, inn, B&B, or RV park. There are sixteen in Kennewick, ten in Pasco and eleven in Richland.

Dining facilities offer many good choices. There is American-Continental, Asian, Bar & Grill, Buffet &Family Dining, Coffee Shop, International, Italian & Pizza, Mediterranean, Mexican, Quick Service and Take Out.

Shopping, also, is as varied as your imagination. There are Antiques & Collectibles, Apparel, Art Galleries, Department Stories (like JCPenney, Macy’s and Target), Floral Services, Home Furnishings, Specialty Shops and SPorting Goods. Or a big shopping center like Columbia Center Mall and the Mini Mall.

Tri-Cities manages to combine sophistication with small town charm so it tends to please locals and visitors of all ages and from diversifies backgrounds.

Thank you Shirley Dever for the information!