Washington Wonders: Cle Elum & Yakima – Must-See Destinations

Small town cities in Washington are facing big issues, some of which are teetering on crisis levels. I think it would be great, though, to focus on the positive things both these places have going for them. We all could use some good news and a fun road trip, right?

The town of Cle Elum might be going bankrupt because they are facing a potential 22 million-dollar lawsuit with a local developer. Meanwhile in a city located an hour away, the city of Yakima, recently realized they are facing a huge 9-million-dollar deficit if they don’t make administrative and budget changes before 2026.

https://www.nbcrightnow.com/news/facing-9m-deficit-yakima-explores-boosting-revenue-through-development/article_861fcb3a-9749-11ef-8f61-9f7656a1573f.html

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Why You Should Visit Cle Elum & Yakima: Hidden Gems in Washington State

I think Cle Elum looks like a Hallmark Movie kind of town. It’s so pretty to see as you drive past it on I-82. It’s an awesome town to visit, and I love stopping there on my way to Seattle in the summer months. There’s a cute thrift store I found where I scooped up some cool vinyl albums, Attic Treasures. The town is also very close to one of my favorite Washington State hidden gems in another picturesque town, the Suncadia Resort in Roslyn.

Mike's Tavern is a popular place to eat in Cle Elum. It's been heralded on Yelp as the "hometown saloon."

@makena.yee celebrated my friend’s bday in cle elum! here’s a sneak peak of what we did #cleelum #whattodoincleelum #cleelumwa #cleelumwashington ♬ lovergirl - saturra

Yakima has an abundance of activities to get into, too. If visiting award-winning wineries and breweries and eating at top-notch restaurants (like Crafted) are not up your alley, perhaps you might love the outdoor activities it has to offer, like golfing at Fisher Park or attending outdoor music festivals like Downtown Summer Nights.

Many travelers and locals love visiting the YMCA and Rotary Aquatic Center, an aquatic center with a cool water slide, scenic views, or a family fun center complete with bumper boats, a batting cage, go-karts, and an indoor arcade.

@stateofwatourism Save this hidden gem for your next visit to Washington.Cowiche Creek Brewing Company in the Yakima Valley #WA #Washington #Yakima #FarmToTable #pnw @Cowiche Creek ♬ original sound - State of Washington Tourism

SEE ALSO: Yakima's 10 Top-Rated Restaurants: See Why They Shine