Central Washington
Ellensburg
About Ellensburg
Welcome to Ellensburg, Washington, where the enchanting blend of history, culture, and natural beauty awaits every traveler. Nestled in the heart of Kittitas Valley, Ellensburg is a charming city that captivates visitors with its picturesque landscapes, vibrant arts scene, and warm community spirit. As the home of Central Washington University, the city exudes a youthful energy while maintaining a rich historical legacy evident in its well-preserved downtown area. Surrounded by rolling hills, the region is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking trails, fishing spots, and breathtaking views of the Cascade Range. Discover Ellensburg’s unique charm as you explore local galleries, savor farm-to-table cuisine, and immerse yourself in the welcoming atmosphere that defines this delightful destination in the Pacific Northwest.
Ellensburg
Restaurants
From global cuisine to pub fare to sweet treats, exceptional dining awaits in Ellensburg, Washington! Whether you’re enjoying a date night or spending family time together, searching for a premier steak dinner or a classic burger and shake, our culinary scene has you covered. Explore local eateries below to fuel your Ellensburg adventures.
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Sugar Thai
- 306 N Pine St. | Ellensburg, WA 98926
- (509) 933-4224
- 306 N Pine St. | Ellensburg, WA 98926
- (509) 933-4224
A finished, beautiful, and traditional Thai interior that look’s simple but is striking. Authentic, fresh recipes and affordable prices. If you love Authentic Thai restaurants, this it your place!
Arby’s
- 1404 Canyon Rd, Ellensburg, WA 98926
- (509) 505-6742
- 1404 Canyon Rd, Ellensburg, WA 98926
- (509) 505-6742
Fast-food chain, known for its great roast beef, serving up hot and cold sandwiches, fries & shakes! “WE HAVE THE MEAT!”
Tacos Chalitos
- 601 W University Way, Ellensburg, WA 98926
- (509) 968-6498
- 601 W University Way, Ellensburg, WA 98926
- (509) 968-6498
At Tacos Chalito the service and quality of tacos are incredible! Amazing tacos of all meat choices, their aguas frescas are delicious, and the staff is out of this world
Canyon River Grill
- Canyon Road, 14706 WA-821, Ellensburg, WA 98926
- (509) 933-2309
- Canyon Road, 14706 WA-821, Ellensburg, WA 98926
- (509) 933-2309
The view of the Yakima River Canyon from the window or deck is stunning and the food, service and atmosphere are top notch. There really isn’t anything else like this place anywhere in the area. Combine dinner with a stay at the lodge next door and you have the perfect romantic getaway!
Wild Goose Casino
- 1600 Currier St, Ellensburg, WA 98926
- (509) 925-5825
- 1600 Currier St, Ellensburg, WA 98926
- (509) 925-5825
When you come through the doors of the Wild Goose Casino, we want you to know you are among friends.
Brosky’s Food Truck
- Ellensburg, Washington
- (360) 929-5603
- Ellensburg, Washington
- (360) 929-5603
Ellensburg food truck. Artisan meats and other new flavors: smoked brisket, pulled pork, poutine, and delicious fries. Catering and private events!
Ellensburg
Stay With us
After an exciting day exploring all that Ellensburg has to offer, you can rest and rejuvenate at one of the many lodging choices available for an overnight stay. These hosts go out of their way to make your visit one that will bring you back time and time again. We look forward to seeing you soon!
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Hampton Inn Ellensburg
- 2705 Triple L Loop, Cle Elum, WA 98922
- 509-933-1600
When you stay at Hampton Inn in Ellensburg, you’ll be in the mountains and convenient to Wild Goose Casino and West Ellensburg Park. This family-friendly hotel is within close proximity of Central Washington University and Ellensburg Rodeo.
Comfort Inn Ellensburg
- 1722 Canyon Road, Ellensburg, WA 98926
- 509-243-6026
Enjoy cozy accommodations and healthy breakfast options at our pet-friendly family hotel near Central Washington University.
Holiday Inn Express Ellensburg
- 1620 Canyon Rd, Ellensburg, WA 98926
- 509-962-9400
We’re sure you’ll enjoy amenities like our indoor pool and spa, 24-hour fitness center, complimentary Express Start hot breakfast in the morning and free cookies in the evening. Make reservations today to enjoy it all!
Rainbow Motel
- 1025 W University Way, Ellensburg, WA 98926
- 509-933-7100
Clean and modern 1 & 2 room units available. With color-cable television and air conditioning as well as electric heat. This is an older motel but still very friendly service and affordable prices.
Canyon River Ranch
- 14700 WA-821, Ellensburg, WA 98926
- 509-933-2100
Located in the scenic Yakima River Canyon, The Canyon River Ranch Lodge is an upscale, rustic Lodge and Resort. This unique property provides over 1,000 feet of private waterfront surrounded by endless state and federal lands.
Ames House is where luxury meets small-town charm. Built in 1885 and lovingly restored, our home offers guests a peaceful and elegant place to stay, just steps from historic downtown Ellensburg with all it has to offer and Central Washington University. Every detail is designed to help you slow down, settle in, and feel truly at home.
Ellensburg
ACTIVITES
Central Washington offers boundless outdoor activities for any dedicated resident and earnest visitor. The peaceful woodland trails and open ridges with incredible views are reason enough for any city slicker to make their way east to recreate in our warm, sunny region. Central Washington hikes are best experienced June through October.
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Umtanum Creek
Umtanum Canyon is an 8-mile out and back trail located near Ellensburg, Washington that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail. It’s a great location to find golden eagles and other birds.
- Birding |
- Camping |
- Hiking |
- Wildlife Viewing
Fiorito Ponds
- Fiorito Ponds Public Access, Ellensburg, WA 98926
- 360-902-2200
- Fiorito Ponds Public Access, Ellensburg, WA 98926
- 360-902-2200
These two lakes alongside I-82 between Ellensburg and Yakima provide some good, easy-access fishing throughout much of the year. Most fish from the bank, but boat fishing is allowed. However, no gas-powered motors are allowed. Rainbows are mostly caught, but often hatchery fish are planted in one or both lakes.
- Fishing
Reed Park
- 1200 E. 6th Ellensburg, WA 98926
- 509-962-7211
- 1200 E. 6th Ellensburg, WA 98926
- 509-962-7211
Get a panoramic view of the valley from Ellensburg’s Reed Park! Directly above the Ellensburg Rodeo and Fairgrounds, the park provides a panoramic view of the city, Central Washington University, Kittitas Valley and the Stuart Range.
- Parks
Central City Comics
- 113 E 4th Ave, Ellensburg, WA 98926
- 509-962-4376
- 113 E 4th Ave, Ellensburg, WA 98926
- 509-962-4376
Central City Comics began as Globe Fantasy Books back in June 1979. August 1989 brought a new location and a new name, and we’ve been chugging along ever since!
- Shopping
Ellensburg KOA
- 32 Thorp Hwy S, Ellensburg, WA 98926
- 509-925-9319
- 32 Thorp Hwy S, Ellensburg, WA 98926
- 509-925-9319
Set on the Yakima River, this KOA is a great base camp for fishing or rafting. Rent a raft on-site or buy a fishing pole at the campground store. Shuttles for boaters-rafters available for a fee. This KOA features wooded sites, some right on the river. Wireless Internet is centrally located near the office-store.
- Camping
Gallery One
- 408 N. Pearl St. | Ellensburg, WA 98926
- 509-925-2670
- 408 N. Pearl St. | Ellensburg, WA 98926
- 509-925-2670
Located in the unique architecture of historic downtown Ellensburg, Gallery One has experienced many transformations over the years to be the present organization it is today, but the devotion to the visual arts has remained the same. Along with innovative and diverse visual exhibits from local and international artists, the gallery offers a quality gift shop, educational programs, art classes, networking opportunities, and studio space for resident artists.
Ellensburg
PLAN YOUR TRIP
Whether you are in Ellensburg for one of our area’s many local events, a historical expedition, a shopping spree, to enjoy a weekend of wine tasting, or just for a night’s rest on your way to another destination, there are great Central Washington stays standing by to welcome you!
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