The best things to do in Yakima County

Sneak in a round at Suntides Golf Course this week, a Yakima staple since 1965 with a breezy 18-hole, par-70 layout, lively tournament slate March through November, and a restaurant and lounge for the post-birdie recap. Bonus: those 300-plus sunny days mean your excuses are pretty limited.

From the Yakima newsletter, October 12, 2026

Orion Cinema pairs first-run films with in-theater pub fare from Mickey's Pub, so you can settle in and let dinner and the plot twist arrive at the same time. Grab a seat, pick a flick, and let Yakima’s own Orion Cinema make your evening feel a little more fun and a lot less complicated.

From the Yakima newsletter, October 11, 2026

Larson Gallery is wrapping up Outside In, a show of Central WA street artists with portable works and mural photos, on August 29. Swing by this week to catch local names like Fazer and ZEE, soak up the pop of color, then brag you found Yakima’s next mural crush first.

From the Yakima newsletter, October 2, 2026

Majestic Theater keeps it simple with first-run releases across 10 screens, the locally owned vibe Yakima folks actually like, and an easy Quick TIX checkout when you already know your pick. Rack up Yakima Rewards, grab concessions, and call it a night at the movies the way it should be.

From the Yakima newsletter, September 5, 2026

Yakima Cinema keeps it low-key and local with comfy, uncrowded auditoriums and a snack bar lineup that actually hits the spot... fresh popcorn, hot dogs, and German sausages. Skip the lines with Quick TIX or set it up early with advance tickets, then settle in for a no-drama movie night.

From the Yakima newsletter, October 4, 2026

Whether you want a quick 9, a data-driven range session, or just burgers and a beer after work, Westwood Golf Yakima delivers with a USGA-rated 9-hole course, a two-level Inrange-powered driving range, and Woodies restaurant and bar. Low-key vibes, local ownership, and easy weeknight fun.

From the Yakima newsletter, October 20, 2026

Yakima Country Club has been elevating local weekends since 1916 with a premier central Washington golf course, a beautiful clubhouse for casual and fine dining, awe-inspiring views, and family-friendly activities. If you want a polished escape close to home, put it on your list this week.

From the Yakima newsletter, September 22, 2026

Between mini golf showdowns, go-kart grins, splashy bumper boat battles, batting-cage tune-ups, and an arcade plus VR, Yakima Family Fun Center keeps the whole crew smiling without much planning. Perfect for a midweek reset or a weekend victory lap when everyone needs to move. Check it out.

From the Yakima newsletter, October 16, 2026

Tactical Tag brings video-game vibes to real life with gamertags, playable classes, and mission stats tracked after every skirmish. Grab friends for birthdays or team building, then cool off by sticking a bullseye in the axe throwing area and bragging about it all week.

From the Yakima newsletter, October 3, 2026

Yakima, WA Elks Golf & Country Club: Pro Shop is the quick pit stop members make before a round on the lodge’s private course, the place to grab what you need and get course updates. Friendly, no-fuss, and very Yakima, it’s a simple way to keep your game on track.

From the Yakima newsletter, October 10, 2026

Downtown Summer Nights wraps the season this Thursday, August 27, with The Talbott Brothers plus local country opener James Beam. Expect live tunes that spill down Historic N. Front Street, tasty Yakima Valley food and sips, and that easy, everyone-knows-someone neighborhood energy.

From the Yakima newsletter, September 27, 2026

Whether your wedges need a tune-up or you just want an easy loop with friends, Fisher Park Golf Course is a city-run par-3, 9-hole track with a mellow, park-like vibe that’s perfect for sharpening your short game midweek. Low-key, approachable, and sneakily fun.

From the Yakima newsletter, September 28, 2026

When you need a quick reset, Apple Tree Resort has tee times ready, leagues and lessons if you want to sharpen up, and post-round eats at Slice Outdoor Lounge. Not into golf today? Reserve a pickleball court or plug the kids into camp and reclaim your afternoon.

From the Yakima newsletter, September 25, 2026

Apple Tree Golf Course has that signature apple-shaped island green that never gets old, plus leagues, lessons, and post-round grub at Slice Outdoor Lounge. Grab a tee time this week and remind your wedges who’s boss.

From the Yakima newsletter, October 5, 2026

Feeling toasty? K Aquatic Center is your low-stress way to cool off with Yakima Parks & Recreation’s swim lessons, water aerobics, and community programs. Bring the kids or sneak in a solo workout, enjoy the water, then call it a day well spent.

From the Yakima newsletter, October 18, 2026

Between concert nights, community fests, and the countdown to fair season, State Fair Park - Home of the Yakima Valley SunDome & Central Washington State Fair keeps Yakima’s calendar lively. If you need a reason to get out of the house right now, their lineup usually supplies two.

From the Yakima newsletter, October 17, 2026

River Ridge Golf Course keeps it easygoing with a 9 hole layout, a chill bar, and food that hits the spot after a round. Not feeling the clubs? The disc golf course is legit, so you can still chase birdies with a putter and a grin.

From the Yakima newsletter, September 6, 2026