Created by Megan Foster and Maddy Larson

Ellensburg, Washington. A small cozy town embedded with charm and western hues. Geographically the center of the state, basking inside the Kittitas Valley, Ellensburg sports beautiful views of the Central Cascades. The town is filled with history; museums, shops and galleries decorate the streets.

Complete PULSE Magazine’s foolproof Ellensburg Bucket List to take a peek inside Ellensburg, Washington’s lush community, history and traditions.

Drop by Winegars on 1013 E. University Way or 111 E. University Way to pick up a delicious scoop of old-fashioned, hand cranked ice-cream. Winegars has been around for nearly 30 years, sticking to the roots of their creamy ice-cream recipe. Be sure to keep an eye out for their seasonal specials.

Be sure to visit the Kittitas County Historical Museum on 114 E 3rd Ave. Entry is free and the history within is vast. With thousands of artifacts and photos depicting Ellensburg’s deep history, it is a spot you can’t miss.
Swing by the Robbers Roost Trading Post, a grave located on the sidewalk outside The Botany Shop on 3rd street downtown. This is the location where Andrew Jackson Splawn and Ben Burch opened a trading post in 1870. On this ground, the town of Ellensburg was later developed.
Try out the Palace Cafe on 323 N. Main Street for a bite to eat. The Palace Cafe is Ellensburg’s oldest restaurant, dating back to 1892. The restaurant has been in the same hands since 1966, and the Bugni family strives to preserve the essence of the downtown Ellensburg family tradition.
Dick and Jane’s Spot at the corner of 1st and Pearl Street is a downtown art site and private home across from the fire station. Dick and Jane, alongside their friends, have created a beautiful display for passing guests to enjoy. Be sure to admire their whimsical art and sign their guest book, but pay attention to the fences and respect the privacy of their home.
Nearby, on 416 N. Pearl Street is the Clymer Museum of Art. Swing in to catch a glimpse of their beautiful galleries. Don’t forget to take a photo with “The Ellensburg Bull” on the bench across the street in Unity Park, a well loved sculpture created by artist Richard Beyer in 1986.
While you’re at the Clymer Museum of Art, be sure to check out the Ellensburg Rodeo Hall of Fame next door. Ellensburg has been home to the notorious Ellensburg Rodeo since 1923, and recently celebrated its 100 year anniversary year.
Catch a sunset at the Craig’s Hill Reservoir water tower, from the top you can see all of Ellensburg, overlooking the fairgrounds. The surrounding park offers a suitable place for walks, jogs or even a picnic.

Ellensburg Scavenger Hunt