Families find food, fun and unforgettable attractions across Tri-Cities, Yakima, Everett and Seattle Southside
By Nicole Partis
Sports tournaments may be the reason many families travel to Washington, but what happens after the final whistle is just as exciting in The Evergreen State. Across Washington, communities have mastered the balance of top-notch sports venues and family-friendly adventures, offering athletes and their supporters the chance to unwind, explore and make lasting memories. From the sunny vineyards of the Tri-Cities to the cutting-edge aviation experiences in Snohomish County, here’s how to go beyond the game in Washington.
Snohomish County: Aviation and Innovation
Just north of Seattle, Snohomish County invites visitors to lift their eyes skyward, where old meets new. Aviation here is more than history; it’s an experience that celebrates the past while propelling excitement into the future. At the Boeing Future of Flight Aviation Center, families can dive into interactive exhibits that showcase the ingenuity behind one of the world’s leading aerospace giants. You can even take a tour of the factory, the biggest in the world, for an experience as impressive as its scale. Nearby, the Flying Heritage & Combat Armor Collection adds another layer of awe, with restored aircraft and military vehicles sparking curiosity in kids and parents alike. And at Seattle Paine Field International Airport, travelers are greeted with sleek design and top-tier amenities, a comfortable stop before or after the big game. Families competing at Phil Johnson Ballfields or Meadowdale Playfields will find these attractions ideal for day-off adventures. Pair this exploration with fun and games at Dave & Busters in Lynnwood, WA, and you have an ideal Snohomish County outing.
Tri-Cities: A Blend of Adventure and Flavor
Set along the shimmering Columbia River, the Tri-Cities, Kennewick, Pasco, and Richland, are a great playground for families. The water offers amazing opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts like kayakers and paddleboarders, while the 23-mile Sacagawea Heritage Trail offers a smooth ride for cyclists and strollers alike. When hunger strikes, the region satisfies every craving; savor inventive burgers at Foodies Brick & Mortar in Kennewick or indulge in a farm-to-table feast straight from the valley. Parents may raise a glass at one of the 200+ wineries within the 50 miles area, many with picnic-perfect lawns where kids can run free. And with youth baseball to hockey tournaments, play at the Toyota Center or Gesa Stadium flows seamlessly into afternoons of adventure. In the Tri-Cities, the scoreboard may end the game, but the fun carries on.
Yakima: Outdoor Beauty and Local Flavor
In Yakima, sports and scenery go hand in hand. Between basketball tournaments to soccer showcases at the Yakima Valley SunDome or Sozo Sports Complex, families can lace up sneakers for a stroll along the Yakima Greenway; a 10-mile paved trail that traces rivers, parks, fishing lakes, and playgrounds, that is perfect for a quick walk or family picnic. The city’s roots in agriculture do make for a delicious stop. Cowiche Canyon Kitchen elevates local produce into inventive dishes, while Los Hernández Tamales, a James Beard Award winner, serves a taste of Yakima tradition in every bite. Families can also venture into nearby orchards for fruit-picking or peek behind the curtain of the valley’s hops production. Yakima is proof that the flavors off the field are as memorable as the victories on it.
Seattle Southside: Coastal Vibes and Culinary Gems
Conveniently anchored near Sea-Tac International Airport, Seattle Southside makes tournament travel easy and entertaining. Families can enjoy a scenic stroll at any time of year at Des Moines Beach Park, wander the wooded shoreline of Saltwater State Park, or shop till they drop at Westfield Southcenter, the largest retail hub in the region.
Foodies will find no shortage of flavor, from fresh-off-the-boat seafood at Anthony’s HomePort to global cuisines that reflect the area’s cultural diversity. Add in the awe-inspiring Museum of Flight, one of the world’s premier air and space museums, and it’s clear that free time here is anything but ordinary. The region is also a hub of all-ages entertainment, with go-kart racing, bowling, virtual reality games, and the famous Family Fun Center—an indoor and outdoor amusement park. At the heart of it all, Starfire Sports Complex hosts high-energy soccer, rugby, and lacrosse tournaments, placing families just minutes from all these attractions and plenty of post-game fun.
