Why Tri-Cities is Washington’s Best Hidden Romantic Getaway for Couples This Year
With Valentine’s Day on the horizon, couples everywhere are seeking unique, meaningful, and memorable year-round getaway ideas that go beyond the usual dinner and drinks. The Tri-Cities, located in the heart of Washington Wine Country, is quickly emerging as one of the Pacific Northwest’s most charming romantic destinations for couples, offering a blend of riverfront views, outdoor adventure, award-winning wine experiences and cozy date-night options.
Whether travelers are planning a weekend escape, a seasonal celebration like Valentine’s Day, or a spontaneous mid-week retreat, Tri-Cities delivers a diverse range of couple-friendly experiences:
Culinary & Wine Experiences: Intimate fine-dining and wine experiences set the stage for heartfelt conversations and unforgettable evenings. Couples can enjoy seasonal menus and craft cocktails at LU LU Craft Bar + Kitchen, a cozy lounge atmosphere at Hyde Tap and Lounge, or a vibrant dinner at Perch Cantina. The region’s celebrated wine scene invites couples to linger over tastings at J. Bookwalter Winery, Goose Ridge Estate Winery, Kiona Vineyards and Winery, Barnard Griffin Winery, or discover small-production pours together at Longship Cellars.
Adventure & Outdoor Romance: From sunset strolls along the Columbia River to scenic hikes and bike rides on the Sacagawea Heritage Trail, couples can unplug and connect amid wide-open skies, river views, and expansive desert-meets-water landscapes.
Playful Date Nights: For couples who like to mix fun with romance, the Tri-Cities offers playful options that add a little friendly competition and plenty of laughs to a weekend away. Couples can go bowling together at Spare Time Lanes in Kennewick or Atomic Bowl in Richland, test their aim at AXE KPR Axe Throwing in Pasco, and work together on puzzles and challenges at PerplEXIT Puzzle Rooms or Atomic Escape Rooms in Richland.
Where to Stay: Couples can settle in at The Lodge at Columbia Point, a riverfront hotel in Richland that offers scenic water views, spacious rooms, fireplaces, and an on-site restaurant and spa. It is an ideal home base for a romantic weekend focused on relaxation, wine tasting, and quality time together.
Seasonal Events Perfect for Couples: Winter and early-February trips can be built around standout events like the Craft Brew & Bacon Festival on January 31, the Harlem Globetrotters 100-Year Tour on February 4 at the Toyota Center in Kennewick, and Red Wine & Chocolate from February 13 to 15, a Valentine’s weekend favorite pairing local red wines with artisanal chocolates at wineries throughout the region.
What makes Tri-Cities truly distinctive is how its diverse, yet intimate attractions align with what couples are craving this year. Comfort, quality time together, and experiences that feel special without requiring a long haul or costly overseas trip.
Located in the heart of Washington Wine Country, the Tri-Cities - Kennewick, Pasco and Richland in the southeastern corner of the state offers a sun-drenched retreat for exploration and rejuvenation. Nestled at the confluence of the Columbia and Snake Rivers with a desert climate, easy access to these mighty waterways provides world-class recreation, majestic natural beauty and irrigation for the world-class wineries – 200 within a one-hour drive. Visitors enjoy creature comforts at local hotels and spas, carefully crafted fare from local eateries and farmers' markets, and award-winning golf courses. Hands-on history is accessible throughout the region, sharing the local perspective on international events like The Manhattan Project, and the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The Tri-Cities region by car is three hours from Seattle and Portland, two hours from Spokane, and one hour from Walla Walla and Yakima. Arrive by Amtrak train and then bike or rideshare from Pasco’s Intermodal Station to a hotel or restaurant of choice. Fly into the Tri-Cities Airport, with direct flights to and from 10 major hubs. Discover the details at visittri-cities.com @Tri-CitiesWashington on Facebook and @Tri-CitiesWA on Instagram.