Nestled in southeastern Washington, the charming town of Walla Walla is a destination that combines rich history, award-winning wines, and an emerging culinary scene. With its picturesque vineyards, welcoming small-town atmosphere, and impressive gastronomic offerings, Walla Walla is an ideal getaway for food and wine lovers alike. During my recent visit, I had the pleasure of experiencing some of the best this town has to offer, from cozy accommodations to must-visit dining spots and vineyards. What made this adventure even more fun was that I got to experience it with fellow LGBTQ content creators Matt of Michael & Matt, Mikah Meyer and Adam Dupuis.
My journey began at The GG, an elegant bed and breakfast in the heart of Walla Walla. This historic property exudes warmth and hospitality, offering a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern comforts.
The innkeeper took the time to give me a tour of the beautifully restored home, detailing its history and unique features. The decor strikes a perfect balance between classic elegance and contemporary convenience, with tastefully furnished rooms featuring plush bedding, vintage details, and modern amenities. In the evenings, guests can unwind in the cozy salons, which feature fireplaces and an impressive collection of Louis Vuitton trunks. The outdoor spaces, including a charming garden, provided a serene escape to enjoy my morning coffee before heading out to explore.
Whether you're in town for a romantic retreat, a wine-focused getaway, or simply a relaxing escape, The GG provides an unparalleled experience. Its personalized service, attention to detail, and charming ambiance make it a top choice for travelers seeking a memorable stay in Walla Walla.
Visiting in February turned out to be a delightful decision, as Walla Walla hosts its annual Restaurant Month, an event that showcases the best of local cuisine. Participating restaurants offer prix fixe menus highlighting seasonal ingredients, creative dishes, and the region’s renowned wines. This is an excellent opportunity for visitors to sample a variety of flavors at an affordable price.
For my first dinner in town, I made my way to Passatempo Taverna, an Italian eatery renowned for its handmade pasta and inventive cocktails. The ambiance was warm and inviting, perfect for a relaxed evening out. We ordered a variety of appetizers to share including garlic & rosemary focaccia, marinated olives, and brussels & burrata, which was my favorite of the three. For entrees we shared a few of their specialty pasta selections including rigatoni Bolognese and the gnocchi. Each was made from scratch and delicious. I wasn’t expecting to have homemade pasta in Walla Walla so this was an unexpected treat.
No visit to Walla Walla is complete without indulging in a satisfying brunch at LGBTQ-owned Bacon & Eggs. This lively café serves up farm-fresh breakfast and brunch options with a focus on high-quality ingredients and bold flavors. I opted for their signature crabcake benedict, which comes with two large crabcakes made daily with celery, green and red peppers and seasoned with old bay. Other selections that looked interesting were the Huevos Rancheros and Chilaquiles. Their locally sourced coffee provided the perfect morning pick-me-up, setting the tone for a day of exploration.
To truly appreciate Walla Walla’s world-class wines, I booked a tour with another LGBTQ-owned business, True North Wine Tours, a company known for crafting personalized wine experiences. The knowledgeable guide curated an itinerary featuring some of the best wineries in the region, allowing me to taste an impressive range of varietals while learning about the area’s winemaking history. The convenience of having a professional guide meant I could fully immerse myself in the experience without worrying about logistics. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned wine enthusiast, True North Wine Tours offers an unforgettable way to explore Walla Walla’s renowned wine country.
In between wine tastings, I stopped by Sweet Bee Honey, a delightful shop offering locally sourced honey and handcrafted products. The friendly owners were passionate about their work, and I enjoyed learning about the honey-making process and the importance of supporting local beekeepers. Of course, I had to purchase a few jars of honey to enjoy back home.
One of my favorite wine stops was Rotie Cellars, a winery specializing in Rhône-style wines. The tasting room’s modern yet cozy design provided the perfect setting to enjoy their expertly crafted blends. The panoramic views from the tasting room made the experience even more memorable, providing a picturesque backdrop to an exceptional tasting session. They produce a Stonewall rosé with proceeds going to local LGBTQ organizations.
For an elevated tasting experience, Caprio Cellars delivered in every way possible. From the moment I arrived, I was greeted with warm hospitality and a curated wine and food pairing experience that highlighted the winery’s commitment to excellence. The estate-grown wines were exquisite, with the Cabernet Sauvignon and Bordeaux-style blends standing out as my personal favorites. The thoughtful food pairings enhanced the flavors of each wine, making for an indulgent afternoon of fine dining and sipping.
The region is also known for its LGBTQ winemakers including August Forest and TruthTeller Winery. Our group had a chance to sample their delicious wines at a reception at The GG later that evening where we had the opportunity to speak with the proprietors.
For those looking to add outdoor adventure to their Walla Walla itinerary, Bluewood is a must-visit. Located just a short drive from town, this ski resort offers some of the best powder in the Pacific Northwest. With its family-friendly atmosphere, well-groomed runs, and stunning forested scenery, Bluewood is perfect for both seasoned skiers and beginners. Hop on a snowmobile for a ride through the mountains. Our guide zoomed us through the rugged terrain at nearly 30 mph, offering breathtaking views of the surroundings along with providing an exhilarating experience. As someone who doesn’t love heights or speed, the snowmobile adventure was a bit outside of my comfort zone, but sometimes you need to venture outside your comfort zone when you travel. It will provide the most memorable experiences.
Walla Walla is a destination that seamlessly blends small-town charm with world-class culinary and wine experiences. The town’s dedication to quality food, wine, and hospitality makes it a hidden gem that deserves to be on every traveler’s radar. Whether you’re a food enthusiast, a wine lover, or simply seeking a relaxing escape, Walla Walla, Washington, is a place that will leave you eager to return. With its welcoming atmosphere, stunning landscapes, and vibrant food and wine scene, this charming town is sure to capture your heart—one sip and bite at a time.
Film lovers should consider visiting during Movie Crush, a short-film festival taking place July 11-13, while those looking to meet other LGBTQ locals should visit during Walla Walla Pride, which is typically held during the first week in June. I hope you discover the magic of this wonderful Pacific Northwest destination.
Enjoy the Journey!
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