Little Valley, Big Apple
Visit Wenatchee the Apple Capital of Washington State
During the fall season, your road trip route between Seattle and the high desert destinations of Lake Chelan, Twisp, and Winthrop likely involves passing through Wenatchee—also known as “the apple capital of the world.” But it’s not just apples that are booming here. Wenatchee has a distinct verve of agricultural ingenuity and art inspired by historic roots and contemporary influence.
Make a lunch or snack stop at Pybus Public Market. It’s a modern concourse filled with a myriad of dining options both indoor and patio-side, with vendors and artisan shops. Pybus is where local craftspeople and food artisans showcase their creations, including jewelry, housewares, and farm-fresh goods like Guerra’s Natural Seasoning, a tasty, no MSG creation by a family-run local pepper farm.
After the market, take a peaceful stroll at nearby Walla Walla Point Park, a riverfront oasis with picnic areas, easygoing trails, and a beach. It's a popular spot for paddling, and it's dog-friendly.
Note: Potential closures of SR 20—part of the famed Cascade Loop Scenic Byway—means you may need to route your road trip from Seattle by way of Stevens Pass (U.S. 2) or Snoqualmie Pass (I-5) but here’s a map link for the full loop, in case SR 20 is open.
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