Look for the π for I Heart Yakima well-loved spots that we frequent and recommend. We drop wisdom on the spots that we flirt with, but donβt get to as often with a π‘.
If you love the performing arts, then you should definitely check out The Capitol Theatre. Built in 1920, this nearly century old theatre is one of Yakimaβs crowning historic glories. It burned to the ground in 1975, and the community came together to restore it (take a look at the ceiling when you step inside). Hosting shows like Rent or Come from Away, to incredible dance productions like Ballet Hispanico, or performers like Mandy Patinkin and the Yakima Symphony Orchestra, The Capitol truly has it all. The hip 4th Street Theatre hosts smaller shows, local events, and auctions. Check online to see whatβs in town.
Capitol Theatre
19 S 3rd St, Yakima, WA 98901
(509) 853-2787 | website
4th Street Theatre
14 S 4th St, Yakima, WA 98901
(509) 853-2787 | website
(π·: Capitol Theatre)
In town and need something to burn your kiddosβ energy? Take βem to Get Air. While not in downtown proper, itβs close enough. Trampolines, games, and lots of fun, parents can even join in the jumping while wearing your kids out. Fun fact: Get Air is right on the Old Yakima Boise Cascade Mill Site β an area promised to be re-developed soon(ish).
1015 E Lincoln Ave, Yakima, WA 98901
(509) 895-5925 | website
(π·: Protrampolines)
Tucked into the back of the Golden Wheel, this is our preferred downtown dive bar for late night karaoke and local flare. They pour a stiff drink, and the crowd is always eclectic and enthusiastic (even when your voice is sub-par). Make sure you enter from the parking lot. Settle into a vinyl-lined booth, sign up at the table in the front, and grab the binder of songs to find your favorite tune to belt out. If weβre there, weβll cheer you on and maybe even order you a chocolate chicken.
9 S 1st St, Yakima, WA 98901
(509) 457-8400 | nope, no www
(π·: David Paulson)
What once was home to a church, the Seasons Performance Hall is Yakimaβs main indoor concert venue. From jazz to the Seattle Rock Orchestra to Macklemore (yes, THAT Macklemore), the Seasons is known for its incredible acoustics and eclectic musical shows. Stop by Single Hill on your way to the show for a beer, a taco, and the local scene.
101 N Naches Ave, Yakima, WA 98901
(509) 453-1888 | website
(π·: The Seasons)
Located in between Hotel Maison and Hilton Garden Inn is this gem of a day spa. This is our go-to spot for pampering, from facials to massages to calming spa products. If we are going deluxe, sign us up for a long soak, too. Their space is tranquil (maybe because you are surrounded by all the essential oils ever) and the staff is warm and friendly. If you are here for a weekend, give them a ring ahead of time to schedule an appointment to make sure you get a slot for some self-care.
399 E Yakima Ave, Yakima, WA 98901
(509) 225-4772 | website
(π·: Ummelina/Instagram)
Yakima Maker Space (YMS) was created in 2013 with the goal of "galvanizing our City's creative potential." The YMS founders led by example when they took an abandoned downtown building and created a shop where you can make almost anything. They host events like Drag Me Out to the Arts, various art groups, and tool demos. Makers from the community teach numerous classes, from βHow to use a 3D printerβ to βIntro to Watercolor.β You can find fellow creative thinkers, artists, craftsmen, entrepreneurs, and "nerds of all kinds" there. Check out their calendar of events and classes here. On Saturdays, 10a-2p, you can drop-in via Collab Coffee's shared door with them to see the latest.
16 S 1st St, Yakima, WA 98901
(509) 571-1215 | website
(π·: YMS/Instagram)
π‘ IHY WISDOM: If the Lotus Room isnβt your style, this should fulfill your dive bar needs.
104 S 2nd St, Yakima, WA 98901
(509) 453-9713 | website
(π·: Brews and Cues/Facebook)
π‘ IHY WISDOM: Fair warning - you will not find a bowling alley like this on the westside. The prices are legit ridiculous. $2.50 per game and $1.50 for shoes. Unless you are there on Sundays, when games, shoes, and select menu items are all $1.00. Pretty sure, this place has not been updated since the 1970s.
307 1/2 W Chestnut Ave, Yakima, WA 98902
(509) 452-0223 | website
(π·: Eagle Lanes/Facebook)
π‘ IHY WISDOM: Watch movies while eating snacks and ordering drinks. (21+)
202 E Chestnut Ave, Yakima, WA 98901
(509) 248-0245 | website
(π·: Orion Cinema & Mickey's Pub /Facebook)