The Tri-Cities of southeastern Washington state encompasses
the three municipalities of Pasco, Kennewick, and Richland. The area
population is about 191,800 (2000). Boasting nearly 300 days a year of
sunshine, Tri-Cities weather is comparable to many sunbelt cities. Average annual rainfall is about seven inches.
On
the historic Lewis & Clark Trail, the Tri-Cities span the
confluence of the Columbia, Snake, and Yakima rivers. The area is an
ideal spot for water sports such as boating, fishing, and water skiing.
Swimming opportunities abound during all seasons. Snow skiing, hiking,
hunting, and camping are all popular and located nearby.
Local
cultural activities include the Mid-Columbia Symphony and Ballet, the
Light Opera, and drama companies such as the Richland Players.
Professional
baseball, arena football, and hockey teams call the Tri-Cities home and
the 6,000-seat coliseum hosts events and concerts. The annual
mid-summer Water Follies is a community event boasting one of the West’s
oldest unlimited hydroplane races on the Columbia River.
The Tri-Cities is a center of the world-renowned Northwest wine industry, with more than 40 top vintners located nearby.
Additional information is available from the Tri-Cities Visitor & Convention Bureau.