Welcome to Walla Walla

The city of Walla Walla is the county seat of Walla Walla County and a primary commercial center for southeastern Washington state where it rests at the foot of the scenic Blue Mountains.   It is on the National Trust's list of distinctive destinations and has been called one of the best small art towns in America.  Its revitalized Main Street, located on the historic Nez Perce Trail, and year-round arts and music festivals attract many visitors.  Walla Walla is also an excellent base from which to explore the scenic Walla Walla Valley which was the home of the Cayuse and Walla Walla Indian tribes.  The city's name Walla Walla is derived from the language of the latter tribe and means "many waters".

Fur traders moved into the area in the 1800s and established a trading post and fort in the area. The Lewis and Clark Expedition passed near Walla Walla Valley on its outbound route in 1805 and through the county during their return trip in 1806.  More tragic was the Whitman family that founded a mission in 1836.  They, and others, totaling 14 people were killed by Cayuse Indians in what became known as the Whitman Massacre.  The Whitman Mission National Historic Site is about 8 miles / 13 km west of downtown Walla Walla.

Others prompted by the gold rush, commercial opportunities and farming migrated to Walla Walla to help make it the thriving community it is today.  Vineyards have been added to the Walla Walla Valley to make this another region in the Northwest producing very good wines.

Fort Walla Walla Museum and the Kirkman House Museum are excellent places for discovering more of the city's interesting history.  The Sheehan Gallery and the Maxey Museum, both located on the campus of Whitman College, also provide insights into the history and culture of Walla Walla.  The Herbarium at Whitman College will also be worth a visit for people with an interest in plant biology.

The Online Encyclopedia of Washington History has several articles on the history of Walla Walla and its people, including establishment of the Whitman Mission, convening of the First Walla Walla Council with Native American tribes and the arrival of the first wagons driven overland to the Columbia River.  Use the search option on the encyclopedia's web site for more articles.

The Walla Walla County Fairgrounds are located in the city of Walla Walla.

The official web site for the City of Walla Walla, the tourism web site for Walla Walla and the Walla Walla Chamber of Commerce are also good sources of information for planning travel to Walla Walla.

Transportation: The Valley Transit is a public bus service that serves the city of Walla Walla.

Airports:   Walla Walla Regional Airport is to the east of the city offering commercial passenger and general aviation services. 

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