The small city of Ellensburg is often overlooked by travellers in Washington State, which is a shame. Just two hours over Snoqualmie Pass on I-90 from Seattle, nestled on the floor of the picturesque Kittitas Valley, it has an appealing character that comes from the unlikely mix of a stalwart farming community and the lively student population of Central Washington University.
Unlike Leavenworth's Bavarian theme or Wenatchee's fruit-trade bustle, Ellensburg is unpretentious — an eccentrically country college town that was once a contender to become the state capital. The historic downtown was rebuilt in brick after a fire in 1889 and is largely intact. The dining is surprisingly good: the Yellow Church Cafe serves eggs Benedict with a hint of curry, El Caporal does an excellent carne asada plate, and Chinese, Thai, Mexican, and barbecue options are all within walking distance of the university grounds. The outsider-art property at Dick and Jane's Spot is worth the short walk from downtown.
If you spend one weekend of the year here, make it Labor Day. The Ellensburg Rodeo, the Rodeo Parade, and the Kittitas County Fair draw thousands of visitors. The town comes alive in a way that perfectly captures its character.