Smithsonian Mag just released a list of the 15 best small towns in the U.S. that you need to visit in 2025. Included on that list is a hidden gem that’s perfect for a relaxing weekend getaway from Seattle when you need a break from city life.
Tieton, Washington is about a 2.5-hours drive from Seattle. (Hot tip: it’s pronounced tie-eh-ton.) It is located in Washington’s Yakima Valley, a bountiful region known for its orchards, wineries, and craft beer scene. You can enjoy the natural abundance there at Tieton’s many restaurants, breweries, and wineries or by exploring the scenic trails and even a nearby wildlife refuge.
Smithsonian Mag describes Tieton as “a revitalized orchard town that’s now an artistic enclave.” The article credits Mighty Tieton, an artist collective founded in 2005, with the town’s artistic renaissance. The collective works to “restore Tieton’s old warehouses and turn them into studios, galleries, cafés and event spaces that now host exhibitions, art workshops and community events year-round.”
Here are some things to do in Tieton, WA!
Oak Creek Wildlife Area
This wildlife refuge in nearby Naches, WA covers over 67,000 acres. In addition to a scenic hiking trail, the refuge has a feeding station for elk during the winter. Read more about the elk feeding (and note that a Discover Pass is required).
Tieton River Nature Trail
Another option for getting outdoors is the Tieton River Nature Trail. This is an easy hike along the Tieton River that is less than seven miles round trip. In the spring, you’ll see wildflowers; in the fall, you’ll get to enjoy stunning autumnal colors. If you’re there in the winter, you can consider snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.
Mighty Tieton studio tours
You have to explore the exciting local arts scene while in Tieton. The local art collective Mighty Tieton offers studio tours on most Saturdays. See more info about the tours at the bottom of the Tieton event page.
Tieton Tag Sale and Vintage Trailer Rally
On July 19 in Tieton City park, there will be a food, drink, and a tag sale with tons of antiques and vintage finds. Also as part of this event, the Vintage Trailer Rally features a group of women opening up their classic vintage trailers to visitors. See more info here.
Día de los Muertos celebration
One of the biggest tourist draws for Tieton is the annual Day of the Dead Festival on October 26. The event page describes it as: “Music, dance, history, a community altar, lots of terrific food, dancing horses, art, vendors, a huge tappet sand painting, and laughs for everyone.”
Eat and drink
Looking for a good meal in Tieton? Smithsonian Mag recommends Don Mateo as well as Nomad Kitchen & Mercantile. You can also enjoy food trucks, craft beer, and live music at Shorthead Brewing (note that they’re closed Mondays and Tuesdays).