Fort Simcoe State Park

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An interesting historical fort complex is preserved in the 200-acre Fort Simcoe State Park, an oasis of green amid scorched desert hills. It was built in 1855 but served as a fort for only three years until the creation of the Yakama Reservation in 1859. Note that you'll need a Discover Pass to park here.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the park now acts as an interpretive center, with a handful of original buildings still intact. It's also one of the best places in the state to spot Lewis's woodpeckers.

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Nearby attractions

1. Yakima Valley Museum

22.41 MILES

This highly educational and entertaining museum is one of the state's best. It tells the story of the region from a geographic and historical viewpoint,…

2. Yakama Nation Museum & Cultural Center

23.82 MILES

The history of the Yakama Native Americans is well documented at the Yakama Nation Cultural Center, which exhibits traditional costumes, baskets and beads…

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Acting as de facto headquarters of the Yakima Area Arboretum, this small building includes a gift shop with a bookstore and a few displays about the…

4. Yakima Area Arboretum

24.32 MILES

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5. Yakima Greenway

24.87 MILES

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6. American Hop Museum

25.46 MILES

Equipment, artifacts and photos tell the story of the Yakima Valley's hop-growing history.

7. St John's Monastery & Bakery

28.72 MILES

The nuns and novices of this Greek Orthodox women's monastery open their doors to the world via their fantastic bakery and deli, selling delicious…