Whitman Mission National Historic Site

Things To Do Near Whitman Mission National Historic Site

Stop at the Whitman Mission Museum to learn more about the events that transpired before and after November 29, 1847, when Doctor Whitman, his wife, and those living at the Presbyterian Church mission were brutally murdered. The grounds of this historical site are a fantastic place to view wildlife and have a picnic in one of the shelters. 

Hiking Trails

• Whitman Mission National Historic Site Trail

  The Whitman Mission National Historic Site Trail starts outside the visitor center. It passes by the cemetery where the victims were buried before reaching the monument constructed to remember Doctor Whitman and his wife. Enjoy stunning views of the whole area as you stroll back to the starting point. 

  Location

  Whitman Mission National Historic Site, 328 Whitman Mission Road, Walla Walla, WA 99362

  Length

  0.5 miles

  Intensity

  Easy

• Rowena Plateau Trail

  The Rowena Plateau Trail starts in the Tom McCall Preserve. Climb up the hill as the trees gradually get closer together on this old wagon route trail. Then, this route turns westward and runs through meadows before finally ascending to the summit of McCall Point. 

  Location

  Tom McCall Preserve, Old Historic Columbia River Highway, Mosier, OR 97040

  Length

  3.4 miles

  Intensity

  Moderate

• Trail of Ten Falls

  The Trail of Ten Falls allows you to see 10 waterfalls at Silver Falls State Park. This trail is positioned to walk under two of the falls and see four others from the front and back. It also features rocky outcroppings and a fantastic area to explore with sword ferns. 

  Location

  Silver Falls State Park, 20024 Silver Falls Highway Southeast, Sublimity, OR 97385

  Length

  8.5 miles

  Intensity

  Moderate

Sightseeing

• Pioneer Park

  See some of the oldest roses in America at Pioneer Park. This park was founded in 1902. If you have children along, they will love the spacious playground. 

  Location

  940 East Alder Street, Walla Walla, WA 99362

• Frenchtown Historic Site

  The Prince’s Cabin at the Frenchtown Historic Site is the oldest example of French-Canadian architecture in Washington. Stroll through the historic cemetery and read the interpretative signage to learn about some of the earliest settlers. Learn about how fur trading led to the development of this city. 

  Location

  8364 Old Highway 12, Walla Walla, WA 99362

• Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

  Drive along the Old Columbia River Highway from Troutdale and end in The Dalles to see the fantastic scenery of the Columbia River Gorge. Stop at the Vesta House to see the antique stained-glass windows and enjoy the view. The river is an excellent place for a kayaking adventure.

  Location

  Hood River, OR 97031

Museums

• Kirkman House Museum

  Learn about life during the Victorian era at the Kirkman House Museum. Workers completed building this home in 1880. It is filled with early Walla Walla artifacts and Victorian living accessories. 

  Location

  214 North Colville Street, Walla Walla, WA 99362

• Fort Walla Walla Museum

  Explore Indian culture, military establishment, pioneer settlement, and horse-era agriculture at the Fort Walla Walla Museum. There are 17 pioneer buildings to explore and special programming scheduled often at this museum. 

  Location

  755 Myra Road, Walla Walla, WA 99362

Nearby Shops and Restaurants

• My Grandmother’s Garden

  Find lovingly grown plants at My Grandmother’s Garden. They also feature seasonal produce and home décor. 

  Location

  2946 S. 3rd Ave., Walla Walla, WA 99362

• 35&Butter

  Find a wide assortment of merchandise at 35&Butter, like women’s lingerie, spices, and home décor. You can also find locally produced sweets. Many of their offerings have a nature theme. 

  Location

  15 E. Main St., Walla Walla, WA 99362

• Graze

  Get hot soups, fresh sandwiches, and filling salads at Graze. One of their soups is always vegetarian. Be sure to leave room for their delicious chocolate brownies.

  Location

  5 S. Colville St., Walla Walla, WA 99362

• The Maple County Café

  The team at The Maple County Café counts on quality produce and meats to create down-home entrees. They offer inside and outside seating for breakfast and lunch. Consider starting the day with one of their baked omelets. 

  Location

  209 E. Alder St., Walla Walla, WA 99362

How To Get To Whitman Mission National Historic Site

It is easy to get to Whitman Mission National Historic Site from Seattle in about 4 hours. Start by taking Interstate 5 South. Exit onto Interstate 90 East. Take Exit 137 and get on Washington 26 East. Turn right on Washington 243 South. At the traffic circle, take the second exit to stay on Washington 243 South. It will become Washington 24 West, and then it becomes Washington 240 East. When this road runs concurrently with Interstate 182 East, follow the interstate. Turn left to get on US 12 East. Turn right on Old Highway 12 and another right on Sweagle Road. Finally, turn left on Whitman Mission Road. 

Address

328 Whitman Mission Road, Walla Walla, WA 99362

Fee: Entry fee $0

Learn more about the Oregon Trail’s history by visiting the Whitman Mission National Historic Site. Events at this site led to the formation of the Oregon Territory and forced Native Americans to live on reservations. The best way to explore this scenic area is in an RV. If you do not have one, then rent one on RVshare.com. You can discover all the shopping, hiking, sightseeing, and dining opportunities found in this area.