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Walla Walla, WA

Frequently asked questions

Walla Walla, WA

Walla Walla is a city in and the seat of government of Walla Walla County, Washington, United States. It had a population of 34,060 at the 2020 census, estimated to have decreased to 33,927 as of 2021. The population of the city and its two suburbs, the town of College Place and unincorporated Walla Walla East, is about 45,000.

Walla Walla's white history started in 1806 when the Lewis and Clark expedition encountered the Walawalałáma (Walla Walla people) near the mouth of the Walla Walla River. Other inhabitants of the valley included the Liksiyu (Cayuse), Imatalamłáma (Umatilla), and Niimíipu (Nez Perce) indigenous peoples. In 1818, Fort Walla Walla (originally Fort Nez Percés), a fur trading outpost run by Hudson's Bay Company (HBC), was established and operated as an important stopping point in Oregon Country. Abandoned in 1855, it is now underwater behind the McNary Dam.

Walla Walla was incorporated on January 11, 1862. The first election was held on April 1, 1862, and Judge Elias Bean Whitman, Marcus Whitman's cousin, was elected as the city's first mayor. The population exploded over the following decade to 300% its size, making it the largest city in the territory, slating it to be the capital until cities surpassed it again after it was bypassed by the transcontinental rail lines in the 1880s.

As the gold rush died out, the city developed into an agricultural center referred to as the "cradle of Pacific Northwest history", and the "garden city", a popular source of onions, apples, peas, and wine grapes.

Italian settlers from Lonate Pozzolo and Calabria regions formed the core of the gardening industry, and settled in neighborhoods known as "Blalock" and the "South Ninth". One of the main contributions of the Italians to Walla Walla commerce was their vineyards, and soon after, wine-tasting rooms, the first two opening in the 1880s by Frank Orselli and Pasquale Saturno. The Italian Walla Walla population was also responsible for growing Washington State's official vegetable, the Walla Walla sweet onion. It was the technique of dryland farming, though, that made Walla Walla the region's breadbasket known for its wheat exports.

Walla Walla is located in the Walla Walla Valley, with the rolling Palouse hills to the north and the Blue Mountains to the east of town. Various creeks meander through town before combining to become the Walla Walla River, which drains into the Columbia River about 30 miles (50 km) west of town. The city lies in the rain shadow of the Cascade Mountains, so annual precipitation is fairly low.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 12.84 square miles (33.26 km²), of which 12.81 square miles (33.18 km²) is land and 0.03 square miles (0.08 km²) is water.

Health and wellness are integral aspects of Walla Walla's community life. St. Mary Medical Center offers comprehensive health services, including wellness check-ups and preventive care programs. Start your wellness journey at Kaleidoscope Studios, where you can enjoy a variety of fitness classes designed to make you feel great. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the city's numerous parks and green spaces, such as Fort Walla Walla Recreation Trail, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities and exercise. YMCA of Walla Walla provides fitness classes, swimming, and wellness programs for all ages. Planet Fitness offers comprehensive fitness programs including cardio, strength training, and group exercise classes. For a holistic approach to health, the Walla Walla Clinic provides comprehensive medical services. Engage in yoga classes at ZenSoul Yoga for relaxation at meditation.

Top sites in Walla Walla, WA are The Marcus Whitman Hotel, Whitman Mission National Historic Site, Gesa Power House Theatre, and Fort Walla Walla Museum. 

Population: 33,901 (2024). ZIP code: 99362. Area code: 509. Elevation: 287 m. Area: 12.84 square miles (33.26 km²).

FAQs

What is Walla Walla WA famous for?

Boasting one of the most fertile agricultural areas in the nation, the Walla Walla Valley produces everything from wheat to asparagus, strawberries, and of course our famous Sweet Onions. But, exquisite wine is what tossed Walla Walla on the map. With more than 120 wineries stemming from a huge range of varietals, it’s a dreamy place to experience world-class bottles and discover stories of the vineyards from the wine masters themselves. Conversation flows as easily as the wine, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Why do people go to Walla Walla, WA?

If you’re looking for a getaway that’s off the beaten path, Walla Walla is your destination. The town has plenty of history and natural wonders to keep you occupied. From an award-winning winery and brewery to terrific restaurants and hip shops, there’s plenty to do in Walla Walla for travelers looking for a different experience. There are also tons of wineries and orchards in any direction you turn. It is the perfect mix of wine country and farm life. You can even enjoy a wine tasting while watching cattle graze on open pastures.

Is Walla Walla, WA a safe city?

With a crime rate of 35 per one thousand residents, Walla Walla has one of the highest crime rates in America compared to all communities of all sizes - from the smallest towns to the very largest cities. One's chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime here is one in 29. Within Washington, more than 80% of the communities have a lower crime rate than Walla Walla.

Sources

City of Walla Walla

Wikipedia

Visit Walla Walla

Hey Ciara

Neighborhood Scout

Wikipedia

The Marcus Whitman Hotel 

Whitman Mission National Historic Site 

Gesa Power House Theatre 

Fort Walla Walla Museum

St. Mary Medical Center

Kaleidoscope Studios

Fort Walla Walla Recreation Trail

YMCA of Walla Walla

Planet Fitness

Walla Walla Clinic

ZenSoul Yoga

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 (in the United States) immediately.