Seniors Drive Southeast To Find Richland

Richland is a city in the southeastern part of the State of Washington, at the confluence of the Yakima and the Columbia Rivers. The population runs just over 51,000. Seniors might think that the soil in Washington was very rich, thus the name.

Actually in 1904–1905, W.R. Amon and his son Howard purchased 2,300 acres and proposed a town site on the north bank of the Yakima River. Postal authorities approved the designation of this town site as Richland in 1905, naming it for Nelson Rich, a state legislator and land developer.

The city is blessed with a rich history and today the city is getting a facelift one building at a time.  From new construction to revamping the old, a rejuvenated downtown Richland is taking shape. “Other cities have inherited decaying downtowns and wondered how to revive them. We’re trying to create one,” said the Mayor .

Seniors Enjoy Award Winning Winery

Among the many things senior visitors can enjoy is the Howard Amon Park with 45.91 acres, located along the Columbia River. The Art in the Park Show is an annual fundraiser brimming with artist booths. The Empress of the North is docked at Howard Amon Park and is ready for senior visitors to board.

The Barnard Griffin Winery on Tulip Lane, founded in 1983 by Rob Griffin and Deborah Barnard, has been producing award-winning wines for over 30 years. Barnard Griffin is the premier family owned winery, one of the largest and one of the oldest in Washington state. For senior oenophiles, the winery is an essential stop on any tour of Washington’s best wineries.

Apple orchards are loaded with Washington’s best all around the Richland area.

Seniors Drawn to The Columbia River Area

The Hanford Reach Interpretive Center, (REACH) is a hybrid institution-part interpretive center, part museum, and part visitor center, developed to celebrate and learn about the natural and cultural history of the Columbia River and greater Columbia Basin.

The recreational facilities on the beautiful Columbia River abound. So pack a picnic basket and enjoy the air along the river. Richland is one of three cities in Washington State that make up the Tri-Cities region. The Gold Coast Historic District is highly popular with senior visitors who enjoy a good stroll past classic old homes.

Richland is rich in history, produce and wine and offers an abundance of activities both indoors and out. The pleasant weather brings golfers of all skill levels to the fine courses that make golf one of the most popular sports in and around Richland. For the Beckers, I think my wife and I would enjoy hopping aboard one of the popular river cruises that depart from Richland to explore the rest of the Tri-Cities region. -jeb