Cities in Walla Walla County, Washington

by btobers · Published November 10, 2022 · Updated November 13, 2024

Walla Walla County, Washington, is located in the southeastern region of the state and is known for its rich agricultural heritage and award-winning wineries. Established in 1854, the county played a key role in Washington’s early history as a trading hub along the Oregon Trail. With a mild climate and fertile soil, Walla Walla County has become renowned for its wheat fields, vineyards, and local produce, especially its famous Walla Walla sweet onions. The county seat, Walla Walla, is a cultural and economic center that attracts visitors with its charming downtown, vibrant art scene, and scenic wine country.

County Facts:

Population: Approximately 60,000
County Seat: Walla Walla
Cities and Towns: 4, including incorporated cities and unincorporated towns

List of Cities and Towns in Walla Walla County, Washington

1. Walla Walla

Year Founded: 1862
Population: Approximately 34,000
Population Density: 2,400 people per square mile
Area Code: 509
Elevation: 942 feet

Walla Walla, the county seat, is celebrated for its historic charm, lush landscapes, and booming wine industry, with over 100 wineries in the region. Located near the Blue Mountains and surrounded by farmland, the city enjoys a mild climate ideal for agriculture. Walla Walla is accessible by U.S. Route 12 and served by the Walla Walla Regional Airport, which offers flights to major regional destinations. The city’s historic downtown features preserved 19th-century buildings, boutique shops, art galleries, and eateries, making it a lively hub for both residents and tourists.

Things to Do:
Walla Walla offers a wide range of activities, from wine tasting at renowned wineries to exploring local art galleries and theaters. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike the nearby Blue Mountains or enjoy a stroll through Pioneer Park’s aviary and gardens. The city hosts several annual events, such as the Walla Walla Sweet Onion Festival and the Balloon Stampede, drawing visitors for unique local celebrations. Downtown Walla Walla is home to award-winning restaurants, tasting rooms, and shops, creating a vibrant setting for food, wine, and culture lovers.

2. College Place

Year Founded: 1945
Population: Approximately 9,500
Population Density: 3,200 people per square mile
Area Code: 509
Elevation: 770 feet

College Place is a small city adjacent to Walla Walla, known for its academic influence and tight-knit community. It is home to Walla Walla University, a Seventh-day Adventist institution that attracts students and faculty from around the country. The city’s residential neighborhoods and educational institutions create a family-friendly atmosphere. College Place is easily accessible by State Route 125 and U.S. Route 12, connecting it to Walla Walla and the surrounding region.

Things to Do:
Visitors to College Place can explore the scenic campus of Walla Walla University and its beautiful gardens. The city offers a quieter setting compared to nearby Walla Walla, but its proximity to the wine country allows for easy access to wine tours and tastings. Several parks, such as Lions Park, provide recreational spaces for families, and the city’s community events, like seasonal farmers’ markets, offer local produce and crafts. For shopping and dining, residents often visit nearby Walla Walla’s historic downtown area.

3. Waitsburg

Year Founded: 1865
Population: Approximately 1,250
Population Density: 1,000 people per square mile
Area Code: 509
Elevation: 1,289 feet

Waitsburg, located northeast of Walla Walla, is a historic town nestled along the Touchet River. Known for its preserved historic buildings and small-town charm, Waitsburg is a popular spot for history enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful, rural setting. State Route 12 connects Waitsburg to both Walla Walla and Dayton, making it accessible for travelers exploring southeastern Washington. The town’s architecture and historic downtown provide a unique glimpse into its pioneer past.

Things to Do:
Visitors to Waitsburg can explore the historic downtown area, which includes unique shops, restaurants, and restored 19th-century buildings. The Waitsburg Historical Museum offers insights into the town’s history, while the annual Pioneer Fall Festival and Classic Car Show celebrate its heritage. Outdoor activities include fishing along the Touchet River, hiking nearby trails, and enjoying the countryside’s scenic views. Waitsburg’s local wineries also provide tastings, making it a quieter alternative to the wine-tasting experiences in Walla Walla.

4. Prescott

Year Founded: 1881
Population: Approximately 300
Population Density: 850 people per square mile
Area Code: 509
Elevation: 1,220 feet

Prescott is a small agricultural community located north of Walla Walla, surrounded by vast wheat fields and farmlands. With a close-knit population, Prescott maintains a traditional rural lifestyle centered around farming and community events. The town is accessible via State Route 124, which connects it to Walla Walla and other nearby towns, providing a rural retreat in the heart of Washington’s farmland.

Things to Do:
Prescott offers a quiet, relaxed atmosphere ideal for exploring the surrounding farmland and open landscapes. The annual Wheatland Wheat Festival celebrates the town’s agricultural heritage with food, games, and local entertainment. Outdoor activities include birdwatching, scenic drives through farmland, and fishing along the nearby Snake River. For those interested in local history, Prescott’s small museums and historic sites provide a look into the town’s farming past.

List of Communities in Walla Walla County, Washington

1. Lowden

Year Founded: Early 1900s
Population: Approximately 50
Population Density: 200 people per square mile
Area Code: 509
Elevation: 480 feet

Lowden is a small, unincorporated farming community located near the Walla Walla River. Known for its vineyards and wineries, Lowden is a stop along the wine trail, with scenic views and charming tasting rooms.

2. Touchet

Year Founded: 1884
Population: Approximately 400
Population Density: 100 people per square mile
Area Code: 509
Elevation: 564 feet

Touchet is a rural community west of Walla Walla, primarily focused on agriculture and farming. It offers a serene environment with access to the Walla Walla River, providing fishing and birdwatching opportunities.

3. Dixie

Year Founded: 1890s
Population: Approximately 200
Population Density: 150 people per square mile
Area Code: 509
Elevation: 1,200 feet

Dixie is a small, unincorporated community known for its tranquil setting near the foothills of the Blue Mountains. It offers scenic drives, local hiking trails, and a quiet, rural lifestyle.