The heart of the Cascades
“Cle Elum” means “swift water” in the language of the native Kittitas people who once resided here. Appropriate, considering how the town stretches along the banks of the Yakima River. The great outdoors are a big draw, but so are quaint shops and taverns. From our Cle Elum resort, downtown is just five miles away.
What to do, eat & drink
The past feels very present as you browse longtime, family-owned businesses in a town with nearly 20 buildings on the historic register. Save time for kayaking Cle Elum Lake. Hiking or snowshoeing the Coal Mines Trail. Visiting the Carpenter House Museum. Fishing, horseback riding and exploring the state parks and national forest. Work up an appetite?
Try out these favorites.
Owen’s Meats
High-quality fresh and smoked meats since 1887.
Cottage Café
In-house bakery, cocktail lounge and all-day breakfast.
Señor Bones
Big gourmet burritos, fresh salads and tacos.
Beau’s Pizza, Pasta & Steakhouse
From-scratch pizza, pasta, steaks and local brews.
Sunset Café
Bring a big appetite for this menu of traditional American fare.
Miner’s Pizza + Pastry Co.
Handcrafted take-and-bake pizzas, plus sweet treats
Sahara Pizza
Gourmet pizzas with fast and friendly delivery.
Mama Vallone’s
Try the Vallone family’s award-winning salmon, steaks and pastas.
Dru Bru
Beers, ciders and non-alcoholic sodas featuring 20 active taps.
Stella’s
Homemade and organic breakfast, lunch, dinner, coffee and drinks.
Cle Elum Bakery
Freshly made pastries, muffins and breads.
Ploy Bistro
Authentic, family-owned Thai restaurant.
Orchard
Farm-to-table, nose-to-tail, from-scratch seasonal cuisine.
Glondo’s Sausage Co.
Made fresh daily using family recipes from Italy and Croatia.
Upside Down Wine
Family-owned wine tasting room, vineyard and wine club.
509 Bake House
Custom cakes, cupcakes and classic desserts made with care.
Red Arrow Drive-In
Home of the legendary Giant Burger on toasted French bread.
Twin Pines Drive-In
Serving 100% fresh beef burgers, hot dogs and more since 1958.
Pioneer Coffee
Small-batch coffee roasting and baked goods made fresh daily.
Mike’s Tavern
Huge selection of Washington and Oregon microbrews.
The Keg Cellar Tavern
Brews, live music, food and a friendly vibe in a historic setting.