Wenatchee’s authentic energy and community spirit pulse strongest where locals gather, flavors shine, and river breezes mingle with laughter. Enter the Wenatchee Valley Farmers Market—your first stop for a morning packed with produce, music, and creativity. But why stop there? To truly experience the city, follow your market visit with a Columbia River boat ride from Wiley’s Boat Rides.
It’s the weekend adventure combo that lets you soak up local life on land and by water. Here’s your detailed play-by-play for a Wenatchee day that’s both down-to-earth and wildly memorable.
Morning: Dive into Local Flavor at Wenatchee Valley Farmers Market
What Makes the Wenatchee Valley Farmers Market Special?
Fresh, Local, Vibrant
Wenatchee Valley Farmers Market is open Saturdays from May through December, 8am to 1pm, in the Pybus Public Market parking lot. During market hours, the lot transforms into a colorful festival with baskets overflowing with peaches, cherries, apples, and garden greens grown right in the valley. Special events or pop-up markets may occur at other times, but regular Wednesday markets are not scheduled in recent years.
Meet the Makers
Chat with the farmers, bakers, and artisans who bring their best each week. Taste jams still warm from the kettle, sample local honey, and discover hand-knit crafts, soaps, or pottery.
Live Music & Community Energy
Families with strollers, cyclists on the Loop Trail, foodies and friends—this is Wenatchee’s weekly watering hole for connection and local pride.
All Ages & Lifestyles Welcome
Local musicians set the vibe—acoustic tunes pair perfectly with sun, shade, and the scent of fresh cinnamon rolls or savory breakfast wraps.
Farm-to-River Picnic Supplies
Build a market basket for lunch: fresh bread, cheeses, apples and cherries, preserved meats, and even a bouquet for your river ride.
Insider Tips for Your Visit
- Arrive early (opens at 8 AM) for the freshest produce—and to avoid midday parking crunches.
- Bring cash or use the market’s token system; many vendors accept cards, but having a few dollars on hand helps.
- Don’t forget a reusable bag or tote to haul your bounty—and a cooler if you’re bringing cheese or chilled treats on your later adventure.
- Snap photos of the flower stalls, friendly dogs, and murals—perfect for remembering the local flavor.
Midday: Stroll & Savor Around Pybus Public Market
Explore More
Adjacent to the farmers market, Pybus Public Market hosts year-round shops, food stands, coffee roasters, and art galleries. Grab lunch (or dessert) to go, and wander through Art Alley for local creations.
River-Ready
The market is steps from the Apple Capital Loop Trail and riverfront park spaces—walk, bike, or relax on a sunny bench while you wait for your next experience.
Afternoon: Unforgettable Columbia River Boat Ride with Wiley’s
After savoring local flavors and creative spirit at the Wenatchee Valley Farmers Market, cap your day with an adventure you’ll never forget. Right from downtown, Wiley’s Boat Rides offers private Columbia River cruises that turn your Wenatchee outing up.
Why Wiley’s Boat Ride Completes the Experience
Seamless Transition
Private River Excursion
See the City from the Water
Cruise right past Pybus Market, Wenatchee Riverfront Park, and the bridges you’ve walked that morning—now reflected in the shimmering Columbia.
Spot wildlife in hidden creeks, under overhanging trees, and on rocky shorelines: bald eagles, osprey, otters, and herons abound.
Bring Your Market Picnic
Enjoy a market lunch or snack on the water—fresh cherries, artisan bread, or a wedge of cheese become gourmet treats as you glide through the valley.
Local Stories & Lasting Memories
Your USCG-licensed captain shares Wenatchee lore, pointing out landmarks and offering fun tidbits about the river’s history and nature.
All-Weather Comfort & Fun
Boats feature shading for hot days, lap blankets for cool breezes, and all safety gear. Wiley’s Boat Rides also provides complimentary action photos and video—so you remember more than just the taste of those first cherries.
How to Book
Reserve Ahead
Walk-Ups Possible
Plan for All Ages
Make It a Day: Step-by-Step Sample Itinerary
- 8:00 AM: Arrive at Wenatchee Valley Farmers Market; snack, sample, and shop for your river picnic.
- 09:45 AM: Explore Pybus Public Market—sip a local latte, visit art stalls, or stock up on snacks for the boat.
- 10:30 AM: Relax at Riverfront Park, enjoy street music, and let the kids play.
- 11:30 AM: Make your way to the marina for your scheduled boat ride with Wiley’s Boat Rides.
- Your Wiley’s Boat Rides jet boat cruise:
- Book your ride slot in advance online. Multiple slots are available throughout the day (morning, midday, afternoon).
- Plan to arrive at Wenatchee marina at least 10–15 minutes before your selected slot time to check in, meet your captain, and board the boat.
- Jet Boat Departure: Enjoy your cruise at your chosen slot—adventure or private cruise styles available, based on group preference.
- Evening: Watch the sunset over the river—reflect on a Wenatchee day you’ll want to repeat.
Note: Adjust the timing of your itinerary around your booked jet boat slot—Wiley’s Boat Rides offers several options every day. Always confirm your boat ride time and plan your other activities to finish before check-in at the marina.
Why This Combo Is the True Wenatchee Weekend Must-Do
Local flavor meets local fun
No-stress logistics
All-season, all-weather, all-welcome
Unique, unforgettable memories
Make this weekend one to remember: Shop, snack, and cruise!
Wenatchee Valley Farmers Market and Wiley’s Boat Rides—the best way to live like a local and take in the city’s beauty, flavor, and adventure—all in one seamless experience. Reserve your boat ride now and let your market day flow right onto the river!
Frequently Asked Questions
The main market runs from May through October, 8 AM to 1 PM, with select holiday or winter pop-ups. Check their site for calendars and special events.
Absolutely! Enjoy your fresh finds picnic-style during the cruise. Just stow everything securely.
Both are beloved by locals and visitors of all ages! Strollers and coolers are welcome on both ground and boat.
Advance reservations are best for guaranteed slots, but last-minute options may be available.
Reusable bags/cooler for market finds, sun protection, a hat, a windbreaker for the boat ride, and your spirit for discovery!