Ritzville

Historic Ritzville is located in the heart of Washington’s wheat country at the junction of Highway 395 and Interstate 90. Through the 1880s and 1980s Ritzville experienced both boom and bust times. By the turn of the century, Ritzville’s wheat shipping brought prosperity and with it a building boom that resulted in construction of several fine homes and the historic downtown business district. Today, the downtown area is listed on the National Historic Register and encompasses a three block area that is a must see self-guided tour for visitors. Two museums are within this district: the Northern Pacific Railway Depot with its restored Northern Pacific caboose, and the Dr. Frank R. Burroughs home. The Carnegie Library and the Ritz Theatre, a 400-seat newly renovated and functional theatre, are also located in the downtown area.

Metal sculptures created by area artists depicting the area’s history can be found throughout town while the beautiful city park and children’s playground offers a welcome place to relax. The adjacent Ritzville Water Park provides a great place to cool off during the summer months. The Ritzville Municipal Golf Course, a PGA recognized facility, is available, often without a tee-time. Other outdoor recreation abounds in the area including hunting, fishing and other water sports.