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You are here: Home / Destination / Weekend in Pullman Washington

Choose your own adventure

How to spend a weekend in Pullman?

Pullman, WA, will reward you with its small-town feel, sunny days, and beautiful countryside.

If you plan to come for a weekend, follow our getaway guide and plan your perfect trip.

2 nights and 3 days is a perfect stay in Pullman and common for families visiting the college or coming to see a student.

Table of Contents
  • Choose your own adventure
  • How to spend a weekend in Pullman?
  • Friday evening in Pullman
  • Saturday in Pullman
  • Sunday in Pullman
  • Handy dandy chart of options
  • Plan a Trip to Washington:
  • Choose Your Own Adventure Series:

Some posts on this site contain affiliate links, meaning if you buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read the full disclosure policy here.

For a complete list of fun things to do in Pullman, see our posts:

65+ Things to Do in Pullman, WA

13 Favorite Pullman, WA Restaurants

Friday evening in Pullman

Brelsford Visitors Center

If you get to town before 5 pm, head straight for the Brelsford Visitors Center. The staff will be up-to-date on all campus museums, entertainment, and sports. And if they don’t know, they’ll help you find out.

Campus attractions have variable hours depending on the season.

Brelsford VC focuses on WSU happenings, but they know the area and can point you in the right direction for off-campus attractions, restaurants, and outdoor recreation. In my experience, the staff is friendly and will go out of their way to help you.

A few interesting exhibits in the space highlight WSU’s history, research, and teaching. I loved the display of local wines.

Brelsford Visitors Center

brelsford visitor center entrance
Brelsford Visitors Center

Option 1: The arts in Pullman

Regional Theatre of the Palouse

Regional Theatre of the Palouse is a professional theater company producing a season of plays and musicals.

There is a lot going on here; summer musical theatre camps, voice lessons, acting classes, and a language studio. Classes are available for ages 8 – adult.

Students learn by doing and performing. If you’re coming through, you can enjoy the fruits of their labor and see a final performance.

Some recent examples are Sound of Music, Guys and Dolls, and South Pacific.

RTOPTheatre

Image of drama masks surrounded by text related to the Regional Theatre of the Palouse

Pullman Civic Theatre

Pullman Civic Theatre is a volunteer theater company that puts on multiple plays per year. The aim is to provide an affordable theater experience to residents and guests.

Check out upcoming performances here.

Recent examples include The Importance of Being Earnest, Peter Pan, Of Mice and Men, and the seasonal Christmas Carol.

WSU Performing Arts

Beasley Coliseum hosts live theater, dance, concerts, and family entertainment.

Ticket Office

Option 2: WSU sports

Martin Stadium

If sports are more your things…WSU supports men’s baseball, basketball, cross country, golf, track, and of course, football teams.

Women’s sports include volleyball, soccer, basketball, cross country, golf, rowing, swimming, tennis, and track.

You can find season schedules here.

Martin Stadium at Washington State University
Martin Stadium at Washington State University

Dinner in Pullman – Friday

Foundry Kitchen & Cocktails

Rustic American food. Foundry has a small, carefully curated menu. Salads, sandwiches, and burgers are the mainstay.

Check out the Rosemary Lamb Lollipops, Steak Salad, or Spicy Grilled Chicken sandwich.

I think the main attraction of the Foundry is the facade, decor, and fantastic patio.

Foundry is the perfect spot for a quiet evening, special celebration, or date night.

Foundry Kitchen & Cocktails

entrance to foundry restaurant in pullman
Foundry Kitchen

Birch and Barley

Burgers, sandwiches, seafood, steak – the menu has a decidedly cajun theme.

We had the catfish PO-boy and shrimp etouffee – delicious!

Also, check out the Rajin’ Cajun Pasta.

Birch and Barley is beautiful, but more open, brighter, and louder than Foundry. Birch and Barley would be my pick for a delicious dinner out with a small group of friends or family.

Birch and Barley

Paradise Creek Brewery

Paradise Creek is worth a stop just for the building. The restaurant is in a historic post office. Fortunately, the food and beer are great too.

What they serve: Pub food.

Take a look at the Brazillian Seafood Stew or Chicken Cacciatore for something out of the ordinary.

And, of course, the beer.

Wide open spaces and plenty of seating make this a great spot for a group. There are also tables for 2.

Paradise Creek Brewery

front door of Birch and Barley restaurant
Birch and Barley

Saturday in Pullman

Breakfast

You can eat at Zoe’s all day. And when it comes to breakfast in Pullman, Zoe’s is a must.

Zoe’s

Zoe’s is the favorite breakfast spot in Pullman.

What they serve: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Zoe’s is a local favorite for breakfast, but if you sleep in, don’t worry the lunch and dinner menus are well loved.

Favorites and specialties

Check out the Greek Benny, Stuffed Croissant, Chicken & Waffles, or Nacho Mama’s Breakfast for breakfast. Zoe’s has a full breakfast menu.

Lunch starts at 11 am, and you can choose from burgers, sandwiches, hoagies, and pasta dishes.

Zoe’s serves smoked meats – pulled pork, brisket, ribs, and Andouille, along with everything on the breakfast and lunch menu.

Zoe’s

entrance to Washington State University

Morning option 1: Explore WSU campus museums

Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art

The Schnitzer building itself is art – a giant crimson mirror reflecting everything around it.

The museum features the art of students and faculty – along with local, national, and international artists.

Cost: Free

WSU Museum of Art

Charles R. Conner Museum of Natural History

The Conner Museum is located on the first floor of Abelson Hall.

Open 7 days a week from 8 am to 5 pm.
Closed Major Holidays and the week between Christmas Eve and New Year.

Cost: Free

Conner Museum

Ownbey Herbarium

Located in Heald Hall, Room G9

Open 7 days a week from 8 am to 5 pm.
Closed Major Holidays and the week between Christmas Eve and New Year.

Ownbey Herbarium

Lunch in Pullman – Saturday

Sellas Calzone and Pizza Restaurant

Yes, Sellas has pizza, pasta, salads, sandwiches, and a gluten-free crust option.

But the real reason to come here is the giant calzones. Create your own, or choose from the signature options.

You might want to take a friend and split one.

Sellas is right across the road from the main campus entrance, I recommend a good walk after eating all that delicious bread!

Sellas

sellas calzone
Sellas Calzone and Pizza Restaurant

Cougar Country Drive-In

Exactly what it claims to be – a drive-in hamburger joint, in all its delicious deep-fried glory.

All the burgers, sandwiches, and hot dogs you would expect. If beef’s not your thing, they have baskets of fried fish, clams, shrimp, and halibut.

You can get a Bag O’ Burgers for $10 – 5 CUB burgers in a bag from 8 pm – closing. This is a college town.

Cougar Country Drive-In

gazebo at Lawson Gardens
Lawson Gardens

Saturday afternoon option 1: Lawson Gardens

Lawson is a formal-style garden best for strolling and thinking. Every day you will discover something new – seasonal plants and flowers, perennials, and roses. A reflecting pool, gazebo, and benches tucked in nooks and crannies make this a contemplative space.

Located on Derby Street Near Dilke

And, with kids in tow, I highly suggest heading across the street to let off some steam at…

Kruegel Park

Kruegel is a big neighborhood park with picnic facilities, tennis courts, a nice playground, baseball diamond, soccer field, volleyball area, and small football playing field.

Located on Side & South St.

Saturday afternoon option 2: Bill Chapman Palouse Trail

A 16-mile trail that links Pullman to Moscow, ID. The trail is used by walkers, runners, and cyclists.

The trail begins in Pullman on Bishop Blvd. and runs for 7 asphalt paved miles to Farm Road in Moscow, ID. You can continue on the 2-mile Paradise Path to the edges of the University of Idaho. The Paradise Path links to the 12-mile Latah Trail to Troy, ID.

Lots of space to stretch your legs and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the Palouse.

There are emergency phones, benches, restrooms, and interpretive signs along the way.

Located at Bishop Blvd. You are welcome to park at the Quality Inn across the road or at Koppel Farm on Derby St.

map to Bill Chapman Trail

Saturday indoor fun with children

If the weather is bad, or you have squirrelly children to entertain Pullman has a few great options.

Palouse Discovery Science Center

An interactive science museum for children and their grown-ups.

Located at 950 NE Nelson Ct.

Open: Tue – Sat 10a.m. – 3 p.m.

Cost:

Adults: $7.50

Children: $6.00

Seniors: $6.50

Palouse Discovery Science Center

Pullman Aquatic Center

The local indoor pool offers a day rate – for individual lap swim and family groups.

Pullman Village Centre Cinemas

Sometimes you just need to kick back and take in a film.

If you visit in summer, look for the classic movie series.

Also, note the specials – in September, they’re offering a Monday-Thursday candy special.

Located at 1085 Bishop Blvd

VCC Cinemas

cinema in Pullman
Pullman Village Centre Cinemas

Palouse Ice Rink

In nearby Moscow, Idaho, you can take to the ice.

There’s a wide variety of public session options, including ice skating, roller skating, hockey, and even curling!

Here’s a description of rink activities.

Located at 1021 Harold Ave, Moscow, ID

Palouse Ice Rink

Airway Hills Golf Center

Miniature golf and driving range – always a classic vacation activity.

Located on Pullman Airport Road

Open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Check out Airway Hills Facebook page for discounts and special events.

Zeppoz Family Fun Center

Bowling alley, arcade, casino, and restaurant.

Cosmic bowling on Fridays and Saturdays from 9 pm – closing. What is cosmic bowling – it’s like a laser light show with a bowling ball – lots of lights and loud music.

Located on Bishop Blvd.

Open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Zeppoz Family Fun Center

Dinner in Pullman – Saturday

South Fork Public House

Comfort food – the Cougar Gold Mac n’ Cheese is highly recommended by locals.

The baby back ribs and cilantro pesto pasta are also a favorite.

Southfork always has something new, a seasonal favorite, tastings, and pairing menus. To see what’s happening, check out their Facebook page.

South Fork Public House

Black Cypress

Greek and Italian food.
The interior has a happenin’ industrial vibe.

The warm, cozy interior is perfect for a romantic evening or a special celebration.

One of the fanciest restaurants in Pullman, entrees average $20.

The appetizer menu features Black Cypress Dips and Clams – my two favorites on the menu.
There are eight carefully selected entrees on today’s menu – so be sure you’re in the mood for what they have on offer.

Black Cypress

Porch Light Pizza

Looking for a less expensive dinner option – but you still want great food?

Head to Porchlight Pizza.

Thin crust artisan pizza – gluten-free and vegetarian options. Pizzas are currently $8.35. You can see why this would be a popular place near a college.

The pizza is good – my favorite version is the SILK. It’s original, with peanut sauce, grilled chicken, and cilantro. Don’t worry; Porch Light has all the classic pizza toppings too.

Porch Light Pizza

patio seating at Roost Coffee and The Foundry
Patio at The Foundry

Sunday in Pullman

Sunday eating options

If you didn’t get to Zoe’s for breakfast (see Saturday), you still have a chance.

Otherwise, check out those lunch spots before you leave town:

Oasis Teriyaki

Next on the list of good-cheap-fast eats is Oasis.

Get your Teriyaki or Pho fix here. Highly recommended by students and their parents.

Oasis Teriyaki

oasis teriyaki restaurant facade
Favorite teriyaki in town.

Tin Tan Tacos

Here’s a good sign. The website is in Spanish.

Another popular place to get yummy food on the cheap. You’ll find all the Mexican dishes, but as the name suggests, tacos are their thing.

Friday and Saturday nights during the school year, the place is packed with college students.

If you like spicy food, check out the Rated X Burrito – it’s hot!

Tin Tan Tacos

Coffee houses

Like all PNW towns, there are dozens of places to grab a cup of coffee, but my hand’s down favorite is…

Roost Coffee

Roost is a charming coffee shop tucked in the BellTower, right next door to Foundry Kitchen.

The outdoor patio is a great place to sit if the weather is cooperating. There’s minimal seating inside.

Roost has a wide variety of breakfast and lunch nibbles, and they specialize in coming up with specialty coffee drinks like a bartender creates signature cocktails.

Check out the chalkboard under ‘Barista Favorites’ to see what they’ve dreamed up.

Roost Coffee

menu board at Roost Coffee in Pullman, Washington
Roost Coffee menu

Option 1: Walk the WSU campus

The Pullman campus is beautiful. Over 1700 acres will give you plenty of room to stretch your legs.

It’s worth a stroll to discover the public art, green spaces, and historic buildings around campus.

WSU Bear Center

Yes, real bears. The Bear Center is WSU’s research project on grizzly bear hibernation.

A fenced enclosure with a small parking area allows visitors to get up close and personal to the bears anytime they’re awake and active. Well, not too close. There are 2 layers of fencing between you and the darlings.

From April – October, the bears will probably be out in their enclosure playing and lounging.

The bears live at Grimes Way and Terre View Dr., and you can have all the looks (and photos) you want for free.

WSU Bear Center

Sunday Option 2: Take a tour

Palouse Scenic Byway

Begin at the Palouse Falls – see listing below and follow this gorgeous drive through the Palouse. You can plan a strategic route as you head to your next destination and make this tour part of your trip home.

Stops include:

  • Palouse Falls
  • Codger Pole
  • Steptoe Battlefield
  • Barron Flour Mill
  • Steptoe Butte
  • Roy Chatters Newspaper Museum
  • Pullman (town)
  • Boyer Park and Lower Granite Dam
  • Dahmen Barn Wheel Fence

Scenic Washington

Palouse Falls

Head out to the Palouse Falls State Park, and you may feel like you’re all alone in the world. The 198-foot waterfall is a sight to see.

The park also features hiking trails, picnic areas, restrooms, and camping.

You will need a Washington State Discover Pass. Discover Passes are available here.

Palouse Falls State Park

bench surrounded by garden plants at Lawson Gardens
Lawson Gardens

Pullman walking tour

If you prefer to stay close to town, a self-guided walking tour featuring 20 sights is available printed (at the chamber of commerce) or online as a PDF.

Just in case you want to coordinate your sightseeing, the walk will take you by:

  • Reaney Park
  • River Park
  • Artesian Well
  • Hutchison Studio (home to Porchlight Pizza)
  • Northern Pacific Railroad Depot
  • Oregon Railway and Navigation Bridge
  • Scout’s Park
  • Grain Silo
  • Dumas Seed Warehouse
  • Union Pacific Depot
  • Cordova Theater
  • Mason Building
  • Webb Block
  • Flatiron Building
  • Russell Hotel
  • United States Post Office (Paradise Creek Brewery)
  • Grand Theater
  • Armory
  • Veterans’ War Memorial
  • Brelsford WSU Visitor Center

Handy dandy chart of options

Friday Activity OptionsBrelsford Visitor Center
Live performing arts
Sporting event
Friday Dinner OptionsFoundry Kitchen and Cocktails
Birch and Barley
Paradise Creek Brewery
Saturday Breakfast OptionsZoe’s
Roost
Saturday Activity OptionsWSU Campus Museums
Walk the Campus
Lawson Gardens/Kruegel Park
Palouse Trail
Palouse Discovery Center
Pullman Aquatic Center
Pullman Village Center Cinemas
Palouse Ice Rink
Zeppoz Family Fun Center
Airway Hills Golf Center
Saturday Lunch OptionsSellas
Cougar Country Drive-In
YiaYia Nikki’s
Saturday Dinner OptionsSouthfork Public House
Black Cypress
Porchlight Pizza
Sunday Activity OptionsWalk the Campus
WSU Bear Center
Palouse Scenic Byway
Palouse Falls
Pullman Walking Tour
Sunday Dining OptionsZoe’s
Roost
Oasis Teriyaki
Tin Tan Tacos
An at-a-glance listing of everything in this post.

See our other Pullman posts:

65+ Things to Do in Pullman, WA

13 Favorite Pullman, WA Restaurants

Plan a Trip to Washington:

Check out our complete guide to planning your next trip to Washington State.

Looking for a place to stay in Pullman?

Try our favorite travel site for flight, hotel, and car rental prices – Kayak:

Jaunty Everywhere - Cheri Bywater - Author Stamp

Choose Your Own Adventure Series:

A Weekend in Ashland: Choose Your Own Adventure 

A Weekend in Bend, Oregon- In Summer

A Weekend in Eugene, Oregon: Choose Your Own Adventure

A Weekend in Portland, Oregon

A Weekend in Seattle

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clock tower on WSU Pullman, WA campus
clock tower on WSU Pullman, WA campus
clock tower on WSU Pullman, WA campus
entrance to Washington State University campus and the WSU stadium in Pullman, WA
Front door of historic building now housing a brewpub in Pullman, WA
rolling hills of the Palouse near Pullman, WA
WSU campus stadium from above - Pullman, WA
clock tower on WSU Pullman, WA campus
building on WSU campus in Pullman, WA
WSU campus stadium from above - Pullman, WA
rolling hills of the Palouse near Pullman, WA
entrance to Washington State University in Pullman, Washington