Hop vines hang as a bottom cutter approaches during harvest Friday, Sept. 5, 2025, at Morrier Ranch in Yakima, Wash.
Features/The Vanished Editor
Hop vines hang as a bottom cutter approaches during harvest Friday, Sept. 5, 2025, at Morrier Ranch in Yakima, Wash.
Yakima has been voted the No. 3 Best Beer City in the USA Today 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards.
The annual awards are decided through public voting on 20 beer cities in the U.S. Those locations were nominated by a panel of beer experts and journalists. This is the first time the Yakima Valley has been nominated in the beer category, according to a news release from Yakima Valley Tourism.
“Known for its deep ties to hop farming, Yakima, Washington, has built a beer culture shaped by the Yakima Valley’s agricultural roots. Breweries and brewpubs across the city emphasize hop-forward styles along with approachable classics, often sourced directly from nearby fields,” the USA Today summary says.
Adam Stewart, communications and travel trade manager for Yakima Valley Tourism, said the organization was thrilled to have the Yakima area be recognized.
“While we didn’t claim the top spot this year, ranking third out of 20 beer cities is a tremendous honor,” Stewart said in the news release. “It’s where the journey from hop farms to local breweries create true farm-to-glass beers you can only experience” in the Valley, he said.
The Yakima Valley’s rich brewing heritage supports dozens of craft breweries and hop farms.
This recognition highlights the dedication of local brewers and growers, while also showcasing the region’s outdoor adventures, farm-to-table experiences, and vibrant cultural scene that make the Yakima Valley a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts, Stewart said.
Reach Tammy Ayer at tayer@yakimaherald.com.
1. Grand Rapids, Mich.
2. St. Louis, Mo.
3. Yakima, Wa.
4. San Diego, Calif.
5. Pittsburgh, Pa
6. Charlotte, NC
7. Asheville, NC
8. Milwaukee, Wis.
9. Columbus, Ohio
10. Denver, Colo.
Features/The Vanished Editor
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