We Found The Best Farmers Market In Washington And You’ll Want To Visit For Yourself

When it comes to growing a diverse array of delicious produce here in Washington, it's tough to top the Tri Cities. The climate in the area allows the region to have a broad and sustainable agriculture economy, and the industry employs thousands of people.

For that reason alone, it makes sense that the area would have a fantastic Farmers Market... and it does. The Richland Farmers Market will blow you away, especially when you hear the behind-the-scenes story.

The Richland Farmers Market, also known as the Market at the Parkway, meets every Friday from June - October at The Parkway.

Market hours are 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

The market is well-stocked with all the healthy, vibrant, beautiful locally grown produce you could ever imagine.

You may even see a few things you've never seen before.

If you see something you're curious about, don't hesitate to ask -- the vendors are all very knowledgeable.

That's because the rules state that you have to be a farmer, purveyor, or creator to be a vendor here. Vendors are expected to know their products inside and out.

And it's not just the standard produce and meat you'll find here. The Market at the Parkway is full of unique small business owners as well.

Imagine having a professional coffee bar at your bridal shower, baby shower, or birthday party, complete with a customized dessert that tastes divine. That's exactly what Johnny Lolita's does, and the owner also sells her wonderful cold brew, roasted coffee beans, and tasty treats at the market every Friday.

When you visit this market, you should definitely come hungry.

Not only is The Parkway full of highly ranked local restaurants like Foodie's Two and Porter's Real Barbecue, but the market itself always has delicacies like tamales, ceviche, and gourmet hot dogs.

Did you know you can even taste wine here?

Every week, some of the top local wineries are pouring tastes and selling bottles of their best vino.

Most credit the Richland Farmers Market's success to its manager, Kathy Hanson.

Kathy is both a farmer and a former market vendor, so she knows a thing or two about how to run a successful market. Sometimes she's onsite as early as 5 .a.m. on Fridays to make sure everything runs smoothly.

Kathy does her work for the market pro bono, and she's doing a fantastic job -- the market averages 8,000 visitors each week, sometimes as many as 10,000.

For a Farmers Market that meets on a Friday, that's pretty fantastic.

Address: The Parkway and Lee Boulevard, Richland, WA, 99352

Have you ever been to the Market at the Parkway? Here are some other amazing markets in Washington to explore.