Find Endless Rolling Hills, Shops, And Parks At An Underrated College Town In Washington

You might be familiar with Pullman as the home of Washington University, but this town offers so much more than a campus. While the young, energetic vibe definitely adds to its charm, Pullman is one of Washington's lesser-known gems, a charming spot filled with a combination of cultures, natural beauty, and vibrant local spots. It is an ideal destination for travelers seeking breathtaking landscapes with welcoming local shops and parks offering serenity and tranquility. Once known as the Artesian City, Pullman is characterized by its rolling hills, which transform from emerald green in spring to shimmering gold in the summer.

As with many underrated small towns across America, many visitors tend to overlook the town and miss much of Pullman's appeal in the process. To truly experience Pullman, diving deeper into this town's charm and what it has to offer is essential. Connecting with nature is also an absolute must. After all, it is the national parks, rolling hills, and local experiences that really make this town grow on you. 

There are countless opportunities to explore nature and enjoy natural outdoor activities in Pullman. It's a great spot for hiking, packed with ways for nature lovers to get out and enjoy the magnificent landscapes that this area holds. One of the best times to visit is during the summer when the town gathers for the yearly National Lentil Festival, which takes place the week before university starts (late August). This two-day festival comes with tons of activities, such as live music and the famous Lentil chili dish challenge. In 2023, the festival was highlighted by the world's largest lentil chili dish, serving over 6,000 bowls! The National Lentil Festival is all about the community coming together (well, that and lentils), emphasizing Pullman's small-town spirit. As part of the festival, locals set up shop in national parks where food, wines, and local businesses display their products. 

From hiking at Kamiak Butte or cycling along Bill Chipman Palouse Trail, connecting with nature will never get boring, and finding outdoor activities here is simple. Some of the most marvelous spots to explore are Reaney Park and Lawson Gardens, green stretches that offer both tranquility and a scenic escape. While the parks are beautiful, serene locations that offer relaxation, they're also popular spots for locals and visitors to gather for a picnic, go on a waking trail, or host family-friendly gatherings.

While Pullman is packed with stunning natural landscapes, it also comes with a unique town charm that is hard to ignore. The charming artisanal town is at its best in its local boutiques, art shops, and markets that display the town's soul and creative spirit. Some of the iconic local shops that provide visitors with a taste of Pullman's character include Neill's Flowers and Gifts, Palouse Treasures, and Brused Books.

One particular market not to be missed is the Moscow Farmers Market on Saturdays. Here, visitors can get the chance to explore the local crafts, meet with artisans, and dive deeper into what makes this town so special. The Pullman Farmers Market is another ideal spot to connect with locals and feel part of the community while getting familiar with the town's fresh produce, crafts, and local foods. The calendar changes throughout the year, so please check the official website before committing a visit.

And, of course, the town is filled with college students, and the young vibe is inevitable and completely contagious. The energy of youth shines bright at the countless community events, with the whole town eager to join in the fun — if there's a college sports game happening, don some crimson and get ready to cheer on the Cougars. One of the most underrated college towns in the United States? Pullman fits the bill.