Just west of Pendleton along the Columbia River, Umatilla is a town that balances history, riverfront charm, and small-town community energy. Its roots go deep, with the Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla peoples inhabiting the area long before European settlers arrived. Later, river access and the railroad helped Umatilla grow as a hub for trade, agriculture, and transportation.
Today, the town thrives quietly alongside its larger neighbors — Hermiston to the south, Pendleton to the southeast, and Washington’s Tri-cities to the north — while maintaining a distinct character shaped by its riverfront, local businesses, and community traditions.
Where is Umatilla?
Umatilla lies on the southern bank of the Columbia River, accessible via Interstate 82 and Highway 730. It’s roughly equidistant between Pendleton and Washington’s Tri-cities, making it a natural stop for travelers exploring Umatilla County.
Fun fact for Geography Nerds:
Most people think of the Columbia river as being the boundary between Washington and Oregon, which is mostly true. But Umatilla is the last town in Oregon where this is the case.
Heading east highway 730, the mighty Columbia (as celebrated by Woody Guthrie) curves northward, and a thirty minute drive along the road brings you to the first place where you can cross into Washington without a bridge.
Why Come to Umatilla?
Umatilla is a town that celebrates its community. Summer brings a series of local festivals, from riverfront gatherings and music events to parades and fairs that highlight the town’s heritage and small-town pride.
The Columbia River adds scenic charm, with fishing, boating, and quiet riverside walks. Downtown Umatilla offers historic storefronts, local eateries, and the chance to experience a town where traditions and modern life meet. Visitors often combine a stop here with trips to Pendleton or Hermiston, enjoying both the cultural energy of larger towns and Umatilla’s relaxed riverfront vibe.
Photos courtesy of https://www.facebook.com/CityofUmatilla
Summer is an especially good time to explore Umatilla and the surrounding areas. There are a few motels in town, and you’re close enough to Hermiston, Pendleton and Washington’s Tri-Cities to make an afternoon of it. There are also a number of events that bring people from around the region.
The Umatilla Saturday Market kicks off in early May and runs until mid-autumn, featuring vendors, great community vibes, and live music. The market runs from 4 to 8PM, with live music generally running from 6-9.
Umatilla Landing Days happens in late June. It’s a two-day event with fireworks, live entertainment, plenty of vendors, and way more.
The Rock the Locks Music Festival is a massive attraction that brings people from all over the Pacific Northwest. Rock the Locks happens in Late September, so if you’re planning on spending several weeks in the region you could make an Eastern Oregon Sandwich of the Pendleton Round-up and Rock the Locks and spend the intervening weeks exploring the region.
The city also hosts seasonal activities like Spring Break youth fishing camps, movies in the park, and Adult Bingo. Check out the Umatilla Parks and Rec website for more details.
Go to Umatilla.gov or find the City of Umatilla on Facebook.
Nearby McNary Dam and Lake Wallula Recreation Areas offer a plethora of recreational opportunities including camping and hiking.
