Richland Cruise Port Guide: Things to Do & Getting Around

Quick Take

Port Type

Small river embarkation port

Best For

River cruise embarkation/disembarkation; pre-cruise stays; travelers wanting a relaxed Pacific Northwest town vibe

Avoid If

You expect major attractions, nightlife, or a full day of independent activities

Walkability

Downtown core is walkable (15–20 minutes from port); residential areas beyond

Budget Fit

Budget-friendly; food and attractions are reasonably priced compared to coastal hubs

Good For Short Calls?

Yes, if focused on downtown Richland or a local winery

Port Overview

Richland sits on the Columbia River in the tri-cities region of southeastern Washington (Richland, Kennewick, Pasco). The cruise port is a small pier terminal primarily used by river cruise operators (Viking, Uniworld, AmaWaterways, American Cruise Lines, and others) for embarkation, disembarkation, and overnight stays. Most cruisers spend limited time here—either boarding at the start of a multi-day river cruise or arriving a day early for a short stay. The town itself is quiet, orderly, and pedestrian-friendly but modest in size and attractions. If you have only a few hours between ship activities, a walk downtown and a meal are realistic; anything beyond requires a car or a planned excursion. This is not a destination port in the traditional sense; it's a gateway to river cruising.

Is It Safe?

Richland is a safe, quiet town with low crime rates. Downtown and Columbia Park are well-maintained and patrolled. The port terminal is secure and staffed. Standard urban precautions apply (don't leave valuables unattended, stay aware of surroundings at night), but Richland does not present significant safety concerns for cruise passengers. Weather can shift rapidly in spring and fall; dress in layers.

Accessibility & Walkability

Downtown Richland is flat and walkable for those with mobility aids. Columbia Park has paved paths and accessible restrooms. The port terminal itself should have accessible facilities (confirm with your cruise line in advance). Most restaurants and shops are street-level or have minimal steps. Sidewalks are well-maintained. Distances are short enough that wheelchair users or those with limited mobility can navigate downtown comfortably if weather permits.

Outside the Terminal

Exiting the pier, you'll find a quiet riverfront area with some parks and green space. The immediate surroundings are orderly and calm—no aggressive hawkers, heavy traffic, or touristy clutter. Downtown Richland is a 15–20 minute walk north/northwest along George Washington Way or a short taxi ride. You'll pass residential neighborhoods and some commercial strips. Overall, it's a mellow, low-key arrival that feels more like a small town than a cruise port.

Beaches Near the Port

Local Food & Drink

Richland has modest dining options. Downtown features casual cafés, sandwich shops, and a handful of sit-down restaurants serving American fare, Mexican, and Asian cuisine. Expect friendly local service and reasonable prices ($10–20 per entrée). Most places close by 9 p.m. Chain restaurants (Olive Garden, Applebee's) are available on commercial strips but add no local character. If you have 4+ hours, lunch downtown is a good use of time; if you have 1–2 hours, grab coffee and a pastry rather than sitting for a full meal. Wineries downtown may offer light snacks with tastings. No fine dining or nightlife to speak of.

Shopping

Downtown Richland offers local galleries, gift shops, antique stores, and a bookstore or two. Nothing high-end or brand-name. Shopping is slow-paced and low-pressure—useful if you want to pass an hour but not a draw in itself. Gift items tend toward Pacific Northwest themes (art, local crafts, wine). Chain stores and larger shopping are in Kennewick (across the river) and require a car. For cruise passengers on a short stop, shopping is secondary to walking and eating.

Money & Currency

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

USD Accepted?

Yes

Card Payments

Credit and debit cards accepted widely in restaurants, shops, and tasting rooms

ATMs

ATMs available downtown and near the port terminal; check with your ship for on-board currency exchange

Tipping

15–18% in restaurants; $1–2 per coffee or casual meal

Notes

No currency exchange needed. Richland is entirely USD-based.

Weather & Best Time

Best months

May–September (mild, dry, 65–80°F)

Avoid

November–February (cold, rainy, overcast, 30–45°F)

Temperature

Spring/early summer cruises see 60–75°F, pleasant for walking. Fall cruises (Sept–Oct) are cooler (50–65°F) and can be rainy.

Notes

Richland is in a semi-arid region but receives rain in winter and spring. Layer clothing. Summer heat can reach 90°F+; avoid midday sun. Wind is common on the river.

Airport Information

Airport

Pasco-Richland-Kennewick Airport (PSC)

Distance

15 miles southeast

Getting there

Taxi ($30–40 USD), rideshare, rental car, or hotel shuttle if pre-booked

Notes

Small regional airport with connections to Seattle and other west-coast hubs. Most cruisers arrive via Seattle-Tacoma International (SEA), about 3.5 hours away by car or shuttle service offered by cruise lines. Book ground transfers through your cruise line if flying in.