Welcome to

Zillah

Just a couple miles down the road from Toppenish is the town of Zillah, which features wineries, a well-known historic landmark, community events and plenty of small-town charm.

PHOTOGRAPHY: PAT STROSAHL

About the Community

Founded in 1892, Zillah was started at the completion of the Sunnyside Canal project, which ultimately delivered water from the Yakima River to the Lower Valley to allow for growing more crops.

The town was named for Zillah Oakes, daughter of Thomas Fletcher Oakes, president of the Northern Pacific Railway, which backed the building of the canal.

One of the area’s most landmarks is the Teapot Dome Gas Station, an iconic teapot-shaped building that once sat off the highway near Zillah is now located off the main drag.

The Teapot Dome started as a gas station in 1922 as a memorial to the Teapot Dome oil scandal during the Harding administration.

It remained a working gas station for decades before finally being closed. The city purchased it in 2007 and in 2012 relocated and renovated the building. It now sits near the newly completed Veterans Memorial Park, which was introduced on Veterans Day in late 2017.

Wineries

Zillah sees its share of visitors who stop by on their way to the many nearby wineries.

With roughly two dozen wineries located just minutes away from Zillah, the Spring Barrel Tasting event in April is an especially popular time to visit.

You’ll also want to visit the Old Warehouse at 705 Railroad Ave. The former fruit warehouse was built in the 1920s and was converted to a furniture store. A restaurant and lounge were added later, and another area was converted into 50,000-square foot events center.

Special Events

Every year, hundreds of locals and visitors turn out for Zillah’s Spring Fling, a fun event with wine, food and entertainment. Held during the Spring Barrel Tasting, the day is filled with events like a classic car show, wine and food tasting and live entertainment.

In late May, enjoy breakfast in the park and a parade as part of Zillah Community Days. The weekend celebration also includes vendors, a talent contest and a number of old-fashioned competitions like an egg toss, sack race and more.

In September, be sure to check out the Not Just A Farmers Market Gala, featuring vendors from all over the state. In December, get ready for the holidays with the Old-fashioned Christmas celebration.