Need a sunny escape or freshwater adventure in Eastern Washington? Head to Moses Lake! Known for its namesake lake, friendly community, and wide-open spaces, Moses Lake offers outdoor recreation, water sports, and local charm. Whether you're boating, birdwatching, or exploring downtown, this high-desert town delivers laid-back fun.
Moses Lake, WA Highlights:
- For Adventurous Travelers: Boat, fish, or jet ski on Moses Lake – Enjoy nearly 6,500 acres of water perfect for recreation and angling.
- For History Buffs: Visit the Moses Lake Museum & Art Center – Discover regional history, Native American artifacts, and rotating exhibits.
- For Shoppers: Browse shops in Downtown Moses Lake – Explore boutiques, gift stores, and local coffee shops along Third Avenue.
- For Couples: Relax at Tsillan Cellars’ Silo Tasting Room – Sip regional wine in a scenic setting with rustic-modern ambiance.
- For Families: Cool off at Surf 'n Slide Water Park – Water slides, lazy river, and a flow rider make this a summer favorite for kids.
Best Time to Visit Moses Lake, WA
The best time to visit Moses Lake is from May through September when warm weather invites water play, camping, and outdoor festivals. Summers are sunny and dry, ideal for lake days and sunset strolls along the waterfront.
How to Get to Moses Lake, WA
- If you are traveling by car: Located off I-90, Moses Lake is about 1 hour from Spokane and 2.5 hours from Seattle by car.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Grant County International Airport (MWH), or fly into Spokane International (GEG) for more options.
- By Bus: Greyhound and local transit routes connect Moses Lake with nearby cities like Spokane and Wenatchee.
Where to Stay in Moses Lake, WA
- Recommended for Families: Best Western Plus Lake Front Hotel – Lakeview rooms, onsite restaurant, and close to the water park and downtown.
- For Couples: Ten Pin Inn & Suites – Cozy rooms with access to the Ten Pin bowling alley and brewery next door.
- For a Budget Stay: Motel Oasis Inn – Affordable and convenient lodging near the lake and highway access.
Best Things to Do in Moses Lake, WA
1. Potholes State Park
I like:
"Explore scenic trails and enjoy affordable outdoor attractions on a relaxing weekend trip."
Potholes State Park is a 773-acre public recreation area located 13 miles from Moses Lake in Grant County, Washington, on the southern shore of Potholes Reservoir.
The state park was created after the O'Sullivan Dam was built in 1949. The park has 6,000 feet of shoreline with facilities for camping, boating, swimming, hiking, fishing, and other water fun.
The Potholes are a geologic feature, a series of Ice Age depressions in the earth carved by flood. Combined with the dynamics of the O’Sullivan Dam, they created hundreds of small islands surrounded by tiny “pothole” lakes.
The little lakes make up half the O’Sullivan Reservoir. Potholes State Park is located on its other side, where the lake is deeper and more suitable for to boaters, fishers and swimmers.
Address: 6762 Highway 262 East, 6762 WA-262, Othello, WA 99344, Phone: 509-346-2759
2. The Links at Moses Pointe
I recommend:
"Play scenic fairways and savor a peaceful, affordable golf outing near the lake."
The Resorts at Moses Pointe is a 400-acre golf club perched above the west shore of Moses Lake, near the town of Moses Lake, Washington.
With such a magnificent backdrop and desert conditions that provide more than 300 days of sunshine, it is not surprising that The Links at Moses Pointe is one of the favorite golf courses for golf players from all over the Pacific Northwest.
The Links at Moses Pointe is known for its excellent conditioning, superb design, and exceptional hospitality. It is the perfect course for players of all ability levels.
At 7,400 yards, Moses Pointe is a championship course that hosted the Washington State Amateur Championships in 2005 and 2008, and the Pacific Northwest Public Links Championship in 2011.
Besides great golf, the club’s Mulligans restaurant offers the best burgers in the Columbia Basin, unique cocktails on the deck after a round, or an evening out with the family.
Address: 4524 Westshore Dr NE, Moses Lake, WA 98837, Phone: 509-764-2275
Recommended Activities for Families
3. Moses Lake Museum and Art Center
I love:
"Discover local history and admire regional art in this free, easy family attraction."
Learn about Native American history in the region and see beautiful and interesting artifacts when you visit the Moses Lake Museum and Art Center.
With several great exhibits to be explored, the Moses Lake Museum and Art Center encourages the exploration and understanding of the Columbia Basin’s human and natural history.
Apart from showcasing the local history and culture, the museum also showcases tons of Native American artifacts as well as stunning examples of contemporary art sourced from the region.
Apart from exploring the Moses Lake Museum and Art Center’s exhibits, guests can also participate in museum classes, enjoy coffee with the curator, and many other community-based activities.
Address: 401 S. Balsam Street, Moses Lake, Washington 98837, Phone: 509-764-3830
4. Surf 'n Slide Water Park
I enjoy:
"Splash through exciting slides and enjoy a fun summer day perfect for kids."
When the summer months roll around, there’s one Moses Lake attraction that travelers should definitely visit – the Surf 'n Slide Water Park. Popular with locals and nearby towns alike, the Surf ‘N Slide Water Park is the state’s premier outdoor aquatic center and frequently welcomes guests from near and far, as well as of various swimming abilities and ages. Surf ‘n Slide is best known for its artificial surfing simulator, The Flowrider, but also has other great attractions to enjoy such as its 300-foot Lazy River, two huge 200-foot water slides, a children’s splash pad, a Treasure Island water structure, and even two sand volleyball courts. The water park also has kid-friendly attractions like its baby octopus slide, splash pad, and playground.
Address: 401 W 4th Avenue, Moses Lake, Washington 98837, Phone: 509-764-3842
Where to Eat in Moses Lake, WA
- Recommended for Families: Michael’s Market & Bistro – Casual yet upscale dining with great sandwiches, pastas, and a kids’ menu.
- For Fresh Seafood: Red Door Café & Grill – Lakeside dining with fresh salmon, fish tacos, and hearty comfort dishes.
- For a Casual Meal: Tacos El Rey – Authentic and popular taco truck with flavor-packed street food.
If you are interested in local events:
- For Families: Spring Festival (Memorial Day Weekend) – Carnival rides, parades, music, and food trucks downtown.
- For Art Fans: Art & Wine Walk (June) – Sample wines and explore local art displays through downtown businesses.
- For Summer Fun: Summer Concert Series at McCosh Park (July–August) – Free live music every Friday night.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30 Minutes of Moses Lake, Washington:
- For Nature Enthusiasts: Potholes State Park (20–25 min) – Go boating, birdwatching, or fishing in a rugged, scenic desert landscape.
- For Hikers: Columbia National Wildlife Refuge (30 min) – Explore trails, spot wildlife, and take in dramatic basalt cliffs and wetlands.
- For Wine Lovers: Wahluke Slope AVA (30 min) – Visit small tasting rooms in one of Washington’s sunniest wine regions.
- For Golfers: The Links at Moses Pointe (15–20 min) – Scenic 18-hole course with rolling hills and lake views.
- For Local Flavor: Ephrata (20–25 min) – Nearby town with charming cafés, local events, and access to the Grant County Fairgrounds.
I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
- Question: Where is Moses Lake located?
- Answer: Moses Lake is a city in Grant County, Washington, on the shore of Moses Lake, with over 120 miles of shoreline and the Potholes Reservoir.
- Question: What natural attractions surround Moses Lake?
- Answer: The city borders the Columbia National Wildlife Refuge, which is home to a large number of migratory birds and other animals natural to the area. The Potholes Lakes are protected by the Potholes State Park, a popular destination for boating, swimming, and fishing.
- Question: What recreational facilities are available at Moses Lake?
- Answer: The Resorts at Moses Pointe is a 400-acre golf club on the west shore of Moses Lake.
- Question: When is the best time to visit Moses Lake?
- Answer: The best time to visit Moses Lake is during the Spring Festival on Memorial Day weekend and in June, during the Moses Lake Water Sports Festival.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers, great for hiking and fishing.
Best Western Plus Lake Front Hotel – Comfortable lakeside accommodations with scenic views.
Visit Potholes State Park – Enjoy fishing, hiking, and birdwatching in a peaceful setting.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and sunny, ideal for boating, swimming, and outdoor festivals.
Inn at Moses Lake – Convenient and cozy lodging near major attractions.
Spend the day at Moses Lake – Go boating, paddleboarding, or relax on the beach.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and fewer crowds, great for outdoor exploration.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott – A modern hotel with great amenities.
Attend the Moses Lake Oktoberfest – Enjoy craft beer, live music, and local food.
Winter (December-February) – Cold and quiet, perfect for a peaceful retreat.
Comfort Suites Moses Lake – A cozy stay ideal for winter visits.
Explore the Moses Lake Museum & Art Center – Learn about local history and art.
Map:
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