America's Best Summer Getaways 2009

Wine Region: Yakima Valley, Washington

Why Go Now: Once the heart of Washington viticulture, Yakima lost its buzz when Walla Walla and Woodinville emerged as world-class wine-producing regions. Quality grapes continue to thrive here, however. And new boutique producers are creating some of the state’s best bottlings, including the Bordeaux blend from Côte Bonneville Winery.

Stay: There are still no upscale hotels in Yakima, but the four-room Desert Wind Winery (doubles from $300), a 45-minute drive southeast, is a good option.

Eat: With the opening of the tapas-inspired Picazo 7Seventeen (dinner for two $60), the area has a restaurant as ambitious as its wines.