How to Plan a WSU Football Weekend from Seattle

Washington State University Campus in Pullman, Washington by redfishweb
The campus of Washington State University in Pullman, Washington by redfishweb

There’s nothing quite like cheering on your home team in person. But for WSU football fans, making the trek to Martin Stadium can be a slog. Luckily, a charter flight to Pullman, Washington, means less commuting and more tailgating. 

Make Getting There Easy: Flying to Pullman, Washington

PC12 Charter Plane Photo by Sara Satterlee
Photo by Sara Satterlee

Pullman, Washington, is located 274 miles from Seattle, just beside the Washington – Idaho border, and just 14 minutes from Moscow, Idaho. It’s a 4.5-hour drive from the Emerald City. For most visitors, this turns the trip into a two-day weekend event.  

For those interested in skipping the drive, you may wonder, “What airlines fly to Pullman, Washington?” Alaska Airlines and United Airlines offer non-stop flights from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport to Pullman-Moscow Regional Airport. These flights require the following:

  • Parking at the airport or arranging for transportation to the airport
  • Navigating check-in
  • Making your way through airport security
  • Finding your gate and waiting to board

Alternatively, you could book a Kenmore Air charter flight to Pullman and enjoy the following:

  • Easy parking 
  • Crowd-free check-in on your schedule
  • A private waiting area
  • A direct flight with the party of your choice (Just over an hour from Paine Field and Boeing Field)

Partake in a Classic: Tailgating at Washington State University

Martin Stadium by Jdubman
Photo by Jdubman

WSU is known for its tailgate scene, and for good reason. During game days, the RV lot across the street from Martin Stadium reverberates with crimson and grey pride. In fact, it’s said a trip to watch the WSU Cougars football team wouldn’t be complete without partaking in the cornhole, barbeque, and toasting extravaganza that is a WSU Tailgate. 

Maximize Your Time: Best Things to do in Pullman, WA

washington state university

We know it’s all about tailgating and cheering for the Cougs. After all, with a charter flight to Pullman, you can enjoy all the festivities and still make it a day trip. But with a charter flight, you can also make your own schedule. 

Arrive as early in Pullman as you want and depart when it suits you. This means there’s time to visit one (or a few) of your favorite things to do in Pullman. 

12 Can’t-Miss Gameday Restaurants & Bars in Pullman, WA

1. Sella’s Calzone

Sellas Calzone Pullman
Sellas Calzone Pullman Wall

Sella’s Calzones has been a Coug hangout since the 1980s. Specializing in pizzas and calzones, the walls of this informal joint are decorated with artwork from patrons.  

2. My Office Bar & Grill

For watching pre-game (or even the game), My Office Bar & Grill has quite the setup. They have 29 beers on tap, a plethora of TVs, and a big open layout perfect for groups. Plus, their hearty menu leans towards food you eat with your hands. Sure, it’s not a place you’re likely to actually

3. Paradise Creek Brewery

Beer lovers will appreciate the award-winning pours at Paradise Creek Brewery. In addition to flights and pours, the casual joint offers a full menu of classic bar food. Indoor and outdoor seating is available. 

4. Rico’s Public House

The roots of Rico’s Public House date back to 1909 when E. W. Thorpe opened the intersection of Main and Kamiaken. Initially, the business primarily sold tobacco products. But the offerings evolved as beverages and meals became available. Today, it is known for its unique atmosphere and setting, including its massive bookshelf, upstairs billiards, and a large selection of beers on tap. 

patio at Ricos

 5. Pauly’s Bar and Grill

Referred to by some as a “comfortable dive bar,” Pauly’s Bar and Grill in Pullman isn’t the fanciest place you’ll ever visit. But the service is good, the food will stick to your ribs, and the drinks are poured (or cracked open) to order. 

6. Lumberyard Food Hall

A Pullman gathering place, Lumberyard is Pullman’s food hall. Housed in a 1950’s Quonset hut that was once used as a lumberyard, it features four different order-at-the-counter restaurants, a full bar, gaming area, and a children’s corner. The large, open seating layout invites large groups to gather and smaller parties to sample a host of different cuisines.

Lumberyard

7. The Cougar Cottage (The Coug)

Founded in 1932, visiting ‘The Coug’ is a quintessential experience in Pullman. The no-frills menu focuses on burgers. Plus, the beer list features some seasonal selections (like a Blueberry Cider from Tieton Cider Works in Yakima, Washington) and some college mainstays (think Coors Light and Bud Light). Bonus Tip: Don’t forget to bring a permanent marker to sign the wall.

8. South Fork Public House

A far cry from classic college town fare, South Fork Public House offers a selection of hearty salads and entrees that are a step above. Sure, you can get a sandwich or a burger. But if you’re looking for seared salmon, you can’t go wrong.

9. Valhalla Bar & Grill 

Founded in 1999, this Cougar-owned, Cougar-run bar and grill is the closest joint to campus. A regular student hangout, alums are more than welcome too. Plus, minors are allowed until 5 PM. 

10. The Old European Restaurant

Breakfast lovers rejoice. The Old European Restaurant’s scratch-made menu is worth the wait. (Yes, it can be hard to get a table.) Dutch Babys are a constant crowd pleaser. So too is the selection of Stuffed French Toast. And for those with a hearty appetite, the Hungarian Goulash is an impressive mashup of potatoes, onions, peppers, ham, sausage, bacon, and four eggs topped with cheddar cheese. 

11. Porch Light Pizza

If you’re hankering for thin-crust, stone-baked pizza, Porch Light Pizza is dishing it up. Toppings range from classic to inspired, such as a Thai-inspired pie with peanut sauce, chicken, and cilantro pie.  

12. Birch & Barley

Founded in 2012 by a group of friends and family, Birch & Barley’s menu features American fare with a Southern slant. The menu is crafted to be the kind of place you want to gather with friends. It includes beloved classics like Cougar Lobster Mac (made with Cougar Gold of course) and a Shrimp Po-Boy that’s loaded with flavor.  

Best Places to Explore in Pullman, WA

pullman washington

Bill Chipman Palouse Trail

This seven-mile trail stretches through rolling wheat fields along a section of the former Union Pacific Railroad. The relatively flat track used to help transport passengers from Colfax to Moscow. Today, it’s one of the best places to take a gentle stroll.

Charles R. Conner Museum

Located on the Washington State University campus, the Charles R. Conner Museum showcases the largest public collection of birds and mammals in the Pacific Northwest. 

WSU Bear Center

WSU Bear Center. Credit Washington State University
WSU Bear Center
Grizzly at the WSU Bear Center. Credit Washington State University
WSU Bear Center

The only grizzly bear research center of its kind, the WSU Bear Center offers a home to the largest number of captive grizzlies in the nation. It was established to help federal and state biologists be able to study an adequate number of captive grizzlies for meaningful data. 

Lawson Gardens

Banner Lawson Gardens

Spanning 13 acres, the grounds and development for Lawson Gardens were donated by Gerald Lawson, a local farmer. They were dedicated in memory of his first wife, Alice. The exquisitely manicured garden includes six different distinctive features ranging from colorful seasonal plantings and a large reflecting pool and gazebo to an extensive rose garden. 

Sunnyside Park

Thanks to its expansive selection of picnic tables and BBQ shelters overlooking two bonds and a waterfall, Sunnyside Park is home to Pullman’s annual 4th of July community gathering. It’s also one of the premier things to do in Pullman for those who love Frisbee, as there is a Frisbee golf course tucked among the walking trails, tennis courts, volleyball standards, and a baseball diamond. 

Kamiak Butte County Park

Located just 18 minutes from downtown Pullman, the Kamiak Butte County Park offers a wide range of hiking trails and picnicking opportunities. 

Museum of Anthropology

Another museum house on the Washington State University campus, the Museum of Anthropology was founded to promote the understanding of human cultures. It does so through research, education, and stewardship of archaeological collections from throughout the northwest. 

Palouse Discovery Science Center

Those who love hands-on learning will find themselves filled with inspiration at the Palouse Discovery Science Center. Founded in 2003, it offers a variety of hands-on science activities, educational programs, and thought-provoking exhibits. 


More Exciting Charter Flight Destinations

PC-12 charter flight to sun valley

Sun Valley Ski Resort Charter Flights

Surrounded by 12,000-foot mountains, the sleepy town of Ketchum, Idaho, is the birthplace of American ski resorts — Sun Valley.

This quaint destination has yet to be taken over by skyscrapers. It’s the world-renowned ski slopes and fresh, dry powder that are the main draws. 

two women enjoy wine at caprio cellars

Walla Walla Wineries Not to Miss

It’s not convenient from anywhere. A 4.5-hour drive from Seattle, Washington, and a 3.5-hour drive from Portland, Oregon — Walla Walla isn’t a pop-over destination (Unless, of course, you’re catching a Seattle to Walla Walla flight.) But the renowned Walla Walla wineries are well worth the trek.