Burbank, WA

Burbank, Washington is a small town located in the southeastern part of the state. The history of Burbank dates back to the early 19th century when the area was inhabited by Native American tribes, specifically the Walla Walla and Yakama tribes.

In the late 1800s, European settlers began to arrive in the area. The town was officially founded in 1902 and was named after Luther Burbank, a renowned horticulturist who conducted plant research in the region. The establishment of the town was primarily driven by the construction of the Northern Pacific Railroad, which operated a station in Burbank.

During its early years, Burbank primarily served as an agricultural and transportation center. The town grew steadily as more settlers arrived and established farms. Agriculture, particularly wheat and alfalfa farming, became the backbone of the local economy. The arrival of irrigation systems in the early 20th century further contributed to the town's agricultural growth.

In the 1940s, Burbank experienced a significant population increase due to the establishment of the Hanford Site. The Hanford Site was constructed as part of the Manhattan Project during World War II, and its purpose was to produce plutonium for nuclear weapons. Many workers and their families moved to the area, leading to a rapid expansion of the town.

After the war, the Hanford Site transitioned into a major nuclear research and energy production facility. The presence of the site continued to bring economic stability and growth to Burbank, as many residents were employed there.

In recent years, as the Hanford Site's operations have changed, Burbank has transitioned into more of a bedroom community. Many of its residents now commute to nearby cities, such as Pasco, Kennewick, and Richland, for employment opportunities.

Today, Burbank is known for its peaceful rural setting, surrounded by farms and vineyards. It holds annual community events, such as the Burbank Harvest Festival, to celebrate its agricultural roots and foster a close-knit community spirit. Though smaller in size compared to neighboring cities, Burbank maintains its unique identity and continues to embrace its agricultural heritage.

Walla Walla Riverfront Park

This park offers beautiful views of the Walla Walla River and is a great spot for picnicking, fishing, and hiking.

McNary National Wildlife Refuge

This refuge is home to a variety of wildlife, including migratory birds, fish, and mammals. Visitors can explore the refuge on walking trails and enjoy birdwatching.

Wallula Gap

Known for its stunning geological formations, Wallula Gap offers scenic hikes, breathtaking views, and opportunities for nature photography.

Columbia Crest Winery

Located just outside of Burbank, this winery offers tastings of their award-winning wines, as well as tours of their vineyards and production facilities.

Washington State Parks

Burbank is close to several state parks, such as Sacajawea State Park and Ice Harbor Dam. These parks provide opportunities for boating, fishing, camping, and hiking.

Walla Walla Balloon Stampede

If you visit in May, you can experience the annual Walla Walla Balloon Stampede, where colorful hot air balloons fill the sky in a spectacular display.

Historic Downtown Walla Walla

A short drive from Burbank, downtown Walla Walla offers a charming mix of shops, restaurants, wineries, and art galleries.

Water Follies

Burbank hosts the annual Tri-City Water Follies, a hydroplane race event that takes place on the Columbia River. It attracts racing enthusiasts from all over the area.

Walla Walla County Fair and Frontier Days

This annual event held in Walla Walla features live entertainment, carnival rides, agricultural exhibits, rodeo shows, and various fair competitions.

Golf Courses

Golf enthusiasts can enjoy playing a round at one of the many golf courses in the area, including Wine Valley Golf Club and Walla Walla Country Club.

Burbank, Washington experiences a semi-arid climate with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. The region falls under the Köppen climate classification of BSk. Here are some key features of the climate in Burbank:

Summers

Summers in Burbank are hot and dry, with temperatures often reaching well above 90°F (32°C). The hottest months are July and August, where temperatures can even exceed 100°F (38°C) on certain days. Rainfall is scarce during this season, leading to dry conditions.

Winters

Winters in Burbank are cool and wet, though not excessively cold. Temperatures typically range from around 30°F (-1°C) to 50°F (10°C). Rainfall increases during this season, with December being the wettest month. However, snowfall is relatively rare and typically light.

Spring and Autumn

Spring and autumn seasons in Burbank are transitional periods. Spring temperatures gradually rise from the cooler winter, with April and May being known for pleasant weather. Autumn starts with warm temperatures in September but gradually cools down. Rainfall is relatively balanced during these seasons.

Precipitation

Burbank receives most of its rainfall during the winter months. Annual precipitation averages around 9-12 inches (230-300 mm). Summers tend to be dry with little rainfall.

Winds

As Burbank is located in southeastern Washington, it experiences the influence of prevailing winds known as "Diablo winds." These winds blow overnight from the east and can exacerbate the dry conditions and increase fire risks during the summer months.

Overall, Burbank, WA has a hot and dry climate during the summer, with cooler and wetter winters. The region's precipitation is relatively low, and the area experiences a semi-arid climate.

Burbank is a small town located in Walla Walla County, Washington. While Burbank itself is relatively small, it does have some distinct neighborhoods that cater to different lifestyles and interests. Here are a few of them:

Downtown Burbank

This is the heart of the town and where you will find the majority of businesses, shops, and restaurants. Downtown Burbank has a charming small-town vibe and is a great place to stroll around, grab a coffee, or enjoy a meal.

Riverfront

As the name suggests, this neighborhood is located along the Snake River, offering residents beautiful views and access to various recreational activities. Homes in this area often have riverfront access or are close to boat launches, making it a popular spot for water enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Residential Subdivisions

Burbank has several residential neighborhoods with family-friendly environments. These subdivisions often feature newer homes, well-maintained streets, and parks for children to play. They are perfect for those seeking a quiet and safe community to raise a family.

Agriculture Areas

Burbank also has several agricultural neighborhoods that are surrounded by orchards, vineyards, and farmland. These areas give residents a taste of rural living while still being close to amenities. The agrarian landscapes also provide scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere.

West Bofer Canyon Road

This area is on the western outskirts of Burbank and offers a more rural setting with larger properties and ranch-style homes. It is a popular choice for those who want a little more privacy, space, and a semi-rural lifestyle.

Overall, Burbank's neighborhoods offer a mix of suburban, rural, and riverfront living options. Regardless of where you choose to reside, the town's close-knit community and natural beauty make it a desirable place to call home.