A tipi sits beneath a tree near a walking trail

Whitman Mission National Historic Site

National Historic Site · Washington

NPS Photo

📍 StateWashington

🏛️ TypeNational Historic Site

🎟️ EntryFree

🏃 Activities15

Official NPS Website →

National Historic Site of the United States

Whitman Mission National Historic Site is a United States National Historic Site located just west of Walla Walla, Washington, at the site of the former Whitman Mission at Waiilatpu. On November 29, 1847, Dr. Marcus Whitman, his wife Narcissa Whitman, and 11 others were slain by Native Americans of the Cayuse. The site commemorates the Whitmans, their role in establishing the Oregon Trail, and the challenges encountered when two cultures meet.

Wikipedia WikidataSource: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA)

About Whitman Mission National Historic Site

One moment can change the fate of many nations. After thousands of years of habitation by the Cayuse Nation, life in the Columbia River Plateau begins to change rapidly with the influx of missionaries, newcomers from the Oregon Trail, and diseases. A single violent act of desperation to protect a community ignites a series of events that will reshape the United States forever.

Park Photos

View from above looking down at green fields, a pond, and mountains in the distance

An array of animal furs, beaded bags, and woven baskets

A tree reflected in a pond with more trees and a field of golden tall grass in the background

Activities

Arts and Culture Cultural Demonstrations Food Picnicking Guided Tours Self-Guided Tours - Walking Hiking Front-Country Hiking Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Park Film Museum Exhibits Shopping Bookstore and Park Store

Operating Hours

Whitman Mission National Historic Site

The grounds and trails at Whitman Mission National Historic Site are open daily from sunrise to sunset.

mon	tue	wed	thu	fri	sat	sun
Sunrise to Sunset	Sunrise to Sunset	Sunrise to Sunset	Sunrise to Sunset	Sunrise to Sunset	Sunrise to Sunset	Sunrise to Sunset

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to enter Whitman Mission National Historic Site?

Whitman Mission National Historic Site is free to enter.

What are the best activities at Whitman Mission National Historic Site?

Popular activities at Whitman Mission National Historic Site include: Arts and Culture, Cultural Demonstrations, Food, Picnicking, Guided Tours, Self-Guided Tours - Walking, Hiking, Front-Country Hiking.

What is the weather like at Whitman Mission National Historic Site?

Summers are hot. Hats, water and sunblock are recommended. Winters are mild and rainy with a few snow storms. Layered clothing is advised.

How do I get to Whitman Mission National Historic Site?

The site can be reached from US Highway 12, 8 miles west of Walla Walla, Wa. Airports are located in Walla Walla (11 miles east of park), Pasco (43 miles west), and Pendleton, Oregon (46 miles south).