All three of the Tri-Cities are full of reasonably priced chains. One of the best values is Hampton Inn (486 Bradley Blvd., 509/943-4400, www.hampton-inn.com, $109 s or $114 d) in Richland. This snappily decorated establishment faces the Columbia River, offering dock facilities for boaters and a pretty view for the rest of us. Do yourself a favor and plunk down an extra $20 for a room with a view. The property has a fitness center and a hot tub and offers a continental breakfast and a complimentary airport shuttle.

Another good bet is Best Western Kennewick (4001 W. 27th Ave., Kennewick, 509/586-1332 or 800/528-1234, www.bestwestern.com, $85–130 d), a clean and friendly property with a raft of amenities. There’s an indoor pool, hot tub, sauna, and fitness center, plus a business center. Pets are welcome, and there’s room outside to walk them. The hotel serves a hot breakfast buffet with French toast, biscuits and gravy, sausage, bacon, and more. Come evening time, staff sets out warm cookies. Suites with whirlpool bath and fireplace are available for $170.

Relax to the sound of a gurgling fountain waterfall on the shady and secluded patio at Cherry Chalet (8101 West 10th, Kennewick, 509/783-6406, $110 d). This modest suburban-style home is cloistered on a 20-acre cherry orchard that’s close enough to Kennewick to offer easy access to restaurants and activities.