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El lensburg Tou rism Situation An ideallocation Ellensburg is an ideal location for tourism. lt's central location in the state makes for a convenient meeting place for groups and events. Placed at the rossroads of the state's major east-west and north- south travel corridors, it is two hours or less from the major urban centers of Western Washington yet offers a dramatically different environment and pace. Ellensburg has long been an important stop on the l-90 route and serves a large number of travelers who are passing through to other end-points. ln recent years, City tourism efforts have led to a growing awareness of Ellensburg as a destination in and of itself. An authentic experience Ellensburg is not an over touristed destination, lt's historic downtown, city parks, walking trails, restaurants and brewpubs, galleries and museums clearly are community places, not just tourist places. The distinction gives it an authenticity craved by travelers and supports quality offerings to ensure visitors retu rn. Outdoor recreation Ellensburg's sunshine, natural beauty and wide-open spaces translate into a myriad of outdoor opportunities, from team sports to fly fishing, and mountain biking to taking a relaxing walk, These opportunities stand out as high-quality, under-utilized and easy to access. The university advantage The City's population of 20,000+ swells to over 32,000 each fall when students arrive at Central Washington University. CWU has a strong in-state reputation and is known as an affordable place to go to school. Nearly 95 percent of students are from Washington, with a solid third coming from King and Pierce Counties. Thirty-five percent are students of color, which brings diversity to an 84 percent white community. CWU contributes to tourism through family and friend visits to students, returning alumni and a rich calendar of activities and events that dr:aw people to the campus and city. CWU's arts and culture programs benefit the community and visitors alike. A signature event The Ellensburg Rodeo has been bringing the Northwest to Ellensburg for nearly 100 years. The signature event drew 37,000 fans in 2019 (up from 36,000 in 2018), For many fans, the event is an annualtradition. The prominence of the rodeo over so many years has created a "Western" image of the town that is supported by other activities and facilities, such as the Clymer Museum & Gallery and the Spirit of the West Cowboy Gathering. Festival scene The City of Ellensburg is home to more than 30 festivals and activities that appealto residents and visitors alike. Some of them focus on music-Jazz in the Valley, Buskers in the Burg, etc.-but many are one-of-a- kind like Dachshunds on Parade. These events are a major draw for Ellensburg and substantiate the clairn that in Ellensburg, "There's always something going on." City of Ellensburg Five-Year Tourism Strategic Plan2019 16