Tours of the dam and powerhouse are given on most weekdays. Call in advance to reserve a time for large groups. The tour begins in the powerhouse lobby and proceeds to the generating hall, then into the depths of the powerhouse to the floor of the Columbia River upon which the dam is anchored. From there, visitors are taken to the control room, in the heart of the facility. Operators in the control room monitor generation of electricity and water flow through the spillway.
Visitors also see various parts of the turbines and other generating facilities and hardware.
The Fish Viewing Room Located next to the powerhouse entranceway, the fish viewing room is a popular place during the seasonal runs of Columbia River salmon. The fish viewing room and fish ladder at Wanapum Dam are among the most popular attractions. Children especially enjoy seeing the different fish which include trout, squawfish, salmon, shad and others, as well as an occasional eel. Directions To visit Wanapum Dam and Heritage Center from the TriCities, take State Highway 240 northwest toward Vantage. At the junction with State Route 24, travel north across the Vernita bridge and turn left onto State Route 243.