You are visiting the world's first full-size nuclear reactor, just in the deserted middle of nowhere in Washington. During World War II, this was the location where tons of plutonium were produced for nuclear war heads. The site was part of the Manhattan Project with two additional sites in Alamogordo, New Mexico and Oak Ridge in Tennessee. To build the reactor and all the surrounding buildings, families and farm had to leave the area.
If you want to visit this historical site, book a tour at the Hanford Visitor Center. The tour starts in Richland and you will be taken to the reactor by bus. The tours are free of charge.