Last updated on March 15th, 2024
Looking for a unique getaway nestled in the heart of the mountains? Look no further than Leavenworth! This charming Bavarian-themed town has delicious German-inspired food, year-round festivals, and tons of outdoor activities.Keep on reading to find out the best things to do in Leavenworth, Washington!
When we first visited Leavenworth, Washington, it totally blew us away. This place isn’t just a cute town in the Pacific Northwest. It’s a full-on German Bavarian village nestled right in the Cascade Mountains! During our three years living in Seattle, we made sure to visit Leavenworth as many times as possible, in all seasons. But summer is when it really shines!
In Leavenworth, you can check out authentic German festivals, wander through Alpine-style buildings, indulge in delicious bratwurst and beer, explore cute shops downtown, and get your fill of outdoor adventures (like hiking, river rafting, and even visiting reindeer farms), all while being surrounded by gorgeous mountain scenery and the Wenatchee River. It’s the perfect spot for a day trip from Seattle, loaded with fun, food, and fantastic views.
And in this guide, we’re excited to share all the best summer activities and sights we found in Leavenworth, Washington. Plus some tips for planning your trip!
Table of Contents
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- About Leavenworth Washington
- The best things to do in Leavenworth, Washington in the summer
- Getting to Leavenworth Washington
- How to Get Around Leavenworth Washington
- When to Visit Leavenworth
- How Much Time do you need in Leavenworth?
- Where to Stay in Leavenworth?
About Leavenworth Washington
Leavenworth, Washington is a unique town situated about 2 hours east of Seattle, in the heart of the Cascade Mountains. This charming place is not your ordinary small town, it’s actually a Bavarian-themed village that literally feels like a slice of Germany right in the Pacific Northwest.
The story of how Leavenworth transformed from a declining logging town into the bustling tourist destination it is today is quite fascinating. Back in the 1960s, facing economic hardship after the railroad relocated and the logging industry dwindled, the town sought a way to revive its fortunes.
Inspired by the beautiful alpine setting reminiscent of Bavarian villages, local leaders and community members decided to reinvent Leavenworth. They adopted a Bavarian theme for the town, remodeling its architecture and hosting festivals to attract visitors.
This transformation was incredibly successful, making Leavenworth a must-visit location. Today it is famous for its authentic German restaurants, shops, and annual celebrations like Oktoberfest and the Christmas Lighting Festival, which draw visitors from all over the world. Beyond its Bavarian allure, Leavenworth offers a ton of outdoor activities, thanks to its prime location near the Wenatchee National Forest.
The best things to do in Leavenworth, Washington in the summer
1. Grab a Coffee at a Local Cafe
First things first, coffee! When in Leavenworth, a visit to Argonaut Coffee and Biscuits is a must. It’s our go-to spot every single trip (sometimes more than once, because why the heck not?). If you’re after variety, J5 Coffee is another super popular option in town. Trust me, both these places know how to brew a mean cup that’ll kickstart your day just right.
2. Hike Leavenworth’s Stunning Trails
Leavenworth is surrounded by some of the most gorgeous trails you’ll find in the Pacific Northwest. Here are a couple of our absolute favorites!
Want to get 30% off an AllTrails+ membership? Use our code aplusk30 (you must redeem this code on the website, not the app)!
We use AllTrails+ on every single hike and it is the most helpful hiking tool out there! Some of the features we love are offline maps (so we can navigate even without cell service), wrong-turn alerts, and its 3D maps feature, so we can get a feel for trails before we hike.
Colchuck Lake
Colchuck Lake is 8.7 miles and has 2,342 ft of elevation gain (round trip). This is hands down one of our top picks for trails in Washington! The vibrant, bright blue waters and the rugged peaks surrounding Colchuck Lake create an absolutely breathtaking scene. If you’re feeling brave after the hike up, it makes for an extremely refreshing dip. No hiking permit is required for day hikers, making this trail very popular in the summertime. Make sure to arrive VERY early to snag parking. (No dogs allowed.)
Eightmile Lake
Eightmile Lake is 6.7 miles and has 1,410 ft elevation gain (round trip). The trail cuts through a burnt forest where there’s no shade, so remember your sunscreen on hot days! The lake is big, with plenty of rocks to sit on for a picnic. Just watch out for marmots (we had a close encounter with one!). If you’re lucky, you can also find spots to camp with a permit. (Again, no dogs allowed.)
Icicle Ridge
Icicle Ridge is 4.8 miles and has 1,758 ft elevation gain (round trip). This is a great hike if you’re hanging out in Leavenworth and prefer to stick close to town. The Icicle Ridge hike overlooks Leavenworth and the mountains, giving it a mix of “city” and nature views. When we did this hike in the spring, the summit was full of deep snow. So we couldn’t reach the top, but you bet we’ll be making a return trip!
If you are looking to tackle more hikes in Washington, we’ve gathered a great selection of trails, ranging in skill level and distance!
3. Backpacking the Enchantments
If you’re into backpacking, the Enchantments Trail is where you’ll find some of the most stunning scenery the PNW has to offer. This 18-mile route is loaded with alpine meadows and crystal-clear lakes. And after hiking it in 2019, we can confidently say the Enchantments are one of the most enchanting places in Washington (sorry, we had to!).
However, securing a spot to camp overnight in the Enchantments area requires a bit of luck. Permits are highly sought after and there are only 24 spots available per day during peak season. You can learn more about getting a permit here.
Local’s Tip: If you miss out on the permit, consider doing the Enchantments as a day hike. It’s a long day, sure, but totally doable for a strong hiker. Alternatively, check out other less crowded spots like Snow Lakes or Eightmile Lake. Also, note that dogs are not allowed in the Enchantments area.
4. Climbing and Bouldering
Leavenworth’s granite cliffs are a real treat for anyone who is into climbing. With areas like Icicle Creek, it’s easy to see why climbers from everywhere make the trip here. The granite has a larger grain than what you find in the Skykomish Valley, making the climbs a bit friendlier, especially if you’re just getting the hang of things.
If you are looking for a guide, the Northwest Mountain School is awesome because they understand that climbers come at all levels, and they offer classes that meet you where you’re at.
5. Float down the Wenatchee River
For an unforgettable experience on the Wenatchee River in Leavenworth, you’ve got plenty of options! You can go rafting, kayaking, paddleboarding, or tubing. Head over to Osprey Rafting for an epic ride down the river. Or for a more leisurely float, rent tubes from Leavenworth Outdoor Center. They also offer shuttle services, so you don’t have to worry about the logistics of getting back to your starting point.
6. Visit the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm
The Leavenworth Reindeer Farm is a must-visit spot. Here, you get to hold massive Reindeer antlers, feed the animals right from your hand, and meet the rest of the herd. It’s as cool as it sounds, and wow, are they cute!
This unique farm welcomes guests throughout the year, offering tours that adapt to the seasons. During the summer months, morning tours are available with “Summer Nights” tours on select evenings from June through August. Tours start at $25 per person ($5 for children under 3 years old).
And if you get hungry, Blitzen Brew, the farm’s concession stand, serves up tasty Alaskan Reindeer Sausage and hand-rolled Norwegian Potato Lefse.
7. Catch a Show at the Leavenworth Summer Theater
The Leavenworth Summer Theater is known for its outdoor performances, particularly during the summer! Established in 1994, the summer theater really brings the magic of Broadway to the heart of the Cascade Mountains. Their productions, complete with incredibly talented casts, make every show something special.
The theater’s most iconic performances often include classics like “The Sound of Music,” “Fiddler on the Roof,” “Beauty and the Beast,” and “My Fair Lady.” Performances take place in two different venues, including the Ski Hill Amphitheater and the Hatchery Park Stage.
Tickets for Leavenworth Summer Theater shows typically go on sale in the spring, and it’s best to purchase them well in advance, as performances often sell out quickly due to the popularity of the theater and the limited seating available at the outdoor venues.
8. Stroll Downtown Leavenworth
Take a leisurely walk on Front Street in Leavenworth. This place is full of neat shops that you won’t find anywhere else. Pine Hill Mercantile, Paprika, and Kris Kringl are just a few spots where we love to pop in and browse. It’s a great way to soak in the Bavarian vibes and maybe pick up a unique souvenir or two!
9. Savor Authentic Bavarian Cuisine
Don’t forget to pack a big appetite because, in Leavenworth, the food scene is just as memorable as the town itself. This place is bursting at the seams with Bavarian-themed eateries where you can savor authentic German classics like sausages, krauts, and melt-in-your-mouth schnitzels.
Our absolute favorite spot to eat in Leavenworth is München Haus. This spot provides the ultimate bratwurst experience. Rudloof’s Pizza is another good choice too! And if you are feeling like something sweet, check out the Bavarian bakery for some of the most mouthwatering German pastries, such as streusel and Berlineror. Or stop by the Gingerbread Factory for traditional lebkuchen cookies.
Want something besides German food? Check out Yodelin Broth Company and Beer Garden! Heidleburger Drive In is also a solid little spot for a post hike burger.
10. Leavenworth Adventure Park
Located right in the heart of some of the most jaw-dropping scenery in Tumwater Canyon, the Leavenworth Adventure Park is such a fun place to spend an afternoon. The park’s highlight, the Tumwater Twister Alpine Coaster, takes you on a 2,700-foot ride featuring a heart-stopping 234-foot drop and three 360-degree spirals. If you’re an alpine coaster lover like us, this is a MUST!
For climbers, the Alpine Ascent Climbing Wall stands 27 feet tall, with 4 lanes, each offering 2 routes that cater to all skill levels, from Easy to Most Challenging. And for kids looking for a treasure hunt, the Gems of The Enchantments Mining Sluice promises a fun panning experience where they can collect over 15 types of gemstones!
11. Sip Fine Wines at Local Vineyards & Wineries
For a small town, Leavenworth is loaded with wine-tasting options. You can hop from room to room downtown, or venture out to the vineyards themselves. Downtown, you can sample fine wines at Ryan Patrick Wines or Patterson Cellars Tasting Room. But if you’re up for a more scenic adventure, head out to Eagle Creek Winery or Icicle Ridge Winery. There, you can stroll through the vineyards, take in the gorgeous views, and sample a range of wines, from bold reds to crisp whites.
12. Explore the Nutcracker Museum
For something a bit different, the Nutcracker Museum is surprisingly fascinating. It’s not every day you see thousands of nutcrackers from all over the globe. Arlene, the collector, is something of a local legend. Known as the “nutcracker lady,” she has poured her heart and soul into creating this remarkable collection. Her dedication and passion for nutcrackers led her to gather over 9,000 pieces from more than 50 countries!
Admission is just $5 per adult, and there’s a gift shop on-site where you can grab a unique nutcracker or even a paint-your-own Nutcracker kit.
13. Sample Bavarian-style Brews
Hopping into Leavenworth’s brewery scene? You can’t miss Icicle Brewing. This spot is a must-visit in the town, and is easily the top brewery in Leavenworth. With ample seating both inside and out, tasty pub snacks, and frequent live music, it’s the place to be. You can also try their beers at München Haus!
For fans of dark beer, the Dark Persuasion is a must-try. This German cake stout is delicious!
Another popular spot for brews in Leavenworth to check out is Blewett Brewing Company.
14. Explore the Bavarian Streets on an E-bike Tour
Going on an E-bike tour is a super fun way to explore the scenery around Leavenworth. Pedal past iconic spots like the Leavenworth Ski Hill, soak up the views of the Icicle Creek canyon, and cruise through downtown Leavenworth with Bavarian E-bike Tours. If you are looking for a little more adventure, you can go on a tour with Leavenworth Electric Bikes and explore Lake Wenatchee State Park and Dirty Face Mountain.
15. Visit the Farmers Market
Every Saturday morning from May 4th to August 31st, hit up the farmers market at 7th & Cherokee St in Historic Downtown, open from 7 AM to 12 noon. It’s a goldmine for anyone who loves fresh and homemade goods. Think delicious jams, scones, fresh fruits, and veggies that change with the seasons. During the market evenings, you can enjoy live music, book readings organized by the neighborhood library, and vendors offering tasty snacks and meals.
16. Soar Above Leavenworth on a Zipline Tour
A short drive from town, Leavenworth Ziplines will have you soaring through the air through the Cascade Mountains. Their tours let you zip from ridge to ridge up to 190 feet over Beaver Creek Valley!
Zipline tours begin in mid-April and continue through to the early fall. Find out more about these tours and secure your spot here.
17. Visit Lake Wenatchee State Park
Lake Wenatchee State Park is tucked away on the shores of the stunning 5-mile-long, glacier-fed Lake Wenatchee and the Wenatchee River. This place is enormous, covering over 489 acres and boasts some seriously breathtaking views of the eastern slopes of the Cascades Mountain Range. This park is about 20 miles from Leavenworth (which is roughly a 30-minute drive).
Here, you can hike around the lake, go horseback riding, take a dip in the water at the swim beach, kayak, paddle board, or even boat. The water is crystal clear, and on a hot day, it’s incredibly refreshing. Plus, the lake is loaded with trout and salmon, making it a great spot for fishing. A Discover Pass is required for vehicle access to Lake Wenatchee State Park for day use.
18. Go Mountain Biking
Stevens Pass bike park is the perfect place for those looking to try mountain biking for the first time or push their limits on some challenging trails. Newbies should consider signing up for a lesson to grasp the basics beyond just pedaling downhill. And for those with a need for speed and a taste for adventure, the park’s advanced trails are thrilling, to say the least.
Besides biking, Stevens Pass offers other leisure activities like disc golf and scenic chairlift rides.
Ski Hill and Freund Canyon, on the other hand, offer a more laid-back vibe with a collection of free-access trails closer to town, all maintained by the local biking community. This spot is fantastic for those who prefer to explore at their own pace without the confines of a resort.
19. Taste the Best local Ice Cream at Whistlepunk
Whistlepunk Ice Cream Co. is renowned for its selection of handmade ice creams, crafted with the finest local ingredients to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor. Seriously, make it your mission to swing by for a scoop (or two!) that’ll be worth every bite. And trust me, splurging on the waffle cone is a decision you won’t regret.
Bertha’s Caramel Brownie will have you swooning over those gooey chunks, Blackberry Fool is a revelation, and the Chai is a spicy delight. Don’t skip their seasonal offerings either. I still find myself daydreaming about a lemon bar cone I devoured one summer in Leavenworth—it was that memorable.
From rich, decadent chocolate to fresh, fruity sorbets, and everything in between, it’s the perfect place to indulge your sweet tooth with the best the local area has to offer.
Getting to Leavenworth Washington
Leavenworth, Washington, located in the central part of the state, is beautifully tucked into the Cascade Mountains, making it a gorgeous but accessible destination. Here’s everything you need to know about making your way to Leavenworth!
Flying to Leavenworth
While Leavenworth doesn’t have its own commercial airport, the nearest airport to Leavenworth is Wenatchee (EAT) Airport, located approximately 35 minutes away. The closest international airport is Seattle-Tacoma Airport (SEA), about a 2-hour drive away.
Driving to Leavenworth
Driving to Leavenworth offers a scenic route through the beautiful landscapes of Washington. Leavenworth is easily accessible via U.S. Highway 2, which is part of the Cascade Loop, offering endless views of the mountains and valleys. Here’s a quick look at approximate driving times from nearby cities:
Seattle, WA: 2 hr 27 min (134.9 mi)
Spokane, WA: 3 hr 13 min (192.5 mi)
Tacoma, WA: 2 hr 40 min (148.2 mi)
Portland, OR: 5 hr 16 min (288.2 mi)
Vancouver, BC: About 4 hours (220 miles, plus border crossing time)
Train and Bus to Leavenworth
For those who prefer not to drive, Amtrak’s Empire Builder line stops right in Leavenworth at the Icicle Station. Additionally, there are bus services from Seattle and other parts of the state that provide transportation to Leavenworth, making it accessible without a car.
How to Get Around Leavenworth Washington
Navigating Leavenworth is a breeze, thanks to its compact, pedestrian-friendly layout and the variety of transportation options available. Whether you prefer to explore on foot, use public transport, or drive, getting around this charming Bavarian-themed town is both easy and fun!
Walking Around Town
One of the best ways to experience the charm of Leavenworth is on foot. The town’s central area, especially around Front Street, is super pedestrian-friendly and allows you to take in the beautiful architecture, cute shops, and cafés at your own pace.
Biking
Leavenworth is also bike-friendly, with several trails and paths suitable for cyclists looking to explore a bit further. Der Sportsmann is a great place to check out for bike rentals; they’ve got everything you need to hit the road or trail.
Public Transportation
Getting around or even outside Leavenworth can be easy on the wallet with Link Transit. They’ve got routes connecting Leavenworth to surrounding communities, making it a breeze if you want to explore without the stress of driving. Schedules and routes are available on the Link Transit website, making it easy to plan your trips.
Shuttles and Taxis
Need a direct route or just not feeling the walk? Leavenworth doesn’t leave you hanging. Leavenworth Shuttle & Taxi is a popular go-to for shuttles, especially handy for reaching out-of-town hiking spots or group adventures.
Driving
Navigating Leavenworth by car is pretty straightforward, but you’ll need your own car or a rental car. Just keep in mind that parking can be a bit of a hunt during peak times like festival weekends or the holiday season. The town does have public parking areas, behind the Festhalle building on Front Street, so have a look at those and maybe plan to arrive a tad early to find a spot. Having your own car is particularly useful for visiting attractions outside of the town center or exploring the greater Cascade region.
When to Visit Leavenworth
Leavenworth, with its year-round charm, is always ready to welcome you, but your perfect visit depends on what you’re looking for.
Winter (December-February): Leavenworth’s winters are truly something out of a fairytale, where the town turns into a snowy, festive wonderland. While it can get chilly, and the snow may limit some outdoor activities, if you’re a fan of holiday lights, Christmas markets, and cozy vibes, this is the time for you. The Christmas Lighting Festival is a highlight, lighting up the town in a way that’s simply magical.
Spring (March-May): Spring offers a quieter, more colorful Leavenworth. It’s the season for those who enjoy the outdoors without the cold or crowds. The weather starts to warm up, making it great for hiking and enjoying nature. Plus, the Maifest brings a slice of Bavarian tradition that’s both lively and charming.
Summer (June-August): Summer means adventure in Leavenworth. The weather is perfect for all kinds of outdoor activities, from hiking to river rafting. In summer, Leavenworth hosts tons of outdoor concerts, festivals, and markets.
Fall (September-November): For a quieter visit, fall is ideal. The leaves change colors, and the air is crisp. The Autumn Leaf Festival and Oktoberfest create a festive mood in town, making it a great time to enjoy both the outdoors and Leavenworth’s Bavarian culture.
How Much Time do you need in Leavenworth?
Deciding how long to stay in Leavenworth really depends on what you want to get out of your visit. Here’s a little guide to help you plan:
Quick Getaway (1-2 Days): If you’re tight on time but need that quick escape, a weekend or even a day trip can be super rewarding. You can explore the main drag of Front Street, pop into the charming shops, enjoy some authentic Bavarian cuisine, and maybe squeeze in a short hike or a visit to Waterfront Park.
Leisurely Exploration (3-4 Days): Giving yourself a few days in town means you can do a whole lot more. Spend one day checking out the local shops and museums, another day hiking or biking the nearby trails, and still have time to enjoy a leisurely float down the Wenatchee River. Plus, you can explore the town’s bavarian cuisine across several meals, from breakfast spots to late-night bites.
Full Experience (5-7 Days): If you’ve got a week, you’re in for a treat. You can cover all the bases—hiking, shopping, eating—plus venture further out. Take a day trip to Lake Wenatchee, explore the vineyards and orchards in the surrounding area, or even tackle some of the longer, more challenging trails. This also gives you time to really relax and soak in the slower pace of life in Leavenworth, maybe even finding a few hidden gems along the way.
Seasonal Visits: Keep in mind, if you’re coming for specific events like the Christmas Lighting Festival or Oktoberfest, you’ll want to plan around those schedules to make the most of your visit.
Where to Stay in Leavenworth?
Leavenworth is packed with awesome places to crash, whether you’re looking for a snug hotel right in the middle of all the action, a charming Airbnb, or even a campsite with killer views. Below are just a handful of suggestions for great places to stay while in Leavenworth!
Curious how we get FREE flights and hotels? Check out our list of our favorite travel cards that have saved us thousands of dollars!
Downtown Hotels
If you want to be in the heart of all the action, staying downtown is your best bet. You’ll be steps away from the quaint shops, delicious eateries, and lively festivals. Places like the Bavarian Lodge or Hotel Pension Anna offer an authentic Bavarian charm, complete with modern amenities.
Vacation rentals
Valhalla-One bedroom condo (1 bedroom, 1 bathroom)
Icicle Village Resort (1 bedroom, 1 bathroom)
Downtown condo (2 bedrooms, 2 bathroom)
Abenteuer Haus downtown (2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms)
Cozy B&Bs and Inns
Places like the Enzian Inn or Pine River Ranch offer cozy, intimate settings with stunning views, often including breakfast. Ideal for couples or anyone looking for a quieter, more romantic getaway.
Camping and RV Parks
If you’re traveling in an RV, there are plenty of RV parks and resorts in and around Leavenworth to choose from. These parks offer amenities such as full hookups, laundry facilities, and more. Be sure to check out places like Alpine RV Park & Campground or Icicle River RV Resort. For those seeking traditional camping experiences, head to Icicle Creek Road, where you’ll find several organized campgrounds within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest that offer tent sites on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Luxury Resorts
For those looking to splurge on some luxury, Leavenworth has got you covered too. Resorts like the Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort, Post Hotel, and Icicle Village Resort offer upscale accommodations with spa services, fine dining and more!
Harvest Hosts in Leavenworth
For those part of the Harvest Hosts club, Leavenworth and its surroundings offer some pretty cool places to stay, and Infuse Organics is one of those spots you won’t want to miss. Run by Scott and Sarah Michels, who brought their Ohio charm to Washington, their medicinal herb farm offers a cozy spot to park your RV for the night.
New to Harvest Hosts? It’s a paid membership for self-contained RVers that lets you stay at farms, breweries, wineries, golf courses, and other spots for FREE, with the expectation that you will support the business. While this means you do need to spend some money and it’s not totally free, it’s usually a unique experience and you get to support a local business.
Want to get 15% off a Harvest Hosts membership? Click this link and then use the code HHFRIENDS15!
Harvest Hosts is a network of destinations across the US and Canada that allow RVers (or Van Lifers like us!) to stay overnight for free with the membership! These destinations include wineries, breweries & distilleries, farms, golf courses and more! The annual membership gives you unlimited access to spend the night at any of the Host‘s locations for the year. There are 7,000+ super unique places to choose from and they are located all over the country. We even stayed at an alpaca farm once!
Looking for more things to do in Washington?
- Hiking the Enchantments: everything you need to know!
- 3 Days in Seattle
- 6 Seattle Day Trips
- Our 37 Favorite Hikes in Washington
- The best things to do at Mount Rainier National Park
- Olympic Peninsula Road Trip Itinerary
- A Weekend in North Cascades National Park
- 19+ romantic getaways in Washington State
About the Author
This blog post was written by our writer Nicoll. Learn a bit about her below!
I’mNicoll, an adventurous soul fueled by hiking, dirt biking, and traveling. When I’m not busy crafting captivating tales, you’ll find me exploring the world alongside my partner-in-adventure, Jake. Back in 2019, our insatiable wanderlust led us to embrace the nomadic lifestyle with our fearless pack of canine sidekicks, including a mid-content wolf dog. You can catch my adventures and musings onlivingtinywithawolf.com.
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