Last updated on August 14th, 2024 at 12:31 pm
Welcome to the thirty-third episode of the Locals Know Best podcast! I’m Cindy, your host. As a former full-time RVer who loves travel, I’ve learned that locals genuinely know the best spots in every place I’ve visited. And that’s why I started this podcast: to help travelers explore different parts of the United States from a local’s perspective.
In each episode, we dive into a local’s perfect day of outdoor fun in their town, making you feel like you’re right there with them. These episodes are designed to inspire and help you plan your next adventure.
Locals Know Best Podcast Episode 033: Leavenworth, Washington, Christmas Town Year-Round
This article summarizes the thirty-third episode of the Locals Know Best podcast! [And has been updated for 2024!]
Every podcast episode explores one local’s perfect day of fun outdoors in their town.
This episode dives into the many adventures you can enjoy in the charming, picturesque Alpine-style town of Leavenworth, Washington.
Join local Tom Potter and me as we uncover the best restaurants, snowboarding, whitewater rafting, mountain biking, and things to do in Leavenworth, Washington, and appreciate incredibly underrated spots in town!
Listen to the Episode
👉 Click here to listen to this episode of Locals Know Best!
About Tom Potter (Aka: T-Pot)
Learn more about Tom Potter and how to plan Leavenworth excursions with him at thetpotexperience.com.
Tom is a local Leavenworth entrepreneur.
When he first arrived in the area, he spent several years working in the bars and restaurants throughout the village to fund his recreational habits.
During that time, he inadvertently found himself planning vacations for people so they wouldn’t waste a minute of their stay.
Eventually, the T-Pot Experience was born, an all-inclusive trip planning service he operates that focuses on bringing you the best of Leavenworth.
With this host and concierge service, he helps visitors make the most of their time in the area, specializing in unique experiences based around outdoor recreation, food, wine, and scenery.
About Leavenworth
Leavenworth is a picturesque Bavarian town nestled at the foothills of the Cascade Mountain Range. Inspired by German culture, the town features German architecture, restaurants, and shops, giving it a European charm.
What truly sets Leavenworth apart, however, is its prime location at the base of towering 6,000-foot mountains. Unlike many towns that require a drive to reach outdoor activities, Leavenworth offers easy access to adventure.
Stevens Pass Mountain Resort is just a 40-minute drive away. Tumwater Canyon, with the Wenatchee River’s Class 3 and 5 whitewater rapids, is only 5 minutes away. The Leavenworth Ski Hill, perfect for mountain biking in the warmer months, and Freund Canyon, with its excellent hiking trails, are each just 5 minutes from town. With all these activities so close, Leavenworth is Washington’s ultimate recreation mecca.
While the town attracts visitors year-round for its unique architecture and mountain activities, Leavenworth is especially appealing during the holidays due to its spectacular light display and festive decor. It feels like stepping into a Christmas movie. The best part is that the holiday lights and decorations stay up until the last day of February, giving visitors ample time to enjoy the magic.
Where is Leavenworth
Leavenworth is situated in central Washington in the Cascade Mountains off US Highway 2.
How to Get to Leavenworth, Washington
The best way to get to Leavenworth, Washington, is by driving along US Highway 2. If you are not within driving distance of Leavenworth, the best option is to fly to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and rent a car from there.
How Far is Leavenworth from Seattle
Leavenworth is 120 miles from Seattle. The drive takes about 2 hours and 10 minutes (depending on traffic and weather conditions).
When is the Best Time to Visit Leavenworth, WA
There’s never a bad time to visit Leavenworth, Washington; it all depends on what activities you’re looking for. January and February are ideal for those who want to enjoy Christmas lights and decor without the crowds and experience skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and Nordic skiing.
If you’re seeking a mix of activities like snowboarding, whitewater rafting, and mountain biking, Tom recommends visiting in March or April. During this time, the mountains are still snowy, but the snow has melted in town, allowing for great rafting and biking opportunities.
As summer arrives, a steady flow of tourists are drawn to Leavenworth because of summer break. While this season is more crowded, it is perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, rafting, water tubing, and savoring the local wine.
Finally, the fall season offers stunning foliage and cooler weather. October can be busy with Oktoberfest celebrations during the first three weekends. However, November is one of Tom’s favorites because it’s quieter, allowing for a more local experience before the holiday crowds arrive in December in search of the dreamy festivities and decor.
When Does it Snow in Leavenworth
Leavenworth can experience snowfall as early as October and as late as March, with the heaviest snowfall occurring between December and February.
When Does Leavenworth Decorate for Christmas
Leavenworth decorates for Christmas in November. You can experience the holiday lights and decor from Thanksgiving to the last day of February.
How to Avoid the Crowds in Leavenworth
Leavenworth keeps its decorations up for a few months beyond Christmas, giving visitors plenty of time to enjoy them. Tom recommends visiting in January or February if you want to enjoy Leavenworth’s Christmas-town charm without the crowds. This way, you can appreciate the town’s festive decorations and partake in winter activities without the hoards of tourists.
For those interested in warmer weather activities like mountain biking or hiking, the shoulder seasons of spring and fall are ideal times to visit. If you plan to visit during the fall, be aware that Oktoberfest celebrations in October can make the town very crowded. Tom suggests visiting in November for a quieter experience.
What to Do in Leavenworth
Leavenworth is a delightful town filled with shops and restaurants. While you could easily spend an entire day exploring the local businesses, the town is best known as Washington’s recreation mecca, offering a wide range of outdoor activities to enjoy.
Outdoorsy Things to Do in Leavenworth During Winter
One of the best times to visit Leavenworth is during the winter season. The town is renowned for its beautiful lights and holiday decor, and the icing on the cake is the endless outdoor activities you can enjoy during the snowy season.
1. Ski/Snowboard
Skiing and snowboarding are two of the most popular winter activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Leavenworth’s prime location allows visitors to enjoy these sports within an hour’s drive.
Stevens Pass
Leavenworth is just 40 minutes from Stevens Pass, an incredible ski and snowboard destination included in the Epic Pass (a popular ski pass that covers many resorts across the United States).
During the spring months of March and April, locals and those in the know enjoy riding Stevens Pass in the morning and heading back to town around lunchtime. About 6 miles from town, you’ll find Tumwater Canyon with the Wenatchee River’s Class 3 and 5 whitewater rapids on the way back from Stevens Pass. Many outdoor enthusiasts love to fit both activities into one day, switching to whitewater kayaking or rafting in the afternoon before heading back to town.
Mission Ridge Ski & Board Resort
Mission Ridge Ski & Board Resort is located about an hour outside Leavenworth in Wenatchee. It’s an excellent alternative if you want to switch things up or seek a more local experience. The resort offers 2,000 skiable acres, which is substantial for a local mountain, providing plenty of space and trails for riders to explore.
2. Snow Tubing
Leavenworth is a fantastic destination for snow tubing. The Leavenworth Ski Hill features a 100-foot tubing hill just a few minutes outside town. The best part is the rope tow that pulls you and your tube up, so you don’t have to walk or carry it. It’s a fun winter activity the whole family can enjoy together.
3. Nordic Skiing
Nordic skiing is also a popular activity during the snowy season! One of the best places to enjoy it is on the Icicle River Nordic Trail. This nearly 5-mile (8 km) trail offers stunning scenery and moderate terrain and is a fun way to get outside and get a workout.
4. Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is a more relaxed activity that lets you hike along trails with snowshoes on at a moderate pace while enjoying the beautiful winter scenery. Leavenworth offers many great snowshoeing spots, but one of the best is Lake Wenatchee State Park.
In the winter, the park features an area called the Lake Wenatchee Sno-Park, with 43 miles of trails for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and more. It’s the perfect place for exploring, with many different trails to choose from.
5. Snowmobiling
Snowmobiling is another exciting winter activity for those seeking an adrenaline rush. Fortunately, Leavenworth boasts some of the best snowmobiling in Washington state. With 150 miles of trails ranging from 2,500 to 7,000 feet in elevation, the trails are not only incredibly fun but also offer stunning scenery.
Additionally, it’s an excellent place to bring your own snowmobile. However, if you don’t have one, local businesses make it easy to rent, and they even offer guided tours for those who prefer to follow an expert. Leavenworth is the perfect place to start if you’ve never tried snowmobiling.
6. Sledding
Last but certainly not least, Leavenworth offers excellent sledding areas for children and adults. One of the best spots for sledding is the Leavenworth Golf Course, which has designated sledding areas. While bringing your own sled is recommended, the area also provides convenient options for renting or purchasing sleds on-site if you’re traveling to the area.
Outdoorsy Things to Do in Leavenworth During Summer
One of the most popular times to visit Leavenworth is during the summer months, from June through August. During this time, you can expect warm weather and plenty of fun outdoor activities. Next, I’ll highlight some of the best things to do in Leavenworth during summer.
7. Whitewater Kayaking
Whitewater kayaking isn’t your typical leisurely float down a river. It involves navigating through areas with various classes of rapids, and Leavenworth offers excellent opportunities for those passionate about the sport.
Tumwater Canyon
One of the best places for whitewater kayaking is Tumwater Canyon, where the Wenatchee River flows. Just 5 miles out of town, you’ll find an ideal spot along the river to launch your kayak and experience Class 3 to Class 5 rapids. Its convenient proximity to town makes it easy to access and one of the top activities to enjoy during the warmer months.
8. Whitewater Rafting
Similar to whitewater kayaking, whitewater rafting involves navigating through various classes of rapids. However, instead of being in a kayak, you’re in a raft, usually with a group of people. While kayaking is often a solo activity or done with one other person, rafting typically involves a team of several individuals working together.
One of the best places for rafting is Lake Wenatchee State Park. Several companies also offer whitewater rafting excursions with experienced guides who will take you out to experience the rapids firsthand.
9. Tube Floating / Stand-Up Paddleboarding
If whitewater kayaking or rafting seems too intimidating or adrenaline-filled, no worries. There are plenty of other ways to enjoy the water without navigating rapids. You can also try tubing or stand-up paddleboarding in the area!
For a more leisurely floating experience, you can enjoy tubing or paddleboarding in the area after Tumwater Canyon. In this location, the river calms down and remains still for about 2.5 miles, providing plenty of space to enjoy the water, relax, and take in the beautiful scenery.
10. Mountain Biking
Another popular activity around Leavenworth is mountain biking. There are numerous trails for cyclists to enjoy, conveniently located just outside town.
One of the best things about Leavenworth is the amount of attention the community, local businesses, and organizations place on keeping things well-maintained, like its mountain biking trails. Keep diving in below as I highlight a few of the most beautiful trails and some of Tom’s favorites.
Freund Canyon Mountain Bike Trail
I personally explored the Freund Canyon Mountain Bike Trail and loved every minute of it. The trail is incredibly well-maintained and offers fantastic views from the ridgeline. It’s a little over 6.5 miles and is a beautiful loop perfect for beginner and intermediate riders looking for fun, good exercise, and stunning scenery.
Rosy Boa Mountain Bike Trail
The Rosy Boa Mountain Bike Trail is another excellent option near the Freund Canyon Mountain Bike Trail. This trail is just under 3 miles and offers a bit more of a challenge. It’s rated as quite difficult, but you’ll be rewarded with fantastic views of Leavenworth below and a fantastic workout for a relatively short distance.
Ribbed Mountain Bike Trail
The Ribbed Mountain Bike Trail is another awesome trail in the area that’s considered pretty challenging. Although it’s only 1.5 miles long, it features some impressive jumps and steep sections, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a short but tough ride.
11. Ski Hill Biking
There’s a popular area in Leavenworth known for hosting mountain bikers in the summer and skiers and tubers in winter. It’s a great spot to hang out with locals and visitors alike.
Leavenworth Ski Hill
Leavenworth Ski Hill is a fantastic destination for fun activities for all ages, from adults to children. The best part is its convenient location, which is close to town and offers easy access.
12. Hikes Near Leavenworth
Leavenworth is a paradise for hiking enthusiasts, offering a variety of trails to suit all preferences. Whether you want to tackle just one hike or explore countless options, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Below, I’ve listed some of my favorite hikes, including one that ends with the view featured in this podcast’s cover image, along with some of Tom’s top picks and other popular trails worth exploring.
The Enchantments
The hike to The Enchantments is challenging but absolutely worth the effort. This trail offers breathtaking alpine lakes, towering grey mountain peaks, and stunning views beyond description. It’s an arduous trek, spanning 18 miles one way with an elevation gain of 4,500 feet. The best way to fully enjoy The Enchantments is by securing an overnight permit, allowing you to backpack and camp along the way. Despite being one of the hardest hikes in the area, the views and experience make it well worth the challenge.
Icicle Ridge Trail
The Icicle Ridge Trail is one of my favorites, and it is featured as the cover photo for this podcast. This 6-mile hike includes a 1,800-foot elevation gain, making it short but intense. At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with an incredible aerial view of Leavenworth, offering a unique perspective of the town below. Despite the numerous switchbacks, the hike is well worth it, providing stunning, Instagram-worthy photo opportunities.
Colchuck Lake
Another stunning hike is to Colchuk Lake. This 8-mile round-trip trek includes a 2,280-foot elevation gain. The views are breathtaking, with an alpine lake surrounded by towering grey mountain peaks. Many people compare it to The Enchantments but with a much shorter distance.
Snow Lakes
The Snow Lakes Trail, located on the way to The Enchantments, is a great alternative for those without a permit to backpack The Enchantments. This challenging 14-mile round-trip hike includes a 4,300-foot elevation gain. Despite its difficulty and length, the stunning mountain scenery and alpine lakes make it well worth the trek.
Icicle Gorge Trail
The Icicle Gorge Nature Loop is a 4.2-mile trail with 150 feet of elevation gain. It’s an easy and enjoyable hike for those wanting to spend time outdoors and enjoy the views without tackling steep climbs. Along the trail, you’ll be treated to stunning views of Icicle Creek and Icicle Gorge, making it a perfect laid-back path for outdoor fun.
Waterfront Park Trail
The Waterfront Park Trail, located right in downtown Leavenworth, is a 3-mile round trip that follows the Wenatchee River. This scenic trail offers opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, with benches and small beach areas where you can take a dip in the water. It’s an ideal trail for a pleasant walk and getting some steps in while enjoying the views.
Blackbird Island Trail
At Waterfront Park, a small island in the middle of the Wenatchee River offers a delightful 2-mile loop with just 100 feet of elevation gain. This fun Black Island Trail provides beautiful views of the river, town, and surrounding mountains without requiring a steep hike. Plus, it’s conveniently located in the heart of downtown.
13. Leavenworth Adventure Park
As the name implies, Leavenworth Adventure Park is the go-to spot for thrilling experiences. It features a range of activities, including Washington’s first alpine coaster, a rock climbing wall, and a mining sluice. It’s a fantastic destination for unique adventures, offering fun for both kids and adults.
14. Leavenworth Ziplines
If you’re eager to soar high in the air and enjoy an exhilarating ziplining adventure, Leavenworth is the place to go. At Leavenworth Ziplines, you can choose between 5 or 9 zip lines. Not only will you have a thrilling experience, but you’ll also enjoy fantastic views of the area from above. It’s a great activity for adults, and kids can join in the fun too! Children must be at least 7 years old and weigh 70 pounds to participate.
15. Horseback Riding
A unique and enjoyable way to experience stunning mountain views is through horseback riding, and Leavenworth offers several options. You can choose from different distances, and there is a small horsie ride option for children ages 4-8. If you love horses and want to spend time outdoors, this is a fantastic and fun choice. One of the best companies offering horseback riding in the area is Eagle Creek Ranch, known for their expert guides, horseback riding, and sleigh rides in the winter season.
16. Rock Climbing
Numerous rock climbing options are available just a few miles from town. Snow Creek Wall is one of the top spots, featuring excellent routes like Outer Space, Orbit, and Ironoclast. Climbers will love the variety of routes and the stunning views in the area.
More Things to Do in Leavenworth
As someone who enjoys hiking, mountain biking, and all things outdoors, we’ve explored a lot of trail activities. However, Leavenworth has much more to offer beyond what we’ve covered. If you’re interested in experiencing the town’s vibrant events, exploring its music scene, or trying out other outdoor activities we haven’t mentioned, keep reading below for more highlights.
17. Attend an Annual Festival
One of the highlights of Leavenworth, beyond its outdoor activities just outside town, is the vibrant community and the lively celebrations it hosts. If you want to enjoy the fun with visitors and locals, Leavenworth is renowned for its fantastic festivals. Continue reading as I shine a light on some of the top events, including the spectacular Christmas festivities.
Oktoberfest
With its German-inspired architecture, it’s no surprise that Leavenworth is famous for hosting some of the best Oktoberfest celebrations in the United States. For the first three weekends of October, the town transforms into a lively Oktoberfest hub.
Visitors and locals alike don lederhosen, dirndls, and other German attire. You’ll find plenty of German beer, bratwurst, pretzels, and more, along with live entertainment, music, and games. The entire town truly comes alive in October, offering a charming, smaller-scale version of Munich’s Oktoberfest without the need for international travel.
Maifest
Maifest takes place every weekend in May and features a variety of events each week. I recommend checking the calendar ahead of time to plan your visit based on your interests. Events you can look forward to include Music of the Alps, traditional Maifest celebrations with maypole dancing and Bavarian music, the May Flower Run, and more. It’s a great way to welcome the spring season!
Christmastown
Christmastown runs from November 29th to December 24th, transforming Leavenworth into a picturesque town straight out of a Christmas postcard. During this time, the town is adorned with festive lights and decorations, offering endless holiday activities. You can enjoy outdoor activities like snowshoeing and skiing or explore charming boutiques for shopping. With so many options, it’s the perfect way to embrace the holiday spirit.
Winter Karneval
The Winter Karneval typically takes place over Martin Luther King Jr. Day weekend and is packed with celebrations. During this time, the town is illuminated by over half a million bright lights, and you can enjoy live ice carvings, a fireworks show, live entertainment, and more. It’s a festive event that keeps the holiday spirit alive well into the new year!
Love from Leavenworth
Love From Leavenworth keeps the town’s holiday lights aglow with a special Valentine’s twist. Throughout February, you can enjoy the festive lights along with unique Valentine’s features such as shopping promotions, special packages, giveaways, and an online Valentine Marketplace. While the event lasts all month, Leavenworth is particularly lovely on Valentine’s Day, transforming into a winter wonderland with a romantic flair.
Autumn Leaf
The Autumn Leaf Festival is scheduled for September 27-29, 2024. Since its beginning in 1964, this annual event has promoted tourism and community spirit in Leavenworth and the surrounding areas. The festival celebrates the vibrant fall foliage, allowing visitors and locals to appreciate a parade, live entertainment, food, and various festivities.
18. Soak in a Hot Spring
Scenic Hot Springs, a popular destination near Leavenworth, is perfect for relaxing in warm mineral waters. Since it’s on private property, you must make a reservation in advance and pack warm clothes for the 2-mile hike to get there. Once you arrive, you can enjoy soaking in the warm water while taking in the magical views of the surrounding trees and mountains.
19. Go Golfing
Golfing is a great option if you plan to visit Leavenworth during the warmer months. One of the best places to golf is the Leavenworth Golf Course, where you can play 9 or 18 holes featuring beautiful greens and terrific views of the mountains and the nearby river.
20. See Leavenworth Summer Theater
The Leavenworth Summer Theater is the perfect place to catch a show if you love the arts and music. During the 2024 summer season, they will perform “The Sound Of Music” and Disney’s “Beauty And The Beast.” Performances typically run from 8:00-10:00 or 10:30 PM at the Ski Hill Amphitheater. Watching these talented performers outdoors, surrounded by unbelievable views of trees and mountains, is a truly magical experience.
21. Check out the Music Scene
Leavenworth is famous for its live music, with many local musicians performing at various venues around town. One of the easiest ways to find live music is simply by listening. You’ll likely discover it just by following the sound.
If you are looking for specific venues where you can check calendar events ahead of time to purchase tickets and see who is performing, there are a few around town, too.
Icicle Creek Center for the Arts
The Icicle Creek Center for the Arts is an ideal spot for shows, concerts, and performances. Each month, they offer an array of events, giving visitors and locals the chance to enjoy a wide range of entertainment, from Hispanic music to swing dancing. There’s something for everyone to appreciate here.
Leavenworth Alphorns
Staying true to Leavenworth’s roots, architecture, and festivities, you’ll also find the Leavenworth Alphorns, a group of performers who showcase the alpine Alphorn, a very long horn. Check their website for performance schedules to catch a show like no other. If you plan your trip around one of Leavenworth’s top festivals, like the Autumn Leaf Festival or Oktoberfest, you’ll often see them perform during these celebrations!
22. Visit the Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery
Aside from the hobbies, sports, festivals, and other attractions already mentioned, another exciting activity in Leavenworth is visiting the Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery. Established in 1940, it was once the largest in the world.
Today, the hatchery raises 1.2 million Chinook salmon annually. In addition to raising salmon, it features a public boat launch, a fishing area, public trails, and more. It’s a fantastic destination for those interested in learning about fish and wanting to spend time around them.
23. Visit a Museum
If you enjoy learning about unique things, Leavenworth has a few notable museums worth checking out.
Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum
As its name suggests, the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum is dedicated to nutcrackers! Here, you can view over 9,000 nutcrackers from more than 50 countries. While the collection itself is impressive, the museum also offers valuable insights into nutcracker history, including a short film about the museum’s origins and the process of making German nutcrackers. It’s a really informative yet fun place to visit.
Greater Leavenworth Museum
The Greater Leavenworth Museum focuses on the history of Leavenworth, the upper Wenatchee Valley, and its early inhabitants. It’s a fabulous museum to visit for anyone interested in learning about the area’s past.
24. Visit the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm
The Leavenworth Reindeer Farm is a fantastic local attraction. Though it’s a small farm, it’s part of the Caribou Conservation Alliance and is dedicated to conserving and recovering caribou. While the chance to see, feed, and photograph the reindeer is a highlight, the farm also offers educational talks. It’s a fun and memorable experience, particularly during the Christmas season.
25. Go Shopping
Leavenworth is known for its local boutique shops with plenty of fun and funky options worth exploring.
Downtown Shops
Downtown Leavenworth is the prime shopping destination, thanks to its walkability and wide array of options. Front Street, in particular, is a great spot for shopping. Here, you’ll find unique stores like Krist Kringl (a Christmas store), the Leavenworth Shirt Company, and A Little Twisted (a children’s clothing store), among many others.
Leavenworth Farmers Market
No discussion of Leavenworth’s shopping scene would be complete without mentioning the Leavenworth Farmers Market. Held on Saturday and Wednesday mornings, though hours may vary by month, it’s a fantastic spot to support local vendors and connect with the community. For the most up-to-date hours, be sure to check their website.
More Recreation Areas Worth Exploring
While we’ve covered many of Leavenworth’s top attractions, hikes, and outdoor destinations, there are still plenty more worth discovering. Keep reading below as I highlight additional areas for enjoying the outdoors in and around Leavenworth.
Lake Wenatchee State Park
Lake Wenatchee State Park is a stunning destination offering a beach, swimming, and paddleboarding in the warmer months. In winter, it’s perfect for snowshoeing and sledding. This year-round park is an excellent spot for outdoor activities. It is located just 20 miles north of Leavenworth, making it a quick and convenient trip for those who prefer not to spend hours driving.
Alpine Lakes Wilderness
As its name suggests, the Alpine Lakes Wilderness is a vast area with many alpine lakes. Spanning about 394,000 acres in the Central Cascades Region, it’s perfect for hiking and soaking in the stunning, untouched scenery near Leavenworth.
Ohme Gardens County Park
Ohme Gardens County Park is located about 20 miles southeast of Leavenworth and is a wonderful spot for those who enjoy wandering through beautiful flowers, rocks, water features, and diverse flora. Besides being a serene place to appreciate natural beauty, the gardens also host various events such as yoga sessions, comedy shows, movies, and more. It’s a great place to visit if you’re in the area.
Wenatchee National Forest
The Wenatchee National Forest, located just outside Leavenworth, is an excellent destination for experiencing pristine natural beauty. Known for its numerous lakes, it’s ideal for fishing, camping, backpacking, hiking, and various other outdoor activities.
The Best Instagram Spot in Leavenworth
Two standout Instagram spots in town are the Icicle Ridge Trail Overlook and the Snow Lakes Trailhead. The Icicle Ridge Trail Overlook offers a stunning aerial view of the town and surrounding mountains. At the same time, the Snow Lakes Trailhead provides fantastic views of Sleeping Lady Mountain (also known as Edward Peak) and the Icicle River. Both locations are perfect for enjoying the outdoors, getting some exercise, and capturing beautiful, picturesque photos.
Underrated Spots in Leavenworth
Two lesser-known gems in Leavenworth, according to Tom, are the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum and the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm. Though they might seem touristy, they’re worth a visit. Both spots offer unique and enjoyable experiences that you won’t find just anywhere, making them notable highlights of the area.
Where to Stay in Leavenworth
Leavenworth offers a range of accommodation options, including a variety of VRBOs and hotels.
Leavenworth Vacation Rentals
For large groups, a VRBO rental is an excellent choice. Tom suggests staying within a mile of downtown to easily access dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Walking to these attractions instead of driving is a huge benefit, especially in such a charming town.
Hotels near Leavenworth, WA
With so many hotel options available, choosing the right one can be challenging. Below, I’ve highlighted my top three picks to suit various budget needs.
Budget Hotel Option
For a budget-friendly stay in Leavenworth, LOGE Leavenworth Downtown is an excellent choice. It’s conveniently located near Waterfront Park and close to various restaurants and breweries. With free Wi-Fi, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a fantastic place to stay.
Middle Budget Hotel Option
A great mid-range option is the Obertal Inn. This charming inn has a quaint, German-inspired vibe and adds special touches like seasonal flowers and decorations. It’s conveniently located downtown, making walking to top restaurants, shops, and attractions easy.
Splurge Hotel Option
The Bavarian Lodge is a top choice for a splurge-worthy stay in Leavenworth. Its charming Bavarian architecture and ambiance transport you straight to Germany. The rooms are beautiful and spacious, and the lodge is conveniently within walking distance of the Nutcracker Museum and Front Street Park.
Camping near Leavenworth
With stunning mountains and outdoor activities right outside Leavenworth, you can bet excellent camping options are nearby! One popular choice is the Leavenworth/Pine Village KOA Holiday, offering RV sites, lodging, and tent spaces just a mile from downtown.
Where to Eat in Leavenworth
From Bavarian fare to Mediterranean eateries, Leavenworth boasts a variety of excellent dining spots. Here are some of the top places to try while you’re in the area.
Breakfast and Coffee in Leavenworth
There’s nothing better than kicking off your day with a fantastic coffee and an exceptional breakfast. For the best spot, Tom suggests arriving within an hour or two of opening to ensure you get their sought-after specialty biscuits and biscuit sandwiches before they sell out.
Argonaut Espresso Bar
Tom highly recommends The Argonaut Espresso Bar for its amazing biscuits. This café excels in breakfast fare and coffee, making it a must-visit while in the area. Make sure to set your alarm to avoid missing out. If biscuits aren’t your thing, they also offer a tasty breakfast burrito and avocado toast!
Beer Gardens
Unsurprisingly, Leavenworth boasts several beer gardens, reflecting its strong alpine heritage and festive spirit. Below, I’ve highlighted the top spot to enjoy a bratwurst, along with a great selection of beer.
München Haus
München Haus is the go-to spot for amazing bratwurst and fantastic beer. With excellent outdoor seating and mouthwatering food, you’ll feel like you’re enjoying a brat in the heart of Germany.
German Food
Given the town’s beer gardens, it’s no surprise that Leavenworth also offers fantastic German food. You’re in luck if you’re craving classic dishes like bratwurst, pretzels, and schnitzel. Besides München Haus, another top spot for German-inspired cuisine is the Leavenworth Sausage Garten.
Ice Cream
If you’re in the mood for something sweet and craving delicious ice cream, Leavenworth has some fantastic options. Here’s my top pick for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Whistlepunk Ice Cream
Whistlepunk Ice Cream is a fantastic spot for ice cream. After a day of hiking, mountain biking, or rock climbing, there’s nothing like cooling down with a delicious treat. Known for its waffle cones and unique flavors, Whistlepunk is a must-visit for a tasty reward after your outdoor adventures.
Beer
With so many ties to Germany, you can bet the beer scene throughout Leavenworth is unmatched, and you’d be correct. For some tasty pints or steins, head to München Haus, Icicle Brewing Company, Leavenworth Sausage Garten, Blewett Brewing Company, or Bushel & Bee Taproom.
Wine
If beer isn’t your preference or you’re just looking for a change, there are also some fantastic wine options in the area. One of the best places to check out is Icicle Ridge Winery. They have three locations (Uptown, Downtown, and the Log Home Winery), making it easy to taste their delicious wines.
More Restaurants In Leavenworth, WA, Worth Checking Out
While I’ve covered some of the top spots for breakfast, German food, and more, there are a few other noteworthy places worth mentioning.
Icicle Brewing Company
Icicle Brewing Company is a fantastic place for a fun atmosphere, tasty drinks, and good food. Their patio is a highlight, and you definitely need to try their German Chocolate Cake Stout, which is exceptionally delicious. They also offer a variety of ciders if you’re in the mood for something different.
Sulla Vita
Sulla Vita is a must-visit for Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. They’re famous for their flank steak, Brussels sprouts, and stuffed mushrooms. The dishes are made for sharing and cooked in a wood-fired oven with locally sourced apple wood. Tom highly recommends this spot for its lively atmosphere and fantastic food.
Wok About Mongolian Grill
Another spot Tom recommends is Wok About Mongolian Grill. You fill a bowl with uncooked ingredients, and the staff stir-fry it on a wok right before you. It’s perfect for a hearty meal, and their upstairs bar offers a great view of the town and sunset in the evenings.
Tours with Tom
One of the best ways to explore a new town is by taking a guided tour with a local expert. Here are a few options to make your time in Leavenworth even more memorable.
Leavenworth, WA Travel Itinerary Map
Summary: Tips from a Local on Outdoorsy Things to Do in Leavenworth
Leavenworth is a Bavarian mountain town known for its unique architecture, charming shops, and excellent dining experiences. While the town truly shines during the holiday season with its festive lights and decor, it’s a fantastic destination year-round thanks to the friendly locals, local businesses, and a wide range of outdoor activities.
Whether you want to enjoy the winter wonderland during the holidays with activities like skiing, snowshoeing, or snowmobiling or prefer visiting during the warmer months to hike, mountain bike, and sip wine in the sun, Leavenworth is a hidden gem worth exploring.
With local tips and recommendations from people like Tom, your time in this town will be filled with adventure and unforgettable memories.
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