Summary of Things to Do in Leavenworth, Washington
Leavenworth, Washington offers fun all year round. You can spend an afternoon wandering the shops and attractions in and around the central part of town. The surrounding mountains and rivers provide an opportunity for recreation in summer and winter. With great food and fantastic festivals, it creates the perfect setting for a refreshing getaway in the Northwest.
Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum and Other Fun Things
This fascinating, family-friendly museum features nutcrackers from around the world and throughout history. They have hundreds of colorful wooden-character nutcrackers, alongside a wide array of devices used to crack nuts. The Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum operates a few hours each afternoon during the warmer months, and on weekends in the colder season. The entrance is located next door to the Nussknacker Haus on Front Street.
Enzian Falls Championship Putting Course
This 18-hole putting course is set in a lovely green landscape, complete with water features and mountain views. Kids of all ages will enjoy the family of goats that reside on the hillside adjacent to the course. Enzian Falls Championship Putting Course is accessible across Highway 2 from the Enzian Inn and is open during the warmer months.
Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery
Located just a short drive from town, the Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery is worth a visit for various reasons. You can check out the fishery exhibits in the main building and embark on a walking tour of the hatchery facilities. The hatchery’s flat-and-easy nature trail runs along Icicle Creek, allowing you to observe diverse flora and fauna, while the landscaped grounds are perfect for a picnic or playtime with kids.
Events and Festivals
Leavenworth is indeed a festival town. Almost everything here is a reason to celebrate, from ice to beer to autumn leaves. Here are some popular annual events and festivals:
- Bavarian Ice Fest (January)
- Ale Fest (April)
- Maifest (May)
- Icicle Creek Chamber Music Festival (July)
- Washington State Autumn Leaf Festival (September)
- Oktoberfest (October)
- Christmas Lighting Fest (December)
Summer Recreation
Leavenworth summers are stunning, offering numerous opportunities for hiking and mountain biking in the surrounding forests and mountains. The Wenatchee River invites fun floats on sunny days. Close to the shops and restaurants of downtown, Riverfront Park provides scenic strolls along the river and through wooded parkland. Some outdoor recreation options during summer include:
Hiking
Leavenworth serves as an ideal base for various day hikes. Here are some recommended trails:
- Chiwaukum Creek
- Ski Hill Loop
- Icicle Ridge
Rafting and Tubing
The Wenatchee River offers a perfect spot for a relaxing float or thrilling whitewater action. Numerous river guides and outfitters operate in the area, such as:
- Osprey Rafting Co.
- River Riders
- Enchanted Water Tours
Birding and More
Leavenworth is a prime location on the Great Washington State Birding Trail. Beyond that, fishing, camping, mountain biking, golfing, and climbing are also popular summer activities. Be sure to check with the NFS ranger station in Leavenworth for updated conditions and recommendations.
Winter Recreation
During winter, Leavenworth offers the complete spectrum of snow sports.
Skiing and Snowboarding
With abundant snow and sunshine, the Leavenworth area is fantastic for both downhill and cross-country skiing. In addition to the local ski hill, two major ski resorts are within easy driving distance of Leavenworth, making it an excellent base for a winter vacation.
- Leavenworth Ski Hill – Operated by the Leavenworth Winter Sports Club, this facility has two groomed ski hills serviced by rope tows. Snow tubing sessions are available at LT Michael Adams Tubing Park.
- Mission Ridge Ski & Board Resort – Mission Ridge offers challenging skiing and resort amenities.
- Stevens Pass – Offers diverse skiing and snowboarding terrain for all skill levels, along with lessons and gear rentals.
- Leavenworth Nordic Trail System – Maintained by the Leavenworth Winter Sports Club, trails for cross-country skiing are available across four locations around town.
- Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest – The nearby national forest provides access to various winter recreation activities, including snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and Nordic skiing.
Shopping
Leavenworth features a variety of shops catering to its visitors. While many target tourists, there are shops offering quality art, home furnishings, and clothing. Here are some notable Leavenworth shops:
The Nussknacker Haus
735 Front Street
This nutcracker and collectible store offers an array of nutcrackers of all kinds, qualities, and sizes. If you’re in search of a unique gift, this clever shop might have just the item. Additionally, Leavenworth’s Nutcracker Museum is located above the shop.
The Cheesemonger’s Shop
819 Front Street
This basement shop specializes in cheeses from around the globe, complemented by gourmet foods, wine, and beer.
Kris Kringl
907 Front Street
Making Christmas a year-round event, this jolly shop features a full range of festive decorations and collectibles.
The Hat Shop
721 Front Street
From silly hats for fun weekends to fashionable and practical options, this Leavenworth favorite has it all.
A Paw Above
900 Front Street, Suite M
This pet boutique carries everything you need to care for and pamper your furry companions.
Restaurants
For those who enjoy German cuisine, Leavenworth is a destination rich in flavors. You’ll also find restaurants offering Southwest, Thai, Chinese, and Italian options.
Cafe Mozart
829 Front Street
Offering fine Bavarian dining, Cafe Mozart is known for its delicious schnitzels and an award-winning selection of wines.
Andreas Keller
829 Front Street
Welcoming guests with a festive atmosphere, this basement restaurant features live German music and the enticing smell of fresh sauerkraut wafting from the kitchen.
Gustav’s Restaurant
617 Highway 2
Gustav’s serves a casual, pub-style menu, with highly recommended bratwurst.
South
913 Front Street
Offering fresh, tasty dishes influenced by Latin and Caribbean cuisines.
The Gingerbread Factory
828 Commercial Street
For a delightful break from shopping, The Gingerbread Factory is a charming spot to enjoy an espresso and freshly baked gingerbread cookie.
Wine Tasting
While beer may be the primary beverage associated with a Bavarian-themed town, Leavenworth is also a hotspot for wine enthusiasts. There are several wine tasting rooms in town, and nearby wineries are easily accessible.
Wine Tasting Rooms
- Bavarian Cellars (208 9th St)
- Ryan Patrick Vineyards (636 Front St)
- Kestral Vineyards and Windfall Cellars (843 Front St)
- Icicle Ridge Winery Tasting Room (821 Front St, Suite B)
Nearby Wineries
- Berghof Keller Winery (11695 Duncan Road)
- Wedge Mountain Winery (534 Saunders Road, Peshastin)
- Cascadia Winery (10090 Main St, Suite F, Peshastin)
- Icicle Ridge Winery (8977 North Road, Peshastin)
Hotels and Lodging
Leavenworth offers an array of lodging choices for visitors. Most hotels reflect the Bavarian theme of the town.
Run of the River Inn
This bed and breakfast is perfect for a romantic getaway, with luxuriously appointed rooms featuring jetted tubs, gas fireplaces, and forest-view decks. Thoughtful touches such as birding books, binoculars, bath salts, and cozy throw blankets enhance your stay.
Sleeping Lady Resort
Located near the Fish Hatchery along Icicle Creek, this upscale accommodation boasts gourmet food, beautiful art, and an organic garden within a serene forest setting.
Icicle Village Resort
Your family will enjoy exciting features, including a miniature golf course and enclosed pool, alongside modern amenities expected in a Best Western.
Enzian Inn
Conveniently situated near the shopping district, this inn offers unique amenities. Guests can enjoy a free round of golf at the Enzian Falls Championship Putting Course across the highway and a hearty breakfast buffet served in a spacious dining area.
The Black Bird Lodge
Featuring impressive mountain views and a special European breakfast.
Alpen Rose Inn
This inn features an antique-filled guest salon and serves a delightful full European breakfast.
Things to Do Outside Leavenworth
There are several attractions just a short drive from Leavenworth.
Smallwood’s Harvest in Peshastin
This delightful farmstand, located on Highway 2 east of Leavenworth, offers petting farms, cow trains, and hay rides. The country store has a vast selection of jams, sauces, syrups, and produce.
Aplets & Cotlets Factory Tour in Cashmere
Discover tasty treats made at Liberty Orchards factory in Cashmere, Washington. The free factory tour demonstrates the process of cooking, coating, cutting, and packaging fruit candies, with complimentary samples available afterward.
Museum & Pioneer Village in Cashmere
Cashmere’s history museum houses a remarkable collection of stone tools from Native cultures in the Northwest and Meso-America, alongside local history exhibits. The Pioneer Village features 20 different historic buildings, including a train station and general store.
How to Get There
- By car: Leavenworth is accessible from the west via Highway 2 over Stevens Pass, from the south via Highway 97, or from the east through Wenatchee.
- By bus: Limited Greyhound service operates to Leavenworth.
- By train: Leavenworth is now a stop on Amtrak’s Empire Builder route.
Caution: Ensure to pack chains and check road conditions and pass reports prior to traveling in winter.
Distance From Major Northwest Cities
- Seattle: 153 miles
- Portland: 311 miles
- Spokane: 192 miles
- Vancouver, BC: 276 miles
