Leavenworth, WA is a charming destination known for its unique Bavarian-style architecture, vibrant festivals and breathtaking natural surroundings. The town is also home to Leavenworth Valley wine country, one of the most popular wine destinations in the Northwest.
About
The charming village of Leavenworth is located in central Washington’s picturesque Cascade Mountains. Despite being in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, Leavenworth transports visitors directly to the heart of Bavaria with its architecture, cuisine, festivals and culture.
Leavenworth is famous for its Bavarian village. Visitors to the town will immediately notice the timber-framed buildings adorned with flower boxes and the welcoming aroma of wheat and barley from the local brewery. When strolling the cobblestone streets, you might hear the faint music of a tuba and accordion, especially during annual Oktoberfest celebrations. Meat markets proudly display locally made bratwurst, and colorful alpine murals decorate almost every corner of the town.
In the wine tasting rooms, visitors can sample some of Leavenworth’s locally produced Rieslings, pinot noirs and gewürztraminers from the blossoming wineries in the Leavenworth Valley.
While Leavenworth delights visitors with its European charm, its true splendor comes from the natural surroundings of Washington’s Cascade Mountains. Adventurers can hike alpine trails, paddle the Wenatchee River or ski Stevens Pass.
Weather and Getting There
From Seattle, you can drive about 2.5 to 3 hours via US-2 E/Stevens Pass Hwy. This route leads you directly into Leavenworth and allows you to stop whenever you want. Make sure you’re prepared for winter driving if you come during the cold season!
Another easy way is to commute by taking a shuttle bus like Leavenworth Polar Express, which runs between Seattle and Leavenworth. You can also take the Amtrak Empire Builder Train for a more scenic journey. This takes over 4 hours and requires a transfer in Wenatchee.
If you don’t have time to plan your own itinerary, you can join a guided tour from Seattle for an easy, packaged experience. Various tour companies provide trips that include transport, meals and activities.
Dining
- Larch Restaurant – PNW fresh blended with Italian
- Munchen Haus – Sausages served outdoors
- Andreas Keller – Traditional German favorites with a side of accordion music.
Festivals & Events
This charming town hosts a number of popular festivals throughout the year. Venues have live music, exciting foods and arts & crafts displays. The Washington State Autumn Leaf Festival is the oldest festival in Washington with a Grand Parade and Alpenfolks. Experience the gorgeously dense and colorful forests surrounding Leavenworth.
Christkindlmarkt, the annual Bavarian Festhalle Holiday Market begins in late November with family friendly holiday entertainment. It marks the beginning of the Village of Lights Festival when Leavenworth is illuminated by half a million Christmas lights (that stay on continually through February). Special activities happen daily, not just weekends, from carolers, Alpenhorn buglers to local artisans, Santa and crafts. The gazebo located in the center of town serves as the main stage for entertainment all day. Karneval or “Fasching” happens for three weekends in January with ice sculpture contests, a weekend fireworks show and carnival activities.
Maifest kicks off the bountiful Spring season with the opening of farmers markets. There’s Maipole dancing, Bavarian music, a Grand March and Alphorn Celebration with Chainsaw carving and a Ciderfest.
Outdoors
Take the family skiing, sledding and tubing at Ski Hill operated by the Leavenworth Ski Club. Head to Stevens Pass only 30 miles away for more serious skiing and snowboarding. Visit the Reindeer Farm, go on a sleigh ride, or snowshoe around the Leavenworth Golf Course trails.
The town is surrounded by over 700 miles of forest service trails, perfect for hiking. If you are into climbing, there are over 50 crags within 10 miles offering spectacular views of the Cascades and the valley. It’s the kick-off for hiking the 23-mile Enchantment Loop including many alpine lakes. There are also several golf courses for every playing level including one in town with real goats.
In summer try kayaking, tubing, paddleboarding or rafting on the Wenatchee River as you can bring your own or rent equipment at several places. Head to Lake Wenatchee, Fish Lake or the Wenatchee River for seasonal recreational fishing. Visit Plain, WA and its adorable hardware store or make a reservation to ZipLine through the forest.
Mountain and road bikers will find miles of scenic byways in the area. Head out along the Chumstick Highway loop, into Cashmere’s Dry Gulch trail to Mission Ridge; past Pinnacles rock-climbing park. Or head to the Apple Capital Loop Trail in Wenatchee which is 10+ miles of scenic, groomed paths along the Columbia River where you can picnic, swim and complete a full circle from Pybus Market to Lincoln Rock State Park.
