The hills are alive with the sound of yodeling and clinking steins. We’re going on a road trip to the Bavarian-themed town of Leavenworth.
Though known mostly for its Oktoberfest and Christmas-time festivities, the quaint hamlet tucked into the Cascades has plenty going on all year long. Whether you want to go paddleboarding on Icicle Creek, ride a roller coaster, or grab a beer-soaked brat, here are all the details on how to have an unforgettable time in this Chelan County paradise.
📍 Essential info
Drive time: ~2 hours
Year city was established: 1885
Est. population: 2,383
🎟️ Experience
Outdoorsy activities
There are several easy day hikes and biking trails within 20 miles that offer eye-popping views of the Enchantments and other natural wonders. You can also rent paddleboards, rafts, and tubes to float on one of the nearby rivers or lakes.
Village Art in the Park
On weekends from May to October, you can peruse paintings and photographs from local creatives by strolling through Leavenworth’s picturesque downtown. The outdoor tent setup is the state’s longest-running open air art installment.
Leavenworth Adventure Park
One of the town’s newest features is a family-friendly amusement park that features the state’s first alpine roller coaster, which has a self-braking system so you can go at your own pace. The kids should also get a kick out of the bungee trampoline and mining sluice.
Alphorn Serenade
Rock that lederhosen and enjoy these big horn-tooting Saturday performances through September. Each mini concert comes with a history lesson about the unusual instrument.
Nutcracker Museum
If you roll through Leavenworth during its super popular holiday festivities, this attraction featuring 9,000+ nutcrackers is a must-visit. There’s even a scavenger hunt in case you want to spice things up.
🌭 Eat
München Haus
Here’s where you’ll get the full-fledged Leavenworth beer garden experience at its best and wurst. You got it — that plump sausage made with Icicle Brewing amber lager is killer.
Watershed Cafe
PNW comfort food abounds at this cozy spot — but the real star of the show is the famed “million dollar” meatloaf drenched in a cabernet green peppercorn gravy. It’s so money.
Yodelin Broth
Those who want a break from the brats can head here and find soupy seafood dishes with Asian flavors. There are a couple of hearty vegan options, too.
Sulla Vita
Go from Germany to Italy in just a block at this Mediterranean restaurant specializing in pizza and pasta. Don’t forget about the wine list that blends stellar European bottles with local ones.
Whistlepunk Ice Cream Company
No matter what time of year, Whistlepunk hits a sweet spot. Flavors like Backyard Blueberry, Chai, and Lookout Coffee are concocted with local ingredients.
🏨 Stay
Mountain view cottage | $262 per night
Ah, our stress is already melting away looking at that private hot tub. The Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest is a minute away.
Obertal Inn | $129+ per night
Located conveniently downtown and near Waterfront Park, this quaint spot also bakes fresh strudel for guests and allows dogs.
Icicle Village Resort | $175+ per night
Enjoy views of the Cascades at this sprawling, family-friendly property. Amenities include on-site wine tastings, a spa, and mini golf.
Hotel Leavenworth | $184+ per night
Recent renovations have spruced up this boutique hotel located in the heart of town. Chill out on the sun deck with scenic views of the Wenatchee River or hop into a jacuzzi.
Haus Hanika | $279+ per night
The rustic B&B has gorgeous views from the grounds and offers a Bavarian breakfast. There are no kids or pets allowed, though.
Posthotel | $625+ per night
If you’re going for a luxury experience, this is the place. The health + wellness spa has every treatment you can imagine, from herbal compresses to LED light therapy.
Wait a minute, Seattleites. Before you head out the door, find the cheapest places to fill up your gas tank and stock up on snacks from local businesses. You can also get other road trip ideas in our ongoing series, whether heading out to the Olympic Peninsula, visiting Portland, or vacationing in wine country.
