Skip to Content

25 Best Things to Do in Leavenworth, Washington

25 Best Things to Do in Leavenworth, Washington

Leavenworth, Washington, is a lovely Bavarian-themed town full of beauty and adventure.  It is located in the heart of the Cascade Mountains and includes must-try restaurants, must-see attractions, and must-hike trails.

Despite its early prosperity due to the logging business, the region suffered greatly when the railroad changed its course and left in the middle of the twentieth century, almost reducing the entire area to a ghost town. But with creative planning and support from the entire community, Leavenworth was transformed into a popular tourist destination in the 1960s, when all of the town’s signs and facades were redesigned in a Bavarian motif, and popular events like Oktoberfest and Christmas markets were established.

If you want to visit Leavenworth, we’ve compiled a list of some of the top things to do in Leavenworth, WA to help you make the most of your time off.

Page Contents,:

Our Top Favorite Things to Do in Leavenworth

  • Best Park – Front Street Park, Leavenworth
  • Best Museum – Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum
  • Best for Kids Feeding Reindeers at Reindeer Farm
  • Best for Adults – Golfing at Leavenworth Golf
  • Best Winter Activities – Leavenworth Ski Hill
  • Best Hiking Trail Penstock Trail
  • Best for Couples Wine Tasting at Tasting Rooms
  • Best for Families Enchantment Park, Leavenworth, Washington
  • Best for Nature Lovers – Waterfront Park, Leavenworth

1. Best Park – Front Street Park, Leavenworth

Front Street Park, LeavenworthSource / License: TripAdvisor
Front Street Park, Leavenworth

Address: 820 Front St, Leavenworth, WA 98826, United States

Wondering what to do in Leavenworth? You’ll discover the genuine heart of Leavenworth at Front Street Park, which is just a few short feet away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Leavenworth’s shops, galleries, and restaurants.

The park’s centerpiece is a charming old-fashioned gazebo that also features a traditional Maibaum or a maypole.

“Art in the Park” is an annual art event in Front Street Park. The festival comprises tents set up by local artists where they display their work. The gazebo is frequently used as a platform for various performances, including those involving the performing arts or concerts, and also provides a gorgeous backdrop for photographs taken by tourists. There is also a self-guided audio tour that you can avail of called Beaches, Bites, and Bavaria in Leavenworth, which starts at the park. 

Alpen Dorf Pension is a nice accommodation just 50 meters from the park. Complimentary Wi-Fi and private parking are provided. Each accommodation has a flat-screen cable television, a fully equipped kitchen, a sitting area with a sofa bed, and a private bathroom.

2. Best Museum – Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum

Signage Outside the Leavenworth Nutcracker MuseumSource / License: Miscellaneous contributor / CC0 1.0
Signage Outside the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum

Address: 735 Front St, Leavenworth, Washington 98826

The enthralling Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum is home to more than 6,000 nutcrackers and other nut-cracking tools, some of which date back to Roman times and others still in use today.

Some examples include the miniature wooden toy soldier from the well-known ballet; Asian betel cutters; European carved wooden figures; treasured ivory, ebony, and porcelain figures; sophisticated Victorian silver nutcrackers; and a great number of other examples. Although some are extremely elaborate and others are quite primitive, they all demonstrate the development of human intellect, artistry, and love for nuts. 

George and Arlene Wagner established the museum in 1995 and dedicated the whole collection and the building to the city. The collection is perhaps the largest in the world.

You can visit the museum conveniently at Wolfgang Downtown Suites #34.  In addition to offering guests a play area, especially for the kids, this location affords views of the surrounding mountain. The hotel also allows pets and has free Wi-Fi.

3. Best for Kids – Feeding Reindeers at Reindeer Farm

Tourists Feeding the Reindeer at Leavenworth Reindeer FarmSource / License: Seattle Parks and Recreation / CC BY 2.0
Tourists Feeding the Reindeer at Leavenworth Reindeer Farm

Address: 10395 Chumstick Highway, Leavenworth, Washington 98826

Do you want to know what to do in Leavenworth today? You can visit the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm any time of year to watch Santa and his elves in action. Since 2016, this wonderful business has been maintained by a caring family, taking in a herd of endangered Woodland Caribou.

This is one of the top things to do in Leavenworth with kids. Visitors hear fun facts about reindeer before entering the pen to pet, feed and take pictures with the adorable animals which is so much fun.

The farm is open all year and provides tours and educational opportunities to visitors. Everyone is welcome to take an hourlong tour of the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm. However, remember that tours to the farm must be scheduled in advance.

Fox Den Bed & Breakfast is a nearby accommodation worth checking out. This is located 2.4 km from Downtown Leavenworth and features a sun patio and garden views. Both public and private parking are free of charge throughout your stay.

4. Best for Adults – Golfing at Leavenworth Golf

Signage Outside the Leavenworth Golf ClubSource / License: Tripadvisor
Signage Outside the Leavenworth Golf Club

Address: 9101 Icicle Rd, Leavenworth, Washington 98826

The Leavenworth Golf Club provides its visitors with much more than just the opportunity to play a game of golf, even though it is home to one of the oldest and most prestigious golf courses in the region. The golf club was founded in 1927, and over the years, it has expanded to the point that it currently features a large 18-hole all-grass course making it one of the best activities in Leavenworth.

The clubhouse features a spa and fitness facility, making it an ideal location for guests to unwind and relax after a long day of golf or shopping for mementos and golf-related goods at the club shop. Throughout the year, the ambiance of the Leavenworth Golf Club is ideal for hosting events such as cocktail hours, dinners, and other gatherings.

White Water Lodge is an excellent accommodation located near the area. It provides air-conditioned and Wi-Fi-equipped rooms at no extra cost. In addition to a balcony overlooking the mountains and a river, this spacious home features six bedrooms, six bathrooms, and a fully equipped kitchen. It is also close to a ski resort for guests to enjoy.

5. Best Winter Activities – Leavenworth Ski Hill

Skiing in Leavenworth Ski HillSource / License: Tripadvisor
Skiing in Leavenworth Ski Hill

Address: 0701 Ski Hill Drive, Leavenworth, Washington 98826

When it opened in 1982, Leavenworth Ski Hill was a hub for various wintertime activities in the surrounding area. Families come here in droves because the events and activities are inexpensive and often free. Local students get a head start on their skiing education while guests from around the world come to the historic Ski Hill Lodge to make new memories.

In addition to skiing and snowboarding, tourists can enjoy snowshoeing with the Leavenworth Winter Sports Club, the only ski jump on the west coast, and the Lt Michael Adams Tubing Park, where they can experience some fun in the snow on tubes.

If you want to make the best of your experience in the Leavenworth Ski Hill, there is a Mountain Views Guided E-bike Tour which allows you to see some of the most breathtaking sights in the Cascade Range on a guided e-bike tour through Leavenworth. Highlights of the tour include the Leavenworth Ski Hill and the Icicle Creek Canyon. The tour concludes with a ride through the heart of Downtown Leavenworth.

Peaceful Hillside Leavenworth Cabin is a highly rated, exceptional accommodation close to the area with self-contained lodgings, a balcony, and complimentary Wi-Fi. This vacation rental has two bedrooms, a living area, a kitchen with a fridge and an oven, two bathrooms, and a patio.

6. Best Hiking Trail – Penstock Trail

Trestle Bridge Looming along Penstock TrailSource / License: Adam Lusch / CC BY-SA 2.0
Trestle Bridge Looming along Penstock Trail

Address: Freund Canyon Rd, Leavenworth, WA 98826, United States

This massive water pipe, the Penstock Trail, is now included on the National Historical Register, carrying water from the raging Wenatchee River to a powerhouse where it was converted into electricity. This is used to run engines that pulled trains and had previously been powered by coal-fired engines.

Visitors can now trek up the trail to enjoy one of the most breathtaking sceneries the state of Washington offers, with views of both the Wenatchee River and Tumwater Canyon. The track is not too difficult, even for novice hikers, and it shouldn’t take more than an hour to traverse the total distance of two miles round way.

Suite Serenity condo is a nearby self-catering accommodation with a balcony and free Wi-Fi. The apartment’s convenient location near opportunities for skiing and cycling makes it a desirable stay. This apartment also has air conditioning, a television, a refrigerator, and a stove/oven.

7. Best for Couples – Wine Tasting at Tasting Rooms

Wine at Silvara CellarsSource / License: Tripadvisor
Wine at Silvara Cellars

Address: 77 Stage Road, Leavenworth, Washington 98826

Have you heard that Washington State produces some excellent wines? Downtown hosts a small selection of wine-tasting establishments, so take a few hours to sample the wine selection. If you are traveling with your partner; this can be a romantic getaway for both of you. 

Silvara Cellars makes superb handcrafted wines that magnificently represent the best that Washington State’s vineyards offer, encapsulating the unrivaled grandeur and majesty of the Pacific Northwest in every bottle.

It has a hilltop tasting area where guests can try all the winery’s creations, but its specialty is Bordeaux-style wines. You can relax with a glass of wine while gazing at the Cascade foothills. We have merlot, malbec, cabernet sauvignon, and chardonnay. A sommelier on staff is usually happy to talk wine with interested guests. 

After tasting the best wines in the area, you can find refuge at the River’s Edge Lodge, with direct beach access and free parking. There’s a garden and free Wi-Fi, and a comfortable room. Visitors can relax with a drink from the snack bar and soak up the rays on the outside patio. This is a great place to stay if you’re in the region for hiking or skiing, and the motel even rents out ski gear so you can hit the trails.

8. Best for Families – Enchantment Park, Leavenworth, Washington

Mountain View from the Enchantment ParkSource / License: TripAdvisor
Mountain View from the Enchantment Park

Address: Leavenworth, WA 98826, United States

Enchantment Lake is a genuinely captivating site since it features crystal blue lakes and flowing rivers on top of a naturally constructed alpine landscape that glaciers, the wind, and the waters have shaped. Those who are interested in seeing natural beauty will have to climb for at least seven miles at an elevation of 4,400 feet to arrive at the very first lake in the Upper Enchantments.

There are several paths that visitors can choose to follow based on whether they wish to go on a day trek or an overnight hike. Those who wish to go on an overnight hike must obtain overnight permits. Snow Lakes and Stuart Lake trailheads are examples of common hiking routes; for those who would rather have a guide, there are options available.

And if you need a place to stay near Downtown Leavenworth, Enchantment Lodges is a top pick for you. The downtown area is only a five-minute walk away, and you can enjoy the free WiFi and views of the surrounding mountains. Private parking is free, and guests can enjoy a variety of outdoor pursuits, including skiing and hiking, during their stay.

9. Best for Nature Lovers – Waterfront Park, Leavenworth

Waterfront Park on the FallSource / License: Angelina Suzuki / CC-BY-SA-4.0
Waterfront Park on the Fall

Address: Leavenworth, WA 98826, United States

You won’t have to travel very far from the center of Leavenworth to find a tranquil haven surrounded by lush greenery. One of the best-kept secrets in Leavenworth is Waterfront Park, which can be found immediately on the downhill side of Commercial Street. Take the path along the Wenatchee River, which is cooled by the lush forest surrounding it and is calm. You can simply relax on one of the many benches, take in the serene scenery, and feel the tension leave your body as you do so.

The fall is the time of year when salmon make the perilous voyage upstream, and the spring is the best time of year to go birdwatching. There are several little beaches dotted all along the river that is ideal for a refreshing summertime dip. If you want to learn more about this beautiful park, numerous informational signs have been erected along the walk. The entire trail is approximately three miles long and easy to hike.

After enjoying your day tour to the park, Apres Ski Chalet is a good palace to stay for the night. The air-conditioned rooms provide complimentary WiFi. It also features a balcony with sea views, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a fully furnished kitchen, and mountain views. Skiing is close for exploring.

10. Best for Water Activities – White Water Rafting at Wenatchee River

White Water Rafting at Wenatchee RiverSource / License: Joe Mabel / CC-BY-SA-3.0
White Water Rafting at Wenatchee River

Address: Leavenworth, WA, U.S.A

For white water rafting, Leavenworth is the place to be. The Wenatchee River, which runs through the heart of town, is the site of many exciting excursions from reputable local outfitters. It offers both thrilling rapids during the high-water season (May and June) and gentler waves during the middle of summer.

Full-day excursions are available, and most of these tours begin close to Leavenworth, and for those who are pressed for time, many providers offer express options. Expect 10 miles of river rafting with regular Class III rapids throughout the high-water season.

Trips down the Wenatchee River with a more laid-back vibe are also common. The area nearest the city center is tranquil and makes for a great day trip. There is also a Scenic Self-Driven Audio Tour available. This gives you an insider’s tour of Icicle Valley’s wild and magnificent sites in Leavenworth. The audio tour takes you to Wenatchee River, Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery, and Leavenworth Ski Hill at your own pace.

The best part is a Log Cabin with Private Hot Tub near the area. It provides river views from a balcony, and free Wi-fi is accessible in all resort areas. The vacation rental has 3 bedrooms, a fully furnished kitchen with a fridge and an oven, and 3 bathrooms, one of which has a hot tub and provides complimentary toiletries.

11. Best for Angler Enthusiasts – Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery

Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery FacilitySource / License: Jon Roanhaus / CC BY-SA 3.0
Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery Facility

Address: 12790 Fish Hatchery Rd, Leavenworth, WA 98826, United States

The construction of the Grand Coulee Dam in the 1930s resulted in the establishment of the Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery, one of three hatcheries in the surrounding area. Even though the dam was essential, it had an adverse effect on the countless fish that traveled down the Columbia River since it blocked off hundreds of miles of river.

The three fish hatcheries were built as damage control for the dam’s effects. The goal was to make up for the habitat that was destroyed by the dam while also catering to commercial and recreational fishing industries by maintaining healthy fish populations.

Visitors are now able to tour the hatcheries and gain an understanding of their operations as well as their history. Each hatchery has been operational for the past 75 years, raising spring and summer Chinook salmon, coho, and steelheads.

The Cascade Chalet – Leavenworth is a nearby accommodation with a garden, terrace, and free Wi-Fi. The chalet offers free private parking and hiking, skiing, and cycling. The air-conditioned cabin has 3 bedrooms, a living area, and a fully equipped kitchen with a fridge and coffee maker. They also offer free car rentals. There is also a Leavenworth Scenic Drive: A Self-Guided Audio Tour that crosses through the hatchery.

12. Best for Camping – Lake Wenatchee State Park

Panoramic View of the Lake Wenatchee State ParkSource / License: Steve Andersen / CC-BY-SA-2.0
Panoramic View of the Lake Wenatchee State Park

Address: Leavenworth, WA 98826, United States

Lake Wenatchee State Park is one of Washington’s finest state parks, only 20 miles from Leavenworth. There is a 489-acre campground on either side of the Wenatchee River, not far from the lake’s eastern coast. The shimmering water set against the rugged mountains is the park’s most recognizable and constant sight. This makes it one of the best things to do near Leavenworth WA.

It doesn’t matter what time of year it is. Lake Wenatchee is always bustling with activity. The boat launch near the park and the pleasant summertime weather provide pleasant afternoons of fishing on the water. Guided horseback rides take visitors through the park’s beautiful scenery, and the park’s network of hiking paths totals seven kilometers. But picnicking and taking in the expansive shoreline are what really draw people here.

During the colder months, Lake Wenatchee provides a welcome respite for tourists. While the park’s 150 regular campsites are closed for the winter, a dedicated snow camping area is open. When you go camping in the winter, you can use warm showers and flush toilets. You can only access the park’s 40 kilometers of maintained cross-country ski trails if you stay the night.

You can also opt to stay at the Cascades Wildflower Villa. This accommodation features a private pool, complimentary Wi-Fi, and free parking located on the premises.

13. Best Mountain Resort – The Organic Garden at Sleeping Lady

Room Inside the Organic Garden ResortSource / License: Tripadvisor
Room Inside the Organic Garden Resort

Address: 7375 Icicle Rd, Leavenworth, WA 98826, United States

The Organic Garden is a tranquil place that is a part of Sleeping Lady, a beautiful luxury mountain resort located approximately 3.4 miles from Leavenworth in the Wenatchee Valley. Here, guests of the resort can take a leisurely stroll, relax on a bench to enjoy watching birds and wildlife or have a cup of tea in the lovely pavilion. The Organic Garden is a fruit, flower, and herb garden that is fully certified and situated on 2 acres of lush land surrounded by a breathtaking mountain backdrop.

Everything that comes out of the garden at the Sleeping Lady is used in the hotel and its various restaurants. The organic status of this garden was awarded by the Department of Agriculture in the state of Washington. To maintain this status, the garden adheres to stringent organic gardening practices, such as the use of natural fertilizers, crop rotation on a regular basis to improve the soil, and the introduction of beneficial insects like bees and ladybugs for seed production and natural pest control.

The Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort,  offers a bar, garden, and free private parking. The snack bar serves drinks. Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort accommodations offer desks and AC. The hotel has a pool and ping-pong and is near skiing and cycling.

14. Best Theater Play – Leavenworth Summer Theater, Leavenworth, Washington

Leavenworth Summer TheatreSource / License: TripAdvisor
Leavenworth Summer Theatre

Address: 565 US-2, Leavenworth, Washington 98826

Those anticipating this theatrical treat for an entire year can rejoin in the hills surrounding Leavenworth during the summer months every year. Bill Weis, Susan, and John Wagner had a vision for the Leavenworth Summer Theater back in 1994 when it first got off the ground.

As a result of their plan to bring together world-class performers with a world-class facility, the resulting summer theater is the largest something between Spokane and Seattle This is one of the must-see in Leavenworth WA. The Ski Hill Amphitheater and the Hatchery Park Stage are examples of available open-air venues.

The first is in the comfortable and air-conditioned Festhalle Theater in the city’s heart. Some of the productions, such as The Sound of Music, are so much liked and attended by people that they have become an annual tradition for families to travel to Leavenworth in order to see them. It should not come as a surprise that the festival attracts more than 20,000 people throughout the course of the two summer months.

Don’t worry about where to stay the night,  Cairn Cottage. It’s a vacation home with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, linens, towels, a TV with satellite channels, a fully equipped kitchen, and a balcony overlooking the mountains. You can also go skiing in the area.

15. Best Trailhead – Icicle Gorge, Leavenworth, Washington

Icicle Gorge LeavenworthSource / License: TripAdvisor
Icicle Gorge Leavenworth

Address: Leavenworth, WA 98826, United States

The trailhead for the Icicle Gorge Trail is located approximately 16 miles away from the center of Leavenworth. The Icicle Gorge Trail is a well-known and popular path that is located in the beautiful Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. 

A day spent taking in the beautiful splendor of the Icicle Creek Valley on this straightforward trek is an excellent way to spend a day outdoors. The walk offers great views of Icicle Gorge, the tumultuous and swift Icicle Creek, and the surrounding mature forest abounding with birds and fauna.

The trail travels along both sides of the creek, with one side being somewhat barren and the other side being heavily wooded. There is a short bridge located somewhere about the halfway point, and it is an excellent location from which to take pictures and take in the scenery.

The entire circuit takes around three hours to complete, and even younger riders will enjoy the experience. Icicles are not very common in this area. Therefore, the creek’s original native name, Nasikelt, was mispronounced, where the term “Icicle Creek” originated.

There is an Icicle village resort called Juniper Studio which features a garden, non-smoking rooms, and free Wi-Fi. Every air-conditioned room has a fridge, microwave, coffee maker, bath or shower, and cable TV. Some accommodations include patios and mountain views.

16. Best for Horseback Riding – Eagle Creek Ranch, Leavenworth, Washington

Eagle Creek RanchSource / License: TripAdvisor
Eagle Creek Ranch

Address: 7951 Eagle Creek Rd, Leavenworth, WA 98826, United States

The Eagle Creek Ranch is a family-owned and -operated horse ranch that is located in the heart of the Cascade Mountains. The ranch is open all year round. The Wenatchee National Forest is one of the most significant outdoor natural preserves in the state of Washington, and it completely encircles the historic ranch.

During the spring and fall seasons, guests can take a horseback ride through the forested hillsides to explore the ranch and the national forest surrounding it. During winter, the ranch is transformed into a beautiful valley that may be viewed from the comfort of a sleigh pulled by horses.

The activity is enjoyable for the whole family, and those new to it will receive an introduction class before starting. Children will be able to ride horses that are led by ropes. This is one reason that you should visit Leavenworth.

There is also an  Eagle Creek Home and Carriage House that features self-catering lodgings with free WiFi, a seating space, and a TV located within 43.5 km of Wenatchee Convention Center. Skiing and cycling are available in the area, and guests of the vacation house are encouraged to use them or take advantage of the garden.

17. Best Pub – Icicle Brewing Co, Leavenworth, Washington

Signage Outside the Icicle Brewing Co.Source / License: Tripadvisor
Signage Outside the Icicle Brewing Co.

Address: 935 Front St, Leavenworth, WA 98826, United States

Icicle Brewing Co. is located in the heart of downtown Leavenworth, and it is a great place to visit for beer enthusiasts who are curious about the brewing process. Not only can you sample some excellent local beers there, but you can also watch the brewers at work.

The head brewer, Dean Priebe, is the magician behind the brewery. He is the one who came up with the idea of combining the clear, pure waters of the Icicle River with fresh, carefully selected ingredients, which resulted in the creation of lagers and ales that were both delicious and unique.

You can also relax in their bright and lovely outside patio or in the rustic tasting room, and while you’re there, watch the magic unfold in the Company Production Facility which is directly across the room. 

Feel free to ask questions, but an even better option would be to grab a seat at the bar, sample a few of the pub’s brews, sample some of the pub’s cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients, or take part in one of the numerous events that occur regularly at the pub.

Feeling a little drunk? Stay at the Front Street Suites. It’s in a great location for skiing, with a view of the mountains, and has complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the lodge. The air-conditioned holiday home features four bedrooms, a living area, and a kitchen with a refrigerator and an oven.

18. Best for History Geeks – Greater Leavenworth Museum, Leavenworth, Washington

Entrance to the Greater Leavenworth MuseumSource / License: Tripadvisor
Entrance to the Greater Leavenworth Museum

Address: 735 Front St, Leavenworth, WA 98826

The Greater Leavenworth Museum is located in a building that dates back one hundred years and is formerly used as both a bed and breakfast and as a home for the family of the town banker. This is one of the best Leavenworth Washington attractions.

The museum often referred to as River Haus, is located on a piece of land measuring eight acres that is part of the Barn Beach Reserve and provides vistas of the Wenatchee River.

Visitors can tour the museum and the surrounding region, which is steeped in history and features relics and exhibitions that are now on display. Some permanent and rotated displays are devoted to the history of the Bavarian-themed hamlet of Leavenworth. In addition, there are special exhibitions that are presented during the various events and festivals held in the town.

After your educational tour of the museum, you can stay at the Bavarin Lodge. The Bavarian-themed hotel has a year-round outdoor pool and rooms with mountain or village views. Free breakfast includes cinnamon buns, egg casseroles, and savory potatoes. The front desk serves Starbucks and Tazo tea daily.

19. Best Ski Trails – Plain Valley Nordic Ski Trails, Leavenworth, Washington

Plain Valley Nordic Ski TrailSource / License: Tripadvisor
Plain Valley Nordic Ski Trail

Address: 18636 Beaver Valley Road, Leavenworth, Washington 98826

Plain Valley Nordic Ski Trails is a network of groomed ski and skate trails for cross-country skiing that begins in the heart of Plain, Washington. The network features approximately 16,000 kilometers of cross-country ski and skate routes. In addition to enjoying snowmobiling, sledding, tubing, sleigh riding, or ice skating, tourists are treated to a breathtaking view of Plain Valley when they venture out into the broad open skies.

In addition, there will be events and activities available to participate in, such as snowmobile rides, wine tastings, and a backcountry ski camp. There are various services on-site, including lodging, dining, and renting various pieces of equipment.

Classic track skiing and ice skating are two activities that tourists new to either can sign up for lessons in, while more experienced guests can join one of the many teams, programs, or camps. This is considered one of the most exciting Leavenworth attractions.

Skiing can be tiresome but don’t worry Beaver Valley Lodge features a garden, and some rooms provide a patio overlooking the green space. There are refrigerators, microwaves, coffee makers, showers, and others free in the hotel’s air-conditioned rooms. Hiking, skiing, and fishing are just some of the things that visitors to Beaver Valley Lodge will be able to do in and around Leavenworth.

20. Best Ziplines Experience – Leavenworth ZipLines, Leavenworth, WA

Address: 19115 Chiwawa Loop Road, Leavenworth, WA 98826, United States

Leavenworth Ziplines offers a one-of-a-kind adventure for those who want to see the city from a different perspective. Leavenworth Ziplines ensures that every one of its guests will have a memorable and exciting experience by providing a selection of eight unique ziplines and two suspension bridges that are located more than 190 feet above the valley level.

The ziplines are situated in the Cascades’ forests, allowing guests to fly through the air above the canyon, the trees, and the stunning natural beauty seen there while being safely aided by trained professionals. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for families and groups of people that is unique to Leavenworth and suitable for people of all ages.

There is also a new vacation home called Alpine Acres Lodge home that lets you enjoy the zipline experience near your resting place. It offers accommodations with a balcony, free WiFi, and the option to prepare your own meals. Aside from Mountain Springs Lodge, this vacation rental home is located in a region that is ideal for outdoor activities such as skiing and cycling. Guests will enjoy staying here.

21. Best Spa Experience – Alpine Spa at the Icicle Village Resort

Inside the Icicle Village ResortSource / License: Tripadvisor
Inside the Icicle Village Resort

Address: 565 U.S. Rte 2, Leavenworth, WA 98826, United States

During your time in Leavenworth, you should definitely make time for a spa treatment. The effects of exfoliation are bolstered by the clean mountain air in some mysterious way. In addition, there are three reputable spas in the area, and each provides a comprehensive menu of treatments.

The Alpine Spa at the Icicle Village Resort is consistently a popular choice for both guests of the resort and people who have appointments there on their own. In a serene studio setting that is flooded with natural light, various treatments such as mud wraps, facials, and hot stone massages are performed. Swedish massage is another one of Alpine Spa’s specialties.

The Spa at Posthotel is another spa located close to the heart of the city, which exudes European elegance. This opulent hotel and spa feature a wide variety of all-encompassing treatments, some of which last for a significant portion of the day.

There are also hotel options at Icicle Creek Road and the Sleeping Lady Resort, which features its very own Aspen Leaf Day Spa, which provides a variety of spa services. 

Aside from the resorts, the Aspen Suites 506: The Nest features a garden, smoke-free guestrooms, and complimentary Internet access. A children’s play area and a reception desk open around the clock are also available at this hotel. Visitors to the hotel can go skiing and other winter sports in the area.

22. Best Pretzel House – Munchen House

Address: 709 Front St, Leavenworth, WA 98826, United States

This is, without a doubt, going to go down as the best pretzel in town. The Munchen House is an all-outdoor restaurant that specializes in serving beers and pretzels, i.e., the typical Oktoberfest foods that people crave during the festival. 

In order to keep warm throughout the winter, certain tables have fire pits built into them. The queue always looks somewhat lengthy, but rest assured that it will be well worth your time! Leavenworth demands that you make this pit stop.

In addition, this Bavarian Grill and Beer Garden welcomes families and offers a selection of sausages that are charbroiled to the point of perfection as well as delicious Bavarian pretzels topped with cheese. Guests can take advantage of the complementary assortment of gourmet mustards, condiments, and apple cider sauerkraut prepared in-house by Haus. On draft, the establishment serves both locally brewed and foreign German beers

You can enjoy the food at the Bavarian Ritz Hotel with rooms that have free Wi-Fi and a large mountain-view terrace. Bavarian Ritz Hotel accommodations have complimentary movie channels and cable TV. Coffee, a microwave, and a refrigerator are also provided.

23. Best for Leisurely Stroll – Downtown Leavenworth

Downtown LeavenworthSource / License: Melissa Bower / CC-BY-SA-4.0
Downtown Leavenworth

Address: Leavenworth, WA, U.S.A

Downtown Leavenworth is unlike any other downtown that you have been to because of the special cultural allure that it possesses.  Leavenworth has modest architecture in the alpine style that is framed by foggy mountains, making it a cross between a ski hamlet and a historic German town.

The buildings all feature wooden shutters, large balconies, and thatched roofs on the upper levels. Pubs, candy shops, and even more traditional inns are just some of the mom-and-pop establishments that may be found clustered in the town center.

Front Street is a pedestrian-friendly boulevard where people can be observed milling around at all hours of the day; you may dine, drink, shop, and explore from the time the sun rises to the time it sets. All foot traffic is channeled down Front Street.

When you’re in Germany, you shouldn’t leave without trying some local specialties like bratwurst and beer, for example. When you first learn about the Bavarian-style village in Washington State, Leavenworth’s downtown area is precisely what you would anticipate it to be like.

LOGE Leavenworth Downtown and Alpine Acres Lodge home are two of the most well-rated accommodations in the area, with free amenities to make guests’ stay convenient and comfortable.

24. Best Festival Celebration – Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest Rides at NightSource / License: Manele R. / CC-BY-SA-2.0
Oktoberfest Rides at Night

Address: Leavenworth WA, U.S.A

One of the most extensive Oktoberfest celebrations in the United States, the one in Leavenworth, Kansas, takes place over not one, not two, but three consecutive weekends. It celebrates German culture in a variety of ways that go well beyond the drinking of beer.

It goes without saying that Bavarian culture can be evident in everything from the music to the clothes; it is not uncommon for both visitors and workers to put on their best trachten to show their appreciation for the culture. Different types of culture can be discovered in stalls selling food and crafts, as well as demonstration booths and other types of booths.

Beer is the main attraction at Oktoberfest. Therefore that’s why you should go. The great news is that the taps are always running, and genuine, imported beers may be found in any beer garden you visit.

There are also a lot of brats available, which can both satisfy your hunger and help you keep up the pace. Check out the calendar if you find yourself in Washington and need some ideas for things to do. The answer is always Oktoberfest if the month of October rolls around. You may also enjoy the Christmas lighting festival in the following months.

25. Best Restaurant – Rhein Haus

Address: 707 US-2 unit f, Leavenworth, WA 98826, United States

If you enjoy the Bavarian atmosphere of Leavenworth’s attractions, you won’t want to miss the most German tradition there is to experience: washing down a delicious dinner with a refreshing beer to complete the experience!

The Rhein Haus is not the only restaurant in the city that embodies Bavarian culture, but it is a favorite among the locals, so you can be certain that it is real. Other restaurants in the city that symbolize Bavarian culture include: The ambiance is friendly and unpretentious all around.

On the menu, you’ll find a wide variety of traditional dishes, such as bratwurst, kielbasa, and schnitzel, in addition to some more unique options, such as beer-cheese fondue served with enormous pretzels. Also, there is an abundance of available forms of entertainment.

This “home” is more like a real tourist attraction than a typical establishment because it has many pubs, patios, and biergartens. Be sure that the restaurant you choose for dinner in Leavenworth is a nice one if you find yourself feeling hungry there. Get your fill of authentic German cuisine while enjoying an authentic Bavarian atmosphere.

Resources: