Nestled in the Cascade Mountains, Leavenworth, Washington is a magical Bavarian-themed town that’s packed with beauty and adventure! With bucket list hikes, incredible restaurants and experiences for all ages, we’ve put together a guide with the best things to do in Leavenworth so you can plan the perfect trip.
Smack dab in the center of the Pacific Northwest, the small Bavarian-inspired town of Leavenworth, Washington will make you swear you’ve been transported to Germany.
While snow sports and the famed Christmas lights draw visitors in the winter, Leavenworth has bucket list hikes and water activities in the warmer months, making it a great year-round destination.
And we haven’t even touched on the raw, natural beauty that surrounds town, making it the perfect jumping off point for hiking, backpacking, mountain biking, and all sorts of other adventures!
Whether you’re visiting as a weekend getaway from Seattle or Leavenworth is a spot on your Washington state road trip, we’ve got everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip – from the best things to do, where to eat, and how to experience this town beyond the typical touristy spots.
Psst! This is a big guide that you’ll definitely want to save!
Why listen to us?
We lived in Leavenworth for 8 months and seriously fell in love with this mountain town. We try to go back at least once a year, so we’ve truly been to Leavenworth, WA more times than we can count!
We update this article often to keep it relevant and packed with the top things to do and see. We’re honored to share one of our favorite towns with you!
Leavenworth Travel Guide
For more tips and advice for planning your trip to Leavenworth, jump to the following sections (or just keep scrolling to see it all!).
Leavenworth Google Map
Get our map sent straight to your phone! We loaded this map with all our favorite restaurants, shops, and eateries, so you can avoid the crowds in Leavenworth.
Top things to do in Leavenworth
If you’re looking for a quick list of the very best things to do in in Leavenworth, here you go:
- Check out the lights and festivities at Christmas time
- Float on the Wenatchee River
- Hike to Colchuck Lake
- Drink local beer
- Soak at Scenic Hot Springs
But don’t stop here…
Want more ideas? You are in for a treat, my friend, because this article is absolutely PACKED with tons of fun things to do in Leavenworth plus all sorts of insider tips. Keep reading for all the information you need!
1. Experience the magic of Leavenworth at Christmas time
It’s no secret that Leavenworth is one of the best places to celebrate Christmas in North America.
Downtown Leavenworth boasts more than half a million Christmas lights, which illuminate the town every day from the end of November through February.
Front Street is extra festive this time of year, with food vendors, carolers, and musicians getting visitors in the Yuletide spirit.
There are so many seasonal activities and things to do, we put together a complete guide to visiting Leavenworth at Christmas time. You’ll want to be sure you read out insider tips to avoid unnecessary crowds and have the most pleasant experience.
More things to do in Leavenworth in the winter:
- Ski at Stevens Pass
- Go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing
- Go on a snowmobile tour
- Take a sleigh ride
- Go sledding
Read up on the perfect itinerary as well as how to do all these winter sports yourself in our winter in Leavenworth guide, linked below:
2. Start your day with a killer breakfast sandwich
If you’re looking for a place to fuel up for a day of adventuring, we have 3 great choices for you:
- Argonaut Coffee & Biscuits: this coffee shop is home to one of our all-time-favorite breakfast sandwiches. A housemade buttermilk biscuit is topped with an egg, smoked ham, Tillamook sharp cheddar, local greens and Sriracha-maple. We’re also huge fans of their white chocolate lavender mocha and horchata latte!
- Bavarian Bagel Company: Seriously good bagel sandwiches, but the lines get very long. Go early or expect a wait (if you’re visiting on a weekend). Also, the French toast bagel is super good if you want something sweet.
- Little Red’s: This small stand serves up breakfast sandwiches, breakky burritos, and breakfast bowls. Their “Big AF” salted butterscotch cookie is what dreams are made of (trust me!) and they have fun messages on each of their drink cups.
3. Float on the Wenatchee River in a tube or SUP
Summer is the perfect time to rent a tube or SUP and float down the river, with a can of beer… err I mean, water…. in hand. You can rent water toys from Leavenworth Outdoor Center (LOC), and they will shuttle you to a drop off point.
Along the float, there are a few rocky beaches you can get out at, and once you make it back to town, there is a big red sign where you should get off the river. If it’s a weekend, just follow the crowds of other people getting out.
Do it yourself: If you have your own SUP or inner tube (you can buy cheap versions at Safeway), you can drive to the Leavenworth Fish Hatchery and park your car. This is where you can enter the water; but remember you’ll need another car in town to get you back to where you parked.
Important Note: If you go floating (we highly recommend it!) remember to be responsible with your trash. Please, please don’t litter in this beautiful area. Beer cans washed up on beaches make for a far less incredible experience.
4. Hike to Colchuck Lake
If you’re an avid hiker and want something truly epic during your time in Leavenworth, hiking to Colchuck Lake will be a highlight of your trip.
Just a 35-minute drive from downtown Leavenworth will bring you to the Colchuck Lake trailhead. Be warned that this is a very popular trail, so we’d recommend getting there early so you can get a parking spot.
Colchuck Lake Hike
- Distance: 8 – 9 miles, depending on how far along the lake you go
- (it is roughly 4 miles just to get to the lake)
- Elevation gain: 2,280+ feet
- Type of hike: out-and-back
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Timing: 4-5 hours total hiking time (but factor in at least 1 – 1.5 hours for hanging out at the lake)
- Camping: In order to camp around Colchuck Lake you must have a permit
- View the trail guide
Pack a picnic lunch and a swimsuit, and plan on spending at least an hour (hopefully more!) hanging out at this stunning lake.
Insider Tip: Colchuck is refreshingly chilly, but for a slightly more comfortable swim, the smaller neighboring lake to the west is heavenly, especially in the late afternoon.
Are you a serious hiker? If so, you’re gonna want to hear this…
As you’re looking at the mountains behind Colchuck, you’ll likely see people making a very steep ascent to the top of the ridge. This is known as Aasgard Pass, and it is notoriously difficult.
But if that doesn’t scare you off, you’ll want to read the next idea on this list, because this route leads to the magical Enchantments wilderness area.
Hiking there is truly a dream…
5. Thru-hike or backpack The Enchantments
The Enchantments is a bucket list hike for many avid hikers, and after having been there twice ourselves, we can confidently say that it should be at the top of your list.
With sparkling glacial lakes, alpine meadows and mountain goats milling about, this place is straight out of a dream.
Now, I will warn you and say that this trek is hard. And long. And requires a great deal of planning.
But if the amount of effort doesn’t scare you off, you will be greatly rewarded. We’ve done lots of hiking around the world, and The Enchantments is one of our very favorites.
Important: If you plan to camp overnight in the Enchantments, you need a permit, which can be obtained by a (very competitive) lottery application (typically opening in February of each year).
Obtaining a permit to the Enchantments is notoriously difficult as it is incredibly competitive. We have applied for several years and have only gotten permits once.
If you don’t get a coveted permit, there is one other option…
If you’re a little crazy (like us!), it is possible to do the entire Enchantments thru-hike in one — very long and very strenuous — day.
We have done both camping in the Enchantments as well as the 1 day thru hike, so we created a guide with everything you need to know about hiking the Enchantments.
Alternative: If you’re not up for the entire hike (which is totally understandable), set your sights on hiking to Colchuck Lake (described above). This is the entry point for the Enchantments, so you’ll get a taste of this stunning area.
6. Eat German food
If you’re in Leavenworth to soak up all the German vibes, you’ll definitely want to dine on Bavarian cuisine. And you’ll be spoiled for choice as there are plenty of German restaurants in this Bavarian-inspired town!
Below, we’ve rounded up the best German restaurants in Leavenworth.
Casual German restaurants:
- Munchen Haus: casual place serving sausages in a biergarten setting with plenty of mustards to choose from (one of our personal favorites for a casual meal)
- Rhein Haus: an alternative to München, this is another casual Bavarian restaurant with brats and beer and a bit more seating.
- Stein: casual beer hall featuring lots of brews and pub fare
- Leavenworth Sausage Garten: outdoor eatery serving up German-style sausages cured right next door.
Nicer German restaurants:
- Andreas Keller: For a sit-down German meal, this Bavarian pub is one of the best choices
- Gustav’s: Cozy Bavarian tavern with a great location, this is a tourist favorite
- Mozart’s: European comfort food in an intimate setting
Not a fan of German cuisine? Don’t worry – there are plenty of incredible restaurants in Leavenworth that don’t have wiener schnitzel on the menu.
If I’m totally honest with you, we typically choose to eat at non-German restaurants while in Leavenworth (other than München Haus). That’s not to say they aren’t worthwhile, it’s just that there are so many other amazing (non-German) restaurants that aren’t always packed with tourists!
Jump down to our favorite restaurants in Leavenworth!
7. Cheers at a local brewery
From German style biergartens to true craft breweries, Leavenworth has no shortage of places to toast to a day of exploring.
- Icicle Brewing Company: this is without a doubt the most popular brewery in Leavenworth. They have plenty of indoor and outdoor seating (with fire tables), pub snacks and they often have live music.
- Insider tip: If you like dark beer, you have to try Dark Persuasion, which is a German cake ale. It’s so good and what better place to try it than in Leavenworth?!
- Blewett Brewing Company: With a pretty wide selection (especially IPAs), Blewett has perhaps our favorite beers in Leavenworth. We’re also huge fans of their wood-fired pizzas. The Hot Mama is fabulous, as is their summer salad.
- Doghaus Brewing: for a hidden gem vibes, this pocket-sized spot makes a great pick.
- Beirgartens: Looking for a taproom with more of a biergarten vibe than a brewery? Here are two to check out:
Cider
If you prefer cider to beer, we’ve got options for you too!
- Bushel & Bee Taproom: more than 20 taps of unique ciders, meads and beer in a cozy atmosphere.
- Leavenworth Cider House: is a family-friendly venue where you can get cider flights and pub food, like a giant pretzel
8. Do a wine tasting
Not into beer or cider? There are also plenty of wine tasting rooms in town as well as vineyards just a short drive away.
If you want to actually visit the vineyards, you’ll find those in Leavenworth too!
- Eagle Creek Winery: A short and scenic drive up Eagle Creek Road will lead you to this excellent winery.
- Icicle Ridge Winery: Located just outside of Leavenworth in the small town of Peshastin, this is another great option if you’re looking to visit a winery.
Need a nibble with your vino? Stop by the town’s cheesemonger for a nice pairing.
9. Soak at Scenic Hot Springs
We’re kind of obsessed with hot springs, and this one is pretty special. We’ve been to Scenic Hot Springs a few times, and think soaking here is one of the best things to do in Leavenworth.
Soaking at Scenic Hot Springs will require a good chunk of a day, as you will need to drive 50 minutes from Leavenworth (just past Stevens Pass). Plus, you’ll need to do a little bit of planning, as soaking here requires a permit (more on that later).
How to get to Scenic Hot Springs
After parking, you will need to hike (roughly an hour) into the mountains to reach Scenic Hot Springs.
If it has recently snowed (yay, this is when it is prettiest!), you’ll need snowshoes for this trek, and you’ll likely need to factor in more time (1.5 – 2 hours, depending on your snowshoeing level). Don’t worry – you will be rewarded for your effort!
The views of snow capped ponderosa pines and the Cascades Mountains peeking out in the distance is quite spectacular.
The hot springs itself has changed a bit in the last few years. Though we’ve been told that Scenic isn’t what it used to be in the past, we still thoroughly enjoyed relaxing in the steamy water as snow kissed our shoulders and we chatted with the others.
What used to be one large pool with a wooden platform, is now 3 tubs of water in varying temperatures. A maximum of 10 people can be at the hot springs at one time, and you are likely to have company during your visit.
We have a complete guide to Scenic Hot Springs, including how to make the required reservation and how to get there on our sister site, Go Wander Wild.
Responsible Soaking Tip: Please don’t litter – not even fruit peels! On one visit to the hot spring, the snow was starting to melt which revealed grapefruit peels and pistachio shells that someone had left in the fall. It really was not a nice sight when the rest of the surroundings are so beautiful. If you plan to eat, please pack out all your garbage because there is no trash bin at the hot springs.
Looking for other epic places to soak? Here is a list of the best hot springs in Washington state.
10. Indulge in the best local ice cream at Whistlepunk
I’d like to consider myself an ice cream aficionado of sorts. After years and years of research, I’d say I have a pretty discerning “ice cream palate”.
So when I say that Whistlepunk serves seriously good handmade ice cream, do yourself a favor and get your booty over there for a binge-worthy scoop (or two!). Oh, and definitely upgrade to the homemade waffle cone!
They have some really good staple flavors, like Bertha’s Caramel Brownie (oh em gee, those brownie chunks!), Blackberry Fool, and Chai. But also look for their seasonal specialties. My personal favorite flavor is lemon bar, and to this day I still dream about it!
Good to know: They have a handful of vegan offerings.
11. Jump into Lake Valhalla
Lake Valhalla is one of our all-time favorite hikes near Leavenworth, as it’s not too crowded and the endpoint is epic. I mean, just look at that glacial lake!
If you’re hiking in the summer, you’ll definitely want to jump in the lake to cool off. And if you’re lucky enough to be here at the right time in the fall, you’ll be rewarded with incredibly vivid fall colors.
Looking for more epic hikes? Check out this list of the 50 best hikes in Washington state and see how many you can check off your bucket list.
12. Walk around Blackbird Island
Literally steps from the main part of town sits Blackbird Island, sandwiched by Waterfront Park on one side and Enchantment Park on the other. Aside from the small walking bridge that connects it to the “mainland”, you probably wouldn’t notice that it’s an island at all.
There is a roughly mile-long trail around the island that you can follow for a leisurely walk (grab a coffee first!) or a morning run.
This is one of the things to do in Leavenworth that can be enjoyed all year round.
Summer is scenic, and if you pay attention, you’ll find small trails leading to little beaches where you can relax, swim and picnic.
And in the winter, you can explore Blackbird on snowshoes or cross-country skis.
Tip: Don’t forget to look around. The views on this island facing west are some of my favorites in town! Also,
13. Shop local at the Leavenworth Community Farmers Market
Local vendors, growers and artisans gather each Thursday evening in the summer and fall in a community market that’s well worth a visit.
Support local artisans selling paintings and handmade soaps, or grab locally grown produce, like peppers and foraged chanterelles.
On most market nights, there is live music, book readings hosted by the local library, and vendors selling snacks and food.
Leavenworth Farmers Market Information
- Thursdays, June – mid-October
- 4-7pm
- Location
Find more information about their music lineup and other events on the Cascade Community Markets website.
14. Cool off in this secret swimming hole
If you’re visiting Leavenworth on a hot summer’s day and want a place to take a refreshing dip that’s not on most tourists’ radars, head out of town and follow Icicle Road all the way to Eightmile Campground, which is roughly 15 minutes from town.
The small swimming hole is partially shaded and the perfect spot to cool down.
Good to know: Cell signal here is not the greatest, so just be prepared to go without service for a bit.
15. Hike to the best view above town at Icicle Ridge
If you’re looking to get the best view of Leavenworth from above, the hike to Icicle Ridge will deliver.
Facing the west edge of Leavenworth, you’ll see Icicle Ridge towering above town.
Trekking to the top requires a moderate hike with several switchbacks. It takes roughly 1 hour to reach a beautiful viewpoint that offers sweeping panoramic views over town.
Bonus: You can stop here, or choose to continue up the trail to complete the full hike if you want more of a workout and more beautiful views!
Icicle Ridge Hike
- Distance: 5.1 miles
- Elevation gain: 1,755 feet
- Type of hike: Out and back
- Difficulty: Moderate
- View the trail guide
More hikes near Leavenworth
There are so many hikes near Leavenworth that you could literally go on a new hike each week and still not exhaust all the trails. Check out our full list of the best hikes near Leavenworth on our sister site, Go Wander Wild.
Ultimate PNW Bucket List!
Traveling around the Pacific Northwest? We have just what you need!
We’ve created the ultimate PNW Bucket List, filled with fun and unique adventures. From epic outdoor escapes to off-the-beaten-path foodie experiences, we have a little something for every type of traveler!
Go ahead and grab your copy now. It’s free, so what do you have to lose?!
16. Ride the Alpine Coaster
Before heading out of town, ride the alpine coaster at Leavenworth Adventure Park for a bit of an adrenaline rush and the perfect way to end your weekend.
Open year-round, this is a fun family-friendly activity, even in winter!
The ride only lasts 4 minutes, but you get some pretty spectacular mountain views. Since it is a pretty short activity, we recommend signing up for two rides to maximize the experience.
Important info:
- Get tickets in advance
- Leavenworth Adventure Park (Google Maps location)
- Ages: 3+ and at least 38 inches tall
- We told our daughter she could ride since she had just turned 3, but we totally missed the height restriction and sadly found out she was 1 inch too short, which led to her being very disappointed. Don’t make the same mistake we did!
- Check prices here (they vary by age and how many rides you’d like)
- Digital photos are available to purchase for $8 (plus sales tax)
17. Go Mountain Biking
Bike Park at Stevens Pass
After the snow melts, Stevens Pass transforms for the summer. The main attraction is the epic mountain bike park.
New to Mountain Biking? If you’ve never been mountain biking before, we’d definitely recommend taking a lesson, as there’s so much more to it than simply “biking downhill”. And if you’re an expert, Stevens Pass has some incredible (super scary-looking!) runs.
You’ll get geared up in a full-face helmet, knee and elbow pads, and gloves, and you’ll feel like a total badass. I’ll be honest and tell you that it is scary your first time, but it is such a rush!
Other summer activities at Stevens Pass: After tackling the mountain bike park, play a leisurely game of disc golf or take a scenic chairlift ride. There is space in the parking lot for RVs so you can make a whole day of it if you’re camping!
Mountain Biking at Ski Hill
If you prefer free trails to the resort or want to stick closer to town, head to Freund Canyon where there is a collection of trails you can ride.
Trails are maintained by locals in an honor system, so be respectful.
Where to rent bikes in Leavenworth:
18. Go Whitewater Rafting on Class III+ Rapids
During the late spring and early summer months, the Wenatchee River attracts water sports enthusiasts from all over the state and country.
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, book a whitewater rafting trip, as it is truly one of the most adventurous things to do in Leavenworth!
There are a few rafting companies to choose from in Leavenworth, but our friend owns Wildwater River Guides, which is our top pick!
Wenatchee River Rafting Trip Info
- Class III+ Rapids
- April – early August
- 3-4 hours
- Moderate
- Ages 10+
- $89-94 per person
- Book your rafting trip here
The best time of year to go whitewater rafting is in the late spring when the snow is melting and the river is high. This is when you’ll have the most exciting rapids!
As summer progresses, the Wenatchee River gets lower and eventually rafting trips are moved elsewhere to rivers like White Salmon and Tieton Rivers.
19. Take a day trip to Lake Wenatchee
If you’re up for a bit of a drive, Lake Wenatchee is about a 25-minute drive from Leavenworth in the Wenatchee Valley and is a fun place to explore at any time of the year.
During the summer, it is a popular place for a beach day, while the winter months make a great time to try the cross-country ski trails.
This is a stunning lake to photograph as well.
If you’re near Lake Wenatchee and you get hungry, keep reading for a tip…
Foodie Tip: Wildflour is a restaurant located on a nearby golf course and has the most insanely good mushroom starter we’ve ever had. Seriously, get it! Pair them with a crisp Bodhizafa IPA for a nice midday nibble!
20. Shop local at downtown boutiques
Front Street is the main pedestrian street in town and it is packed with all sorts of shops – touristy souvenirs to handmade soaps to sauce and spice purveyors to clothing boutiques – you’ll truly find it all.
Don’t miss Commercial Street, which runs parallel and tends to be less crowded during busy times.
Here are a couple of our favorite shops in downtown Leavenworth:
- The Plant Ally: cute shop with plants & pretty things; also has a really cute (& chill) cafe here with tea, coffee & elixirs
- A Book for All Seasons: cute local book shop
- Jubilee: Fair Trade goods from around the world, featuring items like woven bowls, scarves, and handmade children’s toys.
- Posy Handpicked: Cute boutique with a small collection of artisan-made goods (with a focus on local makers). Prices are on the higher side, as you’d expect for handcrafted items.
21. Meet Reindeer on the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm
Taking a tour of the Leavenworth Reindeer farm and meeting these cuties up close is one of the best things to do in Leavenworth with kids. Our daughter said it was her favorite thing we did in Leavenworth!
Offering a variety of tours throughout the year, you can see the reindeer babies in the summer months, and you can get in the Christmas spirit with Santa and his reindeer in the winter.
Reservations are encouraged (especially in the wintertime), as it is one of the more popular activities in town. Tours start at $25 per person ($5 for children under 3 years old).
22. Eat a giant pretzel (with mustard & cheese!)
You know when we said there’s more to Leavenworth than the Bavarian theme? Well, we weren’t lying. (Hopefully you’ve gathered that while reading this list!)
But still, a visit to this town should include at least one pretzel with cheese sauce.
You’ll find pretzels on menus all over town, but Icicle Brewing, Munchen Haus and Leavenworth Cider House all have great versions of this carb-a-liscious snack.
23. Get an adrenaline rush while ziplining
If you’re looking to get your heart pumping, Leavenworth Ziplines will have you screaming (but in a good way!).
With 9 ziplines – the longest of which is a ¼ mile long – you are in for quite the adventure! Soar nearly 200 feet off the ground and take in the views of the valley below and the mountains in the distance.
Zipline tours usually start in mid-April and go through the early fall. Learn more about the tours and make a booking here.
24. Explore Tumwater Canyon
The Wenatchee River flows through the Tumwater Canyon just before snaking through town, and it is truly a sight to behold.
Beside the river, Highway 2 hugs the water, and mountains loom on either side. This section of the river is known for rapids (especially in the spring) and whitewater kayakers can often be spotted here.
There are some pull outs along the road where you can park and marvel at this canyon.
If you’re up for a little hike, the Old Pipeline Bed trailhead is in the Tumwater Canyon, just a 5-minute drive from town and starts with a walk across an old steel bridge.
25. See salmon spawning at the Leavenworth Fish Hatchery
Once the largest fish hatchery in the world, today they raise more than 1.2 million Chinook salmon each year.
The Leavenworth Fish Hatchery offers tours where you can learn about the process and see the fish.
Or you can simply come to the hatchery to enjoy the more than 5 miles of public trails.
26. Grab a cocktail away from the crowds
Located in the lobby of LOGE hotel downtown, you’d likely never come across Iconoclast Cafe + Bar unless you were a hotel guest. They serve coffee and light bites during the day as well as cocktails.
The best thing about this spot is that it is usually very quiet, even when most other places in town have crowds and long lines. There’s a small indoor seating area that’s part of the lobby, but if it’s nice, bring your drink to the connected beer garden.
27. Wander the famous Nutcracker Museum
The Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum makes most “things to do in Leavenworth” lists, and with thousands of nutcrackers of all different styles, it is definitely unlike anything you’ve ever seen.
While especially popular in the winter, this museum is open year round.
There’s a gift shop where you can buy your own nutcracker or something a little different like a paint-your-own Nutcracker kit, which could make a fun souvenir from your time in Leavenworth.
- Admission: $5 per adult (you can enter the gift shop for free)
28. Explore the grounds at Sleeping Lady
As you drive down Icicle Road, keep your eyes on the mountain range in front of you and eventually you will see the very clear outline of a woman sleeping on her back – known as Sleeping Lady.
The aptly named Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort boasts the best view of this ridge line and is a great place to stay if you’re looking for cozy, cabin vibes and hot tub access (heck yes!) in a picturesque setting. (Check out rooms here!)
But even if you’re not a guest, you can explore the Sleeping Lady grounds.
Enjoy brunch at their onsite restaurant, O’Grady’s Pantry or rent cross-country skis and explore their collection of trails (for a fee). You can also play a round of disc golf or book a treatment in their spa.
29. See “The Sound of Music” at an outdoor theater
Seeing The Sound of Music perform on an outdoor stage at Ski Hill Amphitheater is a must-do Leavenworth experience if you’re visiting in the summer.
With the Cascades looming in the distance makes you feel as if you’re actually seeing the beloved story of Maria and the von Trapp family play out in the Austrian Alps. Watch the story unfold as the sun sets and the stars start to twinkle overhead for a truly magical experience.
You can see The Sound of Music in Leavenworth on Fridays and Saturdays in July, August and the beginning of September.
The Sound of Music Leavenworth Info
- Fridays & Saturdays
- July & August (and Labor Day weekend)
- Shows start at 8 p.m. and lasts 2.5 hours (including intermission)
- Ski Hill Amphitheater
- See the dates and ticket information here
Where to eat in Leavenworth
There are seemingly endless restaurant options in Leavenworth, and it can be tricky sorting out the fantastic from the mediocre.
This is our list of favorites after months and months of “research” (haha).
Casual Restaurants
- München Haus: For an inexpensive bite and a fun beer garden atmosphere, you can’t beat München Haus. The sausages and pretzels are pretty darn good and the selection of mustards is unbeatable. And don’t miss the apple cider sauerkraut! I will warn you that the lines here get crazy during peak tourist times.
- Rhein Haus: An alternative to München, this is another casual Bavarian restaurant with brats and beer and a bit more seating.
- Yodelin Broth Co.: Choose from options like halibut bone coconut curry broth and wild salmon miso bone broth. This PNW cuisine is food you can feel good about eating and the outdoor seating area offers stunning views
- Icicle Brewing Company: Legendary spot for local brews, they also serve a small selection of mostly German-inspired pub grub
- Blewett Brewing Company: really good beer and wood-fired pizza
- Stein: Casual beer hall featuring lots of brews and pub fare.
- Heidleburger Drive In: Greasy burgers, fries, onion rings, fried mushrooms, shakes, and all the fixings! This place is cheap (by Leavenworth standards).
Nicer restaurants
- Larch: With handcrafted pasta, rustic Italian fare and cocktails, this is one of our favorite restaurants in Leavenworth.
- Watershed: This chef-owned restaurant with a farm-to-table dinner menu that changes with the seasons.
- Prusik Kitchen + Bar: American fare, open for brunch and dinner (under the same chef as Larch)
- Old World Chophouse: Cozy steakhouse with great cocktails and atmosphere
- Wildflour: Located 25 minutes from town, this restaurant has private igloos you can book for a fun winter experience
- South: Upscale Mexican fare with a decent selection of margaritas, and a buzzy atmosphere.
- Mana: This beautifully intimate restaurant is set in a house and all guests are served at the same time from a set menu consisting of seven courses. This high-end dining experience is Thursdays – Sundays at 6:30 p.m. and lasts about 2.5 hours. You must make reservations and dinner costs $118 per person with the option to add wine or non-alcoholic pairings.
Breakfast, coffee & treats
- Bavarian Bagel Company: Seriously good bagel sandwiches, but the lines get very long. Go early or expect a wait (if you’re visiting on a weekend). Also, the French toast bagel is super good if you want something sweet.
- Argonaut: Their breakfast sandwich with maple sriracha is soooo good, and they have great coffee.
- J5: espresso bar with some of the best coffee in town, but no seating so you’ll grab it to go
- Little Red’s: they have fun messages on each of their drink cups and their salted butterscotch cookie is what dreams are made of (trust me!).
- Gingerbread Factory: popular spot for cookies, cocoa, and other sweet treats.
- Whistlepunk: one of our all-time favorite ice cream shops with seriously good ice cream and homemade waffle cones that are worth the splurge
- Iconoclast Cafe + Bar: Hidden inside LOGE hotel, unless you’re staying here, you likely wouldn’t know about it. They serve coffee drinks and breakfast sandwiches, but it’s also a sneakily hidden place to grab a cocktail in the evening. While seating is limited, if it’s nice outside, you can sit outdoors.
Where to stay
There is no shortage of great hotels in Leavenworth for all budgets.
Great location on a budget: Bavarian Lodge
Directly across from Front Street Park, you can literally see the Christmas Lighting Ceremony from your room. The Lodge has pretty standard basic hotel rooms, but it is a good value and receives consistently great reviews.
Beautiful setting: Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort
Located a bit out of town, this resort is nestled in a picturesque valley and has amenities like a hot tub, onsite restaurants and snowshoeing trails.
Cozy B&B: Fox Den Bed & Breakfast
This charming B&B looks like something out of a German fairytale and is a great choice if you’re looking for a more personalized accommodation than a traditional hotel.
Rave-worthy Inn: Granite Hills Inn
Located up Icicle Road, just a short drive to town, guests absolutely rave about this cozy yet modern B&B.
Apartment living downtown: Alpen Dorf Pension
If you are a fan of Airbnb-style accommodations, this apartment will be a good choice. Choose from a studio as well as a 2-bedroom apartment, both of which have kitchens and easy check-in.
Perfect for a Bachelorette Party: Enzian Inn
Looking for a nice Leavenworth hotel to celebrate your best girlfriend walking down the aisle? Enzian Inn is a 5-minute walk to the main street and features a pool. Plus, they have big rooms and a good breakfast so you can bounce back from the night before and start your wine tasting off right.
Best Splurge Stay: Posthotel
This new(ish) hotel is perched on the banks of the Wenatchee River and is undoubtedly the most beautiful hotel in town. Featuring a stunning indoor/outdoor pool and a world-class spa, this 5 star hotel is worthy of the splurge. Note: Children are not allowed.
Relaxing getaway: Icicle Village Resort
Guests can unwind in the outdoor heated pool, indulge in spa services, and savor delicious dining options, all within a short stroll from Leavenworth’s vibrant downtown attractions.
Airbnbs
Leavenworth also has a fairly large Airbnb market, ranging from cozy, romantic cabins for couples to apartments right in town.
Midcentury Mountain Cabin: We personally stayed here during our most recent winter trip to Leavenworth and had a great time! It is a bit of a drive from town (about 25-30 minutes), but it has really nice amenities (like a private hot tub!), and it is great for two couples or a family.
Camping near Leavenworth
The closest campground to town is this KOA, but if you’re looking for a cheaper (and much more beautiful campground), head down Icicle Road.
There are a few different campgrounds here, but our favorite is Eightmile Campground, which is a National Forest campground.
Are you planning a trip to Washington?
We’ve had the privilege of calling Washington state “home” for a while and we have tons of resources to help you plan your trip. Start with our Washington homepage and be sure to check out the articles below:
- If you’re visiting in the winter, you’ll definitely want to check out our guide to Leavenworth in the winter.
- Start checking some of the best hikes near Leavenworth off your bucket list!
- These are the top things to do in Washington State (our favorite US state!).
- You’ll want to keep this guide handy if you’re planning to visit North Cascades National Park.
- Check out all the fun things to do in Seattle.
- You’ll wanna read up on where to stay in Seattle and keep this guide to the best Airbnbs in Seattle handy.
- These day trips from Seattle make for nice retreats from the city.
- For a taste of #vanlife, choose from the best campervan rentals in Seattle.
- Keep this Washington National Parks guide close by.
- Read this if you’re planning a trip to Olympic National Park!
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We want to hear from you!
Have you visited Leavenworth, Washington before? What is your favorite shop and restaurant? Which of these things to do in Leavenworth looks like the most fun? Let us know in the comments below!
Leavenworth, Washington is a beautiful Bavarian-themed town situated in the Cascade Mountains that has something for everyone. From hikes and restaurants to experiences for all ages, this guide offers the best of what Leavenworth has to offer. Plan the perfect trip and make lasting memories with your loved ones!
Thanks for this useful blog. I plan on visiting Leavenworth, WA this December along with my girlfriend and family. I hope I can eat affordable foods there. See you soon Leavenworth.
Hi! Someone I know who lived in Snohomish suggested this town and once I looked it up I knew I had to plan my route around it. I’ll be in a van so I’m wondering if you have any suggested places to camp near here, free or otherwise! Reading your post made me realize I may really want to spend a full day here. Thank you!
Great info, thanks so much! Do you have any suggestions on campgrounds in the neighborhood of Leavenworth?
Incredible post!! I’ve got a travelblog documenting our travels. We are about to head to Leavenworth for the first time and I am very impressed by your post! Thanks for the info. Did you guys ever go to J5 coffee?? They seem to have great reviews online.
Hey Mike! J5 is a great for making coffee, they really know their stuff. But as for atmosphere, I really wouldn’t want to spend time there. Kind of an in and out place. But no doubt, their coffee is damn good!
The Bavarian village is year-round fun for everyone. It’s best to make an itinerary prior to your trip to maximize your time and ensure that you’re able to visit the best. Do lots of research so you can familiarize yourself with the place.
Very true Henry, it’s good to have a plan for Leavenworth. There are so many things to do.
looks like a great place! We have a fake Bavarian village in the Georgia mountains, too, but I think this place has it beat (at any rate, the skiing is certainly better ;))
Hey Gretchen. Leavenworth may seem a bit kitschy but the kindness of the people in the town are what leaves a lasting impression. And I may be biased, but the skiing is excellent!
Wow haven’t heard of this place before and looks like I would fall in love as well if I ever visited it!
We fell hard for this place the first night we drove through and saw the lights!
Ha! I was expecting to find some kind of German connection. What a great way to try and save a community. So glad it worked, and I can see why you liked it!
The Bavarian theme really turned the town around back in the day, now Leavenworth is the spot to be for the holidays.
Would love to visit and see the snowy landscapes – we don’t get much snow here in San Diego! Beautiful scenery…
Leavenworth really becomes magical in the winter time.
Wow, I can see why you loved Leavenworth! From pretzels to Mexican food to skiing, there is tons to do. And it’s so pretty too
Leavenworth really does have everything. There is something for everyone.
Next time you’re here, come check out the 24km of cross country ski trails in Plain! http://www.SkiPlain.com. Gorgeous meadow loops, great for beginners, and challenging hills for the more experienced skiers! Kate
Thanks Kate for the extra tip! The town of Plain is so lovely especially in the winter time.