20 Fun Things to Do in Leavenworth Washington

Leavenworth is a charming town in Washington State that resembles a Bavarian Village. The buildings showcase traditional design elements with decorative woodwork and steeply pitched roofs with overhanging eaves. 

To top it off, alpine meadows and the snow-peaked Cascade Mountain range act as the backdrop to this beguiling destination.

If you plan on visiting Leavenworth soon, you should know that it offers much more than just skiing and snowboarding. Of course, it will feel like you’re inside a snow globe during winter, but the fun doesn’t end there. 

Keep reading to discover fun things to do in Leavenworth, Washington, for every season and personality. From authentic German food to breweries and the Oktoberfest — you may not have to fly all the way to Germany after all.  

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, I may receive a small commission (for which I am very grateful for) at no extra cost to you.

Best Time to Visit Leavenworth

The best time for fun activities in Leavenworth depends entirely on what you want to do. Not only that, but you should also consider when it will suit your needs and objectives. Here’s a closer look:

Best Time for Hiking and Other Outdoor Activities 

Spring is hands down the most ideal time to visit Leavenworth for hiking and outdoor adventures. This season usually comes around April through May, bringing warmer temperatures and smaller crowds. 

By this time, the snow will have melted, making the trails a bit muddy, so pack waterproof boots. It’s also an excellent opportunity to take up boating, wine tasting, birding, and exploring Downtown Leavenworth.  

Best Time for Festivities 

For festivals and outdoor celebrations, springtime is the best season to go in. The sun will be out, and the weather is generally perfect for outdoor activities. Bird Fest, Ale Fest, and Maifest are some of the celebrations you can take part in during spring. 

Best Time for Skiing

This one is a no-brainer. You definitely want to go skiing, sledding, and snowboarding in the wintertime. Taking place from December to March, the average snowfall is usually around 150 inches, resulting in no better time for winter sports. 

Best Overall Time to Visit

So, what’s the overall best time to visit if you want to make the most out of your trip to Leavenworth? Most travelers and outdoor enthusiasts will agree on winter. This is when you’ll see the Bavarian-themed town in all its glory as it transforms into a winter wonderland filled with the Christmas spirit. 

Psst: Explore more of the Cascades with these 21 best things to do in North Cascades National Park.   

How to Get to Leavenworth, WA

Pangborn Memorial Airport (EAT) is the nearest airport to Leavenworth. So, you’ll likely travel from there via a rental car or cab. It will roughly take 40 minutes to reach the town via the US-2 West road. 

How Much Time Do You Need When Visiting Leavenworth?

While it’s possible to see enough of Leavenworth with a simple day trip — try spending at least one or two nights here. This will allow you to soak up the Bavarian essence and fit in as many activities as possible.  

Where to Stay Near the Top Leavenworth Attractions

Below are some fantastic accommodation options close to all the fun and entertainment. 

Luxury | Icicle Village Resort

The Icicle Village Resort sits a short walking distance from Downtown near all the restaurants, stores, and markets. It’s ideal if you want to be in the hub of the town with cozy, spacious rooms. 

Unwind and go for a massage at Alpine Spa, an onsite facility nestled in the serene Cascade Mountains. There’s also an outdoor swimming pool to cool off from the summer sun. >>>Check Availability

Mid-Range | Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort

Sleeping Lady Resort is a three-star hotel set within a whimsical environment. The resort features an outdoor swimming pool, a charming garden, and a bar. Stay in elegant, modest rooms with bathrobes, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a desk. >>>Check Availability

Top Tip: It also doubles as a fantastic skiing and cycling location for adventure seekers.

Budget | LOGE Leavenworth Downtown 

You can’t go wrong with the trendy LOGE hotel if you’re after a more modern vibe. Each spacious and neat room has a fridge, Wi-Fi, and coffeemaker. If you’re ready for a nibble, you can go over to the onsite restaurant or snack bar. >>>Check Availability

Read More: 14 Best Places to Stay in Leavenworth: Top Hotels & Campsites

20 Best Things to Do in Leavenworth, WA

Now that you have an idea of what’s to come — it’s time to dive into the best Leavenworth activities. 

1. Dig into German Comfort Food at Colchuck’s 

Authentic German food was promised, and that’s precisely what you’ll be served at Colchuck’s restaurant. Describing themselves as “a warm neighborhood nook with folksy decor,” you shouldn’t expect anything less. In fact, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find that the place embodies German culture. 

The menu includes pretzels, schnitzels, burgers, cocktails, and imported beers. Be sure to pop in during happy hour (Friday – Sunday between 4 and 6 pm) and when they have live music. 

Colchuck’s does not operate on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. They’re open from 3 to 9 pm on Fridays and Saturdays and from 3 to 8 pm for the rest of the week. 

2. Ski at Stevens Pass

While snow-laden hills are abundant all over Leavenworth — one place you should ski is the Stevens Pass Ski Resort. The resort offers a range of winter activities, including cross-country skiing and snowshoeing at their Nordic Center. You can also take up a private mountain guide to shred the mountain with a pro insider or experience night skiing with terrain for every level. 

Stevens Pass hosts annual live music events and skiing competitions to spice things up. Even if you’re new to skiing, you can take up a few lessons at different levels, from first-timers to private lessons. Conveniently enough, you can also rent a ski and snowboard during your stay, so you don’t have to spend money on your own equipment if you’re trying it out for the first time.

3. Check Out the Lights and Festivities at Christmas Time

Leavenworth is the ideal place if you want to experience a magical, festive, and snowy Christmas straight out of a Hollywood (or Hallmark) studio. The small village charm, blankets of snow, and Christmas decorations have made it the holiday destination for those who adore this celebration. 

What’s super impressive is how Leavenworth goes all out during this time. Every winter, the town adorns itself with over half a million Christmas lights. Then there are all the holiday characters, carolers, roasting chestnuts, and cheery music, creating a heart-warming atmosphere. 

So, if you ever wanted to take endearing Christmas photos with your loved ones, then you know where to go. Leavenworth typically kicks off its Christmas celebration one day after Thanksgiving. 

One word of advice: Plan and book in advance to avoid the December rush, as things will be packed and busy. 

4. Swim and Relax at Lake Wenatchee

Make a point to chill at Lake Wenatchee on a hot summer’s day. Lake Wenatchee State Park is a fantastic area to do a few water activities. This waterfront park has a five-mile-long glacier and snowmelt-fed lake with a depth of 244 feet. 

Lake Wenatchee boasts beautiful Switzerland-type vistas and is a popular spot for boating and windsurfing. This calm, pristine lake beautifully reflects the Cascade Mountains and their verdant foothills. It’s even better at sunset when the red and orange hues slowly creep on the tips of the mountains.  

Scenery aside, people come here to spot wildlife, swim, and simply relax on its beachy shores. You can rent boats and boards for beginner kayaking and stand-up paddling. Bring your pups with you for some fresh air and pack in the inflatables to peacefully float on the crystal blue lake. 

There’s also a shallow lagoon for pint-sized swimmers, camping spots, picnic tables, and clean bathrooms in the area. 

5. Stroll Through Front Street Park

If you want to take it easy and catch fresh air, you can peacefully stroll through Front Street Park. This quaint park features shaded paths and lawns with tree lighting, giving it a more charming ambiance. The scenery is blissful and offers you a glimpse of the local lifestyle with lots of busy shops all around. 

There are a few activities to keep the whole family entertained, including sledding, viewing local art exhibitions, and performances at The Gazebo. Some of the events that take place here are the Christmas Lighting Festival, Christkindlmarkt, Icefest, Oktoberfest, Maifest, and Kinderfest. 

The park is open daily from 6 am to midnight, and camping here is not allowed. The best part? You can bring the doggos along to enjoy the dog-friendly space and mingle with other pets.    

6. Visit a Brewery

What’s one thing you can’t miss out on when visiting Leavenworth? To immerse yourself in the local culture, popping in at a brewery is a must. Even if you’re not into beer, the vibe and experience will be a unique memory of the destination. 

While there are a handful of breweries in Leavenworth, the following places stand out, making them some of the top choices for visitors. 

Icicle Brewing Company 

Location: 935 Front St, Leavenworth

If you’re in the mood for award-winning craft beers, make your way here. This place boasts brewmasters who craft excellent beers using only high-quality ingredients. 

Interestingly, the water used in the beer-making process is sourced from Icycle Creek, located nearby. They offer tantalizing appetizers, such as cheese platters and Bavarian pretzels, to pair with the craft beers in the tasting room. 

Blewett Brewing Company

Location: 911 Commercial St, Leavenworth

Not only will the brews knock your socks off, but this gem makes some of the most unique and tastiest pizzas in town. If you’re looking for a place to spoil yourself by indulging in good food and craft beers, the Blewett Brewing Company is your go-to.  

Doghaus Brewery

Location: 321 9th St, Leavenworth

Another popular spot you should make time for, especially if you’re traveling with your furry family. Doghaus Brewery showcases the brew master’s love for dogs and beer by having a pup-friendly tasting room. What’s more delightful is that the eight different brews crafted in-house are each inspired by a dog breed. 

7. Look at the Reindeer 

One of the most exciting, bucket list-worthy things you can do in Leavenworth is to look at reindeer. You can bond with these mystical creatures at Leavenworth Reindeer Farm. This farm is one of the few places on earth where you can go inside a reindeer enclosure. 

You can create cherished moments with your loved ones, surrounded by the majestic foothills of the Cascade Mountains. The reindeer farm is family-operated and offers fun farm tours. Note that this attraction is only open to the public by appointment so you can book a tour here.  

And guess what? You will also see other adorable animals on the farm, including bunnies, chickens, horses, and ponies. 

8. Go Snowshoeing at Leavenworth Ski Hill

If you had to choose the most beginner-friendly winter activity, snowshoeing is your best bet. Compared to cross-country skiing, knowing what to wear when snowshoeing and learning how to do it is much easier. It’s not too challenging, as you’d simply walk as you usually would with slightly more effort. 

One of the best spots to take on snowshoeing is at Ski Hill. Here, you’ll find well-marked and maintained snowshoe trails starting from the base area with a good elevation gain to grant views of the city below. 

Leavenworth Winter Sports Club operates the venue and offers various sports, tickets, and equipment rentals. 

Quick warning: Stick to the marked areas for snowshoeing, as this activity is not allowed on the groomed skiing surfaces. Also, dogs aren’t allowed in this venue during winter operations.

9. Raise a Glass at the Finest Wineries 

If craft beer isn’t your thing, you’ll be happy to know that wine tasting is another splendid pastime one can take up in Leavenworth. Winemaking has picked up significantly in the Pacific Northwest, and the wineries and wine tours in Leavenworth are top-tier.

Below are some of the best award-winning wineries and wine tours: 

Icicle Ridge Winery 

Location: 8977 North Rd, Peshastin

Send your taste buds on a flavorful, fruity journey at the rustic and earthy Icicle Ridge Winery. Set in a stunning lush landscape, this log cabin winery boasts three tasting locations, unsurpassed hospitality, and breathtaking views of the Cascade Mountains. Not to mention, the wine here is exceptionally delicious with a burst of natural flavors.  

Eagle Creek Winery

Location: 10037 Eagle Creek Rd, Leavenworth

Eagle Creek Winery is one of the oldest and most famous wineries in Leavenworth. With such an excellent reputation, it’s no surprise that they produce only the highest quality premium wines. These are made from grapes that were hand-picked in their vineyard. 

If you do a tour, the winery owner will show you through his wine cellar, or you can visit Eagle Creek Winery’s d’Vinery Tasting Room. This beguiling tasting room is adorned with original paintings and hand-carved woodwork. 

Boudreaux Cellars

Location: 821 Front St, Leavenworth

For irresistibly delicious wines and an unforgettable tasting experience, head to Boudreaux Cellars. Unwind on the cozy and classy sofas while you’re being served several selections of wines to taste. They have a fabulous tasting room in Downtown Leavenworth with New Orleans French Quarter-inspired decor. 

10. Try a Pretzel 

Dig into a Bavarian classic, the humble pretzel. But wait – what’s so special about the pretzels in Leavenworth? Unlike the typical American pretzels, these are denser, chewier, and thicker. They’re also soft and taste different, as they contain less butter with more flavor and dimension. 

Here are some of the top restaurant choices for pretzels:

München Haus

Location: 709 Front St, Leavenworth

München Haus is an adorable, village-esque eatery with a pet-friendly patio and a menu that packs a punch. They boast over 50 beers on tap, and you can choose from pretzels, hot dogs, sausage, chips, and soups. 

King Ludwig’s 

Location: 921 Front St, Leavenworth

This large Bavarian-style restaurant is known for live polka music, authentic German dishes, and imported brews. However, if you’re on the hunt for pretzels, you’ll want to be here. And these aren’t just any old pretzels: they are huge, as big as your head. 

Rhein Haus

Location: 707 US Hwy 2 unit f, Leavenworth

Rhein Haus is another Bavarian-inspired eatery serving traditional German meals, including the best pretzel in town. This restaurant offers a warm and cozy vibe with fantastic views to people-watch from the breezy patio bar. 

11. Explore Tumwater Canyon 

Prefer a more outdoorsy adventure? Why not explore and climb Tumwater Canyon? This scenic canyon sits along Highway 2 on your way to Leavenworth from Stevens Pass, near the northern part of Icicle Creek. 

Tumwater has a few crags that offer longer traditional climbing, including Castle Rock and Midnight Rock. If you find sport climbs more alluring, you may head to Clem’s Holler and the surrounding crags instead. 

Camping spots in Icicle Creek Canyon are nearby if you want to extend your bonding time with nature (more on this later).  

12. Join the Oktoberfest

Mark your calendar! When it comes to unforgettable things to do, Leavenworth won’t disappoint you with its very own version of Oktoberfest. This noteworthy celebration is a Volksfest (folk fest) overflowing with pints of beer, good music, and merry conversations. 

And, of course, Leavenworth is one of the best destinations outside of Germany to celebrate this fun occasion. The Oktoberfest takes place over three weekends chock-full of entertainment. If you haven’t guessed it yet, this would be in October– which happens to be a great time to visit, thanks to cool weather and fall foliage. 

You’ll be exposed to friendly faces, German food and beer, traditional Bavarian clothing, and live musical acts. 

13. Wander Through the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum

One of the best places to visit in Leavenworth is the enchanting Nutcracker Museum. The Nutcracker is a decorative figurine that resembles a soldier. It has been part of German tradition since the 15th century, symbolizing good luck and protecting the home from malevolent spirits. 

With such a strong significance to German heritage, it makes sense for a museum entirely dedicated to this wooden toy to exist here. This magical museum is the only place in the world where you can witness more than 9,000 nutcrackers crafted in over 50 countries.

You’ll come across every kind of nutcracker, from the nutting stones of the Archaic period to modern-day acrylics. Some are also made from gold, porcelain, iron, silver, ivory, and bone.  

You can visit the museum daily between 11 am and 5 pm. Try to arrive at least 30 minutes before closing time. The admission fee is $5 for adults and free for children under 18. 

14. Soak at Hot Springs 

Feel rejuvenated and restored by soaking at Scenic Hot Springs. Tucked between mountain peaks and alpine trees, the tranquility here, paired with a steamy soak, is an excellent way to decompress. 

This breathtaking oasis is in Skykomish, central Cascades, just past Stevens Pass and 50 minutes from Leavenworth. So, it’s a bit of a drive, but it makes for a splendid day trip from Leavenworth. Before reaching the unchlorinated hot springs, you’ll embark on a two-mile uphill hike through rugged natural scenery. 

Also, you have to reserve your visit ahead of time, and you’ll have to leave the pups at home for this one.  

15. Find Gifts and Souvenirs at Downtown Leavenworth

Were you even there if you didn’t have some sort of memorabilia of your traveled destinations? Mementos are the best way to savor the essence of a place. So, it would be a good idea to collect a few trinkets from the bustling Downtown and surrounding area. 

Here’s a short list of some unique Leavenworth souvenirs to look out for while shopping around:

• Graphic t-shirts and sweatshirts from the Leavenworth Shirt Company
• Christmas ornaments from Kris Kringl
• A nutcracker from the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum gift shop
• Sunglasses, jewelry, and other small objects from Black Swan
• A beer mug from the Oktoberfest
• Chocolate from Schocolat
• Meats, sausages, and cheeses from Cured By Visconti
• Quality bottled produce from The Oil & Vinegar Cellar  

16. Go Mountain Biking in the Cascade Mountains 

The striking Cascade range provides plenty of mountain biking routes to explore more of the surrounding Washington areas. If you’re up for this adventure, you can try any of the following trails:

• Duthie Hill MTB Park – a beginner loop that’s easy and suitable for any fitness level, completed in under an hour. 
• East Tiger Mountain Loop – an intermediate bike trail that requires good fitness, completed in about two hours. 
• Raging River Loop – an expert route that requires very good fitness, completed in just under four hours.  

17. Pop In at the Greater Leavenworth Museum 

If you’re not an outdoor junkie, then places like museums are your best friends when exploring a new destination. The Greater Leavenworth Museum can be a great way to fritter away time while learning intriguing things about the town. 

For example, Leavenworth is the ancestral home of the P’Squosa people, who had lived along the Wenatchee River since ancient times. And so, this museum aims to preserve their heritage and honor their connection to these sacred lands. 

The museum also offers volunteer-led historical tours. While you’ll hear and see all about the history of pre-Bavarian Leavenworth, the tour also aims to enlighten you about the transition into the town’s modern era. 

That is just a glimpse of what you’ll experience at the Greater Leavenworth Museum. You can visit daily between 11 am and 4 pm for just  $5 per adult and free for children under 17. 

18. Hike to Colchuck Lake via Stuart Lake and Colchuck Lake Trail

• Elevation Gain: 2,342.52 feet
• Mileage: 8.6 miles (out-and-back)
• Difficulty: Hard
• Trail Guide: Link

A hike that ends with a gorgeous gleaming aquamarine lake is always worth the sweat and workout. This is why hiking to Colchuck Lake is such a sought-after thing to do near Leavenworth. Firstly, you’ll need an Alpine Lake Wilderness permit to go on this hike, and you’ll have to pay $5 per vehicle/per day at the trailhead. 

Note that this trail is strenuous, with an intense elevation and steep rocky climbs, and takes roughly five hours to complete. So, you’ve got a challenge cut out for you, starting at the trailhead off of Forest Service Road 7601 near Icicle Creek Road. 

19. Try River Rafting at Wenatchee River  

If you enjoy whitewater river rafting, then you’ll have an absolute blast at the Wenatchee River. Thanks to 300 days of sunshine yearly and epic waves, this river has become Washington’s hottest rafting destination. 

You can take on these big rapids through Wildwater River Guides, as they have high-quality equipment with certified professional experts. Starting from Leavenworth, you’ll quickly be exposed to Class III whitewater before experiencing serenity and sunshine toward the take out in Cashmere. The entire ordeal lasts between three to four hours with moderate difficulty.  

20. Camp and Fish at Icicle Creek

Sleep under the stars, light a campfire, toast some s’mores, and listen to the sound of nature. If that sounds like your childhood dream come true, waste not another moment to pitch your tent at Icicle Creek. 

This is a popular camping area in Leavenworth, thanks to its gorgeous open spaces and jaw-dropping mountain scenery. There’s a group campground on the banks of Icicle Creek, just off Icicle Road, that permits 30 campers and up to four medium-sized cars. One night here will cost $100, and there’s a portable toilet, but you’ll have to bring your own drinking water. 

You can also find a spot at Bridge Creek Campground if you’re traveling with a large group, solo, as a couple, or as a family. This camping site is located near Bridge Creek and Icicle Creek, offering both single and group sites. 

Sitting close to many trailheads, you can access portable water and a vault toilet. You’ll pay $20 per night for a single site, $125 for a group site, and $9 for an extra vehicle. 

Fishing is also possible at Icicle Creek, but don’t expect a huge catch. You’ll likely have a good number of small rainbow trout nipping, but the stunning setting also adds to the experience. 

Tours Of Leavenworth

FAQs About the Top Leavenworth Things to Do

Have more burning questions about Leavenworth, WA activities? Below are the most common questions asked by travelers. 

How Long Are the Lights Up in Leavenworth?

Leavenworth’s famous Christmas lights are on daily from Thanksgiving through the last day of February. 

Why Is Leavenworth, WA So Popular? 

Leavenworth has a magical atmosphere and stunning mountain scenery brimming with all sorts of adventure. People love the fact that it feels like you’re in Europe (Germany specifically) while in the US. 

What to Do in Leavenworth, WA, on a Budget?

You don’t have to break the bank to have fun in Leavenworth, as there are plenty of budget-friendly things to do. These include hiking, mountain biking, whitewater rafting, visiting Waterfront or Enchantment Park, cross-country skiing, and seeing the Nutcracker Museum, among others. 

Do You Need a Car in Leavenworth?

Nope. Cars are not needed, which is very reminiscent of most European destinations. Leavenworth is made for biking, walking, and sledding. However, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t drive through Downtown – walking is simply just as effective. 

Wrapping Up Things to Do in Leavenworth, Washington

Leavenworth is, without a doubt, an outdoor enthusiast’s dream come true. The Cascades loom in the background, beckoning visitors to strap on snowshoes or hiking boots. But it’s also a stellar destination to socialize and get a taste of German culture. 

It’s unique in the sense that it’s unlike other typical American towns. Instead, this Washington gem wastes no time in showing off its Bavarian traditions and culture.   

From German-inspired food to Bavarian architecture, wineries, breweries, and festivals — Leavenworth is simply worth it. 

Read next: 35 Best things to do in Washington State. 

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