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Top Things to Do in Leavenworth, Washington

Last Updated August 23, 2022 William Tang

You are here: Home » Attractions & Experiences » Top Things to Do in Leavenworth, Washington

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Leavenworth, Washington is a beautiful Bavarian village that is full of charm and culture. The scenery around the area is gorgeous, and the mountains can be seen in the near distance. Any time of year is beautiful in the city and there’s always something to do.

Whether you enjoy the outdoors, family activities, or relaxing with a nice glass of wine in front of a cozy fireplace, Leavenworth has plenty to offer. Here are some of the top attractions and things to do in Leavenworth.

Read more about Leavenworth

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Where to stay in Leavenworth?

  • For the best prices on accommodations and the most choices, Booking.com is my go-to choice especially once you reach Genius tier and you can find an additional 10-15% off places to stay.

Here's what we're covering:

  • Things To Do in Leavenworth
    • 1. Leavenworth Reindeer Farm
    • 2. Mountain Springs Lodge Sleigh Ride
    • 3. Icicle Gorge
    • 4. Waterfront Park
    • 5. Eagle Creek Ranch
    • 6. Silvara Cellars
    • 7. Leavenworth Village
  • A Quick Leavenworth, WA Travel Guide
  • Where to Stay in Leavenworth
  • Frequently Asked Questions

Things To Do in Leavenworth

best things to do in leavenworth washington and the cute bavarian village

Leavenworth is a beautiful mountain destination with scenery you won't want to miss. Only 2 hours east of Seattle, it feels like a town lifted from the region of Bavaria in Germany. Modelled as an alpine village, you immediately feel the charm of its wooden chalets with the backdrop of Washington's Cascades.

For this list, we're going to be focusing on the things you can do in Leavenworth to keep you active so you can work up that appetite to try all things German.

1. Leavenworth Reindeer Farm

close up of reindeer at the leavenworth reindeer farm
Image via Pexels by Frans Heerden

The Leavenworth Reindeer Farm is located less than a mile from the downtown area. It’s easy to access and great for families. Tours are scheduled by appointment only, so the entire experience is personal and fun.

Guests can meet the reindeer, feed them, and even pose for photos with them. The reindeer are friendly and look forward to meeting with guests. It’s perfect for holiday trips but is open all year-round. It’s an interactive experience that’s also educational.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Address: 10395 Chumstick Hwy, Leavenworth, WA 98826-9285

Hours: Reservations only

Price: $12-$20 per person

READ REVIEWS

2. Mountain Springs Lodge Sleigh Ride

mountain springs lodge sleigh ride in the winter in things to do in leavenworth
Image via Pexels by Pixabay

If you want to travel through Washington in style then be sure to check out the Mountain Springs Lodge Sleigh Ride. You will feel like you have been sent back in time as you ride across the fresh snow in an old fashioned sleigh pulled by two horses. The ride is scenic and memorable, which makes it perfect for the entire family.

After your ride, be sure to explore the rest of the lodge. There’s a large fireplace that’s perfect for warming up and sipping coffee or hot cider. The lodge also has a dining room that serves up some delicious steaks.

ACTIVITIES YOU CAN CHECK OUT

Leavenworth Christmas Tour from Seattle with Optional Sleigh Ride: Enjoy a visit to the quaint Bavarian village of Leavenworth. You will get to experience half a million Christmas lights come alive during their annual Christmas Lighting Festival! Taste authentic German food with a good beer and you have the option of adding on a horse-drawn carriage.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Address: 19115 Chiwawa Loop Rd, Leavenworth, WA 98826-9550

Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Seasonal Hour

Price: $16 to $42

BOOK

3. Icicle Gorge

icicle gorge milky river flow near leavenworth
Image via Flickr by RWShea Photography

Icicle Gorge is a beautiful place to hike and spend the day. It’s gorgeous any time of year, and the hike isn’t difficult. Along the hike, you will see plenty of trees, bridges, cliffs, and overhanging rocks. In the winter, there are icicles hanging from the rocks, which is where the gorge got its name.

The trail loops around, so you end where you start, and it’s easily accessible from the parking lot. The scenery is picturesque, and in the warmer months, the wildlife is very active. The entire hike is about four miles long.

This trail map is the most helpful to see how the hike follows Icicle Creek, where the trailhead is, and where the it loops around.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Address: Wenatchee River Ranger District, Leavenworth, WA

Hours: Daylight hours

Price: Free

READ REVIEWS

4. Waterfront Park

fall colours at waterfront park in leavenworth washington
Image via Flickr by Pictoscribe

This park has a lot to offer, and it’s open all year round. Waterfront Park offers many hiking trails, picnic spots, and fishing spots. Pets are welcome, and there’s plenty of room for a family reunion and special events.

Bridges allow access to Blackbird Park, and there are clean bathrooms located throughout the area. There’s a ballfield and ramps where small boats and kayaks can enter the water.

It’s ideal for families or anyone who loves the outdoors.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Address: 500 9th St, Leavenworth, WA 98826

Hours: Daylight hours

Price: Free

READ REVIEWS

5. Eagle Creek Ranch

sunset horseback riding with eagle creek ranch
Image via Pexels by Willsantt

Eagle Creek Ranch is the perfect place to get some fresh air and see some amazing natural sights. The ranch offers horseback trail rides as well as winter sleigh rides. The trails are easy to navigate, and the horses are tame and friendly.

Children and adults can both enjoy the trail rides, and no experience is required. The trails go through the Wenatchee National Forest, which offers spectacular views of the mountains and forest.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Address: 7951 Eagle Creek Rd, Take Chumstick Highway, Leavenworth, WA 98826-9529

Hours: Vary by season

Price:$15 to $60 per person

READ REVIEWS

6. Silvara Cellars

silvara cellars winery tasting room
Image via Flickr by Richard “Dick” Morgan

Silvara Cellars is a winery that produced limited craft batches of wine. All the fruits used to make the wine are sourced from Washington State. The winery offers tours and tastings to small groups. Each tour lasts about two hours.

The tasting room offers great views and gives guests a chance to try the wines they saw being made on the tour. Bottles of wine and other souvenirs are available for purchase and even shipped home if desired. In addition to being one of the more popular things to do in Leavenworth WA, the winery is also available for special events and weddings in

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Address: 77 Stage Rd, Leavenworth, WA 98826-9049

Hours: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Price: Varies

READ REVIEWS

7. Leavenworth Village

leavenworth bavarian village
Image via Unsplash by Rosalie Barley

Last, but not least is the Leavenworth Village itself. So far, all of the things to do in Leavenworth have been focused on exploring the wonders of nature and one-of-a-kind experiences outside of town but you'll certainly be spending a lot of time here as your base camp.

The German theme of the town wasn't always like this but in the 1960s, street names, building signs, and architecture was completely remodelled to spur tourism, and it worked! As part of that, the town also stated to host Maifest, Autumn Leaf Festival and Christmas Lighting Ceremony.

Today, the unique Cascade Mountain backdrop gives way the idyllic town that feels like you've been transported to Bavaria.

You can do all things German here with places such as the Nussknacker Haus and The Gingerbread Factory. There's a proper biergarten set up at the Leavenworth Sausage Garten and German pilsners you can take away at Icicle Brewing Company. You also can't miss Andreas Keller Restaurant where you can have traditional schnitzel, all kinds of sausage (wurst), spätzle, and giant pretzels.

A Quick Leavenworth, WA Travel Guide

If you find yourself wondering what to do in Leavenworth, WA, or which Leavenworth activities to try, consider some of the options above. Whether traveling alone, with friends, or with family, there are plenty of things to do in Leavenworth that will keep everyone having fun and help you make some lasting memories. Here are a few suggestions to make your trip even better.

Money – It’s a good idea to carry some cash while traveling in Leavenworth, WA, but both attractions and restaurants due take credit cards. Many of the most popular things to things to do in Leavenworth Washington are completely free.

When Is The Best Time? – Leavenworth is beautiful all year long, but one of the best time to visit is fall or winter. In the fall, the leaves are changing, and the scenery is beautiful. In the winter, the snow falls fresh regularly, and icicles hang in the place of waterfalls. Of course in the summer is when the weather is the most pleasant with the fresh mountain air and warmth of the sun. Festivals occur all year round so make sure to check their calendar.

Getting Here – There are many ways to get to Leavenworth, WA. Seattle is only 2 hours from Leavenworth, making it a great weekend or even day trip. Canadians from Vancouver can also get here in only 4 hours. You can also easily drive here from the nearby Portland or Spokane. Amtrak services Leavenworth by train with No. 7 (from Chicago) and No. 8 (from Seattle). By air, there's Pangborn Memorial Airport in East Wenatchee that has direct flights from Seattle with Horizon Air (subsidiary of Alaska Airlines). Lastly, there is always a daily bus service with Trailways.

Getting Around – If you truly want to experience everything the area has to offer, driving is the best way to get around. You can travel at your own pace and take the time to stop and enjoy the scenery and attractions as you choose. If you require a rental car, make sure you know about car rental discount codes to save a ton of money.

Where to Stay in Leavenworth

There are many accommodations options in Leavenworth depending on your travel style and budget. Here are a few top recommendations.

CONDO HOTEL

alpen dorf pension condo hotel interior

ALPEN DORF PENSION

During your stay at this hotel you can take advantage of their free onsite parking and take a hike, going skiing, or cycling in the surrounding area. Your unit will include a kitchen with a microwave, fridge, seating area, and a private bathroom. There is also free WiFi in this lovely condo hotel.

TripAdvisor
Booking.com

ALPINE CABIN

alpine thyme cabin rental in leavenworth

ALPINE THYME CABIN

This is a full-house cottage rental featuring air condition, free wifi, private parking, BBQ, and canoeing with its waterfront access.

A reviewer recently said “Location was easy to find. Quaint cabin with good sleeping arrangements.”

VRBO
Booking.com

BAVARIAN EXPERIENCE

bavarian lodge in leavenworth

BAVARIAN LODGE

While in Leavenworth, you might as well go all out with the themed experience and stay at this beautifully decorated lodge that will feel like you're right in the middle of a German alpine village. Free breakfast is offered daily here and the rooms are extremely cozy and comfortable.

TripAdvisor
Booking.com

LUXURY

icicle village resort exterior in where to stay in leavenworth

ICICLE VILLAGE RESORT

Spoil yourself with a stay at this beautiful resort that includes an on-site spa. You will love a swim in their outdoor pool, soaking in their hot tub or take in a drink at their bar. Every room includes a private bathroom and some suites include a seating area. Park for free at this resort and you can enjoy a complimentary breakfast buffet daily.

TripAdvisor
Booking.com

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Woody Goomsba?

Woody is the official ambassador of Leavenworth and he's a guy known for being willing to work for peanuts.

What is the weather like in Leavenworth?

Leavenworth experiences all four seasons! Summer highs can reach between the 80s to 90s with cool nights. Winter time is full of glistening snow with a town full of famous Christmas lights for a beautiful atmosphere.

How do I get to and around Leavenworth?

You'll find that Leavenworth is a town designed for walking, biking, or sledding. When travelling to Leavenworth you can take an Amtrak into town from Seattle and Spokane daily. Don't forget to keep your eyes peeled for the stunning vista's and mountain peaks along your journey.

What you should read next

  • Things to Do in San Juan Islands, Washington
  • Top things to do in Richmond BC
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  • Best destinations to RV in the USA

Featured image via Unsplash by Rosalie Barley

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About William Tang

William is the Chief of Awesome at Going Awesome Places which is focused on off-the-beaten-path, outdoor adventure, and experiential travel. His true passion lies in telling stories, inspiring others to travel, writing detailed trip itineraries to help others plan their own trips, and providing helpful tips and tricks to guide readers to travel better. He is based in Toronto, Canada but you'll find him on the road more often than not. Make sure to learn more about William to find out his story and how Going Awesome Places started.

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author will tang going awesome places profile photoHey, my name is Will and I'm here to help you travel to some awesome places around the world and my home country of Canada by providing insanely detailed itineraries, travel guides, and packing lists.

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