Nestled in majestic, wooded mountains, Leavenworth, WA is one of those amazing, tiny towns that seem to exist solely for visitors. So where do the locals live? Only when you venture out of the Bavarian-themed central hub do you notice a few residential houses peppered on the edge of town. If you’re looking for things to do in Leavenworth, Washington, you can find block upon block of Bavarian-styled shops and restaurants. And that’s just the beginning.

Disclaimer: This article was updated December 2023.

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Leavenworth in the Summer

I have been to Leavenworth a handful of times, and each time seems a little different. Probably because I have visited in all for seasons. Central Washington, unlike the coast here in the PNW, experiences all four seasons and it is fantastic. However, summertimeoffers the best opportunity for recreation just outside of town (more on that later.)Even the local dentist and lawyer’s office is located in classic structures that look as though they leapt off the screen from A Sound of Music. With all of its European charm, one would not expect to find a Starbucks, and yet there was one! But it was not easy to find. It was tucked away at the end of a street with the Starbucks name discreetly painted (Bavarian style) over the door. With all of its hotels and kitschy gift shops, some might call Leavenworth a tourist trap, but it’s the most charming trap I can think of.

Leavenworth Street — Bavarian oasis in the heart of Washington State.

Things to Do in Leavenworth Washington

Leavenworth, Washington, often likened to a Bavarian village in the heart of the United States, is a shopping paradise for those seeking unique finds. Downtown Leavenworth is dotted with numerous charming boutiques, offering a variety of items from local crafts, handmade jewelry, to intricate Christmas decorations. Food lovers will find delight in the local gourmet shops, where they can discover an array of culinary treats including chocolates, cheeses, and a wide selection of locally-brewed craft beers and wines.

Visit the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum – This museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in history or art. It boasts a collection of over 7,000 nutcrackers, some dating back centuries. It’s open year-round, though the best time to visit is during the Christmas season when the town is festively decorated. The admission fee is $5 for adults and $3.50 for children.

Attend Oktoberfest – Leavenworth hosts one of the most authentic Oktoberfest celebrations outside of Germany. Visitors can enjoy traditional German food, music, and beer. The festival runs for three weekends in October, and the admission fee varies depending on the day you choose to attend.

Stroll through the Front Street Park – This park is the heart of Leavenworth where many community events take place. It is beautiful year-round, but especially so during spring when the flowers are in full bloom.

Christmas in Leavenworth Washington

Notably, Leavenworth truly comes alive during the Christmas season, transforming into a stunning winter wonderland. The streets are adorned with millions of twinkling lights that create a magical ambiance, while the snow-covered rooftops and pine trees add to the festive charm. Shoppers can explore special Christmas-themed stores, such as Kris Kringl, where you can find every imaginable Christmas decoration, from exquisitely carved ornaments to awe-inspiring nativity scenes.

Mountain Goat — Some company on our trek.

Hikes Near Leavenworth

Icicle Gorge: We made a bee-line for this trail since I’d heard too much about it – it did not disappoint! Icicle Gorge is a 4.5-mile loop trail. It’s a moderate to challenging hike, where the path can get quite rocky as you slowly ascend the side of the mountain. We were even fortunate to get a glimpse of a mountain goat looking down at us from the top! The trail winds along the Icicle Creek, offering spectacular views of the gorge and an abundance of wildflowers in spring and summer.

Stuart Lake: A moderately difficult trail, Stuart Lake is a 9-mile round trip that presents hikers with stunning views of Mount Stuart. The trail leads you through enchanting forests and meadows before reaching the awe-inspiring lake.

Colchuck Lake: This stunning trail is a 8-mile round trip that takes you to a mesmerizing turquoise lake, offering breathtaking views of Dragontail and Colchuck peaks. The trail is rated as difficult, making it a perfect pick for seasoned hikers.

Leavenworth Lodging

We spent the night at the Bavarian Lodge. Upon check-in we were greeted warmly and given a small bag of house-made chocolate chip cookies. Our room was towards the back of the lodge with a great view of the mountains. As we walked in the room we were met with a tiny stuffed grizzly bear (available for purchase) on the bed.

Teddy Bear — This little guy greeted us upon check-in.

And for those who are a little more adventurous, stay in this really cool cave!

Food in Leavenworth WA

By the time we settled in our room, our stomachs were growling, so we went in search of a reasonably priced meal. There are many different restaurants to choose from in Leavenworth; whether you’re in the mood for American, Mexican, Italian, or (of course) German. Most of the sit-down restaurants are a bit pricey, being a tourist town. However, after a little searching, we ended up at the perfect place; the Munchen Haus. For under $20 you can have an authentic German hot dog, a bag of chips AND a local draft beer. Compliment your dog with a vast array of sauces and yes, real German sauerkraut!

Here are some other places to check out if you are not into German food:

The Renaissance Cafe – This elegant and traditional American cafe offers a breakfast menu brimming with classics. With their fluffy pancakes, hearty omelets, and strong coffee, The Renaissance Cafe provides a homely, comfortable atmosphere to start your day right.

Homefires Bakery – A breakfast gem, Homefires Bakery is famed for its freshly baked bread and pastries. The quaint, homely atmosphere perfectly suits the bakery’s comforting menu, making it an ideal place to start your day.

Mozart’s Restaurant provides diners with a unique blend of elegance and comfort. The ambiance is reminiscent of a classic European café, with delicate lighting and tastefully chosen decor. The menu offers a diverse range of European-inspired dishes, with emphasis on quality and authenticity. It’s undoubtedly a great place to eat due to its impeccable service and the immersive culinary experience it provides.

Rudloof’s Pizza is a beloved spot among locals and tourists alike, offering a casual and vibrant environment that’s perfect for families. The menu is comprehensive, featuring a wide variety of pizzas, each boasting unique, delectable toppings. The friendly staff and the restaurant’s commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients make Rudloof’s a fantastic choice for a satisfying meal.

Visconti’s of Leavenworth is a true gem in the heart of the city. Visitors are greeted with a warm, inviting atmosphere, where rustic charm meets modern elegance. The menu reflects the best of Italian cuisine, offering a wide range of pasta, seafood, meats, and decadent desserts. The reason why it’s a standout place to eat lies in its commitment to provide a memorable dining experience, combining the flavors of Italy with the hospitality of Leavenworth.

The town of Leavenworth offers more than just a unique shopping experience; it gives its visitors a chance to immerse themselves in a different culture without having to travel overseas. The breathtaking Alpine scenery, the enchanting Christmas lights, and the warmth of the local people make it a perfect holiday getaway. Whether you’re a shopaholic, a foodie, a nature lover, or simply looking for a festive place to spend your winter holiday, Leavenworth, Washington, should be at the top of your list.

The Desert in Washington State

We decided to stock up on snacks for the trip back to Portland the next day, so we stopped at the Safeway on the edge of town (also a Bavarian-style building). Leaving Leavenworth, we drove south on highway 97. The countryside in central Washington is dramatic, where you are surrounded by endless ranch land. This is high desert country at its best. At one point we were on a remote straight road, sagebrush on either side of us, when off in the distance I could see some sort of livestock start to cross the road. As we drove closer, we slowed down to a crawl as a huge flock of sheep continued to cross and surrounded our car, complete with a sheep dog.

A Nifty Side Trip

My husband grew up in central Washington, and recently he was able to trace a couple of his pioneer ancestors to a Methodist cemetery just northeast of Goldendale, WA. A little pocket of history in the middle of nowhere. We stopped and he was able to find his great-great-grandparents’ graves. It turns out they were one of the founders of the nearby town of Bickleton.