33 Best & Fun Things To Do In Leavenworth (Washington)

Folk dancers.

Snow-covered inns on sleepy streets.

Big, breathtaking mountains in the distance.

This is just a snapshot of Leavenworth, Washington.

Best known for its quaint and charming Bavarian village, it’s also a prime sightseeing destination nestled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains, offering tons of opportunities to explore nature.

You can go skiing, camping, climbing, horseback riding, sleigh riding, and more.

A prime festival destination, Leavenworth also hosts a number of special events each year, so there’s always a reason for fireworks in the town square.

From Maifest to Oktoberfest, you could fill your entire calendar with its celebrations!

There’s also the charm of the town itself.

Though it has the look of an old-fashioned German village, there’s plenty of modernity in its trendy basement wineries and gourmet cheese shops.

It balances the old with the new quite nicely.

Ultimately, however, this Bavarian-themed town is a year-round destination.

Let’s talk about all of the cool things to do in Leavenworth!

1. Downtown Leavenworth

With its unique cultural charm, downtown Leavenworth isn’t like any other downtown that you’ve visited.

Forget the gleaming spires of modern skyscrapers: Leavenworth offers quaint, alpine-style architecture framed by misty mountains, making it a cross between a ski village and a historic German town.

The buildings have thatched roofs, wooden shutters, and wide balconies.

The town center is filled with mom-and-pop businesses that range from pubs and candy shops to old-fashioned inns.

All foot traffic is directed down Front Street, a pedestrian-friendly avenue where people can be seen milling around at all hours of the day; you can eat, drink, shop, and explore from sunup to sundown.

Make sure to enjoy some traditional German favorites such as bratwurst and beer while you’re there!

Downtown Leavenworth is exactly what you’d expect when you first hear about the Bavarian-style village in Washington State.

Let your visions come to life by stopping here first.

Address: 800 Front Street, Leavenworth, WA 98826, United States

2. Oktoberfest

Held over the course of not one, not two, but three weekends, Leavenworth’s Oktoberfest is one of the largest in the country.

It also celebrates German culture in ways that go far beyond beer.

Bavarian culture, of course, can be seen in everything from the music to the dress; it’s not uncommon for visitors as well as staff to put on their best trachten.

Other forms of culture can be found in food stalls, craft tables, demonstration booths, and more.

Let’s be honest, however.

If you’re going to Oktoberfest, you’re going for the beer.

The good news is that the taps never stop flowing, and authentic, imported brews can be found in every beer garden.

There are also plenty of brats to fill your belly and help you keep pace!

If you’re wondering what to do while in Washington, check the calendar.

If it’s October, the answer is always Oktoberfest.

Address: Leavenworth, WA, United States

3. Greater Leavenworth Museum

There are many points of interest in Leavenworth, so if you don’t want to miss any, take a trip to the Greater Leavenworth Museum.

Not only can it bring local landmarks to your attention, but the museum also offers walking tours around town with the price of admission.

You can make your bucket list as you go!

The museum itself is dedicated to the preservation of Leavenworth’s history and its role in the economic development of Washington.

As you might imagine, there’s a big emphasis on Bavarian culture and the German immigrants who brought it over and turned it into the town’s mainstay.

When you’re done with the exhibits and galleries, take the guided walking tours.

One, the Railroad and Mill Tour, will take you along the Wenatchee River and show you how early settlers harnessed the power of water for steam-engine trains.

Another, the Town Walking Tour, will chaperone you around downtown Leavenworth and showcase local shops, restaurants, movie theaters, and government buildings.

With so many things to see in Leavenworth, it helps to have knowledgeable locals telling you where to go.

Visit the Greater Leavenworth Museum to make the very best of your time in town.

Address: 735 Front St 2nd Floor, Leavenworth, WA 98826, United States

4. Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum

The Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum has to be seen to be believed.

Lined, stacked, and stuffed with more than 6,000 nutcrackers, it’s the largest museum of its kind, and it pays homage to endless styles of nutcrackers from all around the world.

You’re probably familiar with the traditional wooden dolls from ballets like The Nutcracker.

In fact, since the museum was started by a former ballet dancer, these kings, knights, and soldiers are the most colorfully prominent collections in the building.

There are many others, however, ranging from Victorian silver to Asian bezel to European ivory and porcelain.

Some are finely carved figures; others are crude, shapeless tools forged in blacksmith shops.

You can walk the galleries and see nutcrackers of all shapes and sizes that date back literal centuries.

The Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum is one of the most unique places to visit in the city.

If you’re looking for Leavenworth attractions that’ll make a great story when you get home, go visit a building filled with thousands of nutcrackers.

Address: 735 Front St, Leavenworth, WA 98826, United States

5. Waterfront Park

Washington is known for its lush scenery, and nowhere is this more apparent than Waterfront Park.

Stretching along the river with trails that weave in and out of shaded woodlands, it offers the best of land, water, and sky in Leavenworth.

Hiking, of course, is the main attraction, but there are other outdoor activities to enjoy as well.

You can hit up a beach inlet on a hot day or go bird watching in the thickets on a cool one.

Other popular pastimes include fishing, tubing, and picnicking.

Another great thing about Waterfront Park is that it’s a year-round destination.

From dazzling yellow leaves in the fall to crackling, icy currents in the winter, you can find beauty in every season.

There are also fun seasonal events like the salmon making their way upstream in late summer.

All things considered, a trip to Waterfront Park is one of the top things to do in Leavenworth.

No matter when you’re headed to the Pacific Northwest, you can enjoy a breath of fresh air here.

Address: Leavenworth, WA 98826, United States

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6. Leavenworth Reindeer Farm

As a charming, old-fashioned European village tucked into the foothills of the mountains, Leavenworth has a strong association with Christmas.

You can channel your own holiday spirit with a trip to the Reindeer Farm.

Family-owned and operated, the Reindeer Farm will be a delight for all ages.

It’s home to dozens of reindeer, including baby reindeer when the season is right, and visitors can directly interact with the animals via petting and feeding.

You can also tour the stables and grounds to learn more about the farm and its conservation efforts.

When you’re done, make sure to hit up the gift shop with its plethora of reindeer-themed souvenirs!

The Reindeer Farm is one of the most fun tourist attractions in the city, so even if it isn’t Christmastime, feel free to stop by and see Santa’s most loyal friends.

The grounds are open year-round.

Address: 10395 Chumstick Hwy, Leavenworth, WA 98826, United States

7. Smallwood’s Harvest

Though technically located in Peshastin, Washington, Smallwood’s Harvest is only 20 minutes away from Leavenworth.

Even more importantly, it’s a day trip worth making!

Serving as a cross between a country store and a small amusement park, Smallwood’s Harvest offers all kinds of games, goodies, and activities for visitors of all ages.

The store is its central attractions, and its shelves are packed with everything from fresh kettlecorn to canned jams and jellies that could survive for decades in a bunker.

The store also lets anarchy reign supreme outside.

There’s a petting zoo and a duck pond; there’s a cow-themed kids’ train; there’s a place to hunt for gold and a place to get lost in a maze.

When you’re done with the shop, you can also hop right over to Prey’s Fruit Barn, a similarly bustling attraction that also has the distinction of being Washington’s largest fruit stand.

If you’re wondering what to do in Leavenworth, do it all.

A trip to Smallwood’s Harvest will be fun, chaotic, and thoroughly memorable for everyone involved.

Address: 10461 Stemm Rd Suite A, Peshastin, WA 98847, United States

8. Enchantment Park

If you’re on a budget, there are many free things to do in and near Leavenworth.

One such activity is a trip to Enchantment Park.

Inspired by Field of Dreams and one man’s mission to build a baseball diamond, locals labored for years to create a park and sports complex that would benefit the community.

Enchantment Park is the result of their efforts, and it includes playgrounds, sports fields, and a number of trails.

The trails are a particularly noteworthy feature of the park since they’re connected to an entire network of nature paths and trailheads along the Wenatchee River.

Other cool places to see include the Enchantment Park Pond, also known as the Blackbird Island Pond, a fishing hole that’s open only to youth, senior citizens, and people with disabilities.

It’s a safe space for them to explore their hobby without the crowds of other fishing spots.

All in all, Enchantment Park is just as enchanting as its name, and it’s a fun, free destination that won’t cost you a dime.

There are definitely worse ways to spend an afternoon with the kids.

Address: 300 Enchantment Park Way, Leavenworth, WA 98826, United States

9. Leavenworth ZipLines

Anyone can go for a scenic drive around a mountain.

How many people can say that they’ve soared across treetops and scoped out entire canyons and valleys from 190 feet high?

This is the experience that you’ll have at Leavenworth ZipLines.

Offering nine different ziplines, you can basically choose your own adventure and strap in.

From suspension bridges to double-decker platforms, you’ll have plenty of opportunities for breathless, exhilarating fun.

Other stuff to do in the area includes sightseeing and shopping.

You can even grab a bite to eat at the nearby Old Mill Cafe, home to Texas-style country cooking that’ll make you feel like you’re in the south rather than Washington!

Between its food, fun, and fantastically death-defying rides, Leavenworth ZipLines is definitely a stop worth making while you’re in town.

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

10. Rhein Haus

If you love the Bavarian theme of Leavenworth’s attractions, you won’t want to miss the most German tradition of them all: eating a hearty meal with a cold beer to wash it all down!

Rhein Haus isn’t the only restaurant in the city to embody Bavarian culture, but it’s a favorite among the locals, so you can rest assured that it’s authentic.

The atmosphere is warm and unpretentious.

The menu offers all kinds of staples, including bratwurst, kielbasa, and schnitzel, as well as fun extras like beer-cheese fondue served with gigantic pretzels.

There are plenty of entertainment options, too.

With multiple bars, patios, and biergartens, you can wander this “house” like a real tourist attraction.

When you’re feeling hungry in Leavenworth, make your dinner stop a good one.

Fuel up on traditional Bavarian food in a traditional Bavarian setting.

How many times in your life will you get this kind of chance?

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

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11. Leavenworth Ski Hill

The Leavenworth Ski Hill is one of the most iconic places to visit in town.

It’s been around since the early 1900s, so it’s a site of much childhood nostalgia for the locals, and everyone will recommend it to you when you’re looking for wintertime in Leavenworth.

It started as a simple incline where kids gathered with their sleds.

Today, after decades of expansion, the entire “Leavenworth Ski Hill Historic District” encompasses hills, trails, and lodges for overnight stays.

There’s plenty of fun to be had on the hill.

Skiing is in the name, but there’s also snowboarding, snowshoeing, snow tubing, and fat biking.

You can even visit in the summer to enjoy warm weather activities like mountain biking and running alpine obstacle courses.

You don’t have to visit fancy ski resorts to enjoy powder-fresh slopes in Washington.

Just swing by the Leavenworth Ski Hill, home of generations of fun!

Address: 10701 Ski Hill Dr, Leavenworth, WA 98826, United States

12. Lake Wenatchee State Park

Picture a basin of bright blue water surrounded by majestic, snow-capped mountains.

This is what it looks like at Lake Wenatchee State Park.

Offering hills, lakes, cliffs, canyons, lagoons, and more, this park is a jewel of the Pacific Northwest.

Its stunning scenery is topped only by its staggering amount of fun things to do on a day trip.

From sailboarding to dog sledding to shellfish harvesting, you can explore the great outdoors in ways that you’ve never even considered before.

It’s a particularly popular destination with windsurfers thanks to its unique topography!

Filled with natural wonder, Lake Wenatchee State Park is among the top of Leavenworth’s attractions.

There’s a reason why it attracts thousands of visitors every year.

Check it out!

Address: Leavenworth, WA 98826, United States

13. Mountain Springs Lodge

There’s so much fun to be had at the Mountain Springs Lodge that you won’t know where to start.

Though it’s primarily a resort, it offers a wide range of activities to get you out of your room and into the great outdoors, including skiing, snowmobiling, kayaking, ziplining, fly fishing, and sleigh riding.

The resort is nothing to sneeze at, either.

Though it has a country-style aesthetic that befits the mountains and the open sky, it’s luxury lodging through and through.

You can book honeymoon suites with jacuzzis and wet bars.

You can rent out entire buildings for weddings, corporate retreats, and other large-scale events.

The sight of mountain peaks in the distance will be outdone only by the pools and gardens right in front of you.

If you’re looking for top-dollar accommodation during your vacation, the Mountain Springs Lodge is the place to be.

You’ll fill up this weekend and the next with indoor luxuries and outdoor adventures.

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

14. Front Street Park

Located in the heart of downtown, Front Street Park is a great recreational spot for couples, families, and solo travelers who want the perfect selfie with vintage German charm.

A gazebo sits in the center of the park, and it’s often used as a gathering spot for local events, including concerts, folk shows, and Christmas lighting ceremonies.

A maibaum, or maypole, represents the town’s Bavarian roots, and it sees a lot of use during fairs and festivals.

“Art in the Park” is a recent addition to the area that showcases the talent of local artists and sculptors.

The natural scenery is beautiful, too.

Its tree-lined lawns are ideal for picnicking and stargazing.

Its hills are popular sledding sites in the winter.

Front Street Park is definitely one of the coolest things to do in Leavenworth.

What’s more, it’s conveniently located in the downtown area, so you can hop right from the commercial pleasures of dining and shopping to the quiet peacefulness of the park!

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

15. WooHoo Winery

Give a shout for the WooHoo Winery!

Sourcing its grapes from central Washington’s vineyards, it’s a lovely, community-oriented business that prides itself on good flavors, quality ingredients, and a welcoming atmosphere for visitors from all over the country.

Its tasting room is its point of pride.

Tucked into the basement and perfect for staying warm on cold Washington nights, it’s a quaint and cozy kind of place.

The tables are made from aged oak barrels, and they’re topped with everything from cheese platters to little games to play while you sit and sip your wine.

Samples are available if you don’t know what you want.

Bottles can be purchased once you find a favorite.

Whether you’re a sommelier or just a person who enjoys a nice glass of red, the WooHoo Winery is a must-do in Leavenworth.

It’s one of those places to go that will remain in your memory long after you’ve returned home.

Address: 725 Front St, Leavenworth, WA 98826, United States

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16. Bavarian Icefest

Held every January, the Bavarian Icefest is one of those fun places to go that’s all the more magical for being temporary.

The town is transformed for Christmas, and the festival takes place amidst a half-million holiday lights strung between angels, icicles, reindeer, and other thematically appropriate decorations.

As for the IceFest itself, things to see include everything from snowshoe demonstrations to live ice-carving competitions.

You can also participate in events like the Snowball Toss and the Ice Cube Scramble.

If you’re a thrill seeker, you’ll love the snowmobile rides and skiing and snowboarding lessons; if you’re the quieter type, you can enjoy the tranquility of ice fishing or trying your hand at building a snow sculpture.

A fireworks show will mark the end of the festival.

If you’ll be in Leavenworth at the start of the year, you won’t want to miss the Bavarian IceFest.

It’s a beautiful sight that offers good, clean family fun, so it’ll be a nice stop for visitors of all ages.

Address: Leavenworth, WA, United States

17. Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery

The Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery is a grand complex that used to be even grander.

When it was originally built in the 1940s, it was the largest fish hatchery in the world!

It’s been outclassed by other hatcheries since then, but it’s still an impressive place: It processes more than 1.2 million Chinook salmon each year.

If you’re interested, you can take a tour of the hatchery to learn more about this process and why it’s so vital to the local economy.

Otherwise, feel free to explore the other attractions offered on the complex grounds, including nature trails, picnic areas, fishing areas, and public boat launches.

If you’re in town in September, it also plays host to the annual Wenatchee River Salmon Festival, one of the top attractions in the region for seafood lovers.

If you’re looking for fun places to visit in the central Washington area, consider the Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery.

Even if you aren’t a fisherman yourself, it’s hard not to marvel at everything that happens here.

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

18. Icicle Gorge Trail

Located within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, the Icicle Gorge Trail is a bit of a misnomer.

It isn’t cold or treacherous; it’s actually quite beautiful.

It received the name Nasikelt from the indigenous people of Washington, and this was later mistaken for the word “icicle.”

Today, visitors to the Icicle Gorge Trail can enjoy a relatively easy 4.5-mile trek through the mountains.

The path is rugged but well maintained, and there’s signage every step of the way.

You’ll be able to see rivers, cliffs, hills, woods, and a variety of flora and fauna.

Many folks from nearby cities like to come here to get a breath of fresh air while surrounded by nature’s splendor.

If you’re in Washington and wondering what to do this weekend, consider hitting up the Icicle Gorge Trail.

Not only is it a beautiful destination near Leavenworth, but it can also serve as a gateway to the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest if you feel like exploring the wilderness even further.

Address: Leavenworth, WA 98826, United States

19. Autumn Leaf Festival

If you’ll be traveling to Washington in the fall, you won’t want to miss the Autumn Leaf Festival.

It’s one of the longest-running festivals in the state, and it draws thousands of visitors each year to walk under the brilliantly colored leaves and sip on warm ciders.

The fun doesn’t stop there, however.

This multi-day festival offers food, drink, music, and more.

Attend a car show; throw your hands up at outdoor musical performances; sit back and watch a parade filled with floats and fireworks.

As you might imagine, most things at the festival have a fall theme, so expect to see lots of apples and breathe in the constant scent of cinnamon and pumpkin spice.

However, true to Leavenworth’s roots, there’s usually Bavarian culture on display as well.

The parade often has Bavarian folk dancers, for instance.

The Autumn Leaf Festival is among the nicest of Leavenworth attractions.

In addition to its spectacular scenery, it offers an abundance of fall-themed fun that takes advantage of both time and place to become an event that’s truly memorable.

Address: Leavenworth, WA, United States

20. Eagle Creek Ranch

Are you tired of hiking and biking the world’s nature trails?

How about experiencing them on horseback?

It’s just one of the many activities offered by Eagle Creek Ranch, a family-run establishment that has special permission to operate within protected areas of the Wenatchee National Forest.

Not only will it be a fun trip for you, but it’ll also be an exclusive one: Most tourists aren’t able to see the places that you’ll see.

Summer is the season for horseback riding.

In the wintertime, you’ll transition to horse-drawn sleigh rides.

Ranch tours, meanwhile, are offered year round, so you can explore the grounds and learn what it’s like for the various stallions of Washington.

You don’t have to be an equestrian to appreciate Eagle Creek Ranch.

It’s one of the top things to do in Leavenworth for anyone who can appreciate the beauty of nature from either a sled or a saddle.

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

21. Penstock Trail

You can’t visit a ruggedly beautiful destination like Washington without experiencing the great outdoors.

Thankfully, places like Penstock Trail are accessible to hikers of all ages and skill levels.

Also known as the Old Pipeline Trail, the Penstock Trail was originally a gigantic water pipe that delivered kinetic energy to steam-powered trains.

Today, it’s been converted to a pedestrian bridge overlooking the Wenatchee River, and it offers stunning aerial views of the currents and their surrounding pines and canyons.

Summer and fall are the best times to go; spring often sees the path flooded, and winter can make it too icy to navigate.

When the weather is right, however, this is an easy, beginner-friendly path that’ll let you get some fresh air without huffing and puffing.

It’ll make for great vacation photos, too.

A stroll down the Penstock Trail is one of the most scenic places in USA.

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

22. Leavenworth Summer Theater

From The Secret Garden to The Sound of Music, there’s always another curtain call at the Leavenworth Summer Theater.

However, this isn’t a stuffy performance venue where you have to squeeze yourself onto a crowded balcony.

It’s a completely outdoor stage!

With the mountains rising in the distance, you’ve never seen a theater quite like this one.

All performances are open air, so whether they’re singing, yodeling, or tap dancing, the people on stage are belting it out with real force.

The audience is kept small, so there’s not even a need for audio or video equipment.

You’ll be close enough to see them, hear them, and count the stitches on their costumes.

Like its name suggests, the Leavenworth Summer Theater is a summertime phenomenon, so you’ll need to be in town at the right time to enjoy it.

If you can make it, however, it’ll be a truly one-of-a-kind experience to see Fiddler on the Roof under an open sky.

Address: 928 Pine St, Leavenworth, WA 98826, United States

23. Icicle Outfitters and Guides

With so many tourist attractions in Washington, how are you supposed to know which ones are worth your time?

One solution is to book a tour with Icicle Outfitters and Guides.

Offering single- and multi-day excursions into the wild, Icicle Outfitters and Guides can take you to all of the major points of interest in the Cascade Mountains.

You can view cliffs and canyons; you can walk among fields of wildflowers under big blue skies; you can lay under glittering canopies of stars that have never known light pollution.

You won’t be just an observer, either.

You’ll have opportunities to go fishing, camping, photographing, horseback riding, and more.

All that you need is a sleeping bag.

Your tour guides will take care of the rest.

If you’re ready to explore the best of Washington’s natural beauty, call Icicle Outfitters and Guides!

Address: 7503 Cyo Rd, Leavenworth, WA 98826, United States

24. Blue Spirits Distilling

There are several breweries and distilleries in Leavenworth, but Blue Spirits Distilling is the best.

It takes a foundational approach to its vodkas, tequilas, rums, and whiskeys, basing everything off the clear and pure waters that run through Icicle Creek.

Its motto is “no spirit can be better than the water that makes it proof.”

The bar is open daily, and an on-site restaurant offers tastings and “small bites” to complement your drinks.

You can also sign up for special events like demonstrations of the cold still brewing equipment.

The latter won’t cost you a dime, so if you’re on a budget, it can be an option for free things to do in the city.

Consider a drink at Blue Spirits Distilling if you’re thinking about what to do with your time in Leavenworth.

Vacations are always better with a buzz, especially a high-quality buzz made with the freshest of ingredients!

Address: 1310 US-2, Leavenworth, WA 98826, United States

25. Bavarian E-Bike Tours

From the misty mountains of nature to the quaint little bookstores of downtown, Leavenworth has many interesting things to see.

But what if you aren’t physically fit enough to go hiking or climbing?

Or what if you just aren’t interested in a traditional walking tour?

Bavarian E-Bike Tours offers an alternative to the usual methods of sightseeing.

On an electric, pedal-assisted bicycle, you can enjoy a leisurely trip around the city without having to huff and puff.

You’ll be able to hit all of the major landmarks, and you’ll be out in the fresh air and sunshine while you do it, but you won’t have to sweat along the way.

You won’t even have to navigate: A tour guide will lead you.

One thing to note about Bavarian E-Bike Tours is that they’re only available through the months of May to October.

Otherwise, however, feel free to give them a call.

They’ll provide a unique and interesting way to see Leavenworth.

Address: 321 9th St, Leavenworth, WA 98826, United States

26. Northwest Mountain School

Mountaineering is one of the most fun things to do in Leavenworth, but if you’ve never picked up a trekking pole before, it might seem like a daunting task.

This is where the Northwest Mountain School can help.

Offering AMGA-certified instructors, this school can get you started in skiing, rock climbing, alpine hiking, and more.

Lessons are tailored by skill level, and tours always come with a guide to help you navigate the terrain and have a great experience on the mountain.

Another noteworthy aspect of the school is that it also offers its services abroad, so if you’re ever headed to Japan, Canada, or Italy, you can call up your old friends at the Northwest Mountain School to schedule another trip with them!

Address: 10171 Chumstick Hwy, Leavenworth, WA 98826, United States

27. Maifest

Leavenworth is one of the best places to go to celebrate Maifest, also known as “Mayfest,” the German arrival of spring.

It runs for the entire month and is jam-packed with events, activities, and demonstrations that herald the start of a new season.

Traditional festivities range from maypole dancing to alphorn playing; more unusual ones can include live chainsaw carving or watching folk dancers in all of their livery.

There’s also food and drink as far as the eye can see, so you’ll never go hungry, and you’ll get to experience all of the staples of German fair cuisine.

The culmination of Maifest is the Festzug, or Grand March, in which hundreds of Bavarians parade around town in full cultural dress.

From kids to senior citizens, you’ll see all kinds of colorful outfits that date back centuries.

Leavenworth isn’t the only town in America to celebrate Maifest, but since it has such strong Bavarian roots, it’s the perfect place to enjoy this quintessential German tradition.

Swing by with your lederhosen and check it out!

Address: Leavenworth, WA, United States

28. Wedge Mountain

Are you done with the Cascade Mountains?

Are you ready to conquer your next peaks?

Located about 40 minutes from Leavenworth, Wedge Mountain has some of the most dramatic natural scenery in Washington State.

Like its name implies, it’s full of angles, and the rugged landscapes give it a stark and enduring kind of beauty.

You’ll see everything from craggy cliffs to deep, jagged valleys filled with slow-melting glacier water.

As for ways to entertain yourself on the mountain, they include all of the classics such as hiking, climbing, and backpacking.

There are also a number of local businesses that have set up shop at the foothills, so you can enjoy shops and restaurants with great views.

There’s even a winery!

Of the many things to do in Leavenworth, a hike up a mountain is one of the most popular and enduring among the locals.

Venture on over to Wedge Mountain once you’re explored every nook and cranny of the Cascades.

Address: WA, United States

29. Cashmere Museum and Pioneer Village

History comes alive at the Cashmere Museum and Pioneer Village.

Located in Cashmere, Washington, about 20 minutes outside of Leavenworth, it’s a cultural heritage site that’s dedicated to the earliest residents of the area.

These include European pioneers as well as Native Americans.

Objects on display at the museum range from antique furniture to real, sepia-toned treaties that were signed by generations past.

If you like nature, there are taxidermy animals and geological samples and specimens; if you like fashion, there are collections of moccasins, headdresses, and feathered vests.

Outside the museum, the village is an authentic replica of 19th century living.

You can explore wood cabins and waterwheels that look the exact same as they would have to Leavenworth’s first settlers.

If you’re at all interested in history, the Cashmere Museum and Pioneer Village is a top 10 destination in Washington.

While not quite within the city limits of Leavenworth, it’s definitely worth a side trip if you’re in the area.

Address: 600 Cotlets Way, Cashmere, WA 98815, United States

30. Sleeping Lady Resort

If you’re looking for peace and tranquility during your trip to Washington, consider booking a weekend at the Sleeping Lady Resort.

It’s nestled snugly into the foothills of the Cascade Mountains, so you’ll be able to wake up every morning to birdsong, gentle breezes, and the kind of fresh, crisp air that you can only get from the true outdoors.

Despite the country charm of its lodgings, the resort isn’t a rustic one.

In fact, it boasts everything from an organic garden to a yoga studio, so you can enjoy modern amenities in an old-fashioned environment.

It even has an outdoor pool and hot tub fashioned like hot springs!

The Sleeping Lady Resort is one of the best places to visit for a relaxing time in Leavenworth.

The surroundings will soothe you; the luxuries will pamper you.

Book online today, and you could be stretching out in a suite as early as this weekend.

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

31. Washington State Apple Blossom Festival

Held every year in the nearby city of Wenatchee, the Washington State Apple Blossom Festival is a recognition of springtime and all of its rebirths and new beginnings.

However, it distinguishes itself from Maifest with its emphasis on one thing: apples!

Started by the wife of an apple farmer, this annual celebration is all about the juicy red fruit.

You can find apple-themed everything among its many vendors.

Florals are another big focus since apple trees blossom with beautiful pink and white petals before they bear fruit.

If you aren’t a fan of Granny Smith, there are other attractions to enjoy, too.

The festival has grown from a single day of fun into an 11-day extravaganza.

The main event is a carnival filled with food, drink, music, games, and rides, but there’s plenty more in terms of entertainment.

There’s an arts and crafts fair; there’s a parade with floats and cannons; there’s even a golf tournament, of all things!

The good folks of Washington State never miss a chance to throw a party.

If you’ll be near Leavenworth in the early days of spring, be sure to check out the Washington State Apple Blossom Festival.

Address: Unnamed Road, Wenatchee, WA 98801, United States

32. The Cheesemonger’s Shop

You’ll die and go to cheese heaven at The Cheesemonger’s Shop.

From soft and smokey to sharp and stinky, there are all kinds of dairy delights to be explored here.

Best of all, you can enjoy free samples as you shop!

The first thing to know about The Cheesemonger’s Shop is that it’s the real deal.

It offers high-quality cheese and cheese products made in Washington, so everything is locally sourced and organically produced.

The next thing to know about The Cheesemonger’s Shop is that it offers a lot more than just cheese.

The owners know full well that cheese tastes best when paired with sausages, crackers, jams, and other snacks, so they’ll make sure that you have a nice spread on your charcuterie board!

A visit to The Cheesemonger’s Shop is one of the tastiest things to do in Leavenworth.

You’ll definitely want to drop by if you’ve worked up an appetite in the village… as long as you aren’t lactose intolerant.

Address: 819 Front St, Leavenworth, WA 98826, United States

33. Christkindlmarkt

The German term for “Christmas market,” Christkindlmarkt is a hallmark of Leavenworth, and it’s a must-see destination if you’ll be town during the holidays.

As previously mentioned, the city pulls out all of the stops for Christmas, decking the rooftops, railings, and street posts in a half-million lights.

However, this is just the start of the festivities at Christkindlmarkt.

You’ll be dazzled at every turn with the wondrous decorations that go hand-in-hand with the activities and events of the market.

Things to do include shopping, caroling, and attending ornament- and lantern-making workshops.

There’s a touch of Bavarian culture, of course, with folk music performances taking on a festive spirit.

You can even enjoy displays of böllerschützen or traditional firecrackers!

Christkindlmarkt is one of the most impressive places to see in Leavenworth.

Even if you aren’t feeling the spirit beforehand, you’ll definitely have it in your heart when you leave.

Address: 1001 Front Street, Leavenworth, WA 98826, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Leavenworth

These are just a few of the best and most exciting things to do in Leavenworth, Washington’s very own Bavarian town.

Whether you’re interested in quaint cultural delights or the wide, breathtaking scenery of the surrounding mountains, this is the destination for you!

Happy travels.