I’ve always been drawn to quaint, storybook towns, and Leavenworth, Washington, certainly fits the bill. I had the opportunity to visit this charming Bavarian-inspired village in December 2023, and it was a truly magical experience. A Leavenworth winter is a sight to behold, with its festive decorations, cozy shops, and snowy landscapes that transform the town into a true winter wonderland. The snow-covered streets and twinkling lights created a scene straight out of a fairytale. To fully experience the magic of Leavenworth, I highly recommend planning a weekend getaway to soak in all the charm this picturesque destination has to offer. If you’re planning to explore area, check out my tips for the perfect trip to Leavenworth.
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A Winter Wonderland
One of the highlights of my trip was the Eagle Creek Sleigh Ride. As we glided through the snowy forest, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of peace and tranquility. The serene atmosphere, coupled with the stunning winter scenery, made for a truly unforgettable experience. I highly recommend booking a sleigh ride if you visit Leavenworth during the winter months.
Just a heads up, the drive to Leavenworth can be a bit challenging, especially during winter weather. Be sure to check road conditions and allow extra time for travel.
Winter Adventures
For the thrill-seekers, Leavenworth offers a variety of winter activities. The Leavenworth Ski Area is a great place for skiing and snowboarding, with slopes for all skill levels. Snowshoeing and winter hiking are also popular options, with trails like Icicle Creek providing breathtaking views of frozen waterfalls.
Cozying Up in Leavenworth
After a day of outdoor adventure, there’s nothing better than cozying up in a local café with a warm drink. Leavenworth has a variety of charming shops, restaurants, and breweries to explore. Be sure to sample some local craft beer or indulge in a delicious meal at one of the many eateries. Don’t miss my list of places to things to do, where to shop, and things to eat.
Where we stayed for a trip to Leavenworth
Hilton Garden Inn Wenatchee
While Leavenworth itself offers a charming range of accommodation options, we chose a more budget-friendly stay at the Hilton Garden Inn Wenatchee for our Leavenworth winter getaway. Although the hotel provided a comfortable and modern experience, it’s worth noting that it’s located outside of Leavenworth, requiring us to drive to and from the village each day. This added a layer of complexity, especially during the snowy winter months, but it also provided an opportunity to enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding area.
The drive, while picturesque, can be challenging during winter storms, so checking road conditions and being prepared for delays is crucial. Despite the daily commute, our stay at the Hilton Garden Inn was relaxing and enjoyable. The rooms were clean and spacious, the amenities were excellent, and the staff went above and beyond to ensure we had everything we needed for a cozy and hassle-free base during our Leavenworth winter adventure.
Where to Stay In Leavenworth
For a truly immersive experience, consider staying right in the heart of Leavenworth. The town offers a variety of accommodation options, from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels.
Here are a few popular choices:
By staying in Leavenworth, you’ll be able to easily walk to shops, restaurants, and attractions. You’ll also be able to soak up the festive atmosphere and enjoy the town’s unique charm.
If none of these are of interest check out places to book below:
A Winter Day in Leavenworth Full of Adventure
After fueling up with a hearty breakfast at the hotel, I’d drive or head over to the Icicle Creek Recreation Area. The snow-covered paths are a sight to behold so strap on those snowshoes and set off on a leisurely hike through the serene forest. I’d suggest the Icicle River Road Snowshoe trail that is good for all ages and ranges of skill.
After spending a few hours on the trails (depending on the weather), I’d head back to town around 1 PM and wander the charming streets until reaching Rhein Haus for lunch. This Bavarian-inspired eatery has a festive atmosphere and offers a delicious range of German food, including giant pretzels, schnitzel, and hearty soups. I absolutely loved the pretzel, pork schnitzel plate, and fries!
With its small-town charm and picturesque architecture, Leavenworth is easy to explore in an afternoon. Be sure to snap some photos of the town’s iconic buildings and colorful storefronts.
Book ahead of time, but my next move would be spending the late afternoon or early evening getting one of the last sleigh rides at Eagle Creek Sleigh Rides or heading over to the Reindeer Farm to feed a few reindeer. You cannot go wrong with either activity!
After doing a fun activity it will be time for dinner and my choice for the day would be Larch Leavenworth (make sure to reserve in advance!). I know it isn’t German food but every dish was fantastic, and the Gnocchi was particularly outstanding!
A Memorable Winter Getaway
Leavenworth winter is a truly magical place, especially during the winter months. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure or a peaceful retreat, this charming town has something for everyone. I highly recommend adding Leavenworth to your winter travel bucket list or visiting during the off-peak season for a more peaceful and intimate experience. And if you can, extend your stay for an extra day or two to truly relax and unwind.
No matter when you visit, Leavenworth is sure to captivate your heart.
Until next time, happy wanderings!
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