One of the best adventure hubs in Washington is Leavenworth. From being a charming Bavarian-inspired town fit for relaxation to being the home base for one of the most popular backpacking routes in Washington, The Enchantments, there is truly something for everyone here. Visiting Leavenworth in Summer brings warm days, vibrant colors, and cold beer.

I’ve lost track of how much time I’ve spent in this gorgeous city, but I do know I’ve enjoyed every minute. From spending my days enjoying a cold stein of hefeweizen to trekking up a gorgeous hike covered in wildflowers, to relaxing on the Wenatchee River, there was opportunity for adventure and respite.

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Complete Guide to the Best Adventure City in Washington, Leavenworth

My first trip to Leavenworth was in 2021. I stayed overnight in town before backpacking the Enchantments. I carboloaded at Gustavs on a giant burger with fries and a brewski. My friends and I loved it so much that after the four-day trek, we made our way back to Gustavs for another burger and beer. It was great sitting on their outdoor patio after a grueling trip.

In this complete guide to Leavenworth in summer, I will share some of the best things you can do in and around the Leavenworth area. Leavenworth is located in the Cascade Mountains in the Pacific Northwest, so if you’re driving from Seattle, you’ll have to drive over Stevens Pass. If you’re visiting between late Fall and early Spring, make sure you check road conditions.

Use this guide to help you put together your perfect itinerary for a day trip or weekend in Leavenworth. So grab a beer stein and let’s get to planning!

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Prepare for Your Leavenworth Trip

One of the things I love about visiting Leavenworth is that, unless you want to stay overnight, there is little planning involved. But here is a short list of things to consider prior to visiting Leavenworth.

• 🏨 Book your accommodations in advance – find the best hotel deals for Leavenworth here.
• 🎉 Want to do an activity? Book your activities in Leavenworth ahead of time. In the summer, things can book up quickly.
• ✈️ Traveling from out of state? The best airports to fly into are SEA TAC(2 hours and 30 minutes away), Plainfield (2 hours away), or Spokane International (3 hours away). Check flight deals here!
• 🚘 Getting around the city – There are multiple ways to get to Leavenworth: bus, train, or car. If you’re renting a car, check out these deals. Information on travelling by bus and train is below.

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Leavenworth Summer Temperatures

What you want to do in Leavenworth will determine what you’ll need to wear to prepare for the summer temperatures. To give you an idea of the temperatures in the summer months of Leavenworth, reference the table below.

Road Conditions

Getting to Leavenworth requires most people to drive over Stevens Pass and Nordic Center. The road conditions in Leavenworth in summer are relatively clear. If you’re travelling to Leavenworth in winter, you’ll have to check road conditions which can be done here.

Getting to Leavenworth by Bus or Train

There are multiple options for travelling to Leavenworth without a car. If you travel by bus or train to get to Leavenworth, I would recommend scheduling an overnight so you’re not rushed. There is only one route from Leavenworth back to Seattle for both options.

Take a bus from Seattle to Leavenworth. This route will take just under 3 hours to get to the city, and there are a couple of departure times you can schedule based on your needs. Find bus tickets here.

There is an Amtrak Route to Leavenworth that begins in Seattle. There are fewer options for boarding when you take the train, but it is a magical experience, especially if you take the train in the winter. Plan your train trip here!

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Summer Activities in Leavenworth

There are SO many amazing things to do in Leavenworth that will be fun for you and everyone you go with. These are some of the most popular things to do in the Bavarian village of Leavenworth, so if anything requires tickets, I would recommend checking availability ahead of time.

Lake Wenatchee State Park

Lake Wenatchee is one of my favorite Washington State Parks. There are groomed cross-country skiing trails in the winter, but in the summer, it is the perfect spot for hiking, paddleboarding, or camping.

This park is about 10 miles outside of Leavenworth.

If you want to kayak or paddleboard on Lake Wenatchee, you can rent from Lake Wenatchee Adventures. They are open from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day, 10am – 6pm. For rental information, click here.

Cost: You will need a Discover Pass, which is $30 annually or a One-Day Pass for $10

Time: 1 hour+

Live Music

Leavenworth has plenty of options for live music practically every day. You can check the schedule for live music here, as the venue is different almost every day. You can typically hear live music at Rhein Haus, Icicle Ridge Winery, and the Leavenworth Ski Hill.

In late May, the Gazebo in the downtown area hosts live music.

I highly recommend visiting when you can experience an Alphorn Concert! It is such a fun and unique experience.

There are also a number of music festivals that are hosted in Leavenworth, including the Wenatchee River Bluegrass Festival, Leavenworth International Alphorn Festival, Icicle Creek Chamber Music Festival, and Jazz Festival.

Cost: Free – unless otherwise noted

Time: Varies

Wine Tasting

Whether you want to go on a guided Leavenworth Wine Tour or simply go wine tasting, there are plenty of options to choose from. My favorite winery is Icicle Ridge Winery. They have multiple locations throughout Leavenworth, but my favorite location is their Log Home Winery. They also host a wine hike in which you can taste wine along the trails with a catered meal. Highly recommend.

If you want to enjoy wine while experiencing the history of Leavenworth, you can book the Leavenworth Sip & Stroll Historical Wine Tour!

Looking for a winery in downtown Leavenworth, some other wineries include Patterson Cellars and Goose Ridge Estate. Each has tasting rooms for wine tastings in Leavenworth.

Cost: Varies

Time: 2+ Hours

Hiking

Leavenworth is located in the heart of the Cascade Mountains and is the perfect place to hit the trail. The hikes in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness and the surrounding area of the Cascade Mountains have plenty of hikes to choose from.

Here is a short list of some of my favorites:

• Icicle Ridge Trail – 6.0 miles round trip, 1,800 feet elevation gain, Moderate/Hard Hike
• Snow Lakes Trail – 14.0 miles round trip, 4,300 feet elevation gain, Hard Hike
• Colchuck Lake – 8.0 miles round trip, 2,280 feet elevation, Moderate/Hard Hike
• Eightmile Lake – 6.6 miles round trip, 1,300 feet elevation, Moderate Hike
• Lake Wenatchee North: Summer Route – 2.1 miles round trip, 72 feet elevation, Easy Hike

The Icicle River area has a few trails that have spectacular scenic views without having to spend a long day on the trail.

Nutcracker Museum

If you love Nutcrackers, this is for you. If you don’t love Nutcrackers, you will after. This small museum is the perfect way to break up your day between adventure and leisure. With over 9,000 Nutcrackers to look at, you really only need an hour of time at the museum to look at the antique nutcrackers, read about the history of nutcrackers, and see some cheeky nutcrackers. Located directly on Front Street, it is easy to just stop in.

Leavenworth is a magical place in the winter, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some of the holiday spirit in the summer!

Cost: $5 per person

Time: 1 hour

More Details about the Nutcracker Museum Here

Grab an Ice Cream

There isn’t much that is better than a delicious ice cream on a hot summer day. Thankfully, Whistlepunk Ice Cream is conveniently located on the main strip. This Bavarian-themed ice cream shop has some delicious staple flavors like Bertha’s Caramel Brownie (my favorite) and Blackberry Fool (my partner’s favorite).

Grab a scoop and take in the scenic views of the town.

Cost: $7 +

Time: 30 minutes

Gingerbread Factory

The Gingerbread Factory is another magical place in Downtown Leavenworth that is still worth a visit in the summer. They have elaborately decorated gingerbread houses and gourmet cookies. Waiting to order seems to go quickly while you’re taking in the gorgeous bake case and gingerbread displays.

Cost: $5+

Time: 30 minutes or less (in the summer)

Tumwater Alpine Coaster

One of the newest attractions in Leavenworth is the Tumwater Alpine Coaster at the Leavenworth Adventure Park. This attraction is one of the first things you see when you enter Leavenworth, across from Icicle Village Resort.

The alpine roller coaster is a new favorite, but be aware that they sell timed-entry tickets, which often sell out in advance. Be sure to purchase tickets ahead of time.

Also located at the Adventure Park is the Alpine Ascent Climbing Wall. The climbing wall is great for children 3+ years of age.

Cost: Coaster Ride – $5+, Climbing Wall – $12

Time: 1 hour+

Learn more about the Leavenworth Adventure Park Here!

Breweries in Leavenworth

You can’t go to a Bavarian Town without stopping at a brewery for a German-style beer. Whether you want to drink beer out of a mug or a boot, you’re in for a treat. There are so many different breweries to choose from, but my favorites include Icicle Brewing Company, Blewett, and Rhein Haus, all of which are dog-friendly. My favorite beer garden is Rhein Haus. If you’re not a big fan of beer, you can also check out the Leavenworth Cider House!

Beer gardens in Leavenworth are extremely popular on a sunny day in the summer, so you may have to wait for a spot! Be sure to wear sunscreen!

Book a Brewery Tour if you’re looking to get a taste of them all!

Scavenger Hunt

If you’re going to Leavenworth with a group of friends, add a Private Scavenger Hunt to your list of things to do! This scavenger hunt is a lot of fun as it brings you to the best places in Leavenworth, grab a beer, stop in the hat shop, and follow the hunt map around town. For the scavenger hunt, you’ll be provided with a map and a virtual guide. You will need a phone with data.

Cost: $22 per person

Time: 2 hours

Reserve Your Scavenger Hunt Here!

Shopping

Along the main strip, there are some seriously cute shops. If you want taffy or candy, check out Village Alps just outside of the city. If you’re looking for a custom hat, stop at the Hat Shop. My two favorite boutiques in Leavenworth include Post Handpicked Goods and Mountain Modern Supply Co.. My partner and I like to visit the Kris Kringl shop to pick out ornaments for each other. Need some outdoor gear? Check out Der Sportsmann for outdoor activities!

Golf & Mini Golf

There are golf options for everyone!

Leavenworth Golf Club is located down Icicle Road. Experience beautiful greens along the Wenatchee River surrounded by epic mountain peaks. You’ll want to book online in advance to secure your tee time. After you’re done, stop in Pub @ The Club for drinks, good eats, and games.

Icicle Village Resort offers an 18-hole mini golf course that is great for the entire family!

Cost: $15+

Time: 2 hours +

Waterfront Park – Lounging, Hiking, and Tubing

Just a short walk from the town center of Leavenworth is Waterfront Park along the Wenatchee River. There are grassy areas for a picnic, beach areas for lounging along the river, and hiking trails.

A popular destination within the park is Blackbird Island. Blackbird Island is a short walk across the bridge that you can take to get to this secluded island where you can hiking the River Trail or walk to the Enchantment Park System.

A fun activity to do along Waterfront Park is to rent a tube from the Leavenworth Outdoor Center and float down the river for two miles. This is fun for the whole family and they even offer rentals for dogs! Find out more about Leavenworth Outdoor Center and Tubing here.

Cost: Free

Time: 1+ hours

White Water Rafting

If you’re looking for a more exciting adventure in Leavenworth, consider going white water rafting! The Leavenworth area offers Class II, III, and IV rapids. If you’re taking the family, Class II would be best for a more relaxing trip; if you’re looking for an exhilarating experience, try Class III and IV.

There are a number of outfitters that offer guided raft trips.

Osprey Rafting and Wildwater River Guides are my two preferred companies for rafting in the area.

Cost: $80+, depending on guide service and class

Time: 3+ hours

Visiting Leavenworth in the Winter? Check out my Winter Guide to Leavenworth!

Where to Stay in Leavenworth

Leavenworth has some of the best places to stay in Washington! If you’re looking to stay near the main strip of Leavenworth, you’ll likely need to rent a hotel, of which there are plenty. If you want a more secluded atmosphere and don’t mind a short drive into town, there are plenty of vacation rentals to choose from.

When I have visited Leavenworth, I’ve done it all. Hotel Stays, Cabin Stays, Camping, and Dispersed Camping. Here are my favorite stays in Leavenworth and some additional options to meet your needs.

Enzian Inn

Enzian Inn is one of the most popular places to stay in Downtown Leavenworth. It has modern amentities while sticking true to the Bavarian Theme of the town.

If you’re staying an Enzian Inn I recommend spending at least two nights to get the most out of the amenities that the hotel offers like the outdoor pool, hot tub, and racquetball. Can’t make a reservation at the Leavenworth Golf Course? No problem, Enzian Inn has a golf simulator.

Check rates for your stay here!

Bavarian Lodge

One of the most beautiful hotels in Leavenworth is the Bavarian Lodge. Right across the street from Front Street, you’ll have easy access to the city!

They have the best cinnamon rolls for breakfast, and their restaurant is also very good.

Check rates for your stay here!

Big Jim Mountain Lodge

Just a short drive from Downtown Leavenworth, the Big Jim Mountain Lodge is the perfect cabin in the woods.

The lincoln lodge style home is beautiful and the outdoor hot tub is perfect after a long day of hiking.

What I like about this stay is that there are three full bedrooms, so no one has to sleep on a couch!

Check Availability Here!

Riverfront Chalet

The location of the Riverfront Chalet is one of my favorites. This house was extremely clean with a beautiful outdoor area.

If you plan on spending some time at your vacation home, this is a great spot to hang out and enjoy the river.

Find an open weekend here!

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Visiting Leavenworth in Spring?

Leavenworth is the perfect Washington getaway in the spring. It typically has milder temperatures and becomes snow-free much sooner than most surrounding areas.

The springtime in Leavenworth brings gorgeous wildflowers and the Maifest in May.

You can typically avoid large crowds during this time of year as visitors transition from winter sports to summer hikes.

Wildflower Hikes

Leavenworth’s wildflower hikes are some of the best in the state. People flock from all over the state to see the Balsamroot flowers covering the hills.

Some popular trails in Leavenworth for wildflowers include:

• Icicle Ridge
• Homestead Trail and Old Ranch Loop
• Sage Hills Loop

Check out some of my favorite wildflower hikes in the Columbia River Gorge!

Maifest

Maifest is a traditional German celebration in the spring in which there is bavarian music, maypole dancing, and food. In Leavenworth, the city hosts a month long Maifest where you can join in on the fun every weekend in May!

Maifest typically ends with the Alphorn Festival, which welcomes in summer celebrations.

You can learn more about Maifest in Leavenworth here.

Pack It Up

The Bavarian-themed town of Leavenworth is one of the best places to visit for a summer vacation. You can spend a day exploring or three or four days.

The city and surrounding area are packed with activities, restaurants, breweries, and scenery.

If you’re planning your trip, be sure to stop in at Muchen Haus for a delicious brat. I liked to add multiple different mustards on top so I get to try a little bit of each!

Have questions about planning your summer trip to Leavenworth? Drop them in the comments! I would be happy to help.