Leavenworth, Washington State's own Bavarian Village

Leavenworth, Washington State’s own Bavarian Village, is located on Hwy 2 in Chelan County at the eastern edge of the Cascade Mountains. Brimming with activity throughout the year, Leavenworth offers something for everyone and is conveniently located near the center of the state.

The town boasts an excellent array of restaurants, shops, hotels, and family activities. With everything from beer tasting to mini-golf, Leavenworth’s charm and history will draw you back again and again for years to come. For over a decade now, my family and I return every year for the Autumn Leaf Festival (held the last full weekend of September) and nothing gets us more in the mood for the holidays than celebrating the conclusion of summer and the commencement of autumn.

Leavenworth has not always been the picturesque Bavarian village we see today. Until the 1960’s it was a dying logging and rail district, with nothing more to offer than a pit stop for motorists driving over the mountains. Seeking an opportunity to revive their town, and taking in consideration the natural surroundings, the residents and the remaining business owners decided to make a change; a Bavarian change. With a little ingenuity, some elbow grease, and a German stein full of faith, the community transformed itself into a re-creation of an authentic Bavarian village.

Today Leavenworth is a major shopping destination for thousands of visitors a year. With many unique and distinctive stores, even the experienced shopper can find something they have never seen before. Hungry after a full morning of strolling, chatting, and shopping? Not to worry, Leavenworth’s restaurants consist of everything from German food to Italian food, Mexican to soups and sandwiches. And the city would not let you leave without satisfying your sweet tooth with their numerous candy and ice cream shops sprinkled throughout downtown.

Activities abound in Leavenworth. The seasons influence the outdoor activities all through the Leavenworth region. In the summer most activities take place on the local rivers such as camping, hiking, rafting, kayaking, and tubing. In the winter the snow provides a playground for sleigh rides, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and downhill & cross-country skiing.

Back in town you will find an actual putting course, a family fun center, the official Nutcracker Museum, a two-screen movie theater, wine tasting, and tours of the Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery. And as lodging goes there is a vast selection of establishments to stay at. Take your pick from hotels, motels, lodges and bed & breakfasts. Enough cannot be said about Leavenworth; it is truly the destination that offers everything.

The Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce organizes many festivals throughout the year, which makes a visit even more pleasurable. Some of the festivals include Maifest, the Autumn Leaf Festival, Oktoberfest, the Christmas Lighting Festival, Icefest, and the ever-unique Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration. Their web site (www.leavenworth.org) is full of useful information, so before heading to Leavenworth, check it out. Biss später!