Planning 3 days in Leavenworth is one of the BEST things to do in Washington! In this guide, we’re sharing our weekend itinerary, best stops, food picks, and places to stay!
Have you ever wanted to feel like you’re in another country but don’t want to pay for expensive flights? Well, we’ve got just the place for you!
Step into the charming town of Leavenworth, Washington–a Bavarian-style village with alpine buildings, German fare, and cute shops in an outdoor paradise.
We just recently spent a wonderful weekend here in the summer of 2024, and we can’t wait to show you our favorite spots!
Keep reading for our complete Leavenworth weekend itinerary, so you can create special memories this summer!
How To Plan The Perfect 3 Days in Leavenworth (Summer Edition)
In this post, we’re sharing a 3-day Leavenworth itinerary (and more adventures nearby below!) so you can plan your own incredible summer weekend ASAP!
How to Get to Leavenworth, Washington
Leavenworth is a fairly easy 2 hour drive from Seattle, but it’s accessible practically anywhere in the state. Located on the east side of the Cascade Mountains, it’s a pretty simple drive from both the east and western Washington!
From Seattle, you will drive 135 miles (2 hours and 14 minutes) to reach Leavenworth. It’s a simple drive east on I-90, then a turn north on Highway 97 to Leavenworth in the Cascade Mountains.
From Spokane, you will drive 193 miles (3 hours and 10 minutes) to reach Leavenworth. You will drive west on I-90, then travel north on Highway 28 and Highway 2 through the mountains to Leavenworth.
Looking for more road trips? Here are our favorite scenic drives in Washington state!
Where to Stay in Leavenworth, Washington
There are many great options for Leavenworth accommodations in the summertime. However, one thing is the same for all choices – book EARLY.
Leavenworth is a very popular place in the summertime, and places book up FAST!
Here are our top recommendations for places to stay in Leavenworth:
Cabins Near Leavenworth
Cabins provide the privacy and solitude of nature, with the option to conveniently reach downtown by car.
On our recent trip, we stayed at GatHER Indie Treehouse, which is a gorgeous mountain escape near Leavenworth. It sleeps 4, and has all the amenities you could want for a mountain vacation!
We’re talking wood-burning tub, hot tub, fireplace on the deck, fire pit in the backyard…the list goes on!
There are so many amazing cabins in the Pacific Northwest to check out and this is definitely one that should be on your list!
Read More: The Complete Cabin Packing List (Free downloadable checklist!)
Hotels IN Leavenworth
Hotels are the most convenient option for proximity to Leavenworth and are great for families and people who want to pack out their itinerary in town. It’s also a simpler lodging option for exploring the town by foot, as there’s no need for a car.
One of the most popular options is the Bavarian Lodge, which is located in the very center of Leavenworth! The charming hotel offers guests cozy suites, an outdoor pool and hot tub, delicious breakfast, and more.
Another excellent hotel in Leavenworth is the FairBridge Inn & Suites. This is a great option for families because it is affordable and close to town.
Want a unique lodging experience during your weekend in Leavenworth?
Check out the Posthotel for an elevated room with a view of the Wenatchee River and luxury spa treatment. It’s one of the dreamiest getaways in Washington state!
Leavenworth Weekend Itinerary Day 1
After getting into Leavenworth, check into your place and head downtown where you’ll find TONS of unique shops, stops, and restaurants.
Check out the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum to view thousands of nutcrackers, take the kids to the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm, or spend the afternoon to relax with friends at the Patterson Cellars Tasting Room.
Leavenworth is a great place to be hungry, as there are so many fun restaurants!
A classic stop is visiting the Rhein Haus for a giant pretzel. Leavenworth Pizza Company is another popular option for families.
Make the most of your 3 days in Leavenworth with the complete Bavarian experience at München Haus for German sausages and craft brews.
Some of the best shops in Leavenworth:
- Leavenworth Boutique for unique souvenirs and home goods
- Kris Kringl for all things Christmas (even in summer!)
- Copper Creek for locally made art and goods
Leavenworth Summer Weekend Day 2
Start day 2 of your weekend in Leavenworth with a morning hike! An easy option that’s perfect for kids is hiking to Hidden Lake by Wenatchee (easy 1.6 miles roundtrip with 220‘ elevation gain).
Hiking to Icicle Ridge (moderate 6 miles round trip with 1,800‘ elevation gain) is another cool option as it leads you to a view of the Leavenworth area, Wenatchee River, and surrounding mountains.
Read More: The Most Photogenic Spots in Washington State (with map!)
Feeling adventurous? Complete the bucket list Pacific Northwest hiking trail in the area by trekking to Colchuck Lake for the sunrise!
While it’s a harder hike (difficult 8 miles out and back with 2,280‘ elevation gain), the views of the alpine lake and Aasgard pass are so worth it. This is a particularly beautiful hike in the late summer/fall when the tamaracks/western larches change to yellow.
Make sure to get to the trail EARLY, as the parking lot fills fast! Plan to get there around 7am on weekdays, as early as 12:30am if you want to watch the sunrise at the lake, and 4:30am on the weekends, as there are tons of people through-hiking The Enchantments Trail in one day (Colchuck Lake is along the way).
Read More: 12 Places to Enjoy Fall In The Pacific Northwest
Once you’re back from your adventure in the mountains, head downtown to Yodelin Broth Company and Beer Garden for a healthy, local lunch.
Visit Leavenworth Adventure Park to ride the Tumwater Twister–Washington’s first Alpine Coaster, go rock climbing, and mine for real gemstones! It’s the perfect day trip in Leavenworth for families with kids.
Read More: 101 Bucket List Things To Do In The Pacific Northwest
For evening Leavenworth summer activities, go to Whistlepunk for ice cream and meander along the Wenatchee River to watch the sunset in the beautiful Waterfront Park!
Leavenworth Weekend Itinerary Day 3
On your final day in Leavenworth, start off with breakfast at Crêpe Café Sisters (there’s also a location in Spokane!). This is a great option if you have food sensitivities, allergies, or an alternative diet.
In the morning, walk or bike along the scenic nature trails in Enchantment Park.
If you’re traveling to Leavenworth in June, plan your visit during the Leavenworth International Accordion Celebration and enjoy accordion performances before you go.
Visit J5 Coffee on the way out of town for a specialty drink to energize you for the drive home.
Would you plan 3 days in Leavenworth in the summertime? Did we miss any iconic places in town? Tell us in the comments below!
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