Leavenworth, a former logging and railroad town revitalized its relevance in the 1960s with a drastic transformation. Through community efforts and inspiration, the city converted into an authentic Bavarian Village with a craggy mountain backdrop that adds to the effect. Home to the majestic Cascade Mountains- Leavenworth is a town built on the amalgamation of old-world beauty along with modern world amenities. Come on- let us take a look at the top 5 Best Things to Do in Leavenworth- Top Attractions in Leavenworth.
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Enjoy at the Christmas Lighting Festival
Every winter, the Bavarian downtown storefronts of Leavenworth come under a special glow. Between Thanksgiving and Valentine’s, over a half-million lights illuminate the cold weather evenings. This display always manages to captivate adults and children alike.
The real magic occurs every weekend in December, with celebratory Christmas Lighting Festivals starting at 4:45 pm. Other special touches to this illuminating event include appearances by Santa Claus and a reindeer petting zoo. And roasting chestnuts literally fill the air at this holiday experience.
Another way to celebrate the season is at the annual Christkindkmarket. This festive market occurs over Thanksgiving weekend and is the unofficial kickoff to the holiday season. Alongside handmade arts and crafts, this open market features ready-to-eat Bavarian hot food served on steaming plates.
Try out rafting along the Wenatchee River
Have you always wanted to try out white water rafting? Here in Leavenworth, white water rafting is one of the top popular activities to try out. And, the Wenatchee River is just the perfect place to try out this activity.
You can come across some Class III rapids if you are there during the high tide season. A lot of companies organize rafting trips here. You can book an afternoon filled with adventure for you!
Have a picnic with your family at Front Street Park
Another one of the cute downtown places you must check out is Front Street Park. Also, the best thing about Front Street Park is you can take a look right after you are done eating in one of the restaurants in the downtown area or just shopping.
The park also hosts a lot of events and festivals. Also, if you are here during the summers- don’t forget to take your family out for a picnic here. There is a gazebo right in the heart of the park. The views are also quite beautiful. And, there are even artists here drawing after they are inspired by the views of Front Street Park.
See the sunrise at Lake Wenatchee
Leavenworth is filled with some of the most splendid spots in Washington. But, Lake Wenatchee holds a special place in everyone’s hearts.
If you are looking for a spot in the lap of nature where you can go camping and spend a perfect night under the stars- we need to take you to Lake Wenatchee State Park this very moment! The park has many gorgeous views including those of the Lake Wenatchee and River Wenatchee, but the place that really pulls the strings of our hearts happens to be the eastern shores of the lake.
There is a camping ground there where you can basically sit and look at the glistening lake set in front of the tall royal mountains. Also, try to get up early to catch the gleaming first rays of the sun.
See White Water Raft the Wenatchee River
Leavenworth is a central hub for white water rafting. Several local outfitters run memorable trips down the Wenatchee River, which flows right next to the center of town. Thanks to rip-roaring fun in the high-water season (May and June), and mellower waves in mid-summer, the Wenatchee is one of Washington’s best rivers for white-water rafting.
Guiding companies like Orion River Rafting, Blue Sky Outfitters, and Osprey Rafting all offer full-day trips. These trips start near Leavenworth, and many companies also offer express journeys for those crunched on time. During high-water season, expect consistent Class III rapids and at least 10 miles of river rafting.
More casual floats on the Wenatchee River are also popular. The section closest to downtown offers a slow pace and a wonderful way to spend the day. Other agencies like the Leavenworth Outdoor Center facilitate floating trips with tube rentals and shuttles.
