Leavenworth re-invented itself as a Bavarian (German) Alps tourist town in the late 60's. All the buildings must meet this style of decoration and the town has an Old World feel.
From mini golf to a real 9 hole putting course, from the Wenatchee River to the community pool or your hotel pool. From sledding to cross country skiing to sleigh rides, Leavenworth has lots of things to offer families all year around!
If you're in the area, Leavenworth Bavarian Village is worth a step especially during the holidays when the town is decked out in a full array of holiday lights. After a big snow storm, the quaint Bavarian buildings look like a small town in the Swiss alps. White fooftops heavy with a carpet of snow and twinkling holiday lights make you feel like you're lost in a gingerbread town. There are lots of picture opportunities to be had as you soak in the sound of German music in the town square.
There are a number of cute stores. Your kids will really enjoy a stop at Alpen Haus Gifts which carries many cute good quality toys. Mom will love a stop at the Tea and Kettle tea shop to sniff out an unusual blend of tea. There are so may to choose from. For a traditional German meal, stop in at Andreas Keller for the most delicious schnitzel that even your most conservative eater won't turn his nose up on it.
In need of a little Europe? Check out Leavenworth. The darling little mountain town is done entirely in a Bavarian theme. Even the McDonalds is Bavarian themed. You cannot possibly see everything in a singke day, so plan at least a weekend getaway. There are many shops, restaurants and tourist type attractions. There are many festivals throughout the year. We try to go a couple times a year and are never disappointed.
We live about an hour and a half from Leavenworth, and we visit a couple times a year. It is fun to visit for the lighting festival, fun to visit during the summer, and there is always something for the kids to do as well as the adults. There are many shops, activities, places to visit, and even beautiful scenery!
Oftentimes, in the center of the village, they have kiddie inflatables set up: climbing, sliding, fun stuff. Kid and family friendly.
My children always like to go to the candy shoppes, and see all the neat hand made candy that you don't see in stores anymore.
I would recommend this to families, but if you have young children, consider strollers, because it can be a lot of walking.
Imagine you live in a thriving mecca of industry surrounded by picturesque miniature alps when the railroad suddenly reroutes and takes your economy with it. What to do? Well, if you're the citizens of Leavenworth you erect maypoles and don lederhosen! Add to that unique stores and excellent German beer and you have the ingredients for a really special place. Summer travel allows tourists the opportunity to explore the many hiking trails in the area (Icicle Ridge is my favorite) - but Winter is also special with its snow-capped splendor, the lighting of the town tree and the many holiday festivities reminiscent of a Bavarian Christmas. This is definitely a can't-miss experience.
Lots of fun shops and restaurants in this town. There are plenty of family friendly hotels nearby too. A short drive will take you to some awesome nature attractions. You definitely feel the European charm of this cute town! I would love to go back for another visit!
What an interesting little town. They have really done this place up right. From the 76 gas station to the Starbucks, everything has signs in Bavarian script. Authentic Bavarian food and great shopping. Right by the river with fantastic camping available.
We camped at the KOA which was not a bad spot, but we decided to explore this town during Oktoberfest with our 1 year old. It gets very loud and rowdy. Fantastic if you're in college, but not really the place for a family
This cute little Bavarian town is so awesome! The drive over from Seattle is really beautiful, and if you come during the Christmas lighting festival it will be really crowded but also a Christmas wonderland that kids will never forget! I also enjoy going earlier in the fall, when the leaves all change color and it isn't as crowded.
Best stuff for kids: Some of the fun shops, like the hat shop and the toy store! They also have a Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, some really good restaurants, and a nice grassy area.
Tip: Go at Christmas time! Maybe not every year, if you have really young kids, but go at least once. It's unforgettable!
You'd be surprised how well kids can be entertained in this tourist town. You might not get a lot of shopping done, but you'll find some unique things along the way like the Hat Shop/Wood Shop full of fun toys and wacky hats.
In the summer there is frequently a bounce area set up with 3 or 4 structures and a climbing wall. The local pool is newly remodeled and just a block from downtown.
The river is great for older kids and there are play structures in the riverfront park area.
There are also great hikes up the Icicle Valley just outside of town for all levels of hikers.
In the winter kids will love playing with the snow and sledding in the park downtown.
I recommend coming mid-week in the winter unless it's after Christmas because the Lighting Festival weekends are absolutely packed and prices for hotels will be higher than normal.