Bavarian Bliss: Your Holiday Escape to Leavenworth, WA

• Stroll Through a Living Christmas Card: Meander along pedestrian-friendly Front Street, adorned with twinkling lights and overflowing flower boxes. Don't miss the iconic fifty-foot Christmas tree, a dazzling centerpiece that illuminates the entire town square. (Insider Tip: Weekends can get crowded, so consider visiting during the week for a more relaxed experience)

• Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride: Experience the magic of Leavenworth from a bygone era. Snuggle under a warm blanket as you clip-clop through snow-covered streets, sipping on steaming glühwein. Soak in the sights and sounds of the festive town for an unforgettable memory. (Insider Tip: Book your carriage ride in advance, especially during peak season)

• Reindeer Farm Visit: Spread holiday cheer with a heartwarming visit to a local reindeer farm. Meet these gentle creatures, learn about their fascinating lives and perhaps even snap a photo with Santa's reindeer!

• Shop for Unique Treasures: Explore charming boutiques brimming with handcrafted ornaments, local artwork and festive souvenirs. Find the perfect Christmas gift for loved ones, or a special holiday memento for yourself.

• Savor Festive Treats: Escape the crisp winter air and find refuge in a cozy café. Treat yourself to a mug of decadent hot chocolate, topped with whipped cream and marshmallows. Don't forget to indulge in festive treats like gingerbread cookies and roasted chestnuts.

• Culinary Adventure: Embark on a culinary journey through Leavenworth's diverse restaurants. Sample traditional Bavarian fare like sausages and schnitzel, or delight in festive treats like warm apple cider or glühwein, and melt-in-your-mouth pastries from local bakeries

• Live Music: Immerse yourself in the spirit of the season with live music performances throughout the town. Cozy cafés and restaurants often host local musicians, filling the air with joyful melodies and Christmas carols.

• Wine Tasting or Brewery Hopping: Indulge your palate with a wine tasting tour at one of Leavenworth's acclaimed wineries. Sample the region's distinct flavors and discover new favorites at Leavenworth's breweries, enjoying handcrafted beers and finding the perfect brew to warm you up.

• Lighting Ceremony: Witness the official lighting of the town, a magical event that kicks off the holiday season. Join the joyful crowds as Leavenworth transforms into a winter wonderland.

• Caroling Nights: Embrace the spirit of the season by joining traditional caroling nights. Sing along with locals and visitors, spreading festive cheer through the streets of Leavenworth. (Insider Tip: Check the local event calendar for specific dates and locations of caroling nights)

Day Trips:

1 day Itinerary

Morning:

9:00 A.M.: Fuel your day with a hearty breakfast at The Pancake House. Their fluffy pancakes and omelets are the perfect way to start a day of exploring. (Insider Tip: Get there early on weekends to avoid a wait!)

10:00 A.M.: Immerse yourself in the festive spirit by strolling down Leavenworth's main street. Admire the Bavarian-style architecture adorned with twinkling lights and holiday decorations. Don't forget to snap photos with the giant nutcracker statues!

Mid-Morning:

11:00 A.M.: Explore the charming shops along Front Street. Browse unique holiday ornaments, handcrafted gifts,and festive souvenirs to take home a piece of Leavenworth's magic.

Wine Time!

12:00 P.M.: Embark on a festive wine tasting experience! Leavenworth boasts several charming tasting rooms within walking distance. Here's a local favorite:

• Hard Row to Hoe Tasting Parlour: Located in the heart of downtown, this winery offers a delightful tasting experience with both indoor and outdoor seating. Savor their award-winning wines in a festive atmosphere. (Call ahead to check their holiday hours)

Lunch Delights:

1:00 P.M. (After Wine Tasting): Choose your lunch adventure based on your mood:

• The Loft Bar & Grill: Enjoy a lively atmosphere with a wide variety of American fare, including pub classics, juicy burgers, and delicious appetizers.

• Munchen Haus: Savor their famous house-made sausages, schnitzel, or a warm pretzel, paired with a local beer on their outdoor patio (weather permitting). This location offers beautiful views, especially if there's snow on the ground.

Afternoon:

2:00 P.M.: Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the charming town, soaking in the sights and sounds of the holiday season. This is a particularly magical experience if it's snowing!

3:00 P.M.: Explore the Icicle Brewing Company. Sample their locally crafted beers and warm up from the winter chill. (Insider Tip: They often have live music, making it a great spot for a festive afternoon)

Festive Alternatives (Choose one):

3:00 P.M. (Option 1): Skip the long lines and grab a sweet treat at Crêperie Christine. Warm up with a delicious savory or sweet crêpe made with fresh ingredients. (Insider Tip: Grab one to go and enjoy it while strolling through the festive streets!)

3:00 P.M. (Option 2): Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the bustling Leavenworth Christmas Market. Find unique holiday gifts, handcrafted ornaments, and festive treats from local vendors.

Evening:

Enjoy the festive atmosphere: As there isn't a daily lighting ceremony, take in the twinkling lights adorning the town throughout the holiday season. Stroll through the main square, listen to carolers singing holiday classics, and soak in the magical ambiance.

5:30 P.M.: Indulge in a delightful dinner at Andreas Keller Restaurant. Experience traditional Bavarian cuisine with live music for a truly immersive experience. (Optional: Consider a more casual dinner at Yodelin Broth Company for their flavorful broths and healthy Pacific Northwest fare)

7:00 P.M.: Top off your evening with a post-dinner activity. Explore the Leavenworth Christmas Market (if you didn't choose it earlier), or relax in the hot tubs at a local hotel (many offer day passes).

Optional Activities:

• Attend a holiday performance at the Leavenworth Festhalle, featuring music, dance, or theatrical productions.

• Go snow tubing at the Leavenworth Ski Hill for some winter fun (weather permitting)

• Andreas Keller Restaurant: Immerse yourself in Bavarian culture with live music, classic dishes like schnitzel, and imported beers.

• Munchen Haus: Enjoy a lively atmosphere, house-made sausages and a rotating beer selection on their outdoor patio. (Insider Tip: Reservations recommended)

• Leavenworth Sausage Garten: Sample a variety of house-made sausages and sides in a casual setting.

• The Pancake House: Warm up with a hearty breakfast of pancakes, omelets, and more. (Insider Tip: Get there early on weekends)

• Larch Handcrafted Pasta & Cocktails: Experience innovative pasta creations and handcrafted cocktails in a cozy ambiance.

• Yodelin Broth Company: Savor unique bone broths and healthy Pacific Northwest fare on their outdoor patio with live music (sometimes).

• Visconti's Italian Restaurant: Experience the warmth of Italian hospitality with wood-fired, authentic dishes.

• Watershed Cafe: Enjoy fresh, seasonal Pacific Northwest cuisine with a focus on seafood and farm-to-table ingredients. (Insider Tip: Request a window table for a great view)

• Wildflour: Sample globally-inspired, hand-made pasta dishes prepared with local ingredients.

• The Loft Bar & Grill: Enjoy a lively atmosphere with a wide variety of American fare, including pub classics, juicy burgers, and delicious appetizers.