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What to do in Leavenworth, WA this summer

Exterior Of The Nutcracker Museum In Leavenworth Washington

Leavenworth is famously known as Washington’s “German Town,” but there’s more to summer in the Bavarian-themed community than bratwurst and beer gardens. Set in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains, Leavenworth offers a wide range of unique summer experiences. Here are five things to do in Leavenworth during the summer.

Go hiking

Nestled in the heart of the Cascade Mountains, Leavenworth is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Among the most popular things to do in Leavenworth in the summer is to go hiking in any one of its surrounding trails.

One of the most popular trails to take is the Enchantments Trail, a 20.5-mile challenging hike that takes you up and down mountain passes. Along the way are several alpine lakes as well as campsites, making it a favorite among thru-day hikers and backpackers.

Shorter, easier, but just as gorgeous is the Icicle Gorge Trail. This 3.5-mile loop is relaxing, beautiful in the summer, and features a waterfall stop.

Take a scenic drive along the Cascade Loop Scenic Highway

The Cascade Loop Scenic Highway is the perfect way to take in all that Leavenworth has to offer. This winding 440-mile road takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the area and is a great way to spend an afternoon.

Be sure to bring your camera as there are plenty of photo opportunities along the way. There are also several hiking trails of the Cascade Loop that are worth exploring.

Visit the Leavenworth Summer Theater

If you’re a theater lover, check out the Leavenworth Summer Theater. Voted as one of the best summer activities to do in Leavenworth by Trip.com, the theater offers a variety of shows throughout summer. The most highly anticipated production, however, is the theater’s annual run of The Sound of Music, which ties well with Leavenworth’s Bavarian character. Buy tickets here.

Sample the local wines

Unbeknownst to many wine enthusiasts, the Pacific Northwest is home to around 15 percent of America’s wine production. The region offers wine lovers compelling options for dozens of grape varieties and blends.

Leavenworth is no exception. The town is home to several wineries, including Eagle Creek Winery, Icicle Ridge Winery, and the famous Silvara Vineyards. These places offer wine tasting sessions, which you can have outdoors. Imagine: you, enjoying the balmy weather at a vineyard with a glass of chilled wine while taking in the stunning views of the Cascade Mountains.

Visit the Nutcracker Museum

Fully embrace the town’s Bavarian theme with a trip to the Nutcracker Museum, which spreads holiday cheer all year round. The museum has over 7,000 nutcrackers on display from different time periods.

Children and adults will enjoy the ‘nutcracker hunt,’ their version of a scavenger hunt. And if you’re a collector or just looking for a unique holiday decoration, the Nutcracker Museum has a gift shop with nutcrackers of all sizes and styles for purchase.

Summer in Leavenworth is enough reason to move here

Coldwell Banker Cascade Real Estate can help you find the perfect vacation home or your new primary residence in Leavenworth, Wenatchee, and the surrounding areas. Get in touch with the team at 509.888.8887 or contact us here to learn more.