If you want to go chasing fall colors this Autumn, you need to check out Leavenworth, Washington, which is one of the most stunning fall foliage locations on the West Coast. Fall enthusiasts will be delighted to witness the leaves change colors and to enjoy all of the fall festivities that this town has to offer during this magical season.
See why Leavenworth, Washington is most beautiful during the fall season. As you walk the downtown streets you will be filled with fall cheer and the best Washington has to offer when it comes to Fall colors.
What is Leavenworth Known For?
Leavenworth is a picturesque town located in Washington State's cascade mountain range and is renowned for emulating a Bavarian-style village. To give you a brief history on the town, the Bavarian themed town was brought to imagination by two Seattle businessmen after the city suffered from low visitors due to a rail line being removed from the town. The men who purchased a restaurant in Leavenworth proposed renovating the town into a Bavarian like city, similar to what they accomplished in Solvang, California (dutch influenced) to help draw in visitors!
Tourists now flock to this fairy tale-like alpine paradise every year for its renowned Oktoberfest Festival and it's charming Christmas festivities during the month of December. Although Fall is one of the most gorgeous times to visit Leavenworth, you can't go wrong with any season!
How Far is Leavenworth from Seattle?
Leavenworth, WA is approximately 130 miles east of Seattle, running practically straight lateral as the crow flies! There are a number different ways to travel to Leavenworth, but the fastest is to take I-90 E and US-97 N. This route also passes by the famous Snoqualmie Falls, which makes for a picturesque road trip stop!
Where are the Fall Colors in Leavenworth?
The charming town of Leavenworth, WA is ablaze with fall colors, and if you go at the right time, you'll be met with a spectrum of oranges, yellows, and reds. Take a stroll down the Wenatchee River, where fall colors are abundant, or witness the spectacular reflections of Autumn on Lake Wenatchee to see fall colors in action. Here are some great places to spot fall foliage:
When to Visit Leavenworth to See Fall Colors?
Fall color changes vary by year and are influenced by a number of elements such as temperature and rainfall. Although late September to mid-October tends to be the best time to visit when the leaves are in full fall beauty!
Does Leavenworth Get Snow in October?
If you travel between October and February, there is a chance you can expect to see snow during your travels. We went in mid-October and while we didn't have snow in town we did have snow on the roads, but the roadways were paved quickly. Within the downtown of Leavenworth itself, the months of November to January have the most chance for snowfall.
Best Places to Stay in Leavenworth:
Leavenworth has a variety of unique lodging options for your stay. There is something for everyone, whether you prefer to stay in a Bavarian-style luxury hotel in downtown or in a riverside cabin. We stayed at the LOGE Leavenworth Riverside location and it was perfect walking distance to town and on it's own little oasis by the river!
Best Stays in Downtown:
Best Riverfront Stays:
Check Hotels.com, Booking.com, and VRBO for additional hotels and vacation rental accommodations!
Where is the Best Location to Stay in Leavenworth?
It's best if you can stay close to downtown because Leavenworth has so many great restaurants, shopping, and things to do. Despite the fact that our hotel was not directly in downtown, we were still within less than a mile of it, which was ideal for walking off the bier steins and German food! Plus, we very much enjoyed being close to the Wenatchee River, which is exceptionally beautiful in the Fall time!
How Many Days Should you Spend in Leavenworth?
If you're considering a trip to Leavenworth, this charming community is a great place to spend your weekend. If you plan to do most of your exploring in town, I recommend staying at least two to three nights. I would recommend adding an extra day or two to your trip if you are visiting and want to spend your days trekking some of the magnificent mountains that surround Leavenworth. Continue reading to learn about some of the best things to do during your visit.
Fun Things to Do While You Visit in the Fall:
Take a Mountain E-Bike Tour
By pedal assisted electric bicycle, you will cycle 16 miles across beautiful mountain landscapes. The Mountain E-Bike Tour guides will take you to some of the area's most famous landmarks, mountains, and rivers, which are a spectacular sight to see in the Fall!
Partake in Oktoberfest
Although this is one of Leavenworth's most popular fall events, it will be canceled for the 2021 season until the present COVID issue improves. Although there are numerous locations to get a liter stein of bier in this Bavarian themed city!
Go Hiking
Begin your day with a walk along the Wenatchee River, which winds along Leavenworth's downtown. Without having to leave town, Waterfront Park is a three mile long trail with sights of all the Fall colors!
Go Wine Tasting
Explore Leavenworth's wine country either at one of the downtown wine tasting rooms or visit larger stunning vineyards just a short distance from town. Silvara Cellars offers panoramic views of the beautiful Pacific Northwest and is a terrific location to unwind with a bottle of wine while taking in the fall foliage. While you're out that way, pay a visit to Icicle Ridge Winery, which has a log cabin-inspired winery with excellent outdoor seating and picture perfect Fall photo opportunities!
Go White Water Rafting
For those looking for an unforgettable Leavenworth experience, float down the river in white water rafts with experienced guides to marvel in the fall colors.
Shop for Christmas Gifts
If you enjoy the spirit of the holidays, a visit to Kris Kringle is a must! This Christmas-themed store is open all year and is packed with the best decorations and gifts for you to stock up on before the holidays. We chose our yearly Christmas ornament, which they were able to personalize with our family name and year in the store!
Where to Eat and Drink in Leavenworth?
Visiting Leavenworth is like being transported to Germany for the weekend! You are bound to find traditional Bavarian style restaurants, delicious pastries and plenty of places to grab a liter stein!
Andreas Keller is a must vist for an authentic German dinner. Arrive early to get your name on the list because it may get busy, but for good reason!
Munchen Haus is your go-to destination for a delicious Bavarian sausage and a good pint, plus the ambience is really charming and well worth the wait!
If you are craving something warm on those chilly Fall days you must check out Yodelin, they serve amazing bone broth noodle dishes, burgers and PNW fare. Plus, they have the BEST view of all restaurants in Leavenworth!
Feeling Thirsty? Grab a drink at one of these establishments:
