Leavenworth Day Trip: One-Day Guide to See and Do it All

I’ve got the perfect Leavenworth day trip itinerary lined up for you!

After spending three unforgettable days in Leavenworth, Washington, checking out all the top spots, I’ve created the ultimate one-day guide so you can see and do it all in just 24 hours.

Whether you’re wandering through the downtown area with its Bavarian vibes, stuffing your face with German food, or enjoying the stunning scenery, this post has everything you need for a fun-filled day.

Plus, I’ve got tips for a winter visit (hello, Christmas lights!) or if you’re heading there during the summer months.

By the time you’re done reading, you’ll know exactly how to squeeze it all in and have the perfect day in this Bavarian town.

The image shows a festive nighttime scene in Leavenworth, Washington, during the winter. The streets are covered in snow, and the buildings are adorned with colorful holiday lights, giving the Bavarian-style village a charming holiday atmosphere. A large tree covered in twinkling white lights dominates the center, while people walk and sled, enjoying the festive ambiance.

Best Resources For Planning Your Trip to Leavenworth

🏨 Best Hotel site: Hotels.com
🏡 Best Cabins and Rentals Site: VRBO
🚐 Best Tours Booking Site: Viator
🚗 Best Car Rental Site: DiscoverCars
🛩️ Best Travel Insurance: SafteyWing

Can You Do Leavenworth in One Day?

Absolutely!

Most people visiting Leavenworth come from the Seattle area, either adding this cute Bavarian-themed village onto their Seattle trip or looking for a quick escape from the city.

It’s only about a two-hour drive, making a day trip to Leavenworth totally doable.

You’ll have enough time to explore adorable downtown Leavenworth, enjoy some amazing German food, and check out all the unique shops and sights this little town has to offer.

And if you’re visiting in the winter, you can even squeeze in a visit to pet Santa’s reindeer or take a magical sleigh ride through the snowy wonderland.

Another great option for a Leavenworth day trip is to take a guided tour from Seattle. This way, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic drive through the mountains without worrying about navigating or parking.

>> Click Here for the Best Leavenworth Day Tours From Seattle <<

Pro Tip: If you’re visiting in the winter, remember the days are shorter. If you want to see downtown Leavenworth lit up with Christmas lights, you’ll probably be driving back in the dark—and possibly on icy roads. Plan ahead and drive safely!

Kate from Kate's Crossing blog standing outside an espresso and bakery stand in a festive, winter setting. She is smiling and holding a hot beverage, dressed warmly in a pink coat, scarf, gloves, and a knit beanie. The stand is decorated with holiday-themed items like a candy cane-striped stocking, Christmas lights, and a wooden sign for "Little Reds Espresso & Bakery," with snowy scenery in the background. A small chalkboard sign reading "Pick Up" and another advertising hot cocoa add to the cozy, inviting atmosphere.

Your Guide to One Day in Leavenworth, Washington

Here’s the ultimate one-day itinerary to help you experience the best of Leavenworth.

This guide covers all my favorite spots and must-do things to make the most of your time, whether you’re visiting in the summer or winter.

And I’ve also added a bonus section with a few alternative options that are a must if you visit Leavenworth at Christmas! Which is my favorite time to visit!

Morning in Leavenworth (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM)

Start your day with a stop at Little Red’s Espresso & Bakery—the cutest coffee shop in town. Grab a coffee to go and maybe a pastry (or two) to fuel up for your morning.

After that, take a stroll down Main Street and pop into the Gingerbread Factory for some sweet treats. If you’re like me and love a little sugar for breakfast, this place is a must!

Kate from Kate's Crossing blog inside a cozy gift shop in Leavenworth, Washington. She is bundled up in a winter outfit, including a white knit beanie, red gloves, and a plaid scarf. Kate is smiling and holding up two festive holiday ornaments in her hands, while the shop around her is filled with Christmas decor, ornaments, and other seasonal goods. The warm lighting and holiday decorations add to the festive shopping atmosphere.

From there, take your time exploring the dozens of boutiques, gift shops, and bakeries that line the street. I love wandering through Kris Kringl, a year-round Christmas shop, and Garnishes Boutique, which has the cutest gifts.

And if you’re into quirky, don’t miss the Nutcracker Museum—it’s such a fun, unique stop that you won’t find anywhere else!

The image is split into two scenes. On the left, Kate from Kate's Crossing blog is seated outdoors in Leavenworth, Washington, enjoying a large glass of beer. She is bundled up in a white knit hat, plaid scarf, and winter jacket, sitting by a warm firepit on a cozy patio. On the right, a close-up shot of a hearty meal is shown: a sausage topped with crispy onions in a bun, served with seasoned fries and a pickle. Flames from the firepit can be seen in both images, adding to the warm, relaxed atmosphere.

Afternoon in Leavenworth (12:00 PM – 4:00 PM)

After all the exploring and all that shopping, you’re probably hungry after smelling all the delicious food in town.

For lunch, head to one of the best Bavarian restaurants in town. My personal favorite is Rhein Haus, where you’ll find a large selection of sausages, schnitzel, and German beers—all served in a cool, fun setting.

If the weather allows, grab an outdoor table with the best views of downtown Leavenworth and the Village Town Square. You’ll stay dry under the umbrellas and warm by the fire pits, no matter the season.

Kate from Kate's Crossing blog enjoying a meal outdoors in Leavenworth, Washington. She is dressed warmly in a white knit hat, a scarf, and a maroon winter jacket with a fur-lined hood. Kate is about to take a bite of a sausage in a bun topped with sauerkraut, while sitting by a cozy firepit. The scene has a festive, rustic atmosphere, with outdoor seating and holiday decor visible in the background. Her bright red nails and winter attire add to the cozy, wintertime vibe.

Another top spot is München Haus.

They have a fantastic outdoor seating area in their beer garden, complete with heat lamps and fire pits, even in the winter. Their bratwurst is so yummy, and they have a great selection of beer, including German brews you’ve got to try!

After you’ve had your fill, stretch your legs with a visit to Waterfront Park. Here, you can walk the scenic trails along the Wenatchee River and get beautiful views of the Cascade Mountains.

If you’re visiting in the winter, the trails are open for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. It’s absolutely magical when everything is covered in snow.

Pro Tip: If you don’t have your own gear you can rent snowshoes or cross-country ski equipment at Der Sportsman in Leavenworth.

Once you’ve finished your hike or snowshoeing adventure, warm up and relax with a glass of wine—or, during the winter, a mug of Glühwein (hot German mulled wine).

Leavenworth is known not just for its food and beer but also for its incredible wine scene.

My favorite tasting room is Bergdorf Cellars. It’s super cozy and romantic, and their Glühwein is the best in town if you’re visiting during the colder months.

If you’re in the mood for tasting more wine, Paterson Cellars and Goose Ridge Winery are also worth checking out. I love the atmosphere at Goose Ridge, but I think Paterson has the better wine.

Sit out on their patios and people watch, or simply enjoy the horse-drawn carriages trotting by.

A stunning aerial view of a festive winter night in Leavenworth, Washington. The town is decorated with dazzling holiday lights, including a massive blue Christmas tree adorned with large white snowflakes. Surrounding trees are wrapped in vibrant white, blue, green, and red lights, illuminating the snowy streets. People are strolling through the town square, enjoying the winter wonderland scene, while cars drive along the snow-covered road. The Bavarian-style buildings add to the magical, holiday village atmosphere.

Evening in Leavenworth (4:00 PM – 8:00 PM)

As it starts to turn to evening, head to Front Street Park to take in the magical Christmas lights (if you’re visiting in winter). Walking through the glowing streets, especially after a fresh snowfall, will make you feel like you’re strolling through a snow globe.

You can also enjoy live music at the park’s gazebo—The Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce lines up different artists every night, so it’s the perfect spot for some live entertainment!

And for a charming activity, hop on one of the horse-drawn carriage rides and take a peaceful tour of downtown Leavenworth while soaking in the Bavarian vibes.

The image showcases two delicious meals from different restaurants in Leavenworth, Washington. On the left, a dish from Larch Restaurant features beautifully plated roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and tender cuts of meat garnished with microgreens. The dish is colorful with vibrant roasted carrots, broccolini, and lemon slices on top of what appears to be a creamy sauce. On the right, a hearty meal from Andreas Keller includes a crispy schnitzel topped with mushrooms in a rich gravy, served with a side of red cabbage and spaetzle, offering a traditional Bavarian dining experience. Both dishes highlight the diverse culinary scene of Leavenworth.

For dinner, you can’t go wrong with my two favorite restaurants.

My number one favorite restaurant in Leavenworth is Larch, where I had one of the best meals of my life (seriously, I’m still drooling thinking about it). It’s an Italian restaurant with handmade pasta and farm-fresh ingredients. Absolutely delicious!!

Or at Andreas Keller, which serves up the most authentic German food you’ll find in town. I highly recommend you order the Cordon Blue Schnitzel or the Jaeger Schnitzel!

And the live accordion music and staff in dressed in traditional lederhosen make you feel like you’ve been whisked off to Germany!

Pro Tip: If you want to dine at Larch, be sure to make a reservation in advance! Andreas Keller doesn’t take reservations, so get there early or put your name on the list at least three hours ahead of time—they’ll text you when your table is ready. It’s worth the wait, I promise!

After dinner, it’s happy hour!

The image features two scenes from Icicle Brewing Company in Leavenworth, Washington. On the left, Kate from Kate's Crossing blog and a companion are smiling, enjoying beers outdoors, warmly dressed in winter clothing. The setting is cozy and festive, with holiday lights and heaters adding warmth to the atmosphere. On the right, two glasses of beer—one light and hazy, the other a deep amber—are placed on a wooden table, illuminated by the soft red glow of outdoor lighting. Both images capture the relaxed, festive ambiance of enjoying craft brews in a winter setting.

Head over to Icicle Brewing Company, the best brewery in town.

My favorite is the Icicle Pale Ale, but if you’re more of an IPA fan, try the Bootjack IPA.

Sitting under the heat lamps and by the fire rings, sipping craft beer, and watching one-horse open carriages trot by in the snow… it doesn’t get much cozier than that. It’s the perfect way to end your day.

And just like that, your time in Leavenworth comes to an end!

I might have accidentally turned this day trip into a food and drink tour. Sorry, not sorry!

The best part of traveling is always the food! Am I right?

The image shows two scenes taken at the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm. In both images, Kate from Kate's Crossing blog is seen interacting with reindeer. On the left, Kate and a companion pose with a reindeer in front of a barn, both smiling and dressed in warm winter clothing, including knit hats, coats, and scarves. On the right, Kate stands beside another reindeer, gently holding its harness, while other visitors can be seen enjoying the farm in the background. The snowy landscape and rustic barn create a charming, festive atmosphere.

Alternative Options for Your One-Day Itinerary

Depending on when you visit Leavenworth, there are a few other popular activities you might want to consider.

During the winter, I highly recommend a visit to the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm.

It’s just a short five-minute drive from town, and if you go in the morning when the reindeer are active and hungry, you’ll get the best photo opportunities. Later in the day, they tend to be full and sleepy, so morning is definitely the best time to visit.

Another magical winter option is taking a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snow with Leavenworth Sleigh Rides. This experience is straight out of a holiday movie!

The sleigh rides are about a 35-minute drive north of Leavenworth, and it’s best to go in the afternoon when the day is warmest.

Since your time in Leavenworth is limited, you’ll probably only have time for one of these activities if you still want to explore the Bavarian town itself, so pick the one that excites you the most!

The image captures two moments from a Leavenworth sleigh ride. On the left, Kate from Kate's Crossing blog and her companion are seated on the sleigh, smiling and bundled up in winter gear, with a cozy blanket on their laps. Behind them, other riders are also enjoying the snowy adventure. On the right, the view from the sleigh shows two black horses pulling it through a stunning snow-covered forest, with frosty trees and a peaceful winter landscape stretching ahead. These images capture the serene and festive experience of a winter sleigh ride in Leavenworth.

Best Things to Do in Leavenworth in One Day at a Glance

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick roundup of the best things to do in Leavenworth in one day. This list covers the highlights, from sipping coffee to soaking in the Bavarian charm.

Grab coffee from the cutest coffee shop in town – Little Red’s Espresso & Bakery
Wander downtown Leavenworth and hop in and out of the cute shops.
Grab a sweet treat from the Gingerbread Factory.
Eat delicious German food at traditional spots like Andreas Keller or München Haus.
Sample German beer at Icicle Brewing Company or a beer garden.
Visit wine tasting rooms and sample Glühwein
Take in the Christmas lights and Bavarian-themed buildings.
Go wine tasting and warm up with german mulled wine.
Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the downtown area.
Walk the trails along the Wenatchee River at Waterfront Park.
Visit Santa’s reindeer at Leavenworth Reindeer Farm.
Take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snowy forest.
Drive over the scenic Stevens Pass on your way to or from Leavenworth.

The image shows a scenic winter day in downtown Leavenworth, Washington. Kate, dressed warmly in a maroon coat and white knit hat, walks down a snow-covered street lined with Bavarian-style buildings. They are carrying a red shopping bag, and the scene is framed by snowy mountains in the background under a clear blue sky. The street is bustling with people, and the charming town is illuminated by the soft golden glow of the afternoon sun, highlighting the festive, alpine atmosphere of Leavenworth.

Tips to Make The Most of Your Leavenworth Day Trip

To make sure your Leavenworth day trip is as smooth and fun as possible, here are some of my top tips to help you plan. Whether it’s avoiding crowds or booking activities in advance, these suggestions will help you maximize your time and enjoy every moment!

Best Time to Visit Leavenworth:

The best time to visit Leavenworth really depends on what you want to experience. For magical Christmas lights and Hallmark Movie vibes, visit in the winter. If you prefer warmer weather and outdoor activities, the summer months are ideal.

Avoid Crowds by Visiting Midweek:

If possible, plan your day trip for a weekday to avoid the weekend crowds. You’ll have a more relaxed experience and shorter waits at restaurants and attractions.

Best Way to Get to Leavenworth:

The best way to get to Leavenworth is by flying into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and then renting a car. This gives you the flexibility and freedom to explore at your own pace, and the drive from Seattle to Leavenworth takes about 2 hours.

Plan for Shorter Days in Winter:

If you’re visiting during the winter, keep in mind that daylight hours are shorter. Start your day early so you have enough time to explore and enjoy activities before it gets dark.

Set Priorities:

If you only have one day, make a list of your must-see spots and prioritize those. This way, you won’t feel rushed trying to fit everything in.

Book Activities Ahead of Time:

For must-do activities like sleigh rides, snowmobile tours, or visiting the Reindeer Farm, it’s best to book quite a ways in advance. This ensures you get a spot, especially during peak seasons.

Make Dinner Reservations in Advance:

If there’s a specific restaurant you’re dying to try, make sure to reserve your table in advance, especially during busy seasons like the holidays or festivals. Some popular spots can have long waits or be fully booked.

Kate from Kate's Crossing blog and her companion posing in front of a beautifully decorated Christmas tree inside a cozy, festive setting. The tree is adorned with red ribbon, ornaments, and lights, with wrapped presents placed beneath it. To the left, a stone fireplace is decorated with holiday garlands and a nutcracker figure, adding to the Christmas ambiance. The couple is warmly dressed in winter clothing, smiling as they stand together, embracing the holiday spirit. A sign reading "Merry Christmas" sits on the hearth, further enhancing the festive mood.

Where to Stay in Leavenworth

If you lose track of time or just can’t resist squeezing in a little more fun, staying overnight in Leavenworth is a great option. Whether you’re looking for something cozy and charming or a more luxurious stay, I’ve listed the best hotels in Leavenworth to suit any budget.

Icicle Village Resort – We chose this beautiful resort when we stayed in Leavenworth, Washington.
Bavarian Lodge – Nestled right in the center of the village, it’s close to everything!
Hotel Leavenworth -A charming alpine-style hotel that’s budget-friendly.

>> Check Hotel Availability / Reserve Here <<

More Information About Leavenworth Washington

LEAVENWORTH: If you’re still undecided about whether Leavenworth is worth the trip, read this post for my honest opinion on Is Leavenworth is Worth Visiting. And if you need help planning, I’ve got you covered with guides on the Best Time to Visit Leavenworth, the Best Things to Do in Leavenworth, and the Best Places to Stay in Leavenworth. Of course, I’ve also rounded all the best places to eat and drink while you’re there!

DIRECTIONS TO LEAVENWORTH: If you need help getting from Seattle to Leavenworth, check out my detailed travel guide for all the best routes and options

WINTER: Need help packing for a winter trip to Leavenworth? Then you’ll want to check out my Winter Packing List with a FREE Printable Checklist!

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That’s a Wrap on a Leavenworth Day Trip

And there you have it—your complete guide to a perfect Leavenworth day trip!

I hope this guide helps you have the best time exploring this charming little town. Whether you’re all about the food, the scenery, or just soaking up the Bavarian vibes, I know you’re going to love it.

Thanks for stopping by.

Catch ya later!