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When it comes to the Pacific Northwest, you might think of dense evergreen forests, amazing cities, and Sasquatch lore.
But the latest tourism data revealed a real shocker: A fairytale town wedged between Seattle and Spokane isn’t the talk of the town, it’s the talk of the state.
That’s right – we’re not saying Seattle is old news. We’re just saying there is some competition.
To boast fairytale charmmajestic landscapes, and purposeful European atmospherethe little-known dreamscape of Leavenworth is seeing a wave of visitors.
In fact, regional travelers flock here in numbers that rival even Canada, which says it all about how special Leavenworth has become since we all know that our neighbors to the north are home to some of the most amazing nature destinations in North America.
Be sure to check the latest travel alerts before your trip.
Leavenworth: the ‘European’ hideaway of the Pacific Northwest
We’ve heard it time and time again: this place feels like Europe.
I hate to break it to you, but just because there’s a red-brick alley that’s never been paved doesn’t mean you can swap it for Munich.
Nestled in the Cascade Mountains, about a 2-hour drive from Seattle, Leavensworth is a real charmer that really exudes that European vibe.
To be precise, it is a hidden piece of Germanj.
This Bavarian-style village was deliberately redesigned in the 1960s to reflect mountain towns, complete with half-timbered architecture, flower boxes, beer halls and mountain backdrops that seem straight out of Bavaria – no passport needed.
Yes, you read that right: you can also find beer and pretzels there. Just go to Munich Haus.
Lederhosen aren’t necessary to fit in here, but you also won’t be judged if you happen to throw one in your carry-on – or choose to buy one as a souvenir after a round of pints you enter the zone.
Washington’s Winter Wonder is a realistic summer storybook
We’re not going to lie to you – Leavenworth takes on a completely different character in the winter, when the streets are covered in snow and… it is close to a German Christmas market, like you can find in the United States.
Take it from me, someone who finished an epic Euro trip in Munich last year. My neck still aches from staring at the vertiginous New City Hall towering over all the beer-sipping, pretzel-munching customers below.
Guilty as charged.
Locals travel the mountain roads, even in less than ideal conditions, to experience this lifelike snow globe. Nutcracker Museum and everything.
So, what about summer?
Certainly not all 786,000 visitors flowed here in the snow.
The summers here are phenomenal, still with the same level of charm without the need for additional layers.
In fact, it’s perfect weather to enjoy a German beer, rather than the hot tea you crave in December.
But if you ask me, piping hot bratwurst is delicious all year round.
Instead of ice skating, there are a range of outdoor adventures more suited to the sun, such as thrilling river tubing or keeping it simple with a beautiful walk along numerous well-marked trails, such as Icicle Gorge.
According to TripAdvisorThese are the top 5 things to do in Leavenworth in 2026:
- Leavenworth Reindeer Farm
- Leavenworth Sleigh Rides (seasonal)
- Silvara Cellars
- Leavenworth Summer Theater
- Icicle Gorge (I told you so!)
Arguably the safest destination in the Pacific Northwest
You know, I have to say that our own Traveler Safety Index has come in handy.
You just never know what to believe anymore, so why not take it from people who are actually on the ground for a certain destination?
When it comes to the Pacific Northwest, we all know that both Seattle and Portland take the cake for popularity.
The problem is that if you actually carry a cake with you, it can be taken into those cities!
According to our safety index, both cities do not currently radiate the best atmosphere and at the time of writing they only score in the 70s out of 100:
As for Leavenworth, ours source confirms only ten crimes were reported in the entire city all year.
‘Nuff said, right?
