The Best Weekend Getaways in North Central Washington
Whether you’re craving mountain trails, lakeside relaxation or fine wine, you don’t have to travel far to enjoy a memorable summer getaway in North Central Washington. From Bavarian-charmed towns to rolling vineyards, our region is full of weekend destinations that feel worlds away while being just a short drive from home.
“You can have a great stay in a place that takes you away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, but it’s only a half hour away,” said Visit Chelan County Executive Director Jerri Barkley.
A European Escape
With Bavarian-charmed storefronts and stunning mountain backdrops, Leavenworth can make a weekend getaway feel like an international destination without the hassle.
Start your downtown visit with a stop at the Wilkommen Center, located at 645 Front Street, where you will find information, maps and local recommendations. While you’re there, keep an eye out for the historic glockenspiel above the center’s doorstep, which typically plays every hour on the hour.
For a taste of Bavaria, downtown has plenty of options, including beers and bratwurst at München Haus or schnitzel at Andreas Keller Restaurant. Here’s a tip: plan your meal at Andreas Keller between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m., and enjoy a dinner accompanied by a live accordionist.
One of the town’s most memorable summer experiences is seeing “The Sound of Music” at the Ski Hill Amphitheater. Set in the woods with the Cascade Mountains as the backdrop, the Leavenworth Summer Theater show is a “can’t miss” experience.
There are plenty of places to stay in Leavenworth. For options near town, consider staying at the Enzian Inn, where the Leavenworth Alphorns can often be found playing their traditional alpine instrument on the roof. For close-by camping, Icicle RV Resort offers full RV hookups right along the Icicle River.
A Lakeside Retreat
Lake Chelan’s ideal soil and weather are a great combination for growing grapes. Pair rolling vineyards with stunning lake and mountain views, and you have one of the best wine tasting destinations in all of Washington state. With over 30 wineries hugging the shores of Lake Chelan, there are plenty of options to sip a great glass of wine with an incredible view.
From French varietals to Italian-inspired architecture, wineries in Chelan will have you feeling like you’ve been transported to the Mediterranean. Explore Rhône inspired wines at Cairdeas Winery’s Barn Tasting Room, located along the north shore of Lake Chelan. Or, step into the Italian countryside at Tsillan Cellars Winery & Vineyards, which features cascading waterfalls, expansive terrazzos, gardens, dramatic Italian architecture, and more.
Beyond the wineries, Lake Chelan is one of the region’s premier destinations for outdoor recreation. Summer is the best time of year to get out and enjoy the famous lake, but also consider checking out some of the lakes along Manson’s backroads, such as Wapato, Roses, Dry, and Antillon Lakes.
A boat ride to the remote town of Stehekin, located on the opposite end of Lake Chelan, is well worth the visit. While you’re there, enjoy a hike and treat yourself to the Stehekin Pastry Company.
For lakeside accommodations, Campbell’s Resort — which has been in operation since 1901 — offers 1,800 feet of private beach with kayak and paddle board rentals, as well as two heated pools.
For a laid back vibe with adventure access, book a stay at Echo Valley Resort. Just a 15-minute drive from downtown Chelan or Manson, the resort offers camping, cabin stays and several Airstreams for glamping with a retro twist. At Echo Valley Resort, visitors can enjoy more than 30 miles of mountain bike trails and over 140 miles of hiking trails at their doorstep.
Hidden Gems
While Leavenworth and Lake Chelan often hog the spotlight, there is so much to enjoy and explore between the two tourist destinations.
“You get to live a little more like a local,” said Barkley.
Drive just 20 minutes outside of Leavenworth, and you can find a cozy cabin getaway in the Plain and Lake Wenatchee area. The temperatures are cooler, the crowds are smaller, and the access to nature is unmatched. The mountain setting provides the perfect setting to relax with a book by the river or explore a new trail.
On Saturdays, check out the farmers market at Plain Hardware in the morning, then spend your evening sipping wine and enjoying live music at Plain Cellars. Check with Lake Wenatchee State Park for upcoming stargazing nights on the lake.
Down valley, Cashmere offers competitive views and local vibes, combining the Wenatchee River, expansive orchards and superb views of the mountain peaks that define the Enchantments.
“Everybody’s doing some really fun things, but Cashmere is a really unique place to visit now,” said Barkley.
In recent years, Cashmere has become a hub for business and community. Start your morning with Gaucho Coffee inside Side Street Cashmere, then spend the next few hours perusing vintage and local goods at Brassbound Collective, vinyl at Cashmere Records and your next read at Understory Book Shop. While you’re downstairs, you might as well have a drink at Yonder Cider Taproom.
Grab some luxury picnic ingredients from HoneyHour Market and head to Riverside Park for a picnic by the Wenatchee River.
For a unique stay in town, the Chickadee Suite Airbnb offers a vintage, cozy feel right inside the heart of Side Street Cashmere.
“What I appreciate most about the rural towns are the unique stays,” said Barkley.
No matter which destination you choose, one weekend is perfect for remembering just how much there is to discover close to home.
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