First Timer’s Guide to Winter in Leavenworth Washington 2025

Wondering where to find a whimsical wonderland? Try winter in Leavenworth Washington, set in the heart of the Cascade Mountains.

Take it from someone whose family waited YEARS to check this off, you need to have this destination in this season on your bucket list! This is true whether you’re flying in from out-of-state or are headed here for a weekend getaway from elsewhere in the Pacific Northwest.

After talking about going for at least the 10 years, my parents, brother, and I (plus our pup, Lilo) finally ventured to the Bavarian village in January of 2025. Honestly, we had an even better time than we imagined. So, this is a place that is definitely not a one and done for us! If you and your loved ones are planning the perfect cold weather vacation, look no further.

What You Need to Know Before Visiting

I am sure you’ve seen the dreamy videos of feeding reindeer, riding in a sleigh, and being surrounded by over half a million twinkling lights. That no doubt piqued your interest, but what practical advice should you know before booking? Don’t worry, you are in the right place. This guide was crafted just for you!

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Where to Stay During Winter in Leavenworth Washington

One of the first and most important decisions you’ll make is where to make your home base. While there’s plenty of affordable, traditional-style hotels in downtown there is a hidden gem resort that you seriously need to consider. Now, if you’re looking for an upbeat place to stay that is in the heart of the action – look closer to highway 2 around commercial street. However if you’re anything like me, and are seeking a more relaxing getaway then I know just the place!

Hugged by the Icicle River and Sleeping Lady Mountain, you’ll find the Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort. I visited Leavenworth for 26 years before discovering this calming retreat in the forest. It’s just a couple minutes drive from downtown, and boy do those miles make a difference. This is a place to cozy up with a book by the fireplace, soak in the hot tub, and eat quite possible the best dinner you’ve ever had (at the Kingfisher Restaurant). Amenities aside, it’s the impression that it left me with (whether I was stargazing at the dark skies or spotting deer on my morning walk) that convinced me that this is the ultimate place to stay in Leavenworth.

Curious to learn more? Read my full review.

When to Visit

I don’t know about you, but off-season travel is my favorite. I feel so honored to experience what makes a destination special without the pressure of crowds. And, let’s be real, it’s simply more peaceful (and budget-friendly). When it comes to winter in Leavenworth Washington, the sweet spot is mid-to-late January. During this time, the holiday season magic continues. Compared to December, you can get virtually the same experience (as far as experiences go) but without the hustle and bustle of lots of visitors from all over the world. Most people don’t know that this is the ideal time to visit, but now you do!

Things to do in winter in Leavenworth Washington

Explore the Village of Lights

If you’ve ever been to the Bavarian village, then I am probably preaching to the choir what I say that it is beautiful year-round. However, it has a unique charm between late November and February when it is all dressed up with holiday lights. Known as Christmastown, the fun offerings expand far beyond just pleasant vibes. You’ll see horse-drawn carriages strolling through front street, look up to snow-capped mountains in every direction, and maybe get lucky and see falling snow!

Catch a Live Performance

One of the reasons I enjoy Village of Lights as much as I did was because of their daily performances (which are largely held on weekends). In fact, we actually timed our trip around which public shows we wanted to see. The Bellingham-based firedancers caught our eye, and brought some incredible energy and talent throughout their performance. I couldn’t look away!

Snap a Photo with a Reindeer

If you love animals, then prepare to have your heart stolen by the cute Caribou at the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm. This is the perfect place to learn about reindeer, get up-close-and-personal with them, and snap many, many adorable photos! This number of daily visitors is capped, so it’s important to snag your tickets ahead of time.

Ride an Alpine Coaster

You may be surprised to discover that Leavenworth is home to Washington State’s only alpine roller coaster. And, I am willing to bet that you might be even more surprised that the Tumwater Twister at the Leavenworth Adventure Park it runs throughout the year – even when there’s snow all around! This is a short but sweet adventure that is fun for all ages. I loved how during the ride they snap a photo of you (and your partner if you’re riding with a buddy) that you can purchase to take home with you digitally. The scenic backdrop and big smiles are worth holding onto!

Be sure to make reservations online ahead of time.

Go snow tubing

Although I am not much of a skier, you can catch me sliding down the slopes on a giant inflated donut-like tube any day. One of the best places to do this is on the drive in or out of Leavenworth at the Summit Tubing Park at Snoqulamie Pass. There’s lots of lanes as well as a magic carpet to get you back up to the top of the hill. Or, if you’d prefer to do it right in town, you totally can (on a smaller-scale) at the Ski Hill. Both places provide the equipment you’ll need, just be sure to wear appropriate winter layers, boots, and accessories.

This post was all about winter in Leavenworth Washington.