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Day Trip to Leavenworth, WA
Things to Do in Washington’s Christmas Town
USA Today rated Leavenworth, Washington, as one of the 'Top Christmas Towns' in the United States.
Just a few things you can look forward to enjoying include:
- Christmas Lighting Festival
- Meet Santa Claus
- Live Music
- Christmas Song Caroling
- Horse & Carriage Rides
- Sledding
Leavenworth Washington Christmas
The big show happens on the first three Saturdays of December for the Christmas Lighting Festival. Beginning at noon, Saint Nicholas, Father Christmas, and Santa Claus arrive in town, ushering in the live music and entertainment happening at the town square. As 4 p.m. rolls around, head to the square as all of the town’s lights are turned off and everyone joins in singing “Silent Night,” before the big moment at 4:30 p.m., when the town comes alive with approximately a quarter of a million lights.
Things to do in Leavenworth
The lighting of the town isn’t the only fun Leavenworth has to offer during Christmas.
Here are a few more ideas:
- Sled in the park along Leavenworth’s main street.
- Explore the Nutcracker Museum, which houses more than 6,000 nutcrackers from more than 40 countries.
- Browse the shops in Leavenworth for unique holiday gifts for everyone on your list
- Head to nearby Mountain Springs Lodge for old-fashioned sleigh rides. The two-horse drawn sleighs depart at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 2:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. from the lodge. The lodge offers a “Feed the Horses” breakfast ride and a dinner ride. Check their website for all of the details: www.mtsprings.com.
- Go snowmobiling as part of Bawana Bill’s Starlight Express – two hours of nonstop snowmobiling under the stars at Mountain Springs Lodge.
DIRECTIONS TO LEAVENWORTH, WA:
There are many options for getting to Leavenworth for the Christmas Lighting Festival.
From Seattle, take Highway 2 east – it’s about two hours from Seattle; you can also take Interstate 90 to Highway 97 North.
By train, you can take:
Amtrak: the train leaves Seattle at 4:50 p.m. and arrives in Leavenworth at 8:10 p.m.; for the return trip, the train leaves Leavenworth at 6:15 a.m. and arrives in Seattle at 10:20 a.m.
Alki Tours operates day-trip trains from Seattle to Leavenworth in the month of December. The train arrives in Leavenworth at 12:30 p.m. and leaves at 5:25 p.m.
OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATIONS IN LEAVENWORTH
If you plan to stay in Leavenworth overnight, book your accommodations early – hotels fill up fast! Visit Leavenworth’s lodging guide here.
Leavenworth Washington Webcam
Leavenworth, WA Day Trip FAQs: What to Know Before You Go
Is Leavenworth, WA a good day trip from Seattle?
Yes, Leavenworth is one of the most popular day trips from Seattle. Located about 2 to 2.5 hours away by car, it offers scenic mountain views, Bavarian-style architecture, and year-round attractions—especially during the Christmas season.
What are the best things to do in Leavenworth, WA in winter?
Top winter activities in Leavenworth include the Christmas Lighting Festival, sleigh rides, sledding, snowmobiling, shopping along Front Street, and visiting the Nutcracker Museum.
When is the Leavenworth Christmas Lighting Festival?
The Leavenworth Christmas Lighting Festival typically takes place on the first three Saturdays in December, with festivities beginning midday and the main lighting ceremony happening in the late afternoon.
How do you get to Leavenworth, WA from Seattle?
You can reach Leavenworth from Seattle by driving Highway 2 (about 2 hours), taking Amtrak, or booking a seasonal day-trip train or tour. Driving offers the most flexibility, especially during winter events.
Can you visit Leavenworth without staying overnight?
Yes, many visitors enjoy Leavenworth as a day trip from Seattle. However, during peak holiday weekends, staying overnight is recommended due to crowds and limited parking.
What is Leavenworth, WA known for?
eavenworth is known for its Bavarian-themed village, festive Christmas celebrations, alpine scenery, and seasonal events. It’s especially famous as one of the top Christmas towns in the United States.
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