What is a better way to enjoy the last days of summer than with a weekend away to Lake Chelan and the Bavarian town of Leavenworth with friends! We booked an Air BnB and headed towards eastern Washington to catch the last rays of summer sun, drink wine at local vineyards and wind down with board games, movies and endless rounds of ping pong.
CHELAN
Chelan is the perfect quaint small town of old meets new nestled between rolling hills filled of vineyards and apple orchards, plus the beautiful lake that can be seen at all times. Downtown Chelan offers plenty of boutique shops, restaurants, diners, ice cream shops; you can find something for everyone.
What were some of my favorite shops?!
Bear Foods Natural Market: This wasn’t simply a market, it had amazing vintage vibes coupled with natural products and plenty of specialty home goods.
Riverwalk Books: While there wasn’t a vast amount of choices like a Barnes and Noble this cute bookshop hand homey welcoming vibes and the cutest kids book section upstairs.
Lake Life Chelan: This shop had everything for everyone from skateboards and souvenirs to clothing and home goods. A perfect one stop shop.
FOOD
If you’re a foodie like me, Chelan and the neighboring town of Manson offer plenty of great options. Keep in mind though that a lot of places close early and many aren’t open super late.
Breakfast and Coffee:
Blueberry Hills Farm: The reviews online are worthy! All blueberries are fresh and naturally sourced, everything on the menu is delicious!
Lunch and Dinner:
Sunset Bar & Grill: Located in the neighboring town of Manson, this restaurant was so good we went twice! There are plenty of wine bars around town but if you’re looking for amazing ambiance, food, service and specialty drinks this is the place for you! Ben their bartender is an extremely knowledgeable mixologist who curates all cocktails of the menu or can make something special for you.
Tsillan Cellars: If you’re looking for an upscale dinner date night out make a reservation here! You’ll enjoy beautiful views, rustic Italian food and make sure to try a wine tasting of your choice.
LEAVENWORTH
Stepping into the storybook Bavarian inspired town of Leavenworth is a total must especially during the Christmas season. Everything within the town including the local supermarket and Starbucks are all similarly designed and makes the overall experience so fun!
The streets are lined with specialty shops including these must see’s:
The Cheesemonger’s Shop
Kris Kringl
Nussknacker Haus
The Hat Shop / Wood Shop
Also make sure to grab a pretzel from Rhein Haus and a hot chocolate or ice cream cone Whistlepunk Ice Cream Co.
