No, not the prison, but one of Washington's theme towns situated in the Cascade Mountains. Home to German beer, organs, art-in-the-park and the feel of another country, Leavenworth ( http://www.leavenworth.org ) is packed with traveler's fun, food and shops. It's a town full of celebrations, recreation, eating, shopping and experiences for the discerning or casual traveler. Travelers flock in droves to visit the popular theme town, by tour bus or alone. [holof001.thm]
What makes Leavenworth so special?
From its Maifest to its Bavarian Bike and Brew Festival to its 37th Annual Washington State Autumn Leaf Festival and all celebrations in-between and around, it's difficult to not find fun, food, art and entertainment everywhere you look. A yodeling accordian-player, an annual quilt show, shops full of linens, crystal, special hand-embroidered hats, German steins, cuckoo clocks, German and Austrian music - heaven in my book! Bratwurst, beer, Bavarian clothing.
The NussKnacker Haus has one of the largest nutcracker and smoker selections in the world. Sweet Dreams carries Teuscher Fine Chocolates from Switzerland which are known as the finest chocolates in the world.
We like to stay at the Icicle Inn ( http://www.icicleinn.com )when we go. It's a very nice motel with a Bavarian buffet breakfast, on your left as you enter town coming from Stevens Pass. We previously got a ski package to Stevens Pass with the room. I'm not sure if they still have ski specials. But they do have a summer special right now.
At times we have stayed at the Squirrel Tree Chalet (four rooms-no phone) and eaten at the wonderful Squirrel Tree Inn between Stevens Pass and Leavenworth. Homemade bread, wild blackberry pie, etc. Definitely worth a stop!
Here I am in my earlier skiing days after a good day - on the way to Leavenworth to play some more. The gingerbread on the Chalet gives you an idea of what Leavenworth looks like.
There are lots of other places to stay that I'm sure are just as good. And be sure to sample some German and Austrian food in town.
There's also a second ski area, Mission Ridge, by Wenatchee, that is accessible from Leavenworth. Folks have this ski area choice besides Stevens Pass. And if you'd like a romantic sleigh ride, it's available in the winter.
If you want a secluded, glamorous experience in the area visit the Mountain Home Lodge above Leavenworth, http://www.mthome.com , which gained four stars as "One of the Best Places to Kiss" in the northwest. You may have wonderful specialty meals with your experience by a fine chef, high in the Cascades overlooking town. This is not for a budget traveler.
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