Leavenworth, WA in Spring: Where to Eat, Stay and Spend a Perfect 24 Hours

This was my third time visiting Leavenworth, WA and I have yet to see it in winter when it becomes a proper snow globe wonderland. My previous visits were in late summer but this time we went for roughly 24 hours in the spring to celebrate future Mr. Trip Side’s birthday with my parents. We always have a wonderful time together and this trip was exactly what we hoped for: lots of walking, window shopping, good food, and plenty of laughter.

Let’s jump in.

Table of Contents

Where We Stayed

You might be surprised to know we stayed in a hotel for our 24 hour trip but it was absolutely the right call. My parents had never stayed overnight in Leavenworth before so this felt like a treat for everyone. No rushing home before dusk, no scrambling to leave by noon. It was perfect.

We stayed at the Hampton Inn & Suites Leavenworth. I’ve been a Hilton Honors member for over a decade and have never been disappointed and this stay was no exception. We were on the highest floor, the rooms were extra spacious, and we had free breakfast with an 11am checkout. Dad and Ad were thrilled with the waffles and protein options at breakfast and mom and I were completely overjoyed by their 24 hour coffee and tea station. 10/10, no notes. My parents loved it so much they’re already talking about a weekend getaway back.

Where We Ate

I’m getting this out of the way first because I know 90% of you are here for the food. As you should be, because Leavenworth has some genuinely great options. That said, If you’re traveling solo or with a friend, you guys know I love a tour and saw this Leavenworth Lunch and History Walking Tour. Not only do you get the history of town but a German restaurant experience, which is very on brand for the town. We did not stay on brand, we went rogue. Here’s where we ate!

Yodelin – a terrific health-inspired spot with a killer view. This was my second time here and I loved it just as much as the first. I got the Kiwanda Rice Bowl which was amazing and Ad got the Fish On! on a lettuce wrap and said he’d absolutely order it again. We love their mission and are hoping to check out their other location and finally try their Pho, which is what they’re known for.
South – a cute little Mexican restaurant that my parents really enjoyed. The guacamole was devoured within minutes of arrival and I got the Chicken Tortilla Soup which was exactly what I needed.
Whistlepunk Ice Cream co. – oh goodness. Everyone jumped at ice cream after walking around all afternoon. I laughed because they all got traditional flavors but who am I to judge? Sometimes basic is best.
Fudge Hut – this was our very last stop, right down to the final minute on the parking meter, and what a way to end the trip. They had vegan options which meant I actually got to have fudge for once! I picked up the Peanut Butter fudge, Ad got Dark Chocolate Raspberry, and we grabbed S’mores for my sister. They were making their jalapeño flavor while we were there and offered us a taste. It was surprisingly complex and genuinely delicious.

What We Did

Honestly? We were fairly lazy and it was wonderful. We mostly walked the town and soaked up the absolutely stunning spring weather. Just having a change of scenery was all we really wanted and Leavenworth delivered that beautifully.

We did get to celebrate Ad’s birthday properly! I had picked up cupcakes before we left and we showered him with a few gifts. He was so grateful and, hopefully not too mushy, I genuinely cannot wait to celebrate every single birthday with him from here on out. 🥹

As for Leavenworth in spring, it’s stunning and completely worth the drive. There’s a fun little roller coaster, mini golf, and loads of hiking nearby. If you’re into craft beer and festivals, this is also a fantastic destination as it’s famous for its Oktoberfest celebrations.

Some of my favorite spots beyond the restaurants: The Plant Ally completely captured my heart and I am desperate to go back just to try one of their herbal coffees and pick up a plant or two. Ad’s favorite was clearly the Fudge Hut and my mom’s was Kris Kringl, the year round Christmas shop that is exactly as magical as it sounds.

Notable mentions go to A Book for All Seasons (the local bookshop, obviously), The Oil & Vinegar Cellar, and The Little Alps Artist Gallery Shop where my mom picked up the most darling little pink pottery mushroom for my garden. I’ll definitely share it in an upcoming garden update!

That’s it, friends! A perfectly simple weekend with no hiccups, just family fun that I feel so genuinely blessed to have experienced. Are you heading to Leavenworth anytime soon? We’re already thinking about a summer camping trip out that way. Stay tuned! 🏕️

xoxo!