This Small Stretch Of Shops In Washington Offers The Perfect Way To Spend An Afternoon

Everyone who visits Leavenworth has their reasons for making the drive. Some go for the festivals, others prefer the wine tasting, and most enjoy the charming Bavarian ambiance and picturesque mountain backdrops. But downtown Leavenworth is also known for its many shops, which range from specialty foods to quirky souvenirs.

You might think these shops are merely tourist traps filled with kitschy things you don't need. And you're not entirely wrong. However, you'll also find some real gems here, if you look hard enough. The fact is, spending an afternoon exploring Leavenworth's shops is pretty delightful.

Leavenworth's Bavarian theme is almost overwhelming, but it's an absolute blast.

Walking down Front Street or Commercial Street is always a pleasure, especially if you're in the mood to do a little shopping.

First, if you have any love at all for Christmas, stopping by Kris Kringl is a must.

It's Christmas 365 days a year inside this specialty shop.

From hand-painted ornaments to quirky holiday decor, you'll find it all inside these walls. Any kind of ornament you can dream can be found inside these walls, and the shop has so much more.

We have no idea what kind of people have the disposable income and the time to dedicate to a massive themed Christmas tree each year, but they exist, and they shop here.

And, of course, there's the famous Wood Shop and Hat Shop.

Whether you have children or you're merely a kid at heart, don't be surprised when you can't resist entering these doors.

You will never need 99% of these hats in your entire life, but that won't stop you from trying to justify purchasing one (or a few).

The Wood Shop Toy Store opened in 1974, by the late John and Karen Rieke. The handmade toy collection remains fantastic.

When was the last time you treated yourself to some handcrafted artisan soap or natural skincare?

Allow us to introduce The Bubblery.

Owner and soap maker Shawna Villalvazo has been making soap, herbal blends, and oils for over 20 years.

This is an amazing place to find a unique gift for someone special, especially if that someone special has sensitive skin.

Did you know Leavenworth has its very own oil and vinegar tasting room?

Step into The Oil & Vinegar Cellar.

Until you've had infused olive oil have you ever really lived? Probably, but it's worth finding out, regardless.

These beauties are the perfect complement to a salad, appetizer, or main dish marinade. Best of all, they offer free samples.

If you need a little cured meat to go with your fancy new olive oil and vinegar, check out Cured by Visconti.

This is Leavenworth's only producer and purveyor of old world salami and market cured meats.

The cured meat here is handmade in small Tuscan towns by expert curers.

You'll simply have to taste it for yourself.

And of course, there's always the iconic Little Kitchen Shop.

The shop is fairly small in size, but the inventory is abundant.

If you're not into cooking or baking before you visit, you may leave with a renewed interest.

From creative cookie cutters to kitchen gadgets you've never heard of, this place has it all.

Shopping may not be everyone's cup of tea, but in Leavenworth, it's on a whole new level. Do you have a favorite Leavenworth shop?