When October arrives in Washington, most people plan trips to places like Leavenworth, which is surrounded by colorful foliage and buzzing with events like Oktoberfest. But considering the west side of the state tends to get much colder (and wetter) faster, your best bet may be to head east for an autumn day trip—or in this case, southeast. If you’ve never visited Walla Walla in the fall, make this the year you do.
There’s the Walla Walla Balloon Stampede, which is actually happening now.
Fall is a great season for wine tasting here. The Fall Release Weekend is November 4-6, though you may want to turn your day trip into a weekend getaway if you want to try all the new releases.
Some people think Leavenworth, Washington, is the next best thing to Bavaria. Whatever your opinion of the failing-railroad-town-turned-German-village may be, we can all agree on one thing: At Christmastime, this charming town is downright enchanting. In fact, this is the best Main Street at Christmas in Washington, and it might just remind you of something straight out of a holiday film. Ready to explore a Leavenworth, Washington Christmas with us? Then let's go!
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Leavenworth's Main Street, Commercial Street, is a ridiculously charming place to explore in any season...
Aerial view of Leavenworth, Washington at twilight
The city council works hard to turn this charming Washington town into a snow globe every winter. From Thanksgiving until the last day of February, Leavenworth, Washington is brightly lit with more than 500,000 Christmas lights. It is known as the Village of Lights and it is such an enchanting experience that it often receives national — and even international — attention.
leavenworth,Washington,usa.-02/14/16: beautiful leavenworth with lighting decoration in winter.
When snow covers the ground, it's easy to see why Leavenworth is the most dazzling winter town in Washington State. There's so much to discover in this wonderful magical place.
You will love exploring the Christkindlemarkt in late November. This Bavarian-style Christmas Market can't be missed. There's also an exciting Bavarian Ice Festival in mid-January and the Timbrrr! Music Festival in late January.
However, the Village of Lights is certainly the season's most popular event. And, fortunately, because the Village of Lights typically stays up until February, you can go late in the season if you'd like to avoid the crowds. In fact, the locals recommend coming during the week if you can, so you can walk through the village without sharing the space with thousands of other Leavenworth visitors. There truly is nothing quite like Leavenworth Main Street at Christmas.
Along with the fantastic shopping and seasonal events, kids (and the young at heart) enjoy sledding and tubing on the Leavenworth Ski Hill right in the heart of town. There are also activities for the entire family during the holidays in Leavenworth, Washington such as visits with Santa, entertainment in the gazebo, and a gingerbread house exhibition.
USA, Washington State, Chelan County, Leavenworth
Leavenworth isn't always easy to reach in the winter. But if you can make it, you'll never forget it. If Mother Nature doesn't deliver snow in time, the city may even bring out the snow machine to make sure everyone feels the holiday magic. There's really nothing else quite like this in the country.
Leavenworth is absolutely incredible this time of year ... but then again, there's never a bad time to visit this wonderful destination! For more information, check out the Leavenworth, Washington website, as well as the Visit Leavenworth, WA Facebook page.
Have you spent Christmas in Leavenworth, Washington? If so, what was your experience like? Would you agree that the holidays in Leavenworth are truly magical? Share your thoughts with us!
If you are looking for even more winter fun in Washington, check out our list featuring several of our favorite destinations and things to do. There's no reason to stay bundled indoors during the colder months of the year.
Let's face it: life seems to get busier and busier each year. And as things become more hectic, it's natural to fantasize about slowing it all down. To that end, few communities are more idyllic than Lopez Island, which has literally earned the nickname "Slow-pez" for its allegiance to sleepy island time. In fact, it may be the most peaceful town in Washington!
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Slow-pez is one of the San Juan archipelago's less popular destinations. This may be the result of its quiet atmosphere, a stunning mixture of dazzling blue water and rolling farmland. And with a population of just over 3,000, this Evergreen State gem really is tiny, boasting a quaint culture of charming quirks.
The closest thing to a town center keeps things simple by sharing the island's name. Despite its size, Lopez Island's shopping district is a surprisingly bustling hub of shops, bed and breakfasts, and dining options.
Though you'll find full-time Slow-pez residents scattered across the island, this postage stamp area is where you'll encounter most other vacationers. Still, nothing here feels off-puttingly tourist-driven. This sleepy community attracts a particular kind of traveler seeking low-key outdoor fun.
And when you visit, you can see for yourself why people love living on Lopez Island. For one, the island is quite serene and idyllic offering a slow pace of life in addition to its natural beauty. It's quaint, it's charming, and it's oh-so special — there's no other place in Washington quite like it.
A leafy tree lined lane through the woodland forest on the island of Lopez, San Juan Islands, Pacific Northwest, USA
When suggesting where visitors should begin their day, I always direct them to Isabel's. Not to be dramatic, but Isabel's Espresso is the island's lifeline and the best spot to catch locals as they pull through on their daily errands. Espresso junkies like me will be pleased to hear the coffee is sublime, served in a cozy interior that's the perfect foxhole for a rainy day
The San Juans are renowned for their achingly beautiful water vistas. Lopez Island has these in spades. But part of what sets it apart from its sister islands is its thriving agricultural community. Spend a day biking along idyllic country roads, drinking in the pastoral views. Farm stands dot the island; some even allow visitors to tour their lush pastures.
That doesn't mean an afternoon along the shoreline isn't a must if you happen to visit. Even in the winter, Lopez's coast possesses unparalleled beauty.
For friends of Fido, you'll be happy to hear that Slow-pez is also incredibly dog-friendly. And make no mistake, your furry companion will enjoy the island's beaches and hiking trails as much as you will.
In my opinion, Lopez Island is the most peaceful town in Washington. This enchanting community holds a special place in my heart, as I'm sure it does for all who visit, and I can't say there isn't a part of me that will always fantasize about never leaving. And, honestly, its one of the best islands to live on in Washington! So, I suggest you come see for yourself why it's such a special place.
Explore this Evergreen State gem today, and before you arrive, book a stay at the Luxury Seaside Getaway. This cottage is absolutely charming and perfect for two!
