Drive to Bavaria this Christmas!
Randal C. Hill
50plus Magazine
A visit to Leavenworth, Washington, this season might have you believe you’ve stepped right into a European Christmas. Set amid a backdrop of majestic mountains, glacial lakes and sparkling rivers, this delightful town rekindles memories of cheerful, small-town Christmas celebrations of yore.
Things weren’t always this way for the thriving burg of 2,000 folks. At one time, Leavenworth was a prosperous lumber town connected by a busy railroad. A century ago, though, railroad honchos rerouted the track, and suddenly Leavenworth was bypassed. When the lumber mills started closing down, store owners began closing too. For Sale signs sprouted like daisies on local residential lawns.
Then, during the 1960s, some visionaries had an idea: why not give Leavenworth a Bavarian-style atmosphere to attract tourists? Before long, its downtown architecture featured signs in old-style Germanic fonts and exotic street names replaced the standard originals.
Today, the heartbeat of the town thrums along Front Street, its main avenue. Here you’ll discover a multitude of shops filled with unique handmade arts and crafts far more appealing than what can be found in most big-box stores. While you’re downtown, visit the Nutcracker Museum, which displays over 7,000 nutcrackers, created from ancient Roman times to present.
Comfortable, warm restaurants provide the perfect intermission from the hustle and bustle while pubs and wine-tasting rooms entice those seeking adult beverages. Visitors also find plenty of cozy hotels that promise a welcome respite at the end of the day.
Each December, half a million gleaming Christmas lights glow with breathtaking brilliance seven days a week, while roaming carolers sing holiday favorites.
One caveat: the last month of the year is Leavenworth’s busiest time, and parking lots tend to fill before noon on weekends. Visiting midweek ensures fewer crowds.
Leavenworth is only about 280 scenic miles from Portland, and while it might feel like you’re in Europe, it’s safe to leave your passport at home. A downloadable visitor’s guide is available at leavenworth.org.