A couple weeks ago we had time for another weekend getaway.  After braving a ferry ride out of the country, we decided to keep this trip closer to home and explore more of our new state.

We asked around for ideas and settled on Leavenworth.  It’s a ‘themed’ city, nestled in the mountains, modeled after a Bavarian village.  And an easy drive from Seattle [about 2.5 hours].

They take the ‘theme’ very seriously in Leavenworth.  As we drove into town we passed a McDonald’s unlike any I’ve ever seen.

As luck would have it, we were in town for the annual SALMON FESTIVAL!  [I know, right? It’s a wonder we found a hotel with availability!]  We visited the Leavenworth Fish Hatchery to see what the fuss was about.  We saw the little baby salmon that will eventually be released into the wild.

Then we decided it was time for a beverage.  We found the Icicle Ridge Winery and stopped in for a tasting.
HELLO GORGEOUS LOG CABIN!

Yes, we brought our baby along to the winery.  Yes, they still served us.  And yes, we also brought him here.
[guess I’ll send back that parent-of-the-year award I never won.]

Want to plan your own visit and need some recommendations on where to stay/eat?
We stayed in one of Obertal Inn‘s new townhomes- it was spacious, reasonable & a great location!
And we enjoyed a delicious authentic German dinner at Andrea’s Keller.
[the McDonald’s may look cute, but please don’t go there!]