Quick Trip to Leavenworth, Washington

Leavenworth, Wash., enjoys a stunning backdrop of clean waterways and craggy mountains. From many places in Washington state, it makes an ideal weekend getaway or quick trip.

Start by exploring downtown, known for its Bavarian architecture. Numerous shops and restaurants pack in the town, and there are no chains here so your finds are sure to be unique. Mix it up with wine tastings at any number of tasting rooms in town.

Save one day for outdoor activities, available year-round: Hike for the day at Colchuck or Stuart lakes, which are cupped by steep, snow-flecked ridges. Or opt for a shorter trip through Icicle Gorge. If you’re looking to cool off on a hot day, water-based activities like rafting and tubing are also available.

For meals, many of the restaurants in town focus on Bavarian food, like brats and German-style beer. You can’t go wrong with a brat and a pint at Munchen Haus, an open-air spot right in downtown.

Relax at the Sleeping Lady’s Solstice Spa, where a massage will certainly put you a vacation sort of mind. And there’s always something happening through the Icicle Creek Center for the Arts, whose venues show films, host musical performances and organize other arts activities.