It’s officially spring – one of the most beautiful times of year in North Central Washington. The air is teeming with bird song and the hillsides are blooming with wildflowers. We don’t know about you, but we’re stoked to take advantage of the warmer temperatures and longer days. As the snow melts and the flora underneath begins to bloom, the area turns bright and beautiful. After a year of working from home and doing virtual school with our kids, a spring break getaway to Washington’s Playground might be just what your family needs. There are countless family-friendly activities to entertain the whole family. Here are just a few ideas to get you started.

Leavenworth

Downtown Treasures – Themed Bavarian, the historical downtown Leavenworth is boasting with unique culture and equally eclectic things to see, try & taste. Browse the shops that line the sidewalks in between awarded bistros and bars, and stop to admire the many galleries, sculptures & exhibits spread about. Maybe most importantly, don’t forget to grab a sweet treat for later.

Recreation – There’s no shortage of outdoor recreation in and around Leavenworth, and an assortment of pursuits provide the pace for everyone. Explore a variety of trails ranging in rigor for an adventure that’s enjoyable for all ages, or discover a different perspective with area zip lining. Now that it’s spring, take to the river and decide your speed: river rafting or kayaking! Activities like these will allow you to take in the beauty of Leavenworth and the surrounding areas as a whole family!

Wenatchee

Apple Blossom – Plan your trip to Washington’s Playground to coincide with Wenatchee’s most beloved festival! From June 3-13, treat the family to a day of snacking at the food fair, enjoying live music and basking in the spring sunshine at this year’s Apple Blossom. The whole valley is eager to welcome all of us back to celebrate the community and it’s guests safely. You won’t want to miss out on this non-stop fun!

Trails – Grab the bikes or take a stroll with the kids along the Apple Capital Loop trail, Wenatchee’s most famous walking and biking trail. You can access this 10.5-mile loop from downtown after browsing the shops or from Walla Walla Point Park. Go as fast and as far as you want as you enjoy river views under the springtime sun. If you’re looking for a bit more incline, try a 2-mile hike up Saddle Rock for sweeping views of the Wenatchee Valley and an abundance of wildflowers.

Camping – Pitch a tent at one of Wenatchee’s many campgrounds & RV parks for a trip spent enjoying quality time with one another. The entire family is sure to have a blast playing games, wandering through the wilderness and cooking (or catching!) meals together. For the more adventurous family members, brave the cold spring water of the Columbia or Wenatchee River for quite the rush!

Lake Chelan

Hiking – Hiking trails abound in the Lake Chelan Valley and there’s a trail to accommodate every age and skill level. Head down to the Chelan Gorge via the Reach 1 trail or drive up to Echo Ridge to explore over 20 miles of trails of varying difficulty levels. Little Bear trail at Lake Chelan State Park is perfectly suited for a family adventure, too. Whatever your family’s speed, there’s a trail for you. For more information on hiking, click here.

Shopping – From the magical second story of the bookstore to the highly curated boutiques, there’s a shop to capture everyone’s interests in downtown Chelan! Enjoy an afternoon of window-shopping (or real shopping!) and leave with a prized Lake Chelan souvenir, a good book, and just about anything in between. End your shopping extravaganza with a late lunch or dinner at one of Chelan’s many local restaurants to top it all off.

Trip to Stehekin – The kids might not appreciate the lack of cell service at first, but after visiting Stehekin, the entire family is sure to find renewed appreciation for going offline. Soak in the gorgeous spring scenery as you ride a ferry all the way to the far end of Lake Chelan. There, you’ll find a quaint and welcoming town and untouched beauty. Enjoy hiking around before grabbing pastries at the famous Stehekin Pastry Company! Stay the night or make it a day trip. Either way, enjoy the peace, quiet, and quality family time.

If you’re still considering that springtime family getaway to Washington’s Playground, don’t wait. Come make some springtime memories with us!