We stopped in Leavenworth on our way to eastern Washington. It’s a small town in the Cascade Mountains that has styled itself as a Bavarian village. The Cascades cooperate with craggy spires and a dramatic backdrop.
The town is adorned with lots of murals, hanging flowers, and ornamental woodwork. Above is a Starbucks entrance unlike any I’ve seen before.
Businesses seemed to embrace the “das,” “der,” and “haus” theme. Leavenworth is the first place I’ve ever seen lederhosen sold. And now I know where to go should I be in the market for gnomes.
Well, I learned something new from you again. I thought Leavenworth was the site of a federal prison in Kansas! I wonder why such a place would be built in the Cascades – lots of well, der Germans up thataway? Looks like a lot of fun, though.
What a delightfully quaint town that has a strong European flair to it. Incidentally, I still get the lone blue question mark when I open your posts. A mystery.
That is very beautiful; we’re planning on going there for Christmas, thanks for sending pics. Also, if you’re interested in Gnomes and birdhouses you can get them handmade right here in Sequim at Whimsical Woods (http://whimsicalwoods.net/). You can see a beautiful collection of them right alongside the Olympic Discovery Trail by the airport.
It really does look like a transplant from Europe! A marvelous place!
Hi Kay, haven’t been through your blog in ages… kind of went through a slump and transition, but am slowly working on my photography as I am able. I haven’t been to Leavenworth in about 15 years… time for a visit!
It is on the border between clever and tacky. Let’s give it the benefit of the doubt.
Wonderful photos – what a fun town. We vacationed in Plain, WA a few years ago – just north of Leavenworth – a lot quieter – and just a quick drive down to visit the shops and restaurants in Leavenworth. Great quilt shop there too.