Central Washington Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Central Washington featuring mountains and a river or creek
Central Washington which includes a river or creek and mountains
Central Washington which includes a river or creek
Central Washington which includes forest scenes
Central Washington which includes forests and a river or creek
Get reacquainted with nature and leave the stresses of the city behind in this region of mountains, valleys and bountiful agriculture.

Central Washington is a picturesque landscape with stunning natural vistas and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreational activities. Kayak along waterways through national forests, smell the spring blossoms as they pop up across the valleys and taste fresh crops in orchards and vineyards across the region.

Bordered by the Cascade Mountains to the west, Central Washington has varied terrain which allows for many outdoor sports options. Snowshoe across snowy trails, hike around beautiful lakes and go river rafting with an experienced guide. Try fly fishing or water skiing in sunny Ellensburg, a town right in the center of the Kittitas Valley. Swim and sunbathe near Lake Chelan, a peaceful glacier-fed lake.

Travelers with an interest in history should head for Winthrop. Have a drink at the first legal saloon in Washington and stroll down a wooden boutique-lined boardwalk. Festivals are held here regularly, including a Blues Festival, a Vintage Wheels Show and a Balloon Festival. In the winter, Winthrop is a popular cross-country skiing destination with over 120 miles (193 kilometers) of groomed trails.

Head to Washington’s wine country to taste some of the region’s best wines. Yakima is well known for its delightful wineries as well as for its apple orchards. Go hiking in Yakima Valley and visit small, locally owned farms to learn how the land is tended.

Hike by day and camp under the stars at night at Wenatchee National Forest. If you are looking for a more offbeat base, opt to stay in Leavenworth, a mock-Bavarian village that looks out onto the mountains. Sip hot chocolate while taking a sleigh ride and indulge in specialty cheeses in the downtown shops.

Central Washington enjoys distinct seasons with snowy winters, warm summers, lovely spring blossoms and rich fall colors. Rent a car to travel around the region with ease. Roads are typically wide and well signed. A limited bus service extends to cities and large towns, while airport shuttles carry visitors to and from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.

Visit Central Washington to explore a region rich in agriculture, picturesque landscapes and incredible mountain views.

Where to stay in Central Washington

Leavenworth

Downtown Leavenworth

Downtown Leavenworth is a destination visitors seek out for its captivating mountain views, ample dining options and beautiful river views. You might also want to check out attractions like Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum or Wenatchee River while you're exploring the neighbourhood.

Downtown Leavenworth
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Wapato Point

While visiting Wapato Point, you might make a stop by sights like Lake Chelan and Wapato Point Cellars.

Wapato Point
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Crescent Bar

If you're spending some time in Crescent Bar, Columbia River is a top sight worth visiting.

Crescent Bar
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Sunland Estates

While Sunland Estates may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like The Gorge Amphitheatre and Cave B Estate Winery.

Sunland Estates
Snoqualmie Pass

Hyak

While visiting Hyak, you might make a stop by sights like Summit at Snoqualmie Summit East and Lake Keechelus Trailhead.

Hyak
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Roslyn Ridge

Though Roslyn Ridge may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Roslyn Museum and Swiftwater Cellars.

Roslyn Ridge
Red Lion Hotel Wenatchee City Center
Red Lion Hotel Wenatchee City Center
3 out of 5
1225 N Wenatchee Ave, Wenatchee, WA
The price is AU$109 per night from 7 Apr to 8 Apr
AU$109
includes taxes & fees
7 Apr - 8 Apr
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Wenatchee. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in ...
8/10 Very Good! (2,526 reviews)
"Room was nice and big but it was a bit noisy, could hear people walking and running on the floor above us most of the night."

Reviewed on 31 Mar. 2025

Red Lion Hotel Wenatchee City Center
Icicle Village Resort
Icicle Village Resort
3.5 out of 5
505 Highway 2, Leavenworth, WA
The price is AU$336 per night from 3 Apr to 4 Apr
AU$336
includes taxes & fees
3 Apr - 4 Apr
Stay at this 3.5-star spa hotel in Leavenworth. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in our ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,376 reviews)
"I enjo"

Reviewed on 31 Mar. 2025

Icicle Village Resort
Bavarian Lodge
Bavarian Lodge
3.5 out of 5
810 US Hwy 2, Leavenworth, WA
The price is AU$261 per night from 9 Apr to 10 Apr
AU$261
includes taxes & fees
9 Apr - 10 Apr
Stay at this 3.5-star business-friendly hotel in Leavenworth. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the bar ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (1,154 reviews)
"We liked the lodge style, view of the downtown square, and close proximity to the town's shops and restaurants. Definitely recommended to others."

Reviewed on 1 Apr. 2025

Bavarian Lodge
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Virginian Resort
Virginian Resort
2.5 out of 5
808 State Route 20, Winthrop, WA
Stay at this cabin in Winthrop. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a picnic area. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our reviews. Popular ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,152 reviews)
"Our room was just like the picture. We had lots of room and the bed was comfy. The shower head was rather low; I am 5’4 and it was at forehead level for me. The little balcony would be nice in the summer, but oddly enough we didn’t use it in 24 degree weather. It’s not far from town but it isn’t ..."

Reviewed on 8 Mar. 2025

Virginian Resort
Heaven Can Wait Lodge ~ Riverfront Estate on 12 Private Acres ~ Expansive Views
Heaven Can Wait Lodge ~ Riverfront Estate on 12 Private Acres ~ Expansive Views
Leavenworth
Book a stay at this family-friendly vacation home in Leavenworth. Enjoy free WiFi, private pools, and a sauna. Popular attractions Plain Cellars and Plain Valley ...
10/10 Exceptional! (85 reviews)
Amazing
"Perfect place"

Reviewed on 9 Mar. 2025

Heaven Can Wait Lodge ~ Riverfront Estate on 12 Private Acres ~ Expansive Views
Premier home, Waterfront, Views, Hot Tub, Dogs OK
Premier home, Waterfront, Views, Hot Tub, Dogs OK
Chelan
Stay at this vacation home in Manson. Enjoy free WiFi, a water park, and a garden. Popular attractions Benson Vineyards Estate Winery and Nefarious Cellars are ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (72 reviews)
View from almost every room!
"Right on the lake! We had an amazing stay. Very well taken care of and attention to every detail. I’ve stayed at a lot of Rental properties and this is one of my top choices. I will definitely be back."

Reviewed on 4 Oct. 2024

Premier home, Waterfront, Views, Hot Tub, Dogs OK
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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Cities near Central Washington