All-Day Winthrop Adventure
Drive Time: 1hr 12 min.
Best Time to Visit: Mid May - Early June and September-October
Leave Chelan: 9:30am Arrive Home: 5:30pm
Tips: Since this trip takes most of a day, it’s probably best for littles who are young enough to sleep on-the-go, or old enough to not require a midday nap.
Winthrop is one of those destinations where the drive is nearly as enjoyable as the town itself. Meandering alongside farmland and wide-open spaces, your kiddos are sure to spot a cow or two along the way! Our absolute favorite time to visit this quaint little western town is between September and October when the leaves start to change and most of the tourists have gone back to school.
This itinerary has a good balance between getting some fresh air and enjoying a bit of shopping, plus a special treat for mom on the way there. Don’t forget to take some photos in the painted wooden photo ops, and throw in a little walk across the bridge if you have time.
Coffee at Blue Star Coffee Roasters – 10:30am
If you’ve spent any time frequenting coffee shops in Chelan, you’ve probably tasted Blue Star’s brews. Place the order before you leave using their handy dandy online ordering system, that way you can run in super quick-like instead of dragging the whole brood inside. Savor those sips during the last bit of your drive and enjoy the energy boost for the adventures ahead!
Lunch at Old Schoolhouse Brewery – 11:00am
By the time you reach downtown Winthrop, it will be time for an early lunch. Since you’ve got a big afternoon ahead, you’ll want to fuel up somewhere yummy for both you AND the kiddos, and Old Schoolhouse is just the place. With a reasonably-priced kids menu, outdoor seating with a view and a delicious rotating tap and menu, everyone will leave happy and full.
Shopping at Trail’s End Bookstore – 12:30-1:00pm
With an extensive selection of kid’s books and toys in the back, they will be entertained for awhile while you look for the latest Colleen Hoover. Let them each pick out a book and a bookmark, and everyone will have something to keep them busy and quiet on the drive home.
Photo: Washington Trails Association
Falls Creek Falls Hike: 1:30-3
This trail is perfect for all families and can be utilized in a few different ways depending on your family’s needs. The first ¼ mile up to the lower waterfall is paved and stroller-friendly (wahoo!) and is lightly graded, so even the newest little walkers can make their way up to the waterfall with ease. If you’ve got some more advanced mini hikers in tow, head up a little further to enjoy the upper falls, complete with a stellar view!
Photo: Sheri’s Sweet Shoppe
BONUS! Sheri’s Sweet Shoppe: 3:30-4
If everyone is still in a decent mood and you don’t have to be home until dinner time, take the time to grab a sweet treat at Sheri’s. Choose from dozens of delectable homemade ice cream flavors, handmade waffle cones (they smell sooooo good) or grab a little bag of chocolate covered gummy bears for the drive. The car ride home might be a little sugar-crazed, but the memories made will be well worth it!
Written by: Sarah Allen | Edited by: Chelan Mom