From Vancouver: Leavenworth & Premium Outlets 2-Day Tour

Planning a quick getaway from Vancouver to experience a taste of holiday cheer and some retail therapy? This 2-day tour to Leavenworth and the Seattle Premium Outlets might just be what you’re looking for. It promises a blend of charming town visits, festive atmosphere, and shopping at designer outlets—all packed into a manageable itinerary.

What caught my eye immediately are two things: first, the chance to stroll through Leavenworth’s decorated German village—a town that does Christmas so well you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook—and second, the opportunity to browse over 130 designer stores at the outlets, which is a real plus if you love snagging a deal on luxury brands.

On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that this is a fairly quick trip, with just one overnight stay, so don’t expect deep dives into either destination. It’s more of a snapshot, good for a taste rather than a thorough exploration.

This tour suits travelers who want a well-organized, relatively affordable way to experience a festive town and outlet shopping without the hassle of planning every detail. If you prefer independent travel or longer stays, this might feel a little rushed, but if you’re after convenience and a fun, curated experience, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Comfortable, guided transportation makes the trip easy, especially for those who dislike driving long distances.
• Leavenworth’s holiday decorations and festive atmosphere create a memorable, picture-perfect setting.
• Overnight stay in Wenatchee offers a restful break before more shopping.
• A large shopping area with designer brands makes the outlet stop worthwhile for fashion lovers.
• The tour is geared toward a general audience; it’s not specifically family-oriented but can work for most adults.
• Good value for money considering the included hotel, breakfast, transportation, and guide.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on This Tour

Starting bright and early, you’ll leave Vancouver with a group of fellow travelers, often from various parts of Canada and the US. The bus or van is usually the vehicle of choice, based on the number of guests, and this setup is perfect for those who prefer not to worry about logistics. The journey to Leavenworth takes around two and a half hours, giving you plenty of time to relax and chat as you head south into Washington State.

Day One: Leavenworth’s Christmas Magic

Once you arrive in Leavenworth, you’ll immediately notice how the town transforms into a holiday wonderland. Think twinkling lights, festive window displays, and mountains as a stunning backdrop. Leavenworth’s charm is largely rooted in its Bavarian-style architecture, which is carefully maintained and decorated for the season.

The main highlight here is the Christmas market, where you can wander through stalls selling European souvenirs, holiday treats, and warm beverages. The atmosphere is lively but cozy, perfect for taking photos or simply soaking in the holiday spirit. The town’s shops are full of handcrafted goods, German foods, and local specialties—so if you’re into holiday shopping, you’ll find plenty to love.

Many visitors appreciate the history of Leavenworth, a town that grew around the railroad industry. There’s a certain rugged charm in exploring its streets, which are lined with colorful buildings and Alpine-style chalets. You might find the town busy, but that’s part of its charm during the festive season.

After a day of exploring, you’ll settle into the Red Lion Hotel Wenatchee, which offers a comfortable overnight stay. The hotel’s location in the city center makes it convenient and provides a good base for the next day’s activities.

Day Two: Outlet Shopping & Return to Vancouver

The next morning, you’ll have breakfast included, which is a good way to fuel up for a shopping spree. From Wenatchee, the journey to the Seattle Premium Outlets takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. The outlets are a major draw, with over 130 designer brands like Burberry, Prada, Coach, and more, all at discounted prices. If you’re a fan of brand shopping on a budget, this is a definite highlight.

Many reviewers mention that the outlets are a great way to pick up high-end goods at a fraction of the retail price, making this stop a practical part of the trip. You’ll have a few hours to browse and make your picks, though it’s wise to have an idea of what you’re after, as the shopping can be overwhelming.

After a full day of shopping, it’s time to head back to Vancouver. The return drive is roughly 2 hours, giving you time to relax after the busy day. The tour wraps up with drop-offs at the same locations from where you started.

The Details That Matter

Price & Value: At $267 per person, this tour offers a lot, including transportation, one night’s hotel, breakfast, guided commentary, and gratuities. Considering the cost of individual transport and accommodations, this is a reasonable deal for a weekend escape.

Transport & Group Size: The vehicle varies based on group size, which means you could be traveling in anything from a minivan to a coach. The guide and driver are included, which adds to the overall convenience and ensures you get local insights without any hassle.

Accommodations: Staying overnight in Wenatchee’s Red Lion Hotel provides a comfortable base. The rooms typically have two full/double beds or a king/queen size, accommodating up to four guests per room. This is practical for groups or couples but might not be ideal if you prefer more space or solo accommodations.

Timing & Flexibility: Pickup starts early, around 6:30 am, with departure times set to maximize your day. The itinerary is subject to change due to weather or unforeseen circumstances, so keeping flexible is smart. Cancelation is free if you notify 24 hours in advance, making this a low-risk option for spontaneous planners.

What to Bring: Pack comfortable shoes and clothes—you’ll be walking quite a bit—and some cash for small purchases or tips. Pets and smoking are not allowed, so plan accordingly.

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The Authentic Experience

What makes this tour stand out is the balance between guided convenience and free time. You get to enjoy the town without the stress of driving or planning, and the hotel stay adds a layer of comfort. Reviewers often mention the good value for money, noting that the included amenities and transportation make it a worthwhile investment for a quick, fun escape.

However, keep in mind the trip is not designed for those wanting a deep dive into either destination—it’s more of a snapshot. The one-night stay limits exploration, but it does make the trip accessible for those with limited time or budgets.

While some find the shopping time at the outlets a bit rushed, most appreciate the chance to snag designer deals without traveling to Seattle itself. The holiday decorations and festive atmosphere in Leavenworth are often highlighted as the trip’s emotional highlight, especially if you’re visiting during the season.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for first-timers or those looking for a hassle-free weekend getaway. If you love holiday markets, charming towns, and outlet shopping, you’ll enjoy this combination. It’s also suited for travelers who prefer guided experiences and want to avoid the logistics of driving across state lines.

On the flip side, if you’re someone who prefers longer stays in each location or enjoys exploring independently, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, since the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s not suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
This tour is generally geared towards adults, and since it’s not specifically family-focused, it might not be ideal for young children. However, older kids who enjoy shopping and holiday atmospheres could find it fun.

How long is the drive from Vancouver to Leavenworth?
The trip takes approximately 150 minutes each way, giving you plenty of time on the bus to relax or chat.

Are meals included in this tour?
Breakfast is included, but other meals, food, and beverages are not. You’ll want to bring cash or plan to buy food during the stops.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some flexibility if your plans change.

What should I bring on this tour?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothes, and cash are recommended. Remember, pets and smoking are not allowed.

Will I get separate rooms if I want?
Rooms are based on two full/double beds or one king/queen bed, and the maximum occupancy per room is four. If you’re traveling with a larger group or want separate rooms, you’ll need to make multiple bookings.

Are there any accessibility issues?
This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, so check your mobility needs before booking.

Final Thoughts

For those seeking a quick, organized escape from Vancouver, this Leavenworth and Premium Outlets tour offers a good package. You’ll get a taste of holiday magic, enjoy some retail therapy, and relax with the comfort of guided transportation and a hotel overnight. It’s a solid choice if you value convenience, good value, and a festive atmosphere.

While it doesn’t replace a longer, more immersive experience, it hits the highlights and offers a fun, stress-free way to enjoy a weekend away. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or someone revisiting for the holiday cheer, this tour provides the essentials with very little fuss—making it a nice addition to your travel plans.

Ultimately, if you’re after a memorable weekend filled with holiday spirit and shopping without the planning headache, this tour fits the bill. Just remember to bring your walking shoes, a bit of cash, and your holiday cheer.

You can check availability for your dates here: