Looking for an easy escape from city life this fall? Just a 2.5-hour drive from Seattle, Wenatchee offers the perfect place to slow down, spend time outdoors, meander through the restaurants and shops of a historic downtown, and enjoy a glass of cider straight from the orchard. Whether you’re planning a getaway with family or friends or a solo adventure, here’s your guide to the quintessential fall weekend in The Apple Capital of the World.

Where to See Fall Colors

Take in the seasons’ fall foliage along the Apple Capital Loop Trail, a 10-mile paved path along the Columbia River and leads you through Horan Natural Area and Confluence State Park, filled with walking paths and a rotating display of public art along the trail. Don't miss the larch trees in their full yellow display by hiking the Clara and Marion Lake Trail, a 3.2-mile roundtrip hike just 20 minutes from downtown.

Pumpkins, Apples, and Farm Fun

Celebrate harvest season with family at Annie’s Fun Farm, where you can wander through a classic pumpkin patch, pick up crisp apples, and stock up on winter squash. In early fall, stop by Stutzman Ranch, a scenic farmstand where you can pick up freshly harvested pears, apples, and grapes. For a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, jams, honey, and other jarred goods, check out Estes Fruit Stand and Flowers, open through October.  

‍Taste Wenatchee’s Cider

Savor peak apple season with a cider walk through downtown. Stop by Watercore Cider or Archibald James at Pybus Public Market for small-batch pours, or visit the Visit Wenatchee Tasting Room for a curated selection of local cider, wine, and beer. Want the orchard experience? Head just outside of town to Union Hill Cider, perched on a hillside with sweeping valley views, or Snowdrift Cider, nestled beneath basalt cliffs in East Wenatchee.

Explore Historic Downtown

Wander through historic downtown for an afternoon of shopping or simply just exploring. Start by grabbing a coffee or hot cup of cider at The Zebra Brasserie, La Vie En Coffee Bar & Bakery or Mela Coffee Roasting Co. Hot drink in hand, begin your downtown walking tour! Some of our favorite shops for gifts, jewelry, clothing, home goods, and more include Tumbleweed, Simply Unique, Balsamroot Boutique, and Curiosity Couture. Score a unique find at one of the thrift stores or antique shops downtown, such as 383 Threads, Second Chance Thrift Shop, or the Antique Mall of Wenatchee. Don’t forget to check out Pybus Public Market, Wenatchee’s iconic open-air market with more than 20 restaurants, shops and stores.

Fall Events

Get your spooky on at The Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center Haunted Museum, with a new theme every year (this year's theme has not yet been announced but be sure to check their website closer to October to learn more). Dive into the region’s beer and cider culture by attending the annual Fresh Hop Festival on Sept 26 at Pybus Market, a celebration of the season’s freshest brews, ciders, and mead. If you’re a fan of delicious food, check out Smoke the Valley BBQ Competition on Oct 4. Interested in checking out Leavenworth's annual Oktoberfest celebration? Stay in Wenatchee and take the free Link Transit bus to Leavenworth via route 22 or 122.  

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