Entries by Olivia Plew

Skip the Crowds: 5 Hidden Gems to Discover in Lake Chelan

Lake Chelan is known for its 300 days of sunshine, iconic beauty and vibrant summer buzz, but sometimes the best adventures happen away from main street. If you’re craving a little quiet or just want to experience something off the radar, we’ve rounded up five lesser-known spots that showcase a different side of the valley. 1. Chelan Falls Park Just a short drive from downtown Chelan, Chelan Falls Park is a peaceful waterfront escape located at the confluence of Lake Chelan and the Columbia River. This 35-acre park has something for everyone: a large open field perfect for playing catch or tossing a frisbee, shaded picnic tables, a scenic walking path, and a quiet swimming hole that’s ideal for cooling off. It also features tennis courts, a playground, and a basketball court, making it a great stop for families or anyone looking to stretch their legs away from the usual lakefront buzz. 2. Pingrey Centennial Park Pingrey Centennial Park sits just above the U.S. Forest Service ranger station on 3rd Street and is one of Chelan’s quieter treasures. This small, lesser-known park offers beautiful views of Lake Chelan along with a calm, peaceful atmosphere. Pick up takeout from your favorite […]

Lake Chelan Wineries with Food

It’s no secret that Lake Chelan is home to world-class wineries—but did you know that many of them also serve up unforgettable culinary experiences? If you’re searching for Lake Chelan wineries with food, we’re here to guide you to the best spots for a full meal, stunning views, and of course, incredible wine. Whether you’re planning a romantic date, a group outing, or just want to treat yourself to a day of indulgence, these wineries offer full seated dining experiences that go far beyond a simple snack board. From woodfired pizzas and gourmet entrees to BBQ and fine dining, these destinations pair their award-winning wines with equally impressive menus. Chelan Ridge Winery Perched on the picturesque north shore of Lake Chelan, Chelan Ridge Winery offers a cozy and inviting dining experience centered around their signature wood-fired pizzas. With a small-but-mighty menu, guests can enjoy unique flavor combinations that pair perfectly with their handcrafted wines. The expansive patio provides stunning lake views, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed meal. Karma Vineyards For a sparkling experience, head to Karma Vineyards, where méthode champenoise wines meet refined dining. Their 18 Brix Restaurant offers a rotating menu of chef-driven cuisine with an […]

Introducing Lake Chelan Experiences: Your New Go-To for Local Fun + Deals

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time local, there’s always something new to discover in Lake Chelan — and now, it’s easier (and more rewarding) than ever. Meet Lake Chelan Experiences, your digital passport to the best of the valley! Plan Less. Enjoy More. Lake Chelan Experiences is a brand-new program designed to help you explore the area like a pro. With just a few taps on your phone, you can access curated, mobile-friendly passports that lead you to exclusive deals, self-guided tours, and hidden gems all over the valley. Looking to save on shopping, sip your way through local wineries, or try a new adventure? We’ve got a passport for that. What’s the Visit Lake Chelan Deals Pass? Let’s talk perks. The Visit Lake Chelan Deals Pass is a totally free, super easy-to-use digital pass that hooks you up with discounts and special offers at restaurants, wineries, boutiques, and attractions throughout the valley. Even better? You earn points toward Lake Chelan swag and prizes every time you redeem a deal.  Here’s how it works: Step 1: Sign up for the free Deals Pass on your phone Step 2: Clip the deals you want to use Step 3: Show […]

Public Playgrounds in Lake Chelan

Don Morse Park Right in the heart of town, Don Morse Park is the go-to for families. The playground is large and modern with lake views and plenty of space to run. Bonus: It’s right next to a sandy beach, skate park, mini golf, and a marina, so it’s easy to spend an entire afternoon here. And with Lakeview Drive-In’s Outpost right in the middle of it all, you don’t even need to leave to grab lunch! Why parents love it: Central location next to several lunch spots  Restrooms, seasonal concessions, and plenty of parking  Tons of other amenities for older kids and teens Chelan Falls Park A hidden gem just outside of town, this riverside park has a sweet playground, wide open grassy areas, and a super chill vibe. It’s rarely crowded, which makes it a great spot for a more laid-back outing. Why parents love it: Shaded picnic areas  Fewer crowds  Plenty of space for little ones to ride bikes Chelan State Park Located on the South Shore, the Lake Chelan State Park is more than just a campground—it’s a full-on nature escape. The playground here is nestled among pine trees with views of the lake and easy […]

Hike Through the Lake Chelan Valley

Lake Chelan isn’t just a summer destination for wine tasting and water adventures—it’s also home to some of the most scenic hiking trails in Washington. Whether you’re looking for an easy family stroll, a moderate trek with sweeping lake views, or a challenging climb into the backcountry, the Lake Chelan Valley has a trail for you. From high-alpine ridgelines to wildflower meadows and waterfalls, here’s your guide to some of the best hiking spots around Lake Chelan. Trails Near Downtown Chelan You don’t have to go far to enjoy a great hike! Just outside of downtown Chelan, a variety of trails offer options for walking, running, and biking. Riverwalk Loop (1 mile) – A scenic loop between two bridges spanning the Chelan River in Historic Downtown Chelan. Perfect for a quick stroll or morning jog. Planet Walk (2.4 miles round-trip) – Start at the Old Chelan Bridge and follow signs that guide you through a scale model of the solar system. Chelan Reach One & Upper Gorge Trails – Includes loops like Eagle, Coyote, and Cutthroat, ideal for longer hikes and trail running. Elephant Head (4 miles round-trip, moderate) – A moderately strenuous hike with breathtaking valley views. Perfect for […]

Top 10 Things to Know Before Visiting Lake Chelan

Summer is coming in hot, and so are those daydreams about lakeside getaways. If you’re planning a trip to Lake Chelan but don’t know where to start, we’ve got you covered. Here are our top 10 things to know before visiting Washington’s favorite lake. 1: Where to Hit the Water Let’s be real—finding a good beach spot on a sunny day can feel like a competitive sport. But don’t stress! There are plenty of public parks along both the north and south shore where you can throw down your towel and jump in. Check out Lake Chelan State Park, Lakeside Park, Don Morse Memorial Park, Willow Point Park in Manson, or Manson Bay for solid public beach access. Or, better yet, book a place that includes private beach access so you’re never far from the water. 2: How to Get Around Whether you’re hopping between wineries or heading into town for some shopping, have a transportation plan in place. We recommend designating a driver or booking a wine tour so everyone can sip stress-free. If you’re exploring downtown Chelan or Manson, find a parking spot and ditch the car—most spots worth visiting are within walking distance. 3: Where to Catch […]

Discover the 2025 Lake Chelan Visitor Guides

The wait is over! The 2025 Lake Chelan Visitor Guides are here, ready to help you plan your ultimate getaway. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime fan of the valley, these guides are packed with everything you need to explore, eat, sip, and celebrate in Lake Chelan. With stunning photography, updated business listings, maps, and insider tips, they’re more than just guides—they’re coffee table-worthy keepsakes. Three New Guides to Explore:   Annual Visitor Guide: Your go-to resource for everything Lake Chelan, from outdoor adventures to wineries, shopping, lodging, and seasonal events. Bi-Annual Wedding Guide: Dreaming of a Lake Chelan wedding? This guide is filled with breathtaking venues, expert planning tips, and vendor spotlights to help you say “I do” in true Lake Chelan style. Bi-Annual Mini Eat Guide: Whether you’re craving farm-to-table dining, wine tasting with a view, or a quick bite between adventures, this compact guide has all the best local eats at your fingertips. Where to Find Your Copy You can pick up your free copies at either Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce location, as well as at local businesses in Chelan, Manson, and even Stehekin. Prefer digital? You can download them anytime: Request a printed […]

Everything You Need to Know About Winterfest 2025

If you’re dreaming of a winter wonderland getaway, Lake Chelan Winterfest is calling your name! This two-weekend celebration brings the magic of winter to life with incredible activities, local wines, live music, and so much more. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a first-timer, this guide will help you make the most of Winterfest’s Ice & Fire weekends. Get Your Buttons and Tickets First things first: grab your Winterfest button! This little gem is your ticket to unlocking 50+ exclusive deals around the valley and access to several activities. Buttons can be purchased ahead of time online or at either of the Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce offices in Chelan and Manson. Here’s what each option gets you: Winterfest Button: Your key to must-do activities like the Ice and Fire bars and Kids Activities. You’ll also score discounts at participating restaurants and businesses! Kiddos 3 and under do not require buttons. Event-Specific Tickets: For experiences like the Bubble Brunch and Wine Walk, you’ll need additional tickets. These are sold separately and tend to go fast, so don’t wait! Pro Tip: Buy your button and tickets online ahead of time to skip the lines! Plan Your Weekend with our Winterfest Schedules […]