Winter Fun for Families in the Wenatchee Valley
When the snow starts to fall and the valley turns white, cabin fever can creep in fast. But winter in the Wenatchee Valley offers so much more than cold days and dark nights — it’s a season full of cozy adventures, small-town charm, and fresh ways to make family memories.
Whether you want to get outside and play or hibernate with a cup of cocoa, we’ve rounded up the best local winter activities for families right here in the valley.
Snow Days Done Right
There’s nothing like a day of snow play to burn energy and spark joy. Bundle up and head to one of these local spots for sledding, snowshoeing, or skiing:
Squilchuck State Park (Wenatchee) – Great (300-foot) sledding hill and 4 miles of snowshoe trails. Bring your own gear and a thermos of cocoa.
Mission Ridge Ski & Board Resort – Family-friendly skiing and snowboarding, plus lessons and a beginner area for little ones learning to ski.
Lake Wenatchee State Park – Cross-country skiing, sledding, and snow play with beautiful views of the lake.
Echo Valley Ski Area (Chelan) – Affordable lift tickets and a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere.
Leavenworth Winter Sports Club – A local favorite with tubing, skiing, and a rope tow for easy laps.
Tip: Many of these spots require a Sno-Park permit, so check before you go.
Cozy Indoor Fun
When it’s too chilly to be outside, there’s still plenty of fun to be had indoors:
Inspirations Ceramic & Art Café – Paint pottery, make crafts, and let your creativity flow.
Class With a Glass – Offers paint-and-sip classes for adults and occasional family sessions.
Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center – Hands-on exhibits and kid-friendly activities all year long.
Eastmont Lanes or Weinstein Beverage Ice Skating Rink – Perfect for active afternoons that don’t require bundling up.
Wenatchee Public Library – Check the schedule for storytime, craft days, and seasonal events.
Pro Tip: Pair indoor fun with a local treat — grab hot cocoa at Steamer’s West, Cafe Columbia, or Sure to Rise Bakery afterward.
Winter Magic Around Town
Even after the holidays, the valley stays sparkling. Keep the festive feeling alive with these local experiences:
Leavenworth Village of Lights – The Bavarian village glows all season with over half a million twinkling lights.
Chelan Winterfest (January) – Ice sculptures, fireworks, and family-friendly fun by the lake.
Pybus Market – From holiday shopping to winter pop-ups, Pybus keeps the cheer going all season long.
Downtown Wenatchee – Browse local shops, grab a warm drink, and enjoy the lights along the Avenue.
Simple Joys at Home
Sometimes the best winter memories happen right in your living room.
Build a blanket fort, bake something together, or start a weekly movie night tradition.
Try ideas like:
Homemade snow ice cream or hot cocoa bars
Family board-game tournaments
DIY bird feeders with pinecones and peanut butter
Reading through a winter-themed picture book list
Make This Winter One to Remember
Whether you’re hitting the slopes, crafting indoors, or just soaking up the glow of Christmas lights, winter in the Wenatchee Valley is full of moments waiting to be made.
So grab your mittens, pack your sense of wonder, and make the most of this cozy, snow-filled season.
Want more ideas? Check out our full Winter & Christmas in the Valley Guide for upcoming events, light displays, and local holiday happenings.
