HOW TO GET HERE
Getting to Leavenworth is part of the adventure. Nestled in the Cascade Mountains of Washington State, the town feels tucked away in the Alps—but it’s actually very accessible by plane, train, car, or bus. Below are the best ways to make your way to Leavenworth.
Flying Into Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
For most travelers, flying into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (Sea-Tac) is the easiest and most flexible option. Sea-Tac is the largest airport in Washington and offers direct flights from most major U.S. cities.
Once you arrive, Leavenworth is about a 2.5–3 hour drive away. The drive is one of the most beautiful routes in Washington, taking you through forests, mountain passes, and the scenic Cascade range. Many visitors consider the drive over Stevens Pass (Highway 2) part of the experience.
You can rent a car directly from the airport or take a shuttle or train the rest of the way.
Airport information:
https://www.portseattle.org/sea-tac
Flying Into Wenatchee (Pangborn Memorial Airport)
If you want to land much closer to Leavenworth, you can fly into Pangborn Memorial Airport in Wenatchee (EAT). Wenatchee is only about a 25-minute drive from Leavenworth.
This airport is smaller but convenient, with flights typically connecting through Seattle. Airlines like Alaska Airlines frequently operate the route.
Airport information:
https://www.flypangborn.com
Taking the Train to Leavenworth
One of the most memorable ways to arrive is by train. Amtrak’s Empire Builder line stops right in downtown Leavenworth.
The train runs between Seattle and Chicago and travels through the Cascade Mountains before arriving in town. The ride is scenic, relaxing, and drops you just a short walk from Leavenworth’s main village.
Amtrak information:
https://www.amtrak.com/empire-builder-train
You can search schedules and tickets here:
https://www.amtrak.com
Airport Shuttles to Leavenworth
If you fly into Seattle but don’t want to drive, several shuttle companies can transport you directly to Leavenworth or nearby Wenatchee.
Popular options include:
Leavenworth Shuttle & Taxi
https://www.leavenworthshuttle.com
Wenatchee Valley Shuttle
https://www.wenatcheevalleyshuttle.com
Many of these services offer private or shared rides from Sea-Tac Airport to Leavenworth.
Some shuttle services will drop passengers at the Leavenworth Park & Ride, which is located just outside town. If that happens, we can easily coordinate picking you up there.
Bus Service to Leavenworth
There are also bus routes that run from Seattle to Leavenworth.
Northwestern Trailways offers regular service across the Cascades and stops in Leavenworth.
Northwestern Trailways
https://trailways.com
Greyhound routes sometimes connect through Wenatchee as well. Bus travel is typically one of the most affordable ways to get here and still offers beautiful views of the mountains along the way.
Driving Yourself
If you’re renting a car or road-tripping, Leavenworth can be reached by two main routes from Seattle:
Highway 2 (Stevens Pass)
About 2.5 hours and the most direct scenic mountain route.
Interstate 90 to Highway 97 (Blewett Pass)
About 3 hours depending on traffic.
Both drives are beautiful, especially in the summer and fall.
Final Tip
Leavenworth is a small mountain town, so transportation options can fill up quickly during busy seasons and holidays. If you’re planning travel during peak times, it’s a good idea to book flights, trains, and shuttles early.
However you choose to travel, getting here is part of the experience—and the views along the way make it well worth the journey.