Thanks for renting a space at the Wenatchee River Institute!
When you choose our location for your event, you are supporting our mission and our dedication to connect people, communities and the natural world. For that, we can't thank you enough! Now that you have booked a space at WRI and learned about our facilities, you may be looking for more information to plan your event.
Leavenworth is a popular tourist destination with a multitude of dining and shopping options, as well as easy access to world-class hiking, mountain biking, rafting, rock climbing, and other outdoor activities. Located just downstream from the confluence of the Wenatchee and Icicle Rivers, WRI's 13-acre nature reserve is located in a spectacular setting that features accessible walking trails with panoramic views of the Wenatchee River and the Stuart Range. You're also just steps away from the campus e-Bird route, Waterfront Park, and Blackbird Island. It is only a short walk from downtown Leavenworth, but a world away from the hustle and bustle of Front Street.
Parking
Wenatchee River Institute has free parking available on site for all rental guests, but it is limited to about 20 vehicles. There is parking available at various spots in downtown Leavenworth, but can be very limited on busy weekends. Check out parking resources here. Don't want to drive? Check out Link Transit for public transportation throughout the Wenatchee Valley. Link Transit routes are zero-fare for all ages - that's right, it's free! WRI is also within walking distance of many local accommodations.
Resources
Thank you for renting one of the Wenatchee River Institute's spaces! Now that you have booked, you may be looking for more local resources for catering, photographers, lodging, and things to do in the area. Check out some of our recommendations below. Need more ideas? Visit the Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce.
Catering
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An authentic German biergarten in Leavenworth, also offering a variety of dishes for catering. They are able to deliver right to your rental space at WRI!
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A local restaurant offering a variety nourishing foods, coffee, and snacks, located along Hwy 2 in Leavenworth. They are able to make a variety of dishes for catering, too!
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Leavenworth's largest biergarten featuring Bavarian drinks and bites. They offer a variety of dishes for catering, including non-Bavarian items.
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Whether it's a small appetizer party, a wedding, or boxed lunches, Ravenous Catering has got you covered. They use only the freshest farm-to-table ingredients!
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They create tailored dishes for dinner parties, receptions, cocktail hours, social events, and more. They also deliver and have staff available for serving!
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A great option for food to share! They offer handmade and locally sourced charcuterie boards, large event grazing tables, or adult lunchables.
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They can cater food to up to 75 people, offering drop-off buffets, full service, or personal chef experiences! They serve throughout the Leavenworth area.
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They serve a variety of foods for all meals including vegetarian and gluten-free meals, homemade desserts, and soups. They offer full service for groups, weddings and catering.
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Craving some good BBQ food? Sweetwood BBQ in Wenatchee has great options for catering and serves the Leavenworth area.
Photography
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Heidi is a photographer based in Leavenworth who specializes in weddings, engagements, and family portraits. Check out her portfolio on her website linked above!
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Brandon is a local photographer that travels throughout WA, specializing in weddings, engagements, and portraits. Check out his portfolio on his website linked above!
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Ben is a local photographer and videographer based out of Wenatchee. He focuses on wedding videos and you can see some of his work on his website linked above!
Lodging
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Located on Icicle Rd, just a 10-minute drive from WRI, Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort has spectacular views, and a peaceful environment.
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Located just a 5-minute drive from WRI along the Wenatchee River, the KOA gives you an opportunity to camp, bring your RV, or stay in a cabin.
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Located in the heart of Leavenworth, Obertal Inn is located just a couple blocks from WRI. Be sure to treat yourself to some of their tasty strudel, too!
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A great resource for private accommodations throughout Leavenworth, including vacation rentals, cottages, condos, and townhomes.
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A small family-run hotel located just a couple of blocks from WRI! Get the true Bavarian experience with traditional decorations and a German breakfast.
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Just a 5-minute drive from WRI, Blue Elk Inn brings the same comfort of home and community you love to the mountains of Leavenworth.
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Located just around the corner from WRI, you can't stay any closer! They have 8 relaxing suites and 11 deluxe guestrooms to choose from.
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A perfect vacation experience located in Plain with many recreational opportunities to ensue!
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Located 16 miles from WRI, it's right on Fish Lake with prime fishing and birding opportunities.
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Less than a 5-minute walk from WRI, The Suites on Main is a prime location with great privacy and views.
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Located on Mountain Home Rd, this lodge is the perfection for privacy, seclusion, and of course, birding.
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A local, cozy guest suite located on Icicle Rd, just a 10-minute drive from WRI and close to beautiful trails.
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A family-friendly resort with many activities on-site and within walking distance to downtown Leavenworth.
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Located about a 20-minute drive from downtown Leavenworth near Lake Wenatchee, Pine River Ranch is a B&B on a beautiful property.
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The LOGE Downtown is a local hotel and hostel just a couple blocks from WRI. A great space to stay for outdoor enthusiasts!
Things to Do
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Get out on the river by going kayaking, paddleboarding, rafting, or tubing! The Leavenworth Outdoor Center has it all and is based right in Waterfront Park.
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Didn't get enough birding in on your trip? Check out some of the many trails managed and protected by CDLT, from hiking to biking, there's a trail for everyone.
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While you're here, be sure to support our local farmers markets in Leavenworth (Saturday from 9am-1pm) and Cashmere (Sunday from 9am-1pm).
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Located just 1-mile from downtown Leavenworth, visit the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm to meet, interact with, and learn about reindeer!
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Learn about the history of Leavenworth and the Upper Valley by visiting the museum, located downtown on Front Street.
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Check out our local indoor climbing gym in Wenatchee! It also has a fitness center, café, and gear shop.
The Wenatchee River Institute is a 501(c)(3) registered nonprofit. EIN 20-5611326
At the Wenatchee River Institute, we welcome everyone. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.
