Chelan Travel Guide

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Facts and practical information

Located in the heart of Washington state, Chelan is a charming city that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and a vibrant community. Nestled on the shores of Lake Chelan, this picturesque destination is a haven for those seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway.

One of the main attractions in Chelan is the stunning Lake Chelan itself. Stretching over 50 miles, this crystal-clear lake offers endless opportunities for water activities such as swimming, boating, and fishing. Take a leisurely boat tour and soak in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and vineyards, or rent a kayak and explore the tranquil coves and hidden beaches.

For those who enjoy hiking and exploring the great outdoors, Chelan is a gateway to the North Cascades National Park. Embark on a scenic hike through the park's rugged terrain and be rewarded with panoramic vistas of snow-capped peaks, cascading waterfalls, and alpine meadows. The park is also home to an abundance of wildlife, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

Chelan is also known for its thriving wine industry. With over 30 wineries in the area, wine lovers can indulge in tasting sessions and vineyard tours, learning about the region's unique terroir and the art of winemaking. Many wineries offer stunning views of the lake and the surrounding vineyards, providing the perfect backdrop for a relaxing afternoon.

In addition to its natural beauty, Chelan boasts a lively downtown area filled with charming shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Stroll along the streets and discover local artisans, boutique stores, and delicious farm-to-table cuisine. Don't miss the opportunity to taste the region's renowned apples, cherries, and other fresh produce at the local farmers market.

Alternative names: Population: 4.1 thous.Area: 6.86 mi²Elevation: 1099 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 47°50'48"N, 120°3'11"W

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WashingtonUnited States

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Chelan Top Attractions

Chelan Attractions - What to See and Explore

Chelan offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Lake Chelan Dam, St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, Ruby Theatre, Lady of the Lake. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Dam
Lake Chelan Dam
Lake Chelan Dam officially known as the Lake Chelan Hydroelectric Project is located approximately 32 miles north of the city of Wenatchee in Chelan County, near the geographic center of Washington state. The dam is located at the lower or southeasterly end of 50.4 miles long Lake Chelan, and is within the limits of the city of Chelan.
Church
St. Andrew's Episcopal Church
St. Andrews Episcopal Church is a historic church at 120 E. Woodin Avenue in Chelan, Washington, United States. It was built in 1897 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1992. The architect was Karl Gunnar Malmgren from the firm Cutter & Malmgren of Spokane Washington.
Cinema • Concerts and shows • Theater
Ruby Theatre
The Ruby Theater is a small movie theater located in Chelan, Washington. Built in 1914, it was named after Ruby Potter, the step-daughter of its manager, Frank Potter. The original owners were Herbert R. Kingman and Morrison M. Kingman. Original seating capacity was 225 on the main level and 125 in the balcony.

Day trips

Chelan – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Chelan, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Dry Falls (Coulee City), Nutcracker Museum (Leavenworth), Mission Ridge Ski & Board Resort (Okanogan–Wenatchee National Forest).

37 milesSE
Nature, Natural attraction, Waterfall
Dry Falls, Coulee City
Dry Falls is a 3.5-mile-long scalloped precipice with four major alcoves, in central Washington scablands. This cataract complex is on the opposite side of the Upper Grand Coulee from the Columbia River, and at the head of the Lower Grand Coulee, northern end of Lenore Canyon.
33 milesSW
Thousands of nutcrackers in quaint digs
Nutcracker Museum, Leavenworth
Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum is a museum dedicated to nutcrackers, located in Leavenworth, Washington. Founded by Arlene Wagner and her husband George in 1995, the museum housed over 7,000 nutcrackers in 2020.
42 milesS
Winter sport, Ski area, Park
Mission Ridge Ski & Board Resort, Okanogan–Wenatchee National Forest
Mission Ridge Ski Area is a ski area in the western United States, located near Wenatchee, Washington. On the leeward east slope of the Cascade Range, its base elevation is at 4,570 feet above sea level with the peak at 6,820 feet, yielding a vertical drop pf 2,250 feet.
33 milesSW
Winter sport, Trail, Ski area
Leavenworth Ski Hill, Leavenworth
The Leavenworth Ski Hill is a small ski area and an historic district located at the end of Ski Hill Drive in Leavenworth, Washington, United States. The facility is located inside the Wenatchee National Forest.
32 milesS
Specialty museum, Natural history museum, History museum
Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center, Wenatchee
The Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center is a museum in Wenatchee, Washington that houses local and regional history, Native American heritage, and the propeller used in the first trans-Pacific flight.

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Best Time To Visit Chelan

Learn when is the best time to travel to Chelan weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Chelan?

The top attractions to visit in Chelan are:

What is the best time to visit Chelan?

June, July and August are the busiest months in this location. The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January.