We considered staying another day in Marysville but since the only thing we hadn't fit in was a trip to Costco, and since we woke up to an overcast sky, it seemed a good idea to follow the sun and head east. So, after a late breakfast we checked out of the Holiday Inn and drove inland through the Cascade Mountain range to Leavenworth. It took maybe three hours with occasional stops.
Glenn and I took our first trip here together 14 or 15 years ago and had a great time. It is a town of festivals - the Bavarian Ice Fest, Spring Bird Fest, Maifest, Ale Fest, Wine Tasting Festival, Chamber Music Festival, Autumn Leaf Festival, Oktoberfest, etc., and probably the most popular one of all, the Christmas Lighting Fest.
Last time we were here it was boiling hot and it was this time too. It felt like it was in the 90's. Someone told us it was hotter still - over 100° farther east in Wenatchee.
Unlike LaConner, this place is still bustling and it can be a challenge to find a parking spot. It's hard now to imagine that the town nearly died out after its sawmill closed and the Great Northern Railway Company pulled out. In the 1960's the community made the wise decision to take on the appearance of a Bavarian Village. Not only were the buildings redecorated, but many of the people in town dress the part. If you happen to wake up to the sound of an alp horn, you can easily forget that you're in the USA (but there are enough American flags around to remind you).
It's unfortunate when you're driving that many of the most scenic spots are seen in passing, and there is nowhere to pull off. This a scene, above, was by the highway as we neared Leavenworth.
Typical street scenes. 
It was so hot that Glenn and I sat on a bench in the shade of a big tree for some time. The two pictures above, left were taken from that spot. On the right is the 'Maipole' (or Maypole depending on who spells it). 
Streets scenes early the next morning when the town was quiet, and cooler.
Just a sign I liked.
I also like a place that has edible decor! We had a very good, fresh almond tart in this bakery.
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