Spring & Summer in the Valley

Looking for something to do in the warmer months? You've come to the right place!

May 06, 2025

Spring & Summer in The Valley

Your go-to list for kid-friendly spring and summer activities, parks, pools, splashpads, events, and outings in the Wenatchee Valley

Spring has officially sprung in the valley, and summer is right on its heels! Whether you’re looking to get outside, check out a local event, or just find something to do on a Saturday morning, here are the best ways to make memories with your kids this season.

💦 Splash around

Chelan

Slidewaters — A classic summer favorite! Slidewaters is packed with waterslides, a lazy river, splash zones, and more! Perfect for all ages, it’s worth the drive to Chelan for a full day of water fun. The parking lot fills up quickly, so get there early to get in front of the line and grab a great spot!

Lakeside Surf — Home to the world’s largest stationary surf wave! Whether you're a beginner or ready to hang ten, Lakeside Surf offers an unforgettable inland surf experience.

Wenatchee

Splash pads:

  • Lincoln Park — A local favorite with shaded spots for picnics and plenty of space for kids to run and play after getting soaked at the splash pad.

  • Rotary Park — Tucked in a quiet neighborhood, and the splash pad is great. Bonus: There's a walking trail and pickleball courts nearby, too!

  • Washington Park (wading pool) — A shallow wading pool that's perfect for toddlers. Opens seasonally in the summer; check hours before you visit. There’s a playground right next to it as well! Bring your umbrellas and sunscreen because the wading pool isn’t shaded!

  • NEW SPLASH PAD coming soon to the Apple Capital Loop Trail — Exciting news! A brand-new splash pad is being added to the loop trail system near the Apple Capital Loop Trail. Keep an eye out for the opening date.

Pools:

Cashmere City Pool — Affordable, community-run outdoor pool with lap swim, free swim, and lessons. A great option for a low-key pool day.

Wenatchee City Pool — Located in Pioneer Park, this pool offers swim lessons, public swim times, and a diving board. Check their site for seasonal hours.

🌳 Out in nature

Wenatchee

Apple Capital Loop Trail — A scenic paved trail along the Columbia River, perfect for stroller walks, bike rides, and riverfront playtime. Don’t forget to stop at the Loop Trail Cafe!

Ohme Gardens — Stroll along beautiful stone paths through gardens and trees with views of the valley. It’s a peaceful, shaded spot for a slower-paced outing with the kids. They host storytimes, seasonal events, and fun activities all season long!

Walla Walla Point Park — A wide-open riverside park with playgrounds, a beachy area, and picnic tables. Ideal for sunny-day meetups and birthday parties. Bonus: The Apple Capital Loop Trail runs right by it!

Confluence State Park — A favorite for families! Enjoy beach access, walking trails, picnic areas, and even campsites—right at the Columbia River’s edge.

Wenatchee Foothills

  • Saddle Rock — A tough but short hike with a big payoff—panoramic views of Wenatchee and the Columbia River valley. Best for older kids or baby carriers.

  • Sage Hills Trails — Gorgeous wildflowers and gentle inclines make this trail a springtime favorite. Great for strollers with hiking tires or baby carriers.

  • Ollala Canyon — A lesser-known canyon trail offering peaceful hikes and pretty views without the crowds (that is, until we went viral on social media!).

Chelan

Lake Chelan State Park — Swim, hike, and picnic surrounded by the mountains and water. This park is a true gem on the south shore of Lake Chelan.

Chelan Wildlife Area — A great spot for bird watching, nature walks, and spotting deer in the wild. Don’t forget your binoculars!

Leavenworth

Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery — An educational stop where kids can learn about local fish and conservation efforts, complete with walking trails and a visitor center.

Waterfront Park — Peaceful, scenic paths right along the river with access to wading spots and playgrounds.

Enchantment Park — A large park with sports fields, riverside trails, and shaded picnic areas. Great for group meetups.

Entiat

Entiat City Park — A hidden gem right on the river with splash-worthy swimming spots and plenty of green space.

Entiat River Road — Drive along Entiat River Road for views, trailheads, and picnic pull-offs. Great for a Sunday afternoon cruise.

Cashmere

Cashmere Riverside Park — A riverside park with a playground, picnic tables, and beautiful water views. Easy parking and peaceful vibes.

Manson

Willow Point Park — A quiet lakefront park with a small sandy beach, grassy area, and plenty of shade—perfect for toddlers.

🌊 On the water

Wenatchee/East Wenatchee

Chelan

Leavenworth

⛺️ Camping

Lake Wenatchee State Park — Camp beneath towering pines and play along the shores of Lake Wenatchee. Book early—it’s a local favorite!

Lincoln Rock — Located along the Columbia, this spot offers waterfront camping, playgrounds, and walking trails.

Confluence State Park — Pitch a tent or RV at this close-to-town park with river access and plenty of shade.

🎢 Adventure parks

Leavenworth Reindeer Farm — Pet and feed friendly reindeer, take adorable photos, and learn about these gentle creatures.

Smallwoods Harvest — Farm animals, play areas, a produce market, and ice cream—it’s part petting zoo, part roadside treasure.

Leavenworth Adventure Park — Zoom down the alpine coaster or test your balance on the ropes course! Best for bigger kids or adventurous adults.

🌸 ☀️ Spring and Summer Events

Wenatchee

Apple Blossom Festival — Wenatchee’s biggest celebration! Carnival rides, a parade, food vendors, art fairs, and live performances for all ages.

Stemilt Creek Barn Spring Market — Local vendors, handmade goods, and small-town charm—this spring market is perfect for a mom’s morning out.

Library Summer Reading — Encourage summer reading with special events, prizes, and programs for kids of all ages at your local library.

U-Pick Strawberry Season — Sweet, juicy fun! Bring the kids for a morning of berry picking at local farms throughout the valley.

Leavenworth

Leavenworth Spring Bird Fest — Celebrate the return of migratory birds with guided walks, workshops, and fun for little nature lovers.

Maifest — May kicks off with flower crowns, dancing, and Bavarian charm. A sweet spring kickoff in downtown Leavenworth.

Leavenworth Summer Theater — Outdoor performances of beloved classics with mountain views. Kid-friendly options and stunning evening shows.

Chelan

Lake Chelan Fourth of July Fireworks — A patriotic lakeside event with food, live music, and fireworks over the water—bring your blankets and snacks!

Cashmere

Chelan County Fair — A good old-fashioned county fair with animals, rides, games, and fair food galore. Great for all ages!

Waterville

Douglas County Fair — Featuing animal shows, classic carnival rids, vendors, and food!

👪️ Perfect for the whole family

Wenatchee

Rocking Reach Discovery Center — Hands-on science exhibits, river models, and free admission make this spot a top pick for curious kids.

Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center — Rotating exhibits, a kids’ room, and lots of Wenatchee history—perfect for a rainy day.

Tap and Putt — Indoor mini golf and a full bar menu for parents—need we say more? Great for date nights too.

Wenatchee Riverfront Railway (Mini Train Rides) — Mini train rides that loop through Riverfront Park—open seasonally and perfect for littles who love trains!

Leavenworth

Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum — A museum filled with a unique collection of nutcrackers — one of the largest in the world!

Upper Valley Museum at Leavenworth — Local history, heritage displays, and a cozy setting. Check the schedule for summer exhibits.

Leavenworth Fish Hatchery — Bring the family and learn all about the Valley’s vibrant fish population.

Cashmere

Cashmere Museum and Pioneer Village — Step back in time at this walkable outdoor museum filled with old buildings and pioneer artifacts.

Aplets & Cotlets Factory — Take a quick factory tour, grab a sample, and learn how this sweet local treat is made!

Chelan

Putting Course at Don Morse Park — A fun mini golf-style putting course by the lake—great for friendly competition and sunny-day laughs.

Chelan Museum — Explore local history in this quaint, kid-friendly museum in downtown Chelan.

🍽️ Eating and Shopping

Wenatchee

Pybus Public Market — Indoor market with food vendors, local goods, coffee, and community events. A Wenatchee must-do.

Owl Soda Fountain & Gifts — Classic soda shop with candy, gifts, and charm—kids love the milkshakes, moms love the nostalgia.

Leavenworth

Front Street Park — The heart of Leavenworth’s shops and food scene. Bring the stroller and window-shop through this Bavarian strip.

🎨 Arts and Crafts

Wenatchee

Two Rivers Art Gallery — Local artists showcase paintings, pottery, and crafts in a cozy downtown gallery setting.

Apple Blossom Festival Arts and Crafts Fair — Shop handmade goods during Apple Blossom—it’s a great chance to find a unique keepsake or gift.

Leavenworth

Leavenworth Art in the Park —Browse booths from regional artists all summer long in Leavenworth’s central park.

Boulder Bend Glassworks — Watch glassblowing live, browse the shop, and maybe take home a one-of-a-kind piece.

🎭️ Entertainment

Wenathcee

Numerica Performing Arts Center — Catch a musical, comedy, or dance performance in this beautiful downtown venue.

Liberty Cinema — A classic theater perfect for catching the latest kids' movies.

Gateway Cinema — A great northside option for movie nights with newer films and family matinees.

Live music at Pybus Public Market — Live local musicians perform weekend evenings—check the Pybus calendar to catch a set.

Leavenworth

Leavenworth Summer Theater — Yes, it’s listed twice—but it’s just that good! Shows rotate all summer long in the outdoor amphitheater.

💡 Mom Tips

  • Layer up! Spring weather is moody — bring jackets even if it’s sunny at breakfast.

  • Plan ahead: Some outdoor attractions are still weather-dependent in early spring. Always check hours before heading out.

  • Snacks solve everything. You already know. 😉

  • Keep swimsuits and towels in the car for surprise splash pad days

  • Bookmark this guide or save to Instagram for easy reference

  • Start your summer planning now — day camps, swim lessons, and events fill up fast!