Why to Go + Where to Stay: Christmas in Leavenworth, Wash. for Couples

Leavenworth - a fun Bavarian-themed town in Washington.

Darling Husband and I celebrated our third wedding anniversary in Leavenworth, Wash., this year. We had spent our second wedding anniversary there as well, but Dane said he wanted to experience this magical town white with snow. We signed up for another year and I'm so glad we did!

The drive: It took us about three hours to drive from Tumwater to Leavenworth. When you get off I-90 the scenery gets beautiful. Blewett Pass was snowy and dreamy. Roads were not a problem for us in December 2014 or 2015.

The view from our hotel room.

You'll know when you have arrived: Leavenworth has worked hard to transform itself into a quintessential Bavarian village. From the chain grocery stores, to banks, to Starbucks, they are all Bavarian themed and look a bit silly and fun. You will know as soon as you get into town because the logos you know so well have a bit of whimsy.

Where to stay: We spent two nights both years at the Bavarian Lodge. When we decided we wanted to spend our anniversary in Leavenworth, I had to call one year in advance to make a room reservation and many of the hotels were already booked. The hotels do sell out in five minutes the year before you want to go. It was a miracle that I got us a reservation and well worth it! At the lodge, you are encouraged to book for the next year during your stay. I like how you can be grandfathered in.

Bavarian Lodge is right in the heart of downtown.

Bavarian Lodge is in the perfect location in the heart of downtown. It's well decorated and warm and feels like a lodge in the Swiss Alps. It has plenty of lobby seating by the fire and even has The Woodsman Pub where you can get beer and wine and avoid the crowds. Only guests are allowed inside.

We scored a room with a balcony on the front of the building. It's spendy, but well worth it to watch the Christmas tree lighting from our balcony. Plus, the breakfast is delicious. The room was huge and the furnishings felt like new.

Why couples should go: Leavenworth is so much fun for the young at heart. The sledding hill in town square, Saint Nikolas walking around, folks in silly Christmas hats - it's a really special place. Dane and I love the Christmas lights that twinkle from every rooftop and tree limb. The lights cast a romantic glow over the whole town making me believe there is magic in the world and a crazy day can become peaceful with a glass of red wine by the fire.

On Saturday and Sunday, busses of thousands of people do come into town, so bring your patience and good cheer as it can become a Disneyland madhouse quickly. Check out my post next week for advice on where to eat, shop and play, and how to deal with crowds.

The lodge all lit up! This photo is courtesy of TripAdvisor because mine didn't turn out. :)