A Lazy, Tasty, Totally Fun Weekend in Lake Chelan You’ll Want to Copy

We just got back from a quick escape to Lake Chelan, and let’s just say—it did not disappoint. The weather was so good we considered bottling it up and selling it (but we settled for cider instead—more on that in a sec).

Whether you're in it for the eats, the adventure, or just a solid weekend of “I can’t believe this place is real,” Lake Chelan is serving it all up with a sunny smile.

First stop: breakfast. Or in our case, Campbell’s Pub & Veranda —because if you’re going to start your day, you might as well do it lakeside with eggs, coffee, and views that make you forget you ever had emails to answer.

After breakfast, we strolled downtown, poked around a few shops, and stumbled into Lake Life Chelan, boutique with cute clothes and lake-chic vibes. (Yes, we made that term up, but it works.)

For the Gentlemen: Woody’s Classic Man

Need a trim, a shirt, or to feel like a rugged yet refined lumberjack? Woody’s Classic Man is your stop. Think men’s apparel with a vintage twist, and yes—straight razor shaves that feel like a rite of passage. You’ll walk out looking like you know how to build a cabin and pair wine with steak.

A Core Memory: Pressing Cider in Manson

A quick hop up the road brings you to Manson and the Cider Press. This place is a hidden gem—and by gem, we mean a cider-making playground. You pick from six types of apples (3 sweet, 3 tart), taste-test the flavor combos, and then crank out your very own custom cider. Literal crank—this is hands-on fun, folks.

I went all in on Granny Smiths for a sour kick. I learned that if you add a lot of cosmic apples—it will create a nice pink cider. It's part science experiment. The favor was amazing and loved the fact that we could bring it home and enjoy a little vacay at home.

Breakfast With a View (and a Side of Nostalgia)

While you're in Manson, do not miss Blueberry Hills Farm Café. We’re talking scratch cooking, outrageous cinnamon rolls, danish waffles, and a view that makes you want to buy a rocking chair and stay forever.

They also have U-pick blueberries when they're in season (bring a cooler!)—or grab frozen berries to go. And the café? It's like eating in Grandpa’s shed if Grandpa was a culinary genius who also collected 700 vintage tools. Chck out the eyeglasses--they were all theirs. Each table has its own mini museum—bonus points if you can figure out what all the gadgets were once used for.

Oh, and yes—it’s dog-friendly, because, you know us.

After-Dark Fun: Trivia & Tastings

Looking for evening fun? Head to Stormy Mountain Brewing for trivia night. Think beer, brainpower, and bragging rights.

If wine is more your speed (or you're just not great at trivia—no judgment), head to Tipsy Canyon Winery for views and vino. Or go big with Lake Chelan Winery, where the tasting menu is extensive and delicious. Every wine drinker should find one they like. They also have an amazing Chacuterie board. 

In the Mood for Italian? Chelan’s Got You Covered

After a day of sipping, shopping, or cider-pressing, sometimes you just want carbs—and Lake Chelan delivers. Sorrento’s Ristorante, tucked into the hills at Tsillan Cellars, Sorrento’s pairs Italian cuisine with stunning vineyard views. Think handmade pasta, rich sauces, and an elegant setting that makes you feel like you’ve landed in Tuscany (without the jet lag). Pro tip: go for dinner at sunset—trust us on this. Lago Pasta, for something a little more casual but still packed with flavor, check out Lago Pasta in downtown Chelan. The menu is short, sweet, and totally house-made. Pasta is crafted fresh daily, and you can mix and match sauces for your perfect bowl. It’s the kind of place where the food speaks for itself—and you’ll be planning your next visit before dessert.

Bonus Round: Company Creek Pizza

Too tired to fork-twirl? Grab a pizza from Company Creek Pizza. Cozy, quick, and satisfying, it’s the go-to for locals and visitors alike. Ideal for when your feet hurt and you just want a cheesy slice and a cold drink.

The Stehekin Side Quest: A Day Trip to Remember

Now let’s talk about the hidden treasure of this whole trip: Stehekin. You can only get there by ferry, boat, floatplane—or if you're feeling extra adventurous, by hiking in (not recommended for anyone with a deep love of indoor plumbing).

We hopped on the Lady of the Lake ferry in the morning and were immediately treated to hiker drop-offs and a surprise show: mountain goats casually defying gravity on cliff edges. The ferry even slowed down so we could get a good look. (These goats know how to work a crowd.) Tip: this cute town is part of the Pacific Crest Trail, connecting to the Pacific Rim. This is where the hikers stop at the post office and get their care package to continue the final part of the trail to Vancouver.

In Stehekin, you can:

• Rent electric bikes
• Ride horses
• Try fly fishing
• Visit the historic Buckner Orchard
• Or just relax and eat your way through Stehekin Pastry Company (trust us, the name does not lie). Think pastries, cakes, and lunch that’ll make you want to miss the ferry back just to eat there twice.
• You can also stay close to the ferry landing and have lunch at the restaurant right at the dock. 
• Go a little farther in and check out the original school house or rainbow falls.

The ferry ride takes about 2.5 hours each way, and yes—you can stay overnight if you want to extend the magic. Whether you want to camp in the outdoor under the stars or stay at the North Cascade Lodge.

Final Thoughts

Lake Chelan checks all the boxes: food, views, activities, shopping, wine, and a laid-back vibe that hits just right. Whether you’re sipping cider, crushing waffles, or hanging with goats

(hey, we don’t judge), you’re guaranteed a good time.

Pro tip: bring your dog, a big appetite, and a sense of adventure.

We'll definitely be back—and next time, we might even try the Danish waffle and the cinnamon roll. You know… for research.