Leavenworth is a unique vacation destination, and the local attractions are no exception! One of the most interesting of these attractions is the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum, which boasts one of the largest nutcracker collections in the nation. You’re invited to explore the wide variety of nutcrackers on display, learn their history, and maybe even take one home for yourself!
Find more Leavenworth points of interest like the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum in our free Vacation Guide! It’s filled with all the best recommendations on things to see and do during your getaway.
History of the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum
In 1995, the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum first opened its doors as a private showing of the Wagner family’s personal collection. The immense amount of nutcrackers took Leavenworth by storm, and it wasn’t long before the non-profit museum we know today was formed.
In 2002, the Wagner’s donated their entire building to the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum with the assurance that the collection would stay together permanently. The number of unique nutcrackers on display only grew as more and more people donated their precious nutcrackers to the museum.
Since its opening, the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum has been featured on CBS Sunday Morning and attracts more than 10,000 visitors per year. It has also been the host of the Antique Nutcracker Collection Club convention three times over! It’s a Leavenworth treasure that will continue to awe locals and visitors alike for years to come.
3 of the Best Things to Do at the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum
Aside from viewing over 6,000 nutcrackers, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy within the museum. Here are just a few visitor favorites!
Take a Tour
Tours of the museum are a great way to learn more about the nutcrackers and enjoy a more immersive experience. Groups of up to 25 people begin their tour with a video explaining the history of the nutcrackers and a brief demonstration of how to use them. Then you will be led through the museum to view thousands of nutcrackers from over 40 countries, some of which date back to the Roman ages. You will also see nutting stones that date back nearly 8,000 years! You won’t want to forget your camera for this tour!
Meet Karl
The mascot of the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum is waiting to meet you! Karl has had his picture taken more than any Leavenworth local, and for good reason. He was carved in Germany by artists Karl Rappl and has been featured in various newspapers and magazines throughout the years. You could say he is a bit of a celebrity. He’s always happy to pose for a picture with you, so don’t be shy!
Nutcracker Hunts
It’s the ultimate game of hide-and-seek, but with nutcrackers instead! Should you choose to participate, you will receive a list of nutcrackers that you must find within the museum, and the hunt begins! If you find them all, you’ll earn a special “I Found the Crackers” pin. This is a very popular game among families and a fun way to stir up some competition.
Book Your Leavenworth Experience at Pine River Ranch
With so much to see and do in Leavenworth, it’s nearly impossible to do it all in one day! Ensure you’ll have plenty of time to fully experience the wonders of Leavenworth by staying with us! Our historic and secluded bed & breakfast provides everything you need to lodge in comfort and make memories that will last a lifetime. Guests of Pine River Ranch are spoiled with rustic-style guest suites packed with luxury amenities.
You will also enjoy a complimentary gourmet breakfast delivered straight to your door each morning! There’s no better way to complete your unique getaway.
Book your favorite room with Pine River Ranch today! We look forward to welcoming you to Leavenworth soon!
If you haven’t already, don’t forget to download your free copy of our Leavenworth Vacation Guide! It’s a great reference to all of the best things to see and do in the local area.