How to Spend 48 Hours in Chelan: A Luxury Getaway Guide

There’s nothing like a weekend in Chelan to reset your pace and elevate your expectations. With luxury lodging, award-winning wineries, and a backdrop of shimmering lakes and rolling vineyards, this little slice of Central Washington offers more than just pretty views. If you're looking for refined ways to unwind, this 48-hour guide is packed with elevated experiences, no planning stress required.

Start your getaway right by booking a stay at one of Chelan’s standout resort accommodations. If lakefront is a must, Wapato Point offers spacious vacation condos and homes on a private peninsula, complete with sandy beaches, indoor and outdoor pools, walking trails, and a marina, perfect for families or couples wanting both comfort and easy access to the water. Another popular option, Campbell’s Resort, combines direct lakefront views with walkable access to downtown shops and dining, making it a favorite for guests who want convenience and classic Chelan hospitality.

 

For travelers who want a more personal touch, Chelan has no shortage of Airbnbs and short-term vacation rentals. From cozy hillside cottages with panoramic views to modern condos steps from the marina, these rentals often come with perks like private decks, full kitchens, and space to spread out, making them perfect for longer stays or groups traveling together.

 

Once you’ve dropped your bags, it’s time to explore.

 

Chelan’s wine scene is no secret, and it’s one of the top reasons this region draws luxury travelers year-round. Start at Tsillan Cellars, a Tuscan-style estate offering sweeping lake views and beautifully structured reds. If you have time (and a designated driver), head next to Siren Song Wines, where the European-inspired patio feels like something out of Provence.

 

Both spots offer elevated tasting experiences and chef-driven food menus, making them ideal for lingering. Bonus points if you catch golden hour with a cabernet in hand.

 

For an upscale dinner, Andante delivers white tablecloth service with house-made pasta, premium cuts, and a wine list that leans heavily local. If you’re in the mood for seafood or elevated pub fare, Campbell’s Pub & Veranda is a local favorite, especially when the lakeside patio is open.

 

Wrap the night with a visit to The Cove Wine & Games, a laid-back spot where you can sip Washington wines, challenge your crew to a round of Catan, and wind down with a little friendly competition. It’s a fun, casual way to end the evening—glass in hand, game on.

 

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Apple Cup Café, a long-standing local favorite known for generous portions, classic diner-style comfort food, and friendly service. Whether you're craving pancakes, eggs Benedict, or just a strong cup of coffee, this spot delivers the kind of no-frills, satisfying start that fuels a full day of exploring. Afterward, take a relaxed walk along the nearby Riverwalk trail to soak in the lake views and ease into the morning.

 

If you're in a browsing mood, check out Bear Foods Market & Café Crêperie, which is part gourmet grocery, part boutique gift shop, and fully charming.

 

Now comes the tough part: boat or massage?

 

If you lean adventure, head to Shoreline Watercraft & Boat Rental, Lake Shores Watercraft & Boat Rentals, or Jet Skis Ahoy for a sleek pontoon or ski boat to explore Lake Chelan’s deep blue waters. There’s no shortage of things to do on the water, whether you’re tubing, wakeboarding, or just cruising with snacks and a playlist.

 

Prefer something more Zen? Book a massage or facial at The Spa at Lake Chelan, Chelan’s go-to for full-service pampering. Their lake-view treatment rooms and curated skincare make it easy to forget you have a real life waiting for you back home.

 

If you still have energy to burn, consider a hike along the Chelan Butte Trail, which rewards you with panoramic views of the lake and surrounding vineyards. It’s not for the faint of heart, but the photo ops are worth it.

 

More of a golf-and-relax type? Bear Mountain Ranch Golf Course combines a challenging course layout with some of the most scenic fairways in the Pacific Northwest. Tee times fill fast in summer, so plan ahead.

 

For your final night, make it special. Sorrento’s Ristorante at Tsillan Cellars is an unbeatable setting for dinner with a view. Their outdoor terrace overlooks the vines and lake, making it one of the most memorable spots in town to dine at dusk. Think: lobster ravioli, a glass of Barbera, and sunset on the horizon.

 

If you'd rather keep things casual, head to Local Myth Pizza for artisan pies and cold local brews. It’s lively, local, and always satisfying after a long day of lake living.

 

• Watson’s Alpenhorn Café for casual, hidden-gem lunch with a quirky lakeside vibe
• Slidewaters Waterpark if you have kids in tow (or just want to feel like one again)
• Chelan Riverwalk Park for a low-key morning stroll and birdwatching

Chelan has a way of reminding you what’s important: slow mornings, great meals, sunshine, and scenery that asks nothing of you but to enjoy it. Whether you spend your weekend exploring wineries, lounging on a boat, or indulging in lakeside spa treatments, one thing is certain: this isn’t your average getaway.

 

If you’ve fallen for the views and the pace, you’re not alone. Many weekend visitors find themselves imagining a more permanent connection to the lake, whether it’s a second home, vacation rental, or full-time move. Justin Skaar knows the ins and outs of Chelan real estate and can help you find a property that matches your lifestyle and investment goals. Reach out today to turn your favorite 48 hours into something a little more lasting.