We adore summer in the Lake Chelan Valley for so many reasons!
From refreshing dips in the lake to ice cream cones enjoyed under the shade of an old-growth tree, some activities are just made for summertime in a lake town!
Summer is also the only time certain establishments open their doors around town! Knowing there’s a limited time to enjoy their offerings makes it feel extra special to patronize them.
Be sure to check out the following spots during your summer visit—before they close their doors for the rest of the year!
Farmers Markets
Photo credit: Lake Chelan Evening Farmers Market
It’s always so exciting to watch the Farmers Markets fill with more and more produce with each passing week throughout the summer!
From May to October, enjoy a variety of Farmers Market options between Chelan and Manson!
The Manson Farmers Market runs from 8:30 am to 12 pm on Wednesdays and Saturdays at the Manson Grange Hall, while the Chelan Evening Farmers Market runs from 2 pm to 6 pm on Thursdays at Riverwalk Park. Additionally, there’s a Saturday market in downtown Chelan at 112 E Johnson Ave that runs from 8 am to 1 pm.
Enjoy live music, grab a snack while you peruse the stalls, and enjoy fresh produce from local farmers!
Lakeview Drive-In
Photo credit: Lakeview Drive-In
You know that summer’s here when the Lakeview Drive-In opens its doors!
Located in downtown Chelan, Lakeview Drive-In has been a staple of the Lake Chelan Valley since 1957, offering burgers, fries, shakes, and more!
Operating from April to September, it’s a seasonal favorite that makes for a perfect bite after a long and toasty day on the lake!
Goldie’s Chelan
Photo credit: Goldie’s Chelan
Looking for something nourishing and delicious? Look no further than Goldie’s Chelan!
With açai bowls, smoothies, mushroom-powered coffee, and vegan treats, Goldie’s is the perfect pick-me-up to get you glowing from the inside out. Plus, their back patio looks down on Riverwalk Park and is the ideal spot to enjoy a sunny summer morning.
Goldie’s is open from April to September and also for special events around town in the off-season, like Winterfest!
Tropical Sno
When you need something cool but ice cream isn’t doing it…there’s always shaved ice!
To satisfy your sweet tooth, check out Tropical Sno in downtown Manson (walkable from The Lodge!) They’re open every day from 12 pm to 7 pm, exclusively in the summer months.
Watson’s Alpenhorn Café
Photo credit: Watson’s Alpenhorn Café
Winding your way down the shady south shore of Lake Chelan, you’ll find Watson’s Alpenhorn Café, a mainstay of the area since 1967!
Watson’s offers burgers, fries, and shakes, and it even has a mini-golf course! It’s a great spot to stop by while exploring the less populated side of Lake Chelan.
Watson’s is typically open between June and September. Check their Facebook page for updates on hours of operation!
The Bistro
Photo credit: The Bistro
During summer only, enjoy a gourmet dining experience in a charming downtown setting at The Bistro in Chelan! The restaurant offers a delicious, French-inspired menu featuring locally sourced ingredients.
Be sure to make reservations (available through their website), as dining spots at The Bistro are in high demand!
Tacos La Roca
Photo credit: Tacos La Roca
From late spring to early fall, Tacos La Roca opens the doors to its taco truck for all to enjoy! They offer a diverse menu of authentic Mexican cuisine, plus a full cooler of refreshing drinks for those hot summer days!
The line is almost always long here, but we promise it’s worth it!
Slidewaters & Lakeside Surf
Photo credit: Lakeside Surf
Of course, summer isn’t complete without a visit to the water park! Head to Slidewaters in Chelan for a full day of family (or adult!) fun! Open Memorial Day to Labor Day, it’s the quintessential spot to make summer memories with family and friends.
While you’re there, be sure to check out Lakeside Surf, where you can watch people try their skills on the surf wave and even take your own lesson! There’s plenty of food, coffee, and refreshments to make a full afternoon of it.
Jet Ski & Boat Rentals at Shoreline Watercraft
Photo credit: Shoreline Watercraft
We love to get on the water every moment possible in the summertime, and Shoreline Watercraft makes it super easy with its full inventory of jet ski and boat rentals!
Located just three blocks from The Lodge at the Manson Bay Marina, Shoreline Watercraft has luxury boats, pontoons, jet skis, paddleboards, and more! Make the most of your summer visit with an awesome day on the water under the beautiful Lake Chelan sun.
The Lodge is Your Headquarters for Seasonal Fun
Make Mountain View Lodge & Resort your headquarters for all things summer fun this season! We’re located in the charming Village of Manson and a short drive along the lake from Chelan.
With proximity to boutiques, restaurants, and the lake’s ONLY lifeguarded park, Manson Bay Park, it’s the perfect space to make your home base while you check things off your Lake Chelan summer bucket list!
Book online or give us a call today to book your summer stay in the Lake Chelan Valley. We look forward to hosting you!