Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum

We enjoyed going through the history and artisans who created the nutcracker. So many materials and forms, from human likeness to animal, wood to metals, fanciful to a bit hmmm... It was all very interesting!

It was interesting, over 9000 nutcracker Small fee per person. Guinness Book of World Record Holder Worth the visit.

I had no idea there were even near this many nutcrackers in the world. I would have loved some hands on opportunities to try some given how interesting for The Kid who is obsessed with nutcrackers that would be. As it stands there's basically nothing to interact with that doesn't say "parents please keep kids from touching this" including the glass in front of every nutcracker. The majority of nutcrackers are themed standard nutcrackers. My humble opinion; as a past library and museum worker, installer of interactive art, and consumer of many of all three; would be to have a less special version of each type to try using as a little interactive place, even without cracking nuts, it would be interesting. I'd return and pay a dollar or two more. (It's only 5 dollars)

It was fun for kids with a little scavenger hunt based on ages.

Nutcrackers on nutcrackers on nutcrackers!!! So many different styles, themes and designs. If you can go on a weekday that’s not during a holiday, that would probably be best because the aisles are narrow. Very interesting museum overall.

Such a curious and delightful place! We didn't have kids, but it was great that they had a scavenger hunt for ages K through 12 that kept them busy and fairly quiet for the rest of us to enjoy. Go early, it's a popular place. Worth the $.

So fun!!! I have been collecting nutcrackers for years!!! This was such a wonderful experience for me. A great variety and so much history!

I had no idea there were so many variations and the history alone of the nutcracker! It's just something you don't think about! The museum was interesting! Complete the scavenger hunt!

Are you kidding me? $5.00 to see a bunch of nutcrackers... Well if you are even remotely interested in Nutcrackers this is the place for you. Thousands of Nutcrackers, new and modern, not just the figural ones either, metal, wood, stone, all kinds, great way to spend an hour or so, lots to look at and enjoy, gift shop has some to buy if you want to add to your collection. Highly recommended

I called the museum to ask for advice for restoring my Grandmother's nutcracker as the rabbit hair and beard were gone. The woman answered my question with -go to the craft store. I then asked for advice on how to remove the strip of hide that is on the head of my nutcracker without ruining the finish, and she rudely told me "There are 600 people in here and I don't have time to talk to you.", and then she hung up on me. I asked 2 questions total- the call literally lasted 1 minute according to my phone. I'm flabbergasted at this woman's unprofessionalism, especially someone in a specialty field. As a person that was willing to make a 3 hour trip to Leavenworth to have my nutcracker professionally restored if it were an option, I was not prepared to be treated like a pest, especially by someone who I assume shares a love of nutcrackers. Sad.

Wow! I had no idea there were so many types and varieties of nutcrackers! This is definitely worth a visit and absolutely worth the fee. There are two floors of nutcrackers. They are organized a few different ways. There is a lot more history to the nutcrackers as well, not just on the evolution of nutcrackers, but how many of the nutcracker designs reflected history. Then for whatever other interests you have, from Disney to Harry Potter to holidays, there is likely a set of nutcrackers to reflect that. Plan to spend some time here, we were there for about an hour and could have spent more time.

Great depiction of the history of nutcrackers. The movie explains why there are German military and American military nutcrackers. If you are biased against history or nutcrackers, you don't want to go here. It is very offensive for people to want to erase history. This museum shows why there are so many types of nutcrackers. After WWII, Germany changed the nutcrackers for export. This museum has nutcrackers from over 44 countries. It even shows original nutcrackers and counterfeits. This is a great place to educate your family on the history of nutcrackers around the world.

We were trying to stay indoors as much as possible as it was a 98 degree day in Leavenworth. We love museums, especially different ones.. like not your normal museum. It was only a $5 entry fee for adults and there are over 7,000 nutcrackers on display on two floors. There's even an old bronze one from Roman times that could date back as far as 200 B.C. We spent an hour or so admiring this collection, but if you're really into nutcrackers you could spend a considerable amount of time as there is a lot to see. The women at the counter were super nice and helpful. We enjoyed our visit

Such an interesting museum. They have thousands of nutcrackers. Even if you don't think you would be interested, I suggest going. It is only five dollars to go in. It can take about 30 minutes or more if you like nutcrackers. I liked learning the history behind the nutcrackers. They do have a video you can watch included in your entrance fee. You can go into the gift shop without going into the museum. It is located on the main strip in Leavenworth.

Such an interesting museum and the entry fee it's a small fee of $5 for adults . It takes around 30 mins or so but it's definitely a way to learn a little bit about Leavenworth and the nutcrackers ! There is two floors and you will find all type of nutcrackers from the 1600's till today . They last year the whole the record of the largest collection, that's how many nutcrackers they have. Great way to past the time and see something different.

One of the few attractions in Leavenworth that I haven't been to was the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum. I don't have a big interest in nutcrackers (or any, really) but I might as well make a visit. Entrance fees are as followed (as of October 2022): - Adults 17-64 ($5) - Seniors 65+ ($3.50) - Youth 6-16 ($2) - Child 5 & under (free) - Active military including spouse and children (free) The first part of the museum was a short video on the process of making a nutcracker. The museum in total has over 7,000 nutcrackers and there were a large variety including but not limited to sports teams, historical figures, and pop culture references like Disney and Star Wars. Many of them were donations from other collectors and all of them took up two whole floors. It's a kid-friendly place with scavenger hunts available for certain nutcrackers. We spent about 30 minutes here. It was not our cup of tea but it was something for us to pass the time. There is also a gift shop if you want your own nutcracker as a souvenir.

So many nutcrackers! If you are a fan of them, then this is the place for you. You really could spend quite a long time here because there is lots to learn and read about above and beyond just looking at all the different nutcrackers.

My family and I aren't huge nutcracker fanatics, but we were in town during the holiday time and added this on our list of places to check out. We were greeted upon entering and the staff gave us a little rundown of what to expect. My kids were given a scavenger hunt to do which kept them engaged and it was very easy for them to understand. I really appreciated this because this helped them stay busy, but also have a good time. All of the nutcrackers were very unique and cool to see. The museum is small, but 2 floors and we spent around 30-40 minutes here. If you're in the area and looking for something to do it's worth checking out!

Such an eye-catching sign. Another Leavenworth attraction! We were rushed for time and didn't get to view but looked interesting. When the weather is cold this would be nice to kill time and stay warm or beat the heat when it gets hot. MUSEUM ADMISSION Adults - $5.00 Seniors - $3.50 65+ Youth - $2.00 6-16yrs Children - FREE Active Military - FREE

For a small fee of only five dollars you get to look at literally thousands of nutcrackers. It's quite a collection! The lady who helped us at the front desk was lovely and they have a cute little gift shop if you want a nutcracker to take home.

Just floored with how many nutcrackers there are here. Insane. 2 floors of nutcrackers and they are truly amazing. You pay a small fee to enter but you know what, it was worth it. The nutcrackers in there are amazing for sure. If you took your time, you could spend a good 30-45 minutes in there. Easy. If you just wanted to browse, 10-15 tops.

Great museum with lots of information about nutcrackers from all over. The museum was bigger than I thought it would be with lots of beautifully carved nutcrackers. Kind if in chronological order as well as separated by theme. The building is two stories and there's also a mini theater and gift shop included. There are some displays that have a 'no photographs please' sign, which could upset some. Overall highly recommend this place!

Maybe you are like us and I suspect many people and you walk in and say 'do I really need a nutcracker museum?" Maybe you think nutcrackers are creepy (I do, my spouse does) and the museum will be stodgy and dusty. Ya'll pay the 5 bucks and get in there. It is more than a good value. It could be said this museum is as much about our love of nuts -- over the centuries and across the globe - as it is about nutcrackers. We learned so much. It really was a journey through time and multiple cultures - you will have no idea until you check it out - so check it out! It's better than the store. Just spend your money here. It was so fun to see the variety of nutcrackers and other implements for enjoying nuts. It's not just a European thing. (And btw after this you will understand why the burgher meister looks like he does in those old stop-motion animated Christmas shows.) I'm not 100% sure kids will enjoy it as much as adults - the walking space is tight and the displays are so packed you have to look closely and take your time. But there are some great moments and photo ops for kids such as when you see the giant mouse king from the famous Nutcracker ballet. Go if you can!

Fun little museum to visit. They have a scavenger hunt based on age- for kids. But the one given to my teens....I have to say that we were in there awhile trying to find all the nutcrackers. And there are A LOT of them...small, big, medium, childsize....and in every imaginable fun form and some kinda creepy. Overall, we had a nice time and was surprised as to how long we were actually in the museum. There is an entrance fee, but it was nominal and worth it.

Yes, this place is nutty; let's get that out of the way, right off the bat! But it's the good kind of nutty - it's a long, weird stride away from the monotony of the everyday world. It's quirky, it's charming, and there's no chance you are going to forget about your experience here. I couldn't tell you how many nutcrackers are here; several thousand to be sure (my brain keeps yelling "over 7000", but I'm not sure if I'm regurgitating a fact I read at the museum, or just plucking a number from the ether), but the exact count doesn't matter. The variety of nutcrackers on display here originate from countries all over the world, and span the centuries from the modern to the ancient. There are treasures hidden all throughout, but you have to look for them. The truly special and unique pieces are labeled with informative cards that specify the age, country of origin, and donor (if applicable). It is doubtful that any of us will ever truly appreciate this museum in the same way the owners do: the snapshot of a shared culinary and cultural umbrella, under which the whole of humanity gathers to share the love of this simple fruit (yes, nuts are a fruit...I know, I am just as surprised as you are!) with its myriad forms. There's a larger message to be parsed here, but its truth is obscured by a hard shell of weirdness that surrounds the culture of the nutcracker, and this bizarre museum that encapsulates and enshrines it. One might say, it's a tough nut to crack! Enjoy it, revel in it. Embrace the weird!

Not the biggest fan of nutcrackers, but figured we would check it while we were there. Holy nutcracker.... over 7,000. It was overwhelming. It was cool to learn the history and appreciate all the collectors. There is a nutcracker for everyone and everything! I enjoyed looking at the sets downstairs. For us, it was a nice place to enjoy AC on an extremely hot day for 30 minutes. We also learned that nutcrackers are extremely expensive if they are the legit ones. But it is $5 to visit them.

A decent place to visit and spend some time learning about nutcrackers (of all types) and it's not expensive to visit. As some have said, it's not really a museum, but more a collection. For those who seem to be offended by a few of the items, really, get a grip. History is important to remember and really the only thing I would have them change is the label Black History Month. That is definitely tone deaf. Otherwise, be prepared to see 1000's of different toy nutcrackers, as well has some other historical nut cracking implements. There is a scavenger hunt for the kids to find different ones (eg one flying a kite, didn't find that one). A good activity for both old and young.

This place is adorably quirky and should be a must-stop if you just so happen to be in Leavenworth. In the age of COVID-19, they're taking all the precautions. They limit the amount of people that can enter the museum, there's hand sanitizing stations all over, and it's spread out enough so that it's easy to social distance. Even if you're not a fan of nutcrackers, it's a cool experience. They have over 7,000 different ones and they're grouped by theme, historical event, and even time periods making it super easy to navigate. For the kiddos, they're given a clipboard and paper to do a self-guided scavenger hunt which I thought was clever. Keeps them occupied while the adults can browse at a different pace. Depending on how fast you look, you can easily get in and out within 20-minutes, if you actually take the time to absorb all that's presented to you, you can easily spend an hour or more, especially if you watch the video at the beginning. Admission is cheap at only $5 per adult, and it's a non-profit, making it even more of a reason to spend your money there. The staff were beyond friendly and knowledgeable and are happy to answer any questions you might have along the way!

Very interesting history and very cool collection of nutrcrackers. The entrance fee is cheap so this is a must-see for Leavenworth newcomers/visitors.

Ridiculously huge collection of nutcrackers. I had never much thought about the history, making, and variety of nutcrackers. I was blown away by this amazing collection which includes pieces from around the world. The ladies at the front desk weren't that friendly, but there's very little interaction necessary. There's a short video which provides information regarding the history of nutcrackers, how they're made, and some information about the museum itself. For the small fee charged, this is well worth visiting. I spent about 1.5 hours looking at everything. By the time I left, I wished that I could have an old nutcracker. There are some items available for purchase in the museum. A little out of my price range...I'm cheap.

Such a fun experience for anyone who enjoys nutcrackers. I highly recommend the history video. It helps to appreciate the art much more! We appreciated that military and family were free to visit.

I've been to Leavenworth a few times, but during my last visit, I ran across the Nutcracker Museum which was a very interesting space and a nice break from the crowds. You enter through the store and there is a separate counter/entrance for the museum. At first, it looks small but the place is larger than one thinks especially with a second floor. There is a small room with a video playing that's easy to miss but other than that, you will find just about every conceivable nutcracker here, from traditional to modern pop culture (Baby Yoda?). There is a small admission fee, and that could also be waived if you buy enough from the store. The employees at the store and museum are super nice and it's a very unique place that seems just perfect in the heart of Leavenworth.

This place is located in downtown Leavenworth next to the Highway 2. Admissions is $5 and they are open 365 days a year. The museum is of modest size, with all displays spread across one floor, about the size of a single family home. I was rather surprised at the sheer number of different nutcrackers on display. They had everything spanning back to the dawn of civilization. The displays were very dense and compact. Unfortunately, there were not too many labels detailing each of the nutcrackers.

Kinda hokey, kinda kitschy, but kinda fun too. $5 adult admission - there's an optional 17 minute "history of nutcrackers" you can watch if you'd like. I loved the US Air Force and police officer nutcrackers best - vocations near and dear to my heart! The place is only open from 1pm-5pm daily - and it was freezing cold inside. Unlike all other establishments we visited on Front Street, The Nutcracker Museum doesn't seem to want to turn on any heat whatsoever. I'm sure that's not an issue in the summer, but on a March day with a 40 degree outside temp, it makes you want to rush through and get out (hmmm.... is there a method to their madness?)

If you blink, you may miss this museum. I would call this more of a collection than a museum. There's a small signage hanging above. When you go in the door, you go up a narrow hall of stairs as it's located upstairs. There is a $5 entrance fee for adults, which was worth paying. I love nutcrackers! There was an area with seating where you can watch a 17 minute video on the history of nutcrackers. There are display cabinets upon display cabinets of varying nutcrackers throughout history from varying countries -- some looked like metal finger torture devices to other whimsical character ones. My Sweetie and I spent a couple hours perusing the varying nutcrackers as we can appreciate them and were totally geeking out over them. I can see where others walked quickly by and were disinterested so you reallyhave to appreciate them for what they are. There is a scavenger hunt available, which makes it mroe interestinf and fun for the young ones or young at heart. There's also a small gift shop. I do advise coming here as soon as they open, which is at 1pm most days. Otherwise, it does get packed and there isn't much space between the hall of cabinets.

Definitely a unique experience in Leavenworth that I would recommend for those who've never been, particularly around the Christmas holiday. While small in scale as far as overall size, don't be fooled, as the sheer collection of nutcrackers here is astounding. There is a large spectrum spanning from many hundreds of years ago to contemporary period. Take 10 min or so and attentively watch the video at the front. Quite informative and helps to provide some pertinent background as you translate over to the displays. Don't miss this place but plan on spending about an hour, then you'll be done and ready to move to your next activity/destination.

I stopped by the museum with some friends while we were in town. We were very upset to find the same offensive nutcrackers that Shannon B mentioned in her review - racist caricatures, misogynistic and rude depictions of women (that all happened to be democratic politicians, lest they try to use the excuse that the nutcrackers don't represent their political beliefs), and multiple Hitler nutcrackers. I prefer to assume the best of people, so I tried to engage the Owner in a discussion about how she could improve signage in order to provide better context and framing for the presence of these pieces, and was met with a rude and dismissive response. It is clear to me that Arlene is comfortable making her customers UNcomfortable. I'm just grateful that we didn't have kids with us. I can't BELIEVE this place tries to sell itself as kid-friendly.

My first issue - less a concern - is that this is not a museum. A museum is place that curates its materials and provides interpretation. Museums, in other words, teach us something new or re-frame our understanding of art, history, or the topic it addresses. The Nutcracker "Museum" is not a museum but a collection. The nutcrackers are grouped thematically and very little history or interpretation is provided. Be aware that you are paying a nominal fee to look at someone's overgrown collection, not to visit a museum. My other issue, which I feel is a significant concern, are several racist / Anti-semitic displays. I find the "Black History Month" display offensive. It is unconscionable in the 21st century to represent black people with mammy and minstrel images. Some of the nutcrackers appear to be in black face. That there is no interpretation to discuss the bigotry these nutcrackers represent is doubly offensive. In a separate display of metallic nutcrackers, I found a head with a long beard, a hooked nose, and a skull cap. This strikes me as deeply anti-Semitic and again, the lack of interpretation or explanation (or apology!) is concerning. While I know most reviewers have gushed about how unique and interesting this spot is, I would caution possible visitors to know what they are getting in to.

When you think about 5,000 of something, it is difficult to really wrap your mind around. Walking into the first room of the Nutcracker Museum, I assumed that this was it and that I was seeing all of them. Then you get into the next room, and the next... The Nutcracker Museum is definitely unique. More than simply 5K of the same type of nutcracker (from the Suite of the same name), there is an incredible selection of tools for breaking into the shells of nuts that have been used throughout history. I would have appreciated a little bit more information on that history, however. The displays are packed full of a massive variety, but not much in the way of explanation. I can guess how many of them were used, but some are much more complex and I want to know about the geography and chronology of the design. Also, as some of the other reviewers have noted, there are several designs that are, insensitive, to put it mildly. While I don't think that censoring these artifacts is useful, it would be good to have more context. There is a scavenger hunt that many of the children seemed to be taking part in. I'm sure that this is great fun for the kids, but was a little annoying if a small person jams their way in front of you and starts yelling that they found "it." If you're looking for something unique to do in Leavenworth, this is definitely in keeping with the Bavarian theme of the town and is worth one visit.

Loved this place. They recently moved into a bigger place from what I understand. So many nutcrackers, different eras, styles. They have a small gift shop and a scavenger hunt to get a prize at the end. If you bring kids just keep them from touching/playing-running. Entrance fee is minimal. Employees very friendly. Make this a stop on your travel list! I'm only including one photo because I want you to enjoy in person :)

This is an absolute must see when you visit Leavenworth. On the main strip it can still be hard to spot as the facade is rather small. Not a lot of signage, but you just go upstairs. There is an amazing amount and variety of nutcrackers to see. Truly astounding actually. I noticed other reviews complain about the lack of info on nutcrackers. Not sure how much these people think there is to the history of a device used to open nuts. That being said, they have a viewing area with a video that plays on a loop. You can sit and watch that of course (or, you know, Google any questions you might have). I also noticed some people complaining about the more historic nutcrackers they have. Maybe history isn't for you if you can't actually handle some of the unpleasant facts of history. The point of this collection is to display as wide a variety as possible and they definitely did just that. Displays are labeled to provide some interesting info about a particular section. For those complaining it isn't informative enough I'd say it's more of an art museum then. It's a small space with lots going on so it's not a great place for unruly kids. Staff was perfectly pleasant. We really enjoyed coming here.

There are several offensive nutcrackers in this collection that are harmful depictions of black people, Jewish people, and those of Middle Eastern descent. Additionally there is a Hitler nutcracker. There are few descriptions next to any of the nutcrackers, but it's especially jarring that there is no explanation about how dangerous the stereotypes these nutcrackers portray really are. Without any context, it's as if the museum is condoning these racist depictions. The museum really needs to remove these nutcrackers. They are harmful and heavily distract from the rest of the pretty impressive collection. What should have been a whimsical visit quickly became a harsh reminder of how many racist "hide" in plain sight.

This is a great place to spend an hour in Leavenworth! I did the intermediate scavenger hunt and it made it so fun to look at all the Nutcrackers. Currently, they are in the process of moving, but you really can't tell. The movie that is shown in the beginning is only 17 mins. long and shows the owner (cute, little, older lady) who started the place and the collection. Overall, I'd take my friends to this place and see it again!

Walked in, saw all the staff and a great many of the customers not wearing masks (in the middle of the omicron surge), turned around and walked back out. No collection of nutcrackers is worth getting COVID.

If you are into nutcrackers, well, then this is the place for you. I would imagine you'd find it closer to a five because of the variety, the history, the talent, and the unique opportunity to see them all together. If you're not into it but are here for an adorable loved one who is, well, then it's not a bad way to spend five bucks, especially after some local wine tastings (can you tell where I stand?). Overall, very nice staff, and some definite talent being showcased. I found contemporary styles amusing, like Yoda nutcracker and hipster snowboarder nutcracker. And the antiques are fairly interesting. But it's nutcrackers. That's all I have to say about that.

I was really excited to visit during my trip to Leavenworth and was quite disappointed to find multiple problematic nutcrackers in the collection including racist caricatures of Black folks and indigenous people, multiple Hitler nutcrackers, and a couple misogynistic depictions of Hilary Clinton. All of these nutcrackers lacked any sort of explanation of their historical significance which made their inclusion feel more offensive. I think they could easily be left out and the museum would still be enjoyable and expansive.

Back in the fall, I took a road trip to Leavenworth, WA to do some shopping, dining, and to take in the local sights in the cool autumn weather. I really enjoy the feeling of being in a Bavarian themed village in the US, no passport required. Leavenworth is very similar to another Bavarian-like city (Frankenmuth, MI), back east. While I was in town, I visited the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum, which is open at 2PM to 5PM. It's very facinating to see lots of colorful and decorative nutcrackers, especially around the holidays! I was excited and "humming" the Nutcracker Suite to myself as I strolled into the museum at opening time (2PM). Climb up a steep set of stairs and see the biggest collection of nutcrackers on display in one place. There are literally thousands of nutcrackers (wood and metal) on display here. After going through admission, I watched a short video giving an overview of the nutcrackers and the history. The chronology and evolution of the nutcracker dating back to prehistoric times is displayed on the wall. The main purpose of the nutcracker was just that, a tool used to crack open nuts. It is also a collectible as well. The early nutcrackers were most likely two hinged pieces of wood with leather straps. Metals such as bronze, wrought iron, cast iron, and brass were also used in early times to make nutcrackers. I won't ramble on, so you'll have to visit the museum. Afterwards, I took a walk past several long rows of glass display cases of limited edition and unique one-of-a kind handcrafted nutcrackers from across the United States and Europe. Many nutcrackers on display here are over a hundred years old and in pretty good condition. I was in awe about how much time, work and dedication goes into crafting the perfect looking nutcracker. It did feel sort of freaky being surrounded by many wooden soldiers staring from behind the glass, almost like being in a sci-fi flick. On another note, similarly, one of my coworkers has the one of biggest Pez dispenser collections in his home with thousands of little Pez dispensers staring at you, Attack of the Killer Pez, a short film. Okay, the museum also exposes the counterfeit nutcrackers (made in China) side by side with the real ones and it's very difficult to tell the difference between real and counterfeit. The counterfeits are typically made with inferior materials and glues and mass produced. I can even go my local Christmas store and buy some colorful nutcrackers at a good price, but most likely made in China. As for taking photographs, this is not allowed in most of the display areas with a few exceptions clearly marked. I spent a little over an hour here and had an enjoyable time. I would definitely return to the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum next time I visit Leavenworth again for some good Bavarian shopping and dining. Review #1900

Don't miss the Nutcraker Museum in Leavenworth. This place is a total overload. Over 6000 nutcrackers from around the world. Start your visit by watching the movie on the history.Plan to spend at least 1 hour. The museum is a non profit foundation and the small admission is a great value.

It was an interesting museum. My brother went a while ago before they moved floors and wanted to take us again. The young long hair blonde at the front desk was rude. I was excited to share this experience with my brother and she put a damper on it. But we made the best of it and had a good time. I really loved all of the different nutcrackers, who knew there could be so many different kinds. Some were hilarious and some incredibly interesting. Would 100% go again but talk 0% to the employees.

This was a fun place to visit but the reason I gave it only 2 stars is because of the staff. During my visit I asked if there was a restroom I could use. The young man told me, "Outside." I asked him where outside, thinking the restroom entrance was outside but he said, "Just outside." Then he turned and walked away. So apparently they don't have restrooms and expect you to do your business outside??? Not sure but it was completely rude.

The Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum is one of those old charm type places that is located in a setting that looks like a library. Leavenworth as a city does an amazing job of keeping up the old school charm. We spend over an hour walking through this museum. I knew nothing about nutcrackers until walking in here. The decadent displays are absolutely incredible and there are literally thousands of them! Of course my favorite were the Disney characters but on top of that even the first day in age nutcrackers were amazing.

Not going to lie, we initially came in as a bit of a joke as we had extra time to spare before picking up our dinner order while on our honeymoon. However, we ended up spending almost an hour here admiring all of the amazing handcrafted nutcrackers! From ones that were hundreds of years old to the quirky new ones, my husband and I were genuinely impressed. Covid related: they have a capacity limit in place, hand sanitizer stations, and all employees were masked. We felt safe and relaxed, able to enjoy the museum without concern!

Here's your top 5... 1. A ginormous collection of nutcrackers. Their oldest nutcracker is from the Roman times! Name the last time you've been to a nutcracker museum? So make it happen in Leavenworth. Thanks being open Christmas Eve! 2. Many other reviewers say this is more of a collection than a musuem. It definitely felt like it was someone's nutcracker collection. Other collectors do donate to this place, so there you go. I agree with others that it needed more information. The nutcrackers are crammed into tiny displays so it's difficult to see all of them and not feel overwhelmed. It's a tight space so I'm sure it's a challenge trying to make it work. 3. Do the scavenger hunt! 4. Some yelpers state that some of the nutcrackers are made promoting racial stereotypes. I agree with them, but I didn't get the sense that it was the museum was endorse these ideas. Again, more information on the background of these items would have helped clarify why they are there. I wanted to learn more about those pieces. 5. The staff is very friendly and helpful. For $5, its definitely worth a stop!

Very interesting collection, definitely not a museum. There was very minimal back round story to any of the nut crackers. It was very cool to see the antique nutcrakets. Not worth the trip or the cost. Hard skip.

Few things do I enjoy as much now that I'm a "responsible adult" as I did back when I was a little kid. I know now that chocolate chip cookies contain calories and sugar. Beauty and the Beast reminds me of dry college lectures on Stockholm syndrome and other psychological phenomenon. Jungle gyms and playgrounds have transformed into nightmarish portents of sore backs, knees, elbows, and so forth. To be clear, I didn't visit the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum as a kid, but I can easily imagine myself relishing the experience as much then as I do at my advanced age. Walk in, pay the pittance of a fee the museum charges for entry (but two and a half American dollars!), and feast your eye on nutcracker, after nutcracker, after nutcracker! New nutcrackers! Old-timey nutcrackers! Wooden nutcrackers! Metal nutcrackers! Tiny nutcrackers! Human-sized nutcrackers! Santa nutcrackers! Civil War nutcrackers! Sesame Street nutcrackers! Snow White and the seven nutcrackers! The Nutcrackers of Oz! Nutcrackers with crazy noses, crazy eyes, evil grins, giant noses, no noses... and on and on! Literally thousands of nutcrackers! Varied enough, interesting enough, of such superior craftsmanship to captivate adults and children alike. Each one of these fantastic little figures attracts attention not because they needily demand attention as a paining in an art museum does but because they're such aesthetic departures from our everyday experience. Around (honestly) Halloween, we in America might start to see nutcrackers in the windows of stores trying to foist knickknacks of various kinds upon us, but these nutcrackers come in but one aesthetic scheme and easily blend into the general Christmas-themed background. The idea of nutcrackers as art simply didn't exist in my mind. I'd estimate that a quick viewing of the contents of the museum might take 45 minutes to an hour. A more thorough walkthrough could easily reach 90 minutes plus. For $2.50, I can't think of a better value museum that isn't free. The Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum is easily the most interesting and best value location to visit in Leavenworth, WA and quite likely one of the best of both in the greater Seattle area.

Super adorable museum is worth a tour. They have more types of nut crackers than I ever thought existed - from the xmas type to nut cracking contraptions from across the globe. Upon entry they offer up age-appropriate 'scavenger hunts' to find different nutcrackers - super fun even for the adults!!

Checked out the Museum today! Plenty of detailed Nutcrackers to check out. We bought some souvenirs at this business too. Staff was very friendly. Worth a stop if your walking by

Truly one of the scariest places EVER! If you like Nutcrackers you'll probably like the Museum. If they scare you, you probably won't. However the Nutcracker Museum is handicapped accessible.