bellevue washington travel

14 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Bellevue, WA

Written by Brad Lane Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Bellevue is immediately east of Seattle in Western Washington, across the waters of the massive Lake Washington . While it offers a slower and less-crowded pace than Seattle, it's still one of the most populous cities in the state.

Much of the city's attractions center around the downtown district, including the eye-catching Bellevue Downtown Park . This charming public space offers bountiful green grass and a perpetual waterfall sculpture, all framed by the downtown skyline. Other downtown tourist attractions include shopping malls, art museums, and several options for local dining.

Bellevue's appeal extends beyond the downtown center, especially in the form of natural spaces. The allure of the Pacific Northwest beckons within city limits and nearby places like Bellevue Botanical Gardens and Mercer Slough. And the city is an excellent launching pad for bigger adventures, including excursions to Mount Rainier National Park.

Discover more great places to visit with my list of the top attractions and things to do in Bellevue.

1. Bellevue Downtown Park

2. bellevue arts museum, 3. bellevue botanical garden, 4. explore mercer slough nature park, 5. spend the afternoon at meydenbauer beach park, 6. go for a hike at cougar mountain regional wildland park, 7. kidsquest children's museum, 8. shop and dine at the bellevue collection, 9. lake sammamish, 10. sneak in 18 holes of golf, 11. bellevue zip tour, 12. day trip to seattle, 13. whale watch from bellevue, 14. weekend trip to mount rainier national park, where to stay in bellevue for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in bellevue, wa, bellevue, wa - climate chart.

The 21-acre Bellevue Downtown Park is a perfect open space among the urban sprawl and is a popular gathering ground for community members and tourists alike.

Bellevue Park is a great place for casually strolling along the wide promenade, navigating the beautifully landscaped circular lawn, and taking a moment to sit on one of the many benches throughout. These sitting spots offer an excellent view of the downtown skyline. They also seemed to be popular picnic spots for people enjoying a lunch break outdoors. A rhythmic waterfall sculpture follows this entire path, playing a soundtrack of running water throughout.

The Inspiration Playground at the park is quite a sight and provides an engaging place for kids to climb and explore the art-inspired play space. The park also hosts a huge number of community events, including the annual Fourth of July fireworks and a summer series of outdoor movies.

Address: 10201 NE 4th Street, Bellevue, Washington

Referred to simply as BAM, the Bellevue Arts Museum hosts an impressive display of artworks from regional and international artists. It's located among the bustling streets of the Bellevue downtown district, only a few blocks away from Downtown Park. Quick visitors may breeze through the entire museum in an hour, although most should expect to spend 90 minutes to two hours touring the exhibits.

The museum has several large permanent installations hanging from the ceiling and draped across the walls. But primarily, BAM features rotating exhibits that display masterful art pieces. The museum also gives visitors a glimpse at the artistic process with behind-the-scenes looks at how the art was created.

Self-guided tours are available Wednesday through Sunday when the BAM is open, and trained curators also offer private tours. The museum also hosts several special lectures, presentations, and educational workshops for kids, teens, and adults. Admission is free on the first Friday of each month.

Address: 510 Bellevue Way NE, Bellevue, Washington

Official site: https://www.bellevuearts.org/

Though Bellevue isn't lacking in natural attractions, perhaps the most concentrated view of Pacific Northwest flora can be found in the 53 acres encompassing the Bellevue Botanical Garden. This urban display of botanical beauty is on Main Street and is open daily from dusk to dawn. Admission is always free. I took a photo of the Garden's map near the entrance, aiding me in navigating the sprawling space full of blooming flowers.

Special places to visit at Bellevue Botanical Garden include the decorative Rock Garden and seasonal Dahlia Display. But the entire property is a masterpiece of landscaping and horticulture. Garden layouts ensure something new is blooming every month of the year, offering several reasons to visit. Locals and tourists also have the opportunity to tour native plant species and learn a bit more about their environment.

Besides simply walking among the many gardens and displays, the best way to use this natural space is by participating in the classes and tours the garden provides throughout the year. The garden is home to a few events each year, including a special Garden d' Lights that occurs every winter. This festive event features over a half-million lights carefully placed throughout the area.

Address: 12001 Main Street, Bellevue, Washington

Official site: http://www.bellevuebotanical.org/

Mercer Slough Nature Park is Bellevue's largest city park, with over 320 acres to wander throughout the year. The park has more than seven miles of trails that explore the surrounding wetland environment. A 2.6-mile water trail also winds its way through the park, accessible via canoe.

Mercer Slough Nature Park also hosts an on-site blueberry farm, which sells seasonal produce. And the Winters House Visitor Center is a 1929 Mission-style mansion at the park on the National Historic Register. These two park attractions are accessible with a connecting hiking trail.

Besides the wetland scenery, perhaps Mercer Slough's biggest tourist attraction is the collaborative Environmental Education Center hosted by the city of Bellevue and the Pacific Science Center. This hands-on facility provides classes, programs, and exhibits to enrich a Mercer Slough sightseeing experience.

Address: 1625 118th Ave. SE, Bellevue, Washington

The Meydenbauer Beach Park is a bit of a hidden gem of Bellevue. The park is beautifully landscaped, with a tiered walkway that leads down to the water. Here, a modern playground entices younger members of the family. The park also has a unique walkway that leads out to the middle of Meydenbauer Bay, presenting a panoramic view of Lake Washington.

Meydenbauer Beach Park is also a popular place to swim in the summer months when the water is warm enough, and lifeguards are on duty.

It is also a significant point in the city's history. Located on Meydenbauer Bay , on the shores of Lake Washington (King County's largest freshwater lake), this area was once the landing site for ferries running from Seattle. This historic ferry spot was pivotal in the development of Bellevue.

Address: 419 98th Ave NE, Bellevue, Washington

Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park offers a wild space to explore less than 10 miles southeast of Bellevue. This wild environment encompasses over 3,000 acres and over 35 miles of maintained trails.

Mountain bikes aren't allowed at Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park, but some trails support horse riding. Many of the trails lead to stunning views of Lake Sammamish and the Cascade Mountains.

For more to explore, Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park connects to Squak Mountain State Park via Cougar-Squak Corridor Park. This narrow park and valley adjoin the two public spaces, collectively known as the Issaquah Alps, and provide more than 15,000 acres of forest to explore.

Address: 18201 SE Cougar Mountain Drive, Renton, Washington

The KidsQuest Children's Museum is every child's dream come true. This family-friendly play space features a two-story Atrium Climber for kids to climb in, on, and around, plus eight other interactive exhibits designed to encourage development in children.

Focusing on the key areas of science, technology, engineering, art, and math, the KidsQuest Children's Museum isn't about sitting down at a desk and writing on the blackboard. Instead, this educational institution focuses on hands-on interaction with the different moving parts of life.

KidsQuest is specifically designed for children ages 0-10 and features more than 650 programs offered throughout the year. Available programming includes summer camps and whole-family science workshops.

Address: 1116 108th Ave NE, Bellevue, Washington

Official site: http://www.kidsquestmuseum.org/

The Bellevue Collection is three distinct shopping areas in the Bellevue downtown district. These shopping areas provide a dense concentration of shopping, dining, and overnight accommodations. Alongside unique and name-brand shopping opportunities, the Bellevue Collection also offers seasonal events that draw a crowd.

The Bellevue Collection includes the Bellevue Square shopping mall with more than 200 retail storefronts in a spacious and well-lit space. Lincoln Square is also included in the collection and has several cultural dining destinations. The third shopping area, Bellevue Place, has some of the best places to stay. The Bellevue Collection hosts everything you need in a few blocks to keep yourself busy for many long weekends.

This part of town is especially festive during the holiday season. The Bellevue Collection organizes Snowflake Lane throughout December. This family fun celebration is outside the Bellevue Square shopping mall, where the street is alive with glittering lights, electronic animations, and always falling snow.

Address: 575 Bellevue Square, Bellevue, Washington

Official site: http://bellevuecollection.com/

While Lake Sammamish may seem like a puddle compared to the far-spreading waters of Lake Washington to the west, it looks massive when you're standing on its shores. This body of water provides important recreational opportunities for Bellevue residents and its connected communities.

In Bellevue, on the eastern shore of Lake Sammamish, Vasa Park Resort provides picnic areas; boat launches; and a perfect spot to swim, with diving boards and waterslides. Vasa Park is also a popular spot to pitch a tent or park an RV.

Marymoor Park is on the north end of Lake Sammamish, connected to the city of Redmond. I know Marymoor Park best for its awesome outdoor concert series. Marymoor's Summer Concert Series occurs throughout the week between June and August. A public water-skiing slalom course is also on the north end of the lake.

Lake Sammamish State Park in Issaquah offers outdoor adventures throughout the year on the southern shore,

Address: 3560 W Lake Sammamish Pkwy SE, Bellevue, Washington

Several of Western Washington's top golf courses are in or within a short drive of Bellevue. These courses serve the region as a whole and not just Bellevue residents, so advanced tee times are always recommended.

The Golf Club at Newcastle offers arguably some of the best golf in the Pacific Northwest, less than a 12-mile drive from downtown. This club is open to the public and offers 36 holes of championship golf. The facility encompasses 350 acres perched atop the foothills of Cougar Mountain Regional Park. This high vantage point lends to incredible views of the Seattle skyline and landscapes, including Mount Rainier and the Olympic Mountains.

Bellevue also maintains the Bellevue Golf Course . This public course offers more affordable rates closer to town. It doesn't skimp on scenery, though, and the course has a reputation for its well-maintained landscaping and greens. A popular driving range is also on-site.

The city also oversees the Crossroads Par-3 Course on the east side of town. This nine-hole putt-and-chip course is open from April through October. It's a great place to visit for a quick golf outing, catering to experienced players looking to perfect their short game or those new to the sport.

For a unique way to explore the natural side of Bellevue, the Bellevue Zip Tour takes visitors speeding among Douglas firs and broadleaf maples as they explore the scenery from above. This city-owned facility consists of 6.5 ziplines, ranging from 70 to 450 feet, and operates every season except in the winter.

The Bellevue Zip Tour is just west of the South Bellevue Community Center. Whether looking for a fun time for the whole family or a great place for a group getaway, it provides a fast-flying way to see some Pacific Northwest nature from a new perspective.

Address: 450 110th Ave. NE, Bellevue, Washington

Official site: http://www.bellevueziptour.com/

It's only a 15-minute drive across Lake Washington to the Emerald City from Bellevue or, if you're like me and prefer to leave the car parked, a 30-minute bus ride. If you're visiting Bellevue and have some extra time on your hands, it's well worth the trip across the lake to check out this cultural capital of the Pacific Northwest.

Iconic spots like the Space Needle and Pike Place Market are well worth the visit, but Seattle is so much more than these two iconic attractions. Peel back the layers of the city with a day of exploring beach parks, international districts, and gardens of glass. To plan your next Emerald City adventure, check out my guides to the Top Attractions of Seattle and the Best Beaches in Seattle .

A big appeal of visiting the Pacific Northwest and the Puget Sound region is the opportunity to spot wild whales in the water. The summer is the best time to see whales, approximately between May through October. Bellevue is a bit too inland to spot any of these massive mammals from the city, but several sightseeing options aren't far away.

It's possible to see whales from Seattle without boarding a boat, although I've never been successful at it. Public areas lining the Puget Sound shoreline, like Golden Gardens and Alki Beach Park, offer the necessary panoramic views across the water. It helps to know what to look for and to have a bit of patience when spotting whales from the land. It also helps to utilize community resources like the Orca Network .

Another popular option is booking a boat tour. This ups the chances of seeing whales tenfold, and some companies even guarantee a sighting or they'll give out a free voucher for another trip.

I took a trip with Puget Sound Expres s, which is well advertised throughout the area. My trip departed from Edmonds, approximately a 25-mile drive from Bellevue. And I didn't have to worry about any free vouchers for my next trip, as our expedition saw more orca whales and dolphins than I could count. The entire tour took almost five hours and departed early in the morning.

The mighty Mount Rainier is easily seen from Bellevue on clear days. And the massive national park surrounding this iconic mountain of Washington is accessible from the city with a 90-mile drive. I can't recommend checking out this majestic mountain enough, whether for a day trip or an overnight expedition, as its size and beauty are unrivaled throughout the region.

Mount Rainier has four main entrances, and the Southwest Nisqually Entrance and Northwest Carbon River Entrance are closest to Olympia, accessible within a two-hour drive. I'd recommend heading to the Nisqually Entrance for a first-time visit or just generally, as it's home to several accessible hiking trails and historic areas of the park. It also lends access to the outstanding Paradise region, home to the Skyline Trail , one of the most iconic hiking trails in the county.

Mount Rainier is a hiking paradise. While some of the trails require massive elevation gain, other family favorites don't require nearly as much sweat equity. But what all the trails share is an outstanding view of one of Mount Rainier's many glistening glaciers up close and personal. To find the right hike for your wants and abilities, check out my guide to the Best Hiking Trails at Mount Rainier National Park .

Similarly, if you're planning an overnight trip to Mount Rainier, it helps to know all the camping options. My guide to Camping at Mount Rainier includes the park's three auto-campgrounds, plus several other options in the national forests surrounding the park.

Official site: https://www.nps.gov/mora/index.htm

Bellevue has several quality hotels to choose from. Some of the best hotels in Bellevue are in the heart of downtown near Bellevue Downtown Park. Other places to stay are east of the downtown district and lining the 405. Hotels in Bellevue range from four-star accommodations oozing with style to budget-friendly options that don't skimp on quality or service.

The Best Luxury Hotel in Bellevue :

• One of the best four-star hotels in Bellevue is the Hyatt Regency Bellevue . Connected to Bellevue Square via skywalk, and a block from Bellevue Downtown Park, this upscale establishment features stylish rooms and suites. Visitors often appreciate the resort-like amenities of the hotel, including the expansive breakfast bar and fully equipped fitness studio.

The Best Mid-Range Hotel in Bellevue:

• Popular with families and business travel, the Silver Cloud Inn features comfortable accommodations at an affordable price. Near a quiet neighborhood park, Silver Cloud Inn is also located within walking distance to restaurants and dining in downtown. The comfortable aesthetics of the lobby and common spaces of the hotel extend into the rooms, where guests are known to get a good night's sleep.

The Best Budget Hotel in Bellevue :

• Bellevue offers several budget hotels. Not all the most affordable hotels in Bellevue offer the same quality of service. The Extended Stay America , located just east of downtown across the 405, offers both exceptional value and a first-class stay. Great for extended vacations or one-night budget accommodations, the Extended Stay is often the first choice for a budget-friendly stay.

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More Washington Cities to Explore: For other cultural attractions on the west side of the state, the charming university city of Bellingham features waterfalls, historic districts, and great views of the San Juan Islands. The state capital of Washington, Olympia , is also on the west side of the state not far from Bellevue and provides several fun things to do. To properly explore Eastern Washington, the city of Spokane is a great place to start.

Exploring Washington's Wonders : The state of Washington is blessed with many beautiful landscapes. The best state and national parks in Washington highlight these regions with campgrounds and hiking trails. The top hot springs in Washington have a steamy appeal and tend to help alleviate any sore muscles. For some wintertime activity, our guide to Washington ski resorts will have you tackling the black diamonds in no time.

More on Washington

The Complete Bellevue, Washington City Guide

If there were a “capital” of the Eastside, it would almost certainly be Bellevue. The city not only has the largest population of all Eastside suburbs but is also a regional center for technology jobs, shopping, and hosts some of the best restaurants in the region. 

In this Bellevue, Washington guide you’ll discover everything the city offers. That includes popular activities, parks in the city, restaurants, entertainment options, places to stay, and different neighborhoods inside the city. 

Bellevue, Washington at a Glance

Bellevue, Washington is a short 10 miles drive from downtown Seattle. The city is separated from Seattle by Lake Washington, which borders Bellevue to the west. Because the city required either a ferry ride or an inconvenient drive around Lake Washington, it remained sparsely populated in the first half of the 20th century. 

However, in 1963 the 520 bridge spanning Lake Washington was completed and Bellevue’s population boomed. Between 1960 and 1970 its population skyrocketed from 12,809 to 61,196. By 2000 Bellevue had surpassed 100,000 residents. 

As it continues growing, Bellevue has developed its own unique identity from Seattle. It’s now an economic powerhouse that is home to some of Washington’s biggest companies and a regional shopping destination. The opening of light rail across the city promises to further transform Bellevue throughout the 2020s. 

Bellevue Neighborhoods 

Bellevue is about 40% Seattle’s size by land area. While many of its neighborhoods are new, they have unique characters and are increasingly being shaped by the region’s light rail opening 7 stations across Bellevue. 

Downtown Bellevue 

Downtown Bellevue is the city’s most important neighborhood. While downtown covers less than a square mile, it has enough office space for 55,000 employees and is the city’s most densely populated area. Today, more than 15,000 residents call downtown Bellevue home, with many future condominiums planned. 

In addition, downtown is the commercial center of the city. The Bellevue Collection is a regional shopping center with the Seattle region’s most successful mall and dozens of restaurants. 

Downtown Bellevue is also home to most of the city’s hotel rooms if you’re staying in the city. There are about 4,000 rooms downtown, which is about ¼ the number found in downtown Seattle. 

If you’re visiting Downtown Bellevue, we suggest taking a trip to Downtown Bellevue Park. Its seen extensive renovations in recent years and is very relaxing. After a stop at the park, continue on to Old Bellevue. This part of the city is located near the water and has a number of excellent restaurants and cafes to enjoy. 

Bridle Trails 

Bridle Trails State Park borders Kirkland and Bellevue. The 493-acre park is unique in that it’s just a 5-minute car ride from downtown Bellevue but provides a 28-mile trail system through evergreen forests. 

The area surrounding Bridle Trails is more rural than other parts of Bellevue and used to be filled with equestrian businesses. If you look at the state park and surrounding neighborhoods on Google Maps, it’ll look more like a giant forest in the city than a place people live! Bridle Trails is a beautiful neighborhood to visit and live in. 

Overlake 

Overlake sits on Bellevue’s northeast corner where the city borders Redmond. The neighborhood has long been notable for being the home of Nintendo of America and parts of Microsoft’s headquarters. The center of the neighborhood featured several strip malls. 

Today, Overlake is being transformed. Large parking lots are being replaced by parks. The neighborhood used to be home to the largest Sears west of the Mississippi, but that building was torn down in 2022. In its place is a large mixed-use development that combines apartments with ground-floor retail. In short, the area will soon house a lot more residents and be substantially more pedestrian friendly. 

Wilburton 

Located across Interstate 405 from downtown, Wilburton houses some of Bellevue’s best natural beauty. Within the Wilburton neighborhood, you’ll find the Bellevue Botanical Garden as well as Kelsey Creek Park. 

In the years ahead, the Wilburton neighborhood will be vastly changed. Currently, the Interstate cuts Wilburton off from downtown Bellevue, but there are plans to connect the two parts of the city in a much more pedestrian-friendly way. 

In addition, Bellevue is rezoning Wilburton to accommodate up to 5,000 housing units in the coming decade, which would more than double the neighborhood’s population. The catalyst for this rezoning is the opening of the Wilburton Light Rail Station, which is currently scheduled for 2024. 

Spring District

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The Spring District is officially a part of Bellevue’s Bel-Red neighborhood. It’s notable because a decade ago the space was zoned for industrial use. However, it has been entirely rebuilt around a mixture of apartments, office space, and retail. In total, the Spring District will house more than 5 million square feet of leasable space and 1,500 new residential units. 

We’ve mentioned how neighborhoods like Wilburton and Overlake are going to change dramatically in the years to come. The Spring District is the model for how these neighborhoods will evolve in the future. Bellevue is creating new zoning regulations that make the areas around its metro stations denser, with plenty of apartments and mixed-use developments. 

Crossroads 

A neighborhood known for its diversity, Crossroads sits at the geographic center of Bellevue. The centerpiece of Crossroads is a shopping center under the same name. This unconventional shopping center has a large food hall filled with ethnic food vendors and very few franchises. 

Inside Crossroads, there are boba drinks, Korean BBQ, several Indian restaurants, Italian, Mediterranean, Mexican, Russian, and much more. Trust us when we say you won’t forget the fragrances that waft across the food court as you move from vendor to vendor! 

Best of all, Crossroads is a true gathering spot for the community, with tables spread out and large chessboards that encourage people to gather. If you come on a weekend night, there’s a good chance you’ll find live entertainment on the market stage that overlooks the food court.

Factoria 

Factoria sits at the intersection of Interstate 405 and Interstate 90 and is known for being the home of T-Mobile and a large shopping plaza that serves nearby neighborhoods like Somerset and Newport. In recent years, the Factoria Mall fell on hard times as vacancies skyrocketed. 

However, the neighborhood is now in the midst of a massive redevelopment that should reinvigorate it. 

Other Bellevue Neighborhoods 

• Cougar Mountain : Located next to Issaquah, Cougar Mountain is home to about 12,000 residents and is mostly single-family homes located on relatively steep hills. 
• Lake Hills : Bellevue’s most populated neighborhood, Lake Hills is located south of Crossroads and extends to Interstate 90. It’s mostly single-family homes and includes Robinswood Park and Bellevue College. 
• Newport : Located at Bellevue’s southern end. Newport extends to Newcastle’s downtown and includes much of the Coal Creek Natural Area. 
• Northeast Bellevue : Located on the border with Redmond, Northeast Bellevue is mostly single-family residences and includes Interlake High School. It extends from Microsoft’s campus to Lake Sammamish. 
• Northwest Bellevue : Includes Clyde Beach and Meydenbauer Parks on the Lake Washington waterfront. Northwest Bellevue includes the neighborhoods north of downtown. 
• Somerset : Set on a large hill by the same name, Somerset is a sprawling neighborhood that offers spectacular views of the Puget Sound region. 
• West Bellevue : Home to tight-knit neighborhoods like Entai, West Bellevue includes the areas south of downtown Bellevue. Make sure to visit Chism Beach if in the neighborhood, it’s an absolute gem. 
• West Lake Sammamish : Home to beautiful homes off West Lake Sammamish Parkway and a long stretch of parkland with trails near the lake.
• Woodridge : Located south of Wilburton, Woodridge is known for its spectacular views of downtown Bellevue. 

Bellevue Parks and Activities 

There are more than 100 parks across Bellevue, some of which include large trail systems. In total, Bellevue boats 2,700 acres of park space, which is more than 10% of its total land area. Some of its more notable parks and natural areas include:

Downtown Park 

Bellevue’s Downtown Park is about 20 acres and sits just south of Bellevue Square Mall. The park was created after the city purchased the property from the Bellevue School District. 

The park is unique in that it has a large circle with walking paths and a water canal that runs around it. It’s also one of the best parks in the area for families. In 2017 the city added the Inspiration Playground to Downtown Park. You’ll be amazed if you take kids to this park! It’s sprawling in size and includes playhouses, large slides, incredible decorations, a climbing wall, a soft foam mat throughout, and a splash pad in the summer. 

The only way to do this park justice is to see it in person! It provides the entertainment many indoor play places charging $30 would provide but is completely free to attend and outside. 

Chism Beach Park

Located just south of downtown Bellevue in a residential area, it’s not easy to find Chism Beach Park! In fact, many longtime locals we talk to aren’t even aware of its existence. 

However, never visiting this park would be a huge mistake! That’s because Chism Beach Park is one of the most beautiful locations to relax in the city. There’s an actual beach area that’s crowded with kids and families during the summer. However, there’s also an upper lawn area that’s maintained and perfect for relaxing with a prime view of Lake Washington or having a picnic with friends or family. 

Bannerwood Sports Park 

Ever caught a baseball game in Bellevue? Many don’t know this, but there’s a baseball team that plays in the city! Since 2010, Seattle Univesity has played its home games in Bellevue’s Bannerwood Park, which is located between the Woodridge and Lake Hills neighborhoods. The stadium can seat 300 spectators with plenty of room for standing. Check out Seattle University’s baseball schedule if you’re interested in catching a game! 

Bellevue Botanical Garden 

Located in Bellevue’s Wilburton neighborhood, Bellevue Botanical Garden is one of the city’s premier attractions. You can view a map of the garden here for more details, but it contains a variety of gardens including a traditional Japanese garden. Crossing is the park is a series of trails that wind around a lake and different exhibits.  

Admission is free , although events may cost extra. One great event the park hosts is its ‘Garden d’Lights’ festival around Christmas. The entire park is lit up and you can take a leisurely stroll around it at night. It’s one of the best Christmas light displays in the Seattle region. 

Bridle Trails State Park

This park is located on the border of Kirkland and Bellevue and covers 493 acres of largely undisturbed nature. The showpiece of Bridle Trails State Park is a large area where equestrian events are held. 

However, even if you’re not riding a hose, the park is a hidden gem. That’s because there are 28 miles of trails that will make you feel like you’re in the middle of the wilderness even though you’re just a short drive from downtown Bellevue. If you’re interested in visiting the park, Washington State Parks created a helpful brochure with more information on the parks’ history and trails. 

Kelsey Creek Park  

You wouldn’t expect to find a barn in the middle of Bellevue, but that’s exactly what you’ll find at Kelsey Creek Park!

Kelsey Creek is a 150-acre park that has a large farm with well-preserved barns. These barns used to be part of a dairy farm, and today host a number of camps and educational events for kids. You can see Kelsey Creeks Spring 2023 brochure for an example of all the activities hosted at the park.  

Beyond its robust calendar of events, the park also hosts a variety of animals, playgrounds, and walking trails that make it worth a visit. 

Lakes in Bellevue

The two largest lakes surrounding Bellevue are Lake Washington and Lake Sammamish. However, there are some smaller lakes that offer recreational opportunities.

• Phantom Lake: Located near Lake Sammamish, there’s a nearby park that offers greenspace for picnics. The park is also home to Lake Hills Farm, which sells fresh produce and gardening space.
• Larsen Lake: In the Lake Hills area, Larsen Lake connects to the Lake to Lake Trail and also has a blueberry farm that allows you to seasonally pick blueberries.
• Lake Bellevue: Near downtown, Lake Bellevue is completely surrounded by apartments and restaurants. One of the best sushi restaurants in Bellevue – I Love Sushi – is located on Lake Bellevue.

Shopping in Bellevue 

Bellevue is a regional shopping destination. Its largest cluster of retail is in downtown Bellevue, but there are many neighborhoods in the city offering large numbers of shops, restaurants, and services. Let’s examine the biggest retail centers in the city. 

Downtown Bellevue Shopping

Bellevue Square was Bellevue’s first shopping mall and opened in 1946, a time when less than 5,000 people lived in the city. As the Eastside grew, Bellevue Square expanded into a large enclosed mall that was among the region’s largest. 

In the 2000s, the owner of Bellevue Square (Kemper Freeman Jr) began expanding into surrounding blocks. He built large condo and office towers with more retail at their base and connected them to Bellevue Square via sky bridges. 

This new retail is a significantly higher mix of restaurants and entertainment, including several very popular movie theaters and high-end restaurants. 

Beyond the Bellevue Collection, downtown Bellevue has shopping and cafes spread across its area. Old Bellevue on Main Street host more than 15 restaurants and a handful of home goods and clothing boutiques. 

The Bravern is another shopping destination. It used to host a Neiman Marcus (closed in 2020), but still maintains a high-end roster of shops like Hermes, Gucci, Bottega Venetta, and Prada in addition to several restaurants and services like spas and gyms. 

Crossroads Shopping 

As we noted when talking about the Crossroads neighborhood, its shopping plaza is known for being a gathering center with an incredible international food court. 

Beyond the food court, Crossroads Mall hosts several stores like groceries, home goods, bookstores, gyms, and a movie theater. 

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Overlake and Bel-Red Shopping

The centerpiece of Bel-Red and Overlake used to be a multi-floor Sears that was its largest location west of the Mississippi River. Today, that Sears location has been torn down and the neighborhood is becoming much more mixed-use. However, you’ll still find plenty of strip malls that remain in the area. 

These strip malls make Overlake an excellent area when searching out international food, especially Indian, Japanese, and Chinese. There are dozens of restaurants in the neighborhood encompassing almost every type of food you can imagine. Overlake also maintains some larger retail tenants such as Fred Meyer, Trader Joe’s, and several other grocery stores. It also has several discount clothing and home goods chains (Marshalls, Ross) as well. 

Factoria Shopping

Factoria was long Bellevue’s second largest mall after Bellevue Square. However, like many non-destination malls across the country, its struggled since the advent of online shopping and has been labeled a “dead mall.” 

There have been several renovation proposals for the mall, and it’s likely Factoria Mall will eventually become much more mixed-use with apartments. For the time being, the mall is anchored by a Target and has numerous outlets like the Nike Factory Store, Old Navy, Nordstrom Rack, and TJ Maxx. 

With much of the mall underutilized, vendors like playgrounds for kids and mini golf places cycle in that can be good for taking a family on a rainy Seattle day. 

Bellevue Restaurants 

Bellevue is quickly becoming a regional dining destination. That’s a far cry from the turn of the century when Bellevue’s main restaurants were mostly national chains. Today, Bellevue’s specialty is in two areas, the high-end and low-end. 

Specifically, Bellevue has some of the best steakhouses in the region that often provide incredible views and some of the best service you can find ( high-end restaurants) . Those are the types of restaurants that often won’t make “best of” lists looking for more eclectic food options, but they’re extremely popular options . 

Then on the “low-end,” Bellevue has some of the best international food you’ll find in the Northwest. Great international restaurants are spread throughout the city, but there’s a particular concentration in downtown, Bel-Red, Overlake, and Crossroads. These restaurants are often inexpensive and overlooked on “best of” lists as well, but Bellevue has them in abundance. 

Let’s dive a bit deeper into some examples of the best restaurants Bellevue has to offer. 

The Best Expensive Restaurants in Bellevue 

Since restaurants in Bellevue can vary greatly in price, for each one we’ll list its neighborhood and pricing range. 

Ascend Steakhouse

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• ($$$$/Downtown Bellevue)

If you’re looking to celebrate or splurge on a very expensive meal in Bellevue, Ascend Steakhouse is your spot. The space inside Ascend is extremely stylish, but it’s the views you’ll remember. The restaurant is on the 31st Floor of Lincoln Square South and has a sweeping view that includes Downtown Bellevue Park, downtown Seattle, and the Olympic Mountains. 

As far as what to expect from your food, all the dishes will be artfully plated. Entrees range from sushi (of which they have an expansive menu) to giant tomahawk ribeyes. You’ll want to save room for dessert as well, because it can be quite the spectacle. 

John Howie Steak

View this post on Instagram A post shared by John Howie Steak (@johnhowiesteak)

• ($$$$/Downtown Bellevue) 

Bellevue’s high-end dining scene was kicked off by John Howie when he opened Seastar in the 1990s (more on that restaurant in a moment). His latest restaurant is a luxury steakhouse located in Bellevue’s Bravern development. 

The specialty at John Howie is simply high-quality meats. The restaurant has a special menu just for Wagyu cuts, with American, Australian, and Japanese options. Beyond steaks, there are other house specialties like halibut and king salmon, but the real reason to eat at John Howie their exceptional steaks. 

Takai By Kashiba

View this post on Instagram A post shared by TakaiByKashiba (@takaibykashiba)

• ($$$$/Downtown) 

Sushi fans rejoice! Bellevue is now home to one of the best sushi restaurants in the Northwest. Take a look at any “best of” list of Seattle restaurants and you’re likely to see Sushi Kashiba. In fact, the restaurant made our list of Seattle restaurants that are worthy of a Michelin star . 

The chef of Sushi Kashiba – Shiro Kashiba – has made it his goal to mentor the next generation of great chefs, and Takai by Kashiba is a new restaurant from Kashiba’s apprentice Jun Takai. At Takai by Kashiba, you’ll enjoy a 22-course omakase experience that is more global than Sushi Kashiba’s focus on Northwest ingredients. 

There are other surprises at Takai By Kashiba, such as the inclusion of aged fish, but the bottom line is that it’s the best sushi experience on the Eastside. 

Daniel’s Broiler

• ($$$/Downtown)

Danie’s Broiler is one of the original Seattle area steakhouses. They have locations in Leschi , South Lake Union, and downtown Seattle, but the Bellevue location is our favorite. Located on the 21st Floor of the Bank of America Tower, Daniel’s has a sweeping view of the area. 

Daniel’s is a great atmosphere but is far more casual than Ascend. Its steaks are less varied than John Howie’s, but are still incredibly rich with a “melt in your mouth” quality. Simply put, Daniel’s may not be the newest or most high-end steakhouse around, but it remains the quintessential steakhouse of the Seattle area. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Seastar Restaurant and Raw Bar (@seastarbellevue)

• ($$$/Downtown) 

Seastar opened in the 1990s and kicked off a trend toward fancier Bellevue restaurants that weren’t chains. While the restaurant has outlasted almost all its peers, the quality of the food remains top-notch. 

Seastar’s menu is seafood-focused, but it’s also a menu that changes with the seasons. Each month features new specials. In addition to the entrees you’d expect from a high-end seafood restaurant (salmon, halibut, bass), there’s also a wide selection of raw bar items and seafood-focused appetizers. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by El Gaucho (@elgauchosteakhouse)

El Gaucho is another entry to Bellevue’s deep roster of excellent steakhouses. The menu at El Gaucho isn’t especially deep. Entrees consist of steaks and seafood. 

Instead, what makes the restaurant special is the experience. El Gaucho is a tableside restaurant, meaning much of the menu is prepared right next to where you’re dining. Servers will whip up everything from caesar salad, to certain cuts of steak, to deserts and drinks right by where you dine. Throw in high-quality cuts of meat and you can see why El Gaucho is a must-try experience. 

The Best Cheap Eats and International Food in Bellevue 

While downtown shines for high-end restaurants, when you venture out to Bellevue neighborhoods like Crossroads, Bell-Red, and Overlake, you’ll discover hundreds of international restaurants. Here is just a short selection of some of our favorites. 

Supreme Dumplings

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• ($$/Overlake) 

Bellevue has some of the best dumplings you’ll find. Whether it’s from Supreme Dumplings, Dough Zone, or Din Tai Fung ( more on them in a moment ), there are some seriously great dumplings in the city. 

Supreme Dumplings specializes in delicious soup dumplings, which are called Xiao Long Bao. However, beyond that specialty, they also have incredible pan-fried buns, wontons, and noodles. My personal tip when dining here is to try the Shangahi Spicy Xiao Long Bao. It’s an item you won’t find on Din Tai Fung’s menu and is extraordinarily flavorful. 

El Rinconsito

• ($/Bel-Red) 

Oh, thank heavens for delicious tacos! There are a number of excellent options on the Eastside, but El Rinconsito is near the top. Whether you’re ordering steak, pork, or other cuts like tripe, the meat at El Rinconsito is moist and flavorful. 

With each taco, the restaurant also serves a generous accompaniment that includes radishes, jalapenos, grilled onions, and pickled vegetables. You can also further garnish your tacos with their fresh salsa bar. 

• ($/Overlake) 

We’ll stick with tacos for our next cheap eat in Bellevue. Senor Taco does many things well, but make sure to try their baja fish tacos, which have attracted quite the following online. Beyond tacos, the restaurant serves up truly massive California burritos and other options like tortas. 

My personal recommendation: try the birria. The broth is excellent and you won’t be disappointed with this option. 

Hokkaido Ramen Santouka

Tonkatsu broth is made by simmering pork bones at a low temperature for more than 20 hours. This “low and slow” cooking method produces a buttery broth that’s extremely rich and satisfying. 

Hokkaido Ramen Santouka specializes in Tonkatsu dishes. You won’t find a great variety here, but what you will find is extreme dedication to the craftsmanship of creating Tonkatsu broth. While the restaurant is extremely popular in Japan, it has just a handful of U.S. locations. If try Hokkaido Ramen Santouka out and are having a hard time making a decision, keep in mind their Shio ramen has an army of dedicated fans in Japan. 

Din Tai Fung

• ($$/Downtown Bellevue) 

Din Tai Fung is the second addition to our list where you absolutely need to try the Xiao Long Bao. The Taiwanese restaurant’s focus on the dish will be evident the moment you walk in, a large window shows a room where dumplings a being folded by hand in a long line. 

This devotion to quality led Michelin to give the Hong Kong location of Din Tai Fung its coveted Michelin star. Din Tai Fung is one of my personal favorite restaurants, but be advised that wait times can get pretty long. Beyond the Lincoln Tower location in Bellevue, you can also find Din Tai Fung in Southcenter, University Village, and downtown Seattle. 

Transportation in Bellevue 

Bellevue has grown substantially across the past 50 years, so it shouldn’t be surprising that traffic has also worsened during that time. 

Bellevue is first and foremost a city built around cars. There is bus service throughout the city but most people get to work by driving. Some of the most important roads include:

• Interstate 405 : Runs north to south through the center of Bellevue and is the freeway servicing Bellevue’s downtown. 405 breaks off from Interstate 5 and runs 30 miles from Tukwila to Lynnwood. It’s the main freeway for traveling across the Eastside suburbs. 
• Interstate 90: Runs east to west through the city. After originating in downtown Seattle, Interstate 90 is the longest interstate in the country, running for 3,021 miles and terminating in Boston. I-90 runs next to Bellevue neighborhoods Factoria, Lake Hills, and Cougar Mountain before continuing on to Issaquah. 
• State Route 520: Runs east to west and is the main route from northern Bellevue into the city of Seattle. State Route 520 is the main route to Microsoft’s campus as well as neighborhoods like Bel-Red and Overlake. It can get extremely congested at rush hour. 

Mass Transit in Bellevue 

The city of Bellevue is being reshaped by mass transit. The Seattle region has an expanding light rail system that is expanding coverage to include Bellevue and the Eastside. 

Light rail stations in Bellevue are expected to begin opening in 2024, they’ll include:

• South Bellevue : A station located next to the South Bellevue Park & Ride that’s located south of Bellevue’s downtown. The station will be the first stop after the light rail leaves Mercer Island. 
• East Main: A station on the outskirts of Bellevue’s downtown, East Main is located near Main Street and 112th Ave. East Main will provide access to the south end of Bellevue’s downtown including numerous planned projects and hotels that are in the area. 
• Bellevue Downtown: Likely the most used station on the Eastside, Bellevue Downtown is being built in the heart of Bellevue’s downtown where the Bellevue Transit Center is currently located. 
• Wilburton: Located across Interstate 405 east of downtown Bellevue, Wilburton provides access to Overlake Hospital. 
• Spring District: A new station in the Bel-Red neighborhood between 120th and 124th avenues. The Spring District used to be zoned for industrial but a massive neighborhood with offices, retail, and apartments has been developed around the station. 
• Bel-Red/130th Station: Another location in Bellevue’s Bel-Red District. The station is currently in a mostly industrial area, but should see heavy development around it in the years to come. 
• Overlake Park: Technically located in the city of Redmond, this station will provide light rail access to the Overlake neighborhood. Large redevelopments are already underway to make the area significantly more pedestrian-friendly. 

Major Employers and Companies Headquartered in Bellevue

The economy of Bellevue has been one of the nation’s strongest over the past decade. The technology sector continues creating high-paying jobs, and many high-profile companies have set up outposts in Bellevue. 

Yet, Bellevue’s economy also has several large companies in the city that aren’t in the technology industry. Let’s take a look at some of the major employers in the city. 

• Amazon: Before a hiring slowdown in 2023, Amazon was rapidly taking over downtown Bellevue with a series of leases on large office towers. The company at one point envisioned 25,000 employees in Bellevue, but that total may decline as Amazon pauses several high-profile projects. Currently, there are about 10,000 Amazon employees in Bellevue. 
• Microsoft: The main campus of Microsoft sits right off the border of Bellevue in the Overlake neighborhood. The company established a broader presence in Bellevue in downtown and the Lake Hills neighborhood, but has since begun backing out of several large leases. As of 2021, there were about 8,700 Microsoft employees in Bellevue. 
• T-Mobile: One of the city’s biggest employers, T-Mobile is headquartered away from downtown in the Factoria neighborhood. There are more than 6,300 employees in Bellevue that work for the wireless giant. 
• Paccar: Headquartered in downtown Bellevue in a distinctive tower near Lincoln Square. Paccar is a Fortune 500 company that produces medium and heavy-duty trucks. 
• Eddie Bauer: Clothing retailer whose headquarters is in Lincoln Square. 
• Apptio: Software company headquartered in Bellevue that has 1,200 total employees. 
• Bungie: Video game studio behind Halo and the Destiny franchise. 
• Valve: Another video game studio that’s famous for Half-Life, DOTA, Left 4 Dead, and other franchises. Valve owns Steam, which is the largest online storefront for video games. 
• Outterwall: Owns brands like Coinstar and RedBox. Headquartered south of downtown in West Bellevue. 
• Concur: A division of SAP, Concur handles travel and expense management. Their headquarters is in Bellevue near the Transit Center. With 1,700 employees, Concur is one of the 10 largest employers in the city. 
• Salesforce: The company that revolutionized SaaS has built up a large presence in downtown Bellevue with about 1,300 employees. 
• Symetra: Provides retirement plans, employee benefits, and life insurance. Symetra employs more than 1,000 in downtown Bellevue and has its name on one of the city’s more prominent buildings.
• SmartSheet: Software company headquartered in downtown Bellevue. SmartSheet employs more than 3,000 employees worldwide. 
• Pokemon Company International: Headquartered in Lincoln Square South. This video shows their crazy headquarters in detail.  
• QFC: A regional grocery chain that’s headquartered in Bellevue. 

Where to Stay in Bellevue 

There are more than 5,500 hotel rooms across Bellevue. The majority of rooms are located in downtown Bellevue, but there are several areas of the city you can stay. 

Let’s examine each area in detail. 

Hotels in Downtown Bellevue 

There are about 4,000 hotel rooms in and near downtown Bellevue that serve a number of price points. Here are a few of our top selections. 

• Westin (4-star): Located in Lincoln Square, the Westin provides easy access to the Bellevue Collection. While the Westin is one of the more expensive options downtown, it’s located next to Eddie Bauer and Microsoft offices. 
• Hyatt Regency (4-star): An option that’s normally cheaper than the Westin, the Hyatt Regency is connected to the Bellevue Collection via skybridge. Has access to a large fitness center and heated pool. 
• W (3-star): Located in Lincoln South, the W sits next to some of Bellevue’s best restaurants and lounges including Civility & Unrest, Ascend, and Wild Ginger.  
• Hilton (4-star): Located in South Bellevue near the planned location of the East Main Light Rail station. Hilton isn’t as convenient to downtown as hotels in the Bellevue Collection, but it’s a sprawling hotel with an excellent pool and amenities. 
• Marriott (4-star): An excellent option if you have a convention at Meydenbauer Center. 
• Hilton Garden (3-star): The Hilton Garden is an excellent hotel if visiting either Amazon or Salesforce’s offices. It’s affordable, but also close to dozens of dining options. 

Hotels in Overlake 

Overlake is a popular hotel area as it’s close to Microsoft’s campus. Most the hotels in the area are geared to business travelers. If you’re looking for a walkable option to Microsoft’s campus, the Aloft hotel is your best option. Other hotels like Fairfield, Residence, and Solesta Select are all close as well. 

• Sonesta Select (3-star)
• Aloft (3-Star)
• Fairfield Inn (3-star)
• Residence Inn (3-star) 

Hotels in Eastgate and Lake Hills 

The third hotel district in Bellevue is around Interstate 90. These hotels largely serve businesses in the area. Beyond the headquarters of T-Mobile, there’s also several technology parks close to the freeway. Some of the best places to stay include:

• Embassy Suites (3-star)
• Silver Cloud (3-star)
• Hyatt House (3-star)

How far is Seattle from Bellevue?

Without traffic, its a 10 mile trip from downtown Bellevue to downtown Seattle that can take as little as 15 minutes. With traffic, this commute can take up to an hour. The two main routes are via WA-520 or I-90, both of which are bridges that connect Bellevue to Seattle.

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22 COOL Things To Do in Bellevue, Washington

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Sitting just east of Seattle, Bellevue is famous for its open green spaces, trendy shops, and high-end restaurants. There are tons of fun things to do in Bellevue, too, with hikes, mountain bike trails, and beaches galore.

Let’s look at all of the best things to do in Bellevue, a gem of Washington state!

Table of Contents

1. Take a Stroll Through Meydenbauer Bay Park

2. bum on the beach at idylwood park, 3. visit one of bellevue’s museums—best rainy day thing to do in bellevue, 4. get the adrenaline pumping on a zip line tour, 5. take in the views at marymoor park, 6. pick berries at larsen lake blueberry farm, 7. rent a kayak at lake sammamish state park—our fav thing to do in bellevue, 8. wander old bellvue’s main street, 9. stop in for a pint at bellevue brewing company, 10. reconnect with nature at bellevue botanical garden, 11. take a tour of kelsey creek farm park, 12. hit the trails at cougar mountain regional wildland park, 13. catch an event, 14. have a picnic at bellevue downtown park, 15. go mountain biking at duthie hill mountain bike park, 16. take a dip at madrona beach, 17. relax at washington park arboretum, 18. hike rattlesnake ledge trail, 19. head into seattle, 20. enjoy a leisurely hike at franklin falls, 21. take in the beauty of snoqualmie falls—best outdoorsy thing to do in bellevue, 22. visit some of the tallest waterfalls in the area: twin falls.

Bellevue’s newest beach park, Meydenbauer Bay Park, is a wonderful place for a morning stroll.

It’s the perfect spot to visit with children—it has a viewing terrace of the beautiful shoreline and lots of facilities designed for education. 

This is a great spot to put your kayak or SUP board in as well. Bring your own or rent from the REI boathouse on site.

Spanning over 17 acres, Idylwood Park sits on the beautiful Lake Sammamish , with plenty of room for swimming and recreation.

There’s a small boat ramp from which people can take to the water. Also, find the opportunity to go fishing from the pier or use the picnic tables. 

RELATED: 19 Killer Beaches in Seattle , Washington for Adventure

If you get hit with a rainy day, one of the best things to do in Bellvue is to visit one of the museums . There are quite a few options, so no matter what your interests, you’re sure to find something entertaining.

Art lovers can peruse the collection at Bellvue Art Museum , families can hit up the KidsQuest Children’s Museum , and history buffs can visit the Museum of History and Industry .

Get the adrenaline pumping on Bellevue’s zip line adventure. Bellevue Zip Tour is a seven-segment zip line tour with two suspension bridges located in an old Maple and Douglas Fir forest in Bellevue.

As you zoom from tree to tree, you can take in views of Mt. Baker and Glacier peak. Note that this tour is only available seasonally from April to October.

Marymoor is the most popular park in King County, sprawling over 640 acres and visited by over three million people yearly. So you know it’s got to be one of the best things to do in Bellevue! 

Marymoor Park has ample open space in Bellevue and has become a community area, with space for playing baseball, soccer, or cricket, places for birdwatching, and glorious vistas over Lake Sammamish.

If you’re looking for somewhere near Bellevue to enjoy the fresh air, Marymoor Park is for you! 

Washington is known for its tasty apple harvests, but for something a little different, why not pick your own blueberries?

The Larsen Lake Blueberry Farm sits right inside the city and features lush grounds with fresh produce and its very own lake. The serene surroundings offer a relaxing ambiance for picking berries, which you can do seasonally from July to September.

The ideal beach day location in Bellevue, the 531-acre Lake Sammamish State Park, has two beautiful lakefront beaches where you can catch the sun or take a dip—Tibbitts and Sunset Beach.

At Tibbetts Beach, you can rent out water sports equipment, including stand-up paddleboards and kayaks or just lounge on the beach (this is the quieter one of the two!)

Also, in the state park, you’ll find trails spanning through wetland and deciduous forest. Look out for blue herons and bald eagles, which call the park home. Take to the trails on foot, or bring your bikes.

READ MORE: Exploring Lake Sammamish

It’s true that there are tons of outdoorsy things to do in Bellvue, but don’t neglect charming Old Bellvue’s Main Street.

This urban attraction is home to some pretty great not so hidden gems, including specialty coffee shops, high-end boutiques, and unique gift shops.

Of course, there are also plenty of bars and restaurants in this area once you’re ready for a bite to eat.

For an extra tasty pint, stop into Bellevue Brewing Company. There are quite a few breweries in town, but this one is our favorite.

The brews take inspiration from Washington’s natural offerings, and their philosophy is to respect the natural resources and land. Oh, and the beer tastes really good, too.

The Bellevue Botanical Garden is another beautiful green space in the city, a 53-acre oasis. Walk through the fuschia and rhododendron gardens, learn about the unique flowers, or admire the spring courtyard.

There are a couple of trails that you can take through all of the gardens, including the Tateuchi Loop Trail and the Lost Meadow Trail. 

RELATED: The 19 Best Parks in Seattle For Adventure

The Kelsey Creek Farm Park is a 150-acre area that’s part farm and part park. There are walking trails through forests, two historic barns, and tons of farm animals on display.

The farm is located right in the city center, so you can spend a few hours looking at the animals and then hike back to Main Street via the Lake to Lake Trial.

If you fancy a fun hike near Bellevue, the Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park is your place!

It has a whopping 35 miles of trails that span through wetlands and mature second-growth forests and has lots of lookouts with immense views of Lake Sammamish, Seattle , and the Cascades. 

Hikes include the Coal Creek Falls Loop, which takes in some gorgeous waterfalls, the Whittaker Wilderness Peak Trail with immense views over the park, and the De Leo Wall Trail, a generally easy trail with some steep climbs. 

No matter what time of year you visit, one of the best things to do in Bellvue is to catch an event.

From arts and craft festivals and live music to winter parades and summer farmers markets, there’s always something going on in Bellvue. Check out some of the upcoming events to see what’s going on during your trip.

Bellvue Downtown Park is an aptly named urban park with some great views of the Bellvue skyline and Mount Rainier peaking out in the distance.

The park features a half-mile promenade, a playground, and plenty of shady trees and grassy space—perfect for a picnic! There are also restrooms and picnic tables available.

Located on the Issaquah Plateau amid the glorious Pacific Northwest Forest, Duthie Hill Mountain Bike Park is the ultimate place to visit if you want to try the sport! 

Here, you’ll find cross-country trails, freeride trails, and jump lines, with a range of circuits for beginners, intermediates, and advanced.

Even if you have no mountain biking experience, you’ll be welcome at Duthie – although it’s recommended to stick to the easy trails at first (Bootcamp is perfect for beginners!). 

Sitting on the shores of Lake Washington, Madrona Beach is quite grassy, but it’s a fantastic swimming spot, with lifeguards in the summer months. Plus, it’s very scenic, with excellent views of Mount Rainier . 

It backs onto Madrona Park, and there’s a free parking lot here. While this spot is just over the bridge, you’ll be looking over the lake AT Bellevue!

Also on the shores of Lake Washington, the Washington Park Arboretum, with a vast array of plants from different climates, is managed by the City of Seattle and the University of Washington Botanic Gardens. 

It is a fantastic place for an afternoon walk, and you’ll likely learn a thing or two about horticulture while you’re here! 

Most of the arboretum is free, but the Japanese Garden, which is in the southern part of the Arboretum, has a small entrance fee. With oriental plants and decorations, this is a beautiful part of the gardens and is well worth adding to your trip. 

Distance: 5.3 miles Type of Trail: Out & Back Difficulty: Moderate Elevation Gain: 1,459 ft

Other important info:

• Leashed dogs are allowed
• There is no fee for this trail

If you’re looking for some adventure around Bellevue, head to Rattlesnake Ledge Trail. This 5.3-mile out and back hike is rated moderate, with plenty of up and downhills.

However, once you reach the top, you’ll see it’s all worth it. There’s an incredible lake view from the top!

One drawback of this hike is that it can be hectic, so it’s best to go early in the morning or in the off-season if you want to tackle it. 

RELATED: 25 EPIC Hikes in Washington to Tackle

You may be coming from this way, but if you haven’t already done so, you’ve got to visit Seattle! It’s only a 15-minute drive away, and you’ll be spoiled for choice in terms of outdoor activities and urban attractions.

Because it’s so close, you can easily make this a day trip and then return to the quiet charm of Bellvue after you’ve had enough of the big city.

READ MORE: BEST Things To Do In Seattle

Distance: 2 miles Type of Trail: Out & Back Difficulty: Easy Elevation Gain: 354 ft

• Dogs are allowed
• A Northwest Forest Pass is required
• Open year-round, but seasonal road closures may occur

For a more leisurely hike, head to Franklin Falls . This is just a two-mile round trip from the parking lot, and you’ll be able to enjoy a dramatic view of the crashing falls at the end – win-win!

The falls themselves drop over three tiers, with a total of 135 feet, but you can only see the last tier from the base. Still, they’re a beautiful sight to behold, and if it’s a hot day, you can also take a dip in the plunge pool.

If you’re visiting in the winter , you might have to access it from a different trailhead.

READ MORE: Franklin Falls Hike : What You Need to Know!

Among the most popular tourist attractions in Washington, Snoqualmie Falls drop 270 feet. There are two observation decks, upper and lower, so you can take in the beauty of Snoqualmie from all angles!

They’re also very accessible—the distance between the parking lot and the falls is only 200 feet, and it’s wheelchair accessible. The parking lot is free, so you can take a picnic here and enjoy your day around the waterfall! 

READ MORE: Snoqualmie Falls Hike : What You Need to Know!

Distance: 2.5 miles Type of Trail: Out & Back Difficulty: Moderate Elevation Gain: 616 ft

• A Discover Pass is required

One of the tallest waterfalls in the area, Twin Falls , actually comprises three sections: two drops of 45 feet, another 30 feet upstream fall, and a third that is a 135 feet fall. 

There are multiple viewpoints where you can see the falls from different perspectives. You can see Twin Falls independently or explore them as you walk around Olallie State Park and the other Snoqualmie River waterfalls!

READ MORE: Hiking Twin Falls Trail : What You Need to Know!

There are many things to do in Bellevue, from natural phenomena to some of Washington’s best waterfalls . The city sits just a stone’s throw from Seattle but boasts an impressive array of attractions in its own right.

Whether you’re into swimming, mountain biking, hiking, or just like to admire beautiful nature, Bellevue has something for you! 

We hope this post helped you plan your trip to Bellevue, Washington! Before you go, don’t forget to check out other great places to visit around Seattle .

I'm an Oregon native but neighborly and equally as enchanted by Washington. I tackle expeditions around the world and love a good beer at the end of the day. PNW obsessed, VW nerd, and surf or snow riding fanatic.

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12 Best Things to Do in Bellevue, Washington

Feng Wei Photography / Getty Images

Located just to the east of Seattle and separated by Lake Washington lies the college town of Bellevue, which makes a great side trip from Seattle and a good base for exploring the rest of the Puget Sound region. Enjoy Bellevue's thriving downtown scene, natural outdoor spaces, and family-centric locales, such as the Children's Museum and the Public Market. Hanging out in this hipster town will give you a true feel for the Pacific Northwest, complete with metropolitan amenities and the Olympic Mountains looming in the distance.

Embark on a Zip Line Adventure

Bellevue Zip Tour

Adventurous types will love the Bellevue Zip Tour experience, which includes riding seven zip lines through Eastgate Park's canopy, crossing two suspension bridges, and hiking through a forest full of Western Hemlocks, Broad Leaf Maples, and Douglas Firs. Note that tours take place Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, and for safety reasons, you must weigh between 60 and 250 pounds to participate.

Play Board Games While You Brunch

Mox Boarding House

Gamers, rejoice! Whether you're a fan of classic board games or are more into role-playing scenarios a la Magic: The Gathering or Dungeons & Dragons, stop by Mox Boarding House for a chance to play and shop for all your favorites. You can even enjoy a full menu of house-made food and craft cocktails while you play games from the complimentary game library in one of the open play spaces, perfect for a quick round with friends, family, or fellow gaming enthusiasts.

Pick Your Own Blueberries

rsseattle / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0

Located just 10 minutes from downtown Bellevue, Larsen Lake Blueberry Farm offers visitors the opportunity to pick their own berries straight from the fields from mid-July to early September each year, depending on the weather. You can also pick up freshly cut flowers and just-picked seasonal fruits and veggies. Cash and credit cards are accepted. Check the website for hours of operation, which vary throughout the season.

Spend Some Time Enjoying the Great Outdoors

Getty Images / John & Lisa Merrill

Located between Lake Washington and Lake Sammamish, Bellevue is home to many parks and outdoor spaces. Enjoy the views, stroll along the waterfront, or take a scenic hike through nature.

At Mercer Slough Nature Park, one of Bellevue's largest parks and lake Washington's largest wetlands, you can enjoy seven miles of hiking trails , picnic areas, a canoe launch, and a blueberry farm. The park even boasts a unique interpretive canoe trip and a place to purchase seasonal blueberries from the farm.

See a Show at the Meydenbauer Center

Matthew Rutledge / Flickr / CC BY-NA 2.0

The Meydenbauer Center performance venue hosts shows and art education programs that are put on by a number of cultural organizations. The 410-seat theatre offers an ever-changing calendar that includes everything from classical music concerts, plays and musicals to ballet and dance recitals, and documentary and film showings.

Catch a show by the Bellevue Philharmonic Orchestra, Lyric Opera Northwest, the Bellevue Chamber Chorus, or The Attic Theatre. An events calendar and ticket information is available on the website so you can see what's playing while you're in town.

Visit the Bellevue Arts Museum

Wikimedia Commons 

Focusing on fine craft and design, this downtown Bellevue museum displays the work of artists from both the Pacific Northwest and around the world.

During your visit, browse ceramics, textiles, jewelry, and sculpture exhibits that rotate throughout the year. You can also attend various talks, tours, workshops, and kid-friendly programs. Don't miss the outstanding gift and bookstore, great for grabbing a classy piece of vacation memorabilia.

Day Trip to Snoqualmie Falls and Beyond

TripSavvy / Chris VR

Bellevue's neighboring towns and national forests offer daytrippers access to many activities just outside the city limits. Hop in the car and take a 30-minute drive to Snoqualmie Falls, a small park that overlooks a grand waterfall and a misty river canyon.

Directly to the north lies Woodinville , western Washington's primary wine region. Tour over 20 vineyards and enjoy wine tastings—just make sure you have a designated driver or can call Uber for a lift home.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love the hiking and biking trails at Marymoor Park  on the Sammamish. Nearby, downtown Kirkland boasts charming local shops, galleries, and eateries along the Lake Washington shore.

Hit the Beach

 David Herrera / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0

Although Bellevue has no direct access to the ocean, heaps of sandy beaches along the shores of Lake Washington offer a great way to cool off and enjoy nature.

Check out Enatai Beach Park , home to a swimming area, swimming dock, and seasonal canoe and kayak rentals. Nearby, Chism Beach Park is larger and has lifeguards on duty. Meanwhile, Clyde Beach Park , located off Lake Washington Boulevard, offers a convenient option for an afternoon dip.

Stop and Smell the Flowers at the Botanical Garden

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Operated by the Bellevue Botanical Garden Society, Bellevue Botanical Gardens is made up of several different gardens, as well as a visitor's center and an educational facility.

Stroll through a plethora of fragrant flowers and trees—stop to smell the fuchsias, rhododendrons, various wildflowers, and mountain hemlock trees, and discover species of ground crops you didn't know exist. Top off your visit with a trip to the garden store, which features garden-inspired gifts.

Visit Animals at a Farm

Located just inside Mercer Slough Nature Park sits Kelsey Creek Farm, a historic family farm facility that provides education and the experience of seeing farm animals up close.

Children can take a pony ride, pet a chicken or bunny, or take part in a number of other sensory farm programs. If you feel so compelled, you can contribute to help the animals by adopting a critter and supporting its maintenance and feeding throughout the year.

Take the Family to the KidsQuest Children's Museum

The Kid'sQuest Children's Museum isn't just for little kids. With adult programming and STEAM-powered (science, technology, engineering, and math) summer camps, school-age children and their parents can get in on the fun.

Visit the Art Studio, the Recycle and Rebuild shop, the Learning Lab, and the Atrium Climber, or drop your little ones off for an afternoon program while you enjoy some downtime at the neighboring Bellevue Library .

Eat at a Public Market

Crossroads Bellevue

Shop, dine, or enjoy a vintage carousel ride at Crossroads Bellevue , the city's own public market. The facility's food-hall-style international restaurants provide fast and affordable authentic cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.

Shop the local boutiques and national chains that reside on the premises, or hit up Stone Gardens, the area's finest rock climbing facility. The Bellevue Farmer's Market also sets up shop here every Tuesday afternoon from June through September, offering a peek at the region's finest produce.

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Explore Bellevue

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• Hyatt Regency Bellevue on Seattle's Eastside
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• Explore Olympic National Park from Seattle through Van /Ferry
• 5-hour Seattle and Suburbs Attractions Tour
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Bellevue, Washington: The Best Things To See And Do

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• Destinations
• Types of Travel
• United States

With world-class shopping, gorgeous natural spaces, and vibrant nightlife, Bellevue is one of Washington’s most engaging destinations. At one point in time, it was a suburb of Seattle; these days, Bellevue is more accurately described as a satellite city, given its fast growth and its established reputation as one of the Pacific Northwest’s premier technology hubs. The Seattle Times even referred to the city as the “new Brooklyn.”

If you’re visiting Bellevue, you’ll have no shortage of things to do and places to visit, and if you’re feeling overwhelmed while putting your travel schedule together, we can help. Here’s everything you need to know, including tips for dining, lodging, and exploring with confidence.

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Stop By The Bellevue Botanical Garden

The Bellevue Botanical Garden (BBG to the locals) is a 53-acre park with woodlands, wetlands, and cultivated gardens, and it’s one of the city’s most popular destinations. More than 300,000 people visit each year.

The garden is made up of several smaller gardens, each with its own character. Stop by the Fuchsia Garden or Rhododendron Garden to see their namesakes in bloom, or walk the Ravine Experience, which features a 150-foot suspension bridge that allows visitors to observe the wildlife without disturbing the floor of the conifer forest.

Visit the garden’s website for hours and other information. Generally, the park is open from dawn to dusk, and there’s no fee for admission or parking — in other words, if you’re headed to Bellevue and you’re at all interested in spending time outdoors, there’s no reason to leave the botanical garden off of your itinerary.

Browse The Shops Of Bellevue Square

While Seattle is famous for its high-end shops and boutiques, Bellevue has an even greater array of upscale shopping options. Bellevue Square is one of the best spots to dive into the town’s retail culture.

Here, shoppers can browse some of the more than 200 retail stores, then dine at one of more than 50 local-to-global restaurants. The shopping experience is largely focused on major brands and high-end fashion, but there’s something for everyone (you’ll even find a LEGO store on the mall’s first floor).

The nearby Lincoln Square and Bellevue Place expand the dining and shopping options considerably, and we strongly recommend taking advantage of the valet parking and concierge services to make the most of your trip. Check out the Bellevue Collection’s website to browse the area’s various attractions.

Visit The Bellevue Arts Museum

Just across the street from Bellevue Square, the Bellevue Arts Museum is an unconventional museum with no permanent collection. Instead, it features an ever-changing gallery of modern art pieces, focusing on artists from the Pacific Northwest. You’ll also find regular public workshops, lectures, and talks.

Since the experience changes regularly, you’ll want to check out the museum’s website prior to visiting.

waterandwoodgallery.com / Shutterstock

Head Out For A Hike At Mercer Slough Nature Park

Hikers won’t want to miss Mercer Slough Nature Park , the largest remaining Lake Washington wetland. Three trails run through the 320-acre park, and an educational center at the entrance provides visitors with detailed information about the area’s diverse flora and fauna.

Walking the interconnected soft-surface trails, asphalt pathways, and boardwalks, you’ll take in gorgeous views of the wetlands and encounter some of the area’s 170 species of wildlife. Head to the nearby Blueberry Farm to pick blueberries (provided that they’re in season) or simply stroll by the hardhacks while enjoying the scenery.

The park is open all year, but trail accessibility can change with the seasons; check the city’s website for up-to-date info.

Eating In Bellevue

Bellevue offers a variety of enriching culinary experiences, and whether you want a five-star meal or a gourmet hot dog, you’ll be able to find something satisfying with enough effort. With that said, we reached out to locals to find Bellevue’s best dining spots, and these restaurants received the most resoundingly positive reviews.

Seastar Restaurant

Chef John Howie’s Seastar Restaurant is a stellar option in downtown Bellevue. The menu is wide ranging, though the sushi and sashimi are the clear favorites. If you prefer your food cooked, you’ll find delectable steaks, tuna, and lobster macaroni and cheese on the dinner menu. The restaurant also has a gluten-free menu, and while it’s fairly expensive, the carefully crafted dishes are well worth the expense for fine-dining connoisseurs.

Lil’ Jon Restaurant

In the mood for a simpler American plate? Lil’ Jon Restaurant is one of Bellevue’s oldest restaurants, as the Sjolander family has operated it continuously since 1967. Locals say that the prices are fair, the coffee is hot, and the service is friendly.

This is one of the best places in town to grab a roast beef sandwich or a patty melt, and if you’re visiting during breakfast hours, the homemade cinnamon rolls are unmatched (just head there early — once the cinnamon rolls are gone for the day, they’re gone).

Belle Pastry

Belle Pastry is a small bakery on Bellevue’s Main Street and a perfect spot to enjoy a cup of coffee while planning your day.

You can’t go wrong with the bakery’s ever-changing seasonal options, but be sure to grab some croissants for the road. The Seattle Times named Belle Pastry’s croissant one of the two best options in the Seattle metropolitan area, and given the city’s French heritage, that’s saying something.

Where To Stay In Bellevue

Given Bellevue’s enchanting nightlife and numerous shopping districts, you might not want to spend much time cooped up in a hotel room. Then again, you might be surprised — the city has some truly outstanding accommodations. Here are a few of our favorites.

Bellevue Club Hotel

The Bellevue Club Hotel is an athletic club, spa, and hotel, and if you’re looking to treat yourself, it’s an outstanding place to spend a few days. The hotel has four dining options and 24-hour room service, and it’s located about a mile from Bellevue Square and 2 miles from downtown.

Guests also have access to a full-service spa with facial treatments and massage options. Be sure to check out the hotel’s website for spa/retreat packages.

The Woodmark Hotel

If you’re headed to Bellevue, chances are you’re planning on spending some time exploring the greater Seattle metropolitan area. The Woodmark is located in Kirkland, Washington, a short drive from Bellevue, and it offers easy access to Bellevue, Seattle, Redmond, and Woodinville Wine Country.

Set on the water of Lake Washington, the hotel offers an impressive array of amenities, including in-room couple’s massages, private boat tours, breathtaking waterfront views, and two dine-in restaurants.

A Few Travel Tips

Pay attention to the local events.

While tourists can easily spend their days shopping, dining, and exploring Bellevue’s green spaces, the town’s regular events also deserve some attention.

During the summer and fall, stop by the farmers markets. Bellevue also hosts an annual jazz and blues festival in May, a family-friendly Fourth of July celebration , and an arts fair toward the end of July. Until recently, the town held an annual strawberry festival, though that tradition ended — at least temporarily — in 2019.

Check the Bellevue Downtown Association’s calendar when scheduling your trip to make sure you don’t miss out.

You Probably Don’t Need To Rent A Car

For the most part, Bellevue is a walkable city, so your best bet is to stay on foot and use ridesharing services, buses, or taxis when you need to take a longer journey. Here’s a useful pedestrian map of downtown Bellevue. For getting from city to city, check out the King County Metro’s website , which has bus schedules and other info.

The city recently began accepting applications from bike-sharing companies , and you can rent bikes in nearby Seattle or Kirkland to explore the city in this manner. The city offers a color-coded bike map for cyclists.

With that said, if you do decide to drive to Bellevue or rent a car, free parking is plentiful in most parts of the city.

Hotels Are Often Cheaper On The Weekends

Bellevue’s a major player in the technology industry, and as such, its hotels often fill up during the week as businesspeople head to the city for conferences and meetings. For travelers, that means that accommodations are often slightly less expensive on weekends.

When contacting a hotel, be sure to ask about spa packages, dine-in discounts, and anything else that might reduce the overall cost of your trip. Bellevue isn’t an inexpensive city, per se, but it’s quite affordable when you plan early.

These days, a trip to Bellevue is a wholly different experience from a trip to Seattle . Both towns have plenty to offer, but Bellevue has come into its own as one of the Pacific Northwest’s hidden gems (or not-so-hidden gems, depending on the person you ask).

Plan your trip as early as possible and be ready to explore. There’s a reason that Bellevue is regularly ranked one of America’s best places to live — and for travelers, it’s certainly a wonderful place to spend a few days.

Brian Thomas is a professional writer with over 15 years of experience. He’s traveled extensively during that time, frequently touring the American Southwest as both a musician and a tourist. In 2019, he visited Japan and Mexico, and he’s become passionate about spreading a simple message: Traveling isn't necessarily expensive, and it's one of the best paths to self-improvement.

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12 Best Things to Do in Bellevue, WA

Widely considered to be one of the best places to live in the States, beautiful Bellevue lies just to the east of Seattle, tucked away in between Lake Washington and Lake Sammamish. Although it is usually overlooked in favor of Seattle, it is a pleasant place to visit and has a wealth of phenomenal parks and picture-perfect nature spots to enjoy.

Home to some of the world’s leading technology companies, there are also boasts outstanding, if upmarket, dining and shopping scenes to delve into. With a handful of interesting historic tourist attractions and museums, as well as all its incredible outdoor activities, there are plenty of things to do in Bellevue. This pleasant city makes for a great day trip destination or quiet weekend getaway. Plus there are all of Seattle’s stunning sights nearby.

12. KidsQuest Children’s Museum

A fun, family-friendly place to visit, the brilliant KidsQuest Children’s Museum lies a short drive north of downtown. Home to all kinds of interactive exhibits, it primarily focuses on the fields of science, technology and engineering, as well as the arts and mathematics.

Opened in 2005, it occupies a distinctive green and gray modern building with massive play structures and themed areas dotted about its two floors. Everywhere you look there are exciting hands-on exhibits with model trains and building blocks, art stations, water features and galleries full of intriguing machines.

In total, there are over twenty-five innovative exhibits and areas to explore. The creative displays and challenges are aimed at children up to the age of ten and their families.

11. Lake Sammamish

Boasting excellent outdoor activities, picturesque Lake Sammamish marks the eastern edge of the city’s limits. Dwarfed by Lake Washington to the west, its scenic shores and reflective waters offer umpteen recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

The long lake stretches over 7 miles in length, and reaches a maximum width of about a mile, with pretty parks and idyllic waterfront communities lying along its tranquil shores. Here you can enjoy fantastic hiking and cycling or go to lovely lakeside cafes, restaurants and concerts in the summer months.

On top of this, the lake’s beautiful blue waters also lend themselves perfectly to swimming, fishing and rowing while countless watersports can be tried at its various marinas, boat ramps and resorts.

10. Newcastle Beach Park

If you’re looking to sunbathe and swim when in town then Newcastle Beach Park is certainly one of the best places to head. Set twenty minutes’ drive south of the center, its sun-kissed sands and gorgeous green spaces lie next to the shimmering waters of Lake Washington.

Due to the extensive array of amenities, calm swimming spots and sandy beach, the park is a popular family destination. On the sprawling site you can find a playground and picnic areas, while a nature trail weaves its way amidst little pockets of lush woods and shrubs.

In addition to lounging about and enjoying the peace and quiet, visitors can venture out along its 300 feet floating dock to either fish, sunbathe or jump into the lake’s refreshing waters.

9. Day Trip to Seattle

As The Emerald City, and all its enticing attractions, lie fifteen minutes’ drive away, it is well worth going on a day trip from Bellevue. Seattle has everything from amazing museums and microbreweries to exquisite art galleries, architecture and iconic landmarks; there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

The largest city in the Pacific Northwest, Seattle is set in a scenic spot on a narrow isthmus in between both Lake Washington and the Puget Sound. While plenty of leafy parks dot its diverse neighborhoods and endless waterfront area, fabulous views can be enjoyed of the sparkling waters and snow-capped mountains off in the distance.

Aside from strolling around and taking in the multicultural city’s vibrant feel, visitors can delve into its thriving dining, brewing and coffee shop scenes or stop by top tourist attractions like Pike Place Market and the soaring Space Needle.

8. Kelsey Creek Farm

A world away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Seattle is the quiet and quaint Kelsey Creek Farm, which offers up a fascinating glimpse into Bellevue’s rural past. Located right in the heart of town, its barns, fields and farmhouse lie within a huge community park, surrounded by magnificent forests, meadows and wetlands.

Built in the early 1900s, the working farm now highlights what life was like back in those days with its historic old barns and pristine pastures housing pigs, cows, sheep and chickens. Besides seeing all the farmyard animals, there are playgrounds and picnic areas to make use of and countless trails to hike along through the nearby woods and fields.

During the summer, Kelsey Creek Farm runs educational programmes for children with pony treks and farm experiences to be enjoyed alongside art, science and nature camps.

7. Bellevue Zip Tour

If you’re after an exhilarating and unforgettable experience, then look no further than the Bellevue Zip Tour. At its scenic and secluded site, visitors can shoot through the treetops at great speeds and cross swaying suspension bridges with resplendent nature and views lying all around.

Established in 2006, its challenge courses, climbing walls and zip lines have proved very popular with locals and tourists alike. There are seven thrilling zip lines and two lofty suspension bridges to navigate strung up between the trees.

Among its atmospheric old Maple and Douglas Fir forest you can zip along at speeds of up to 55 kph. You can often spot Mount Baker and Glacier Peak through the canopy.

6. Meydenbauer Bay Park

Also boasting gorgeous scenery and views is Meydenbauer Bay Park in the center of town. Lying along the serene shores of the big bay of the same name, it offers a host of great outdoor activities, as well as a picture-perfect beach and long pedestrian pier.

Formerly a landing site for passenger ferries in the late 1800s, the lakeside location later became Bellevue’s first park in 1953. Recent renovations have not only extended and expanded its sandy beach but also added a curving pier, which further protects the park’s calm waters and is ideal for ambling along peacefully.

Besides sunbathing, swimming and basking in the phenomenal vistas over Lake Washington, guests can enjoy a pleasant picnic on its viewing terrace, or wander along its nature trails. A play area, canoes and kayaks are also available.

5. Bellevue Arts Museum

Just a short walk from both the park and bay is yet another of the city’s top tourist attractions: the outstanding Bellevue Arts Museum. Packed with interesting artworks and exhibits, it lies just across the street from the massive Bellevue Square shopping center.

Unlike almost all art museums, it doesn’t have a permanent collection. All its unique works and thought-provoking exhibitions are temporary in nature. While it is particularly known for its amazing installations by Pacific Northwest artists, the museum is also noted for the extensive number of hands-on classes and workshops it puts on for the community each year.

Founded in 1975, it occupies a striking modern building with its rotating exhibits focussing on everything from fine arts and visual design to cartoons, contemporary crafts and ceramic sculptures.

4. Bellevue Square

The best place to shop, dine and go out in the city is undoubtedly the ever-popular Bellevue Square, located right next to both the art museum and Downtown Park. With cosmetics and accessories, high fashion clothes, jewellery and luxury items, its endless array of stores certainly have you covered.

Since first opening in 1946, it has expanded enormously and now impressively has over 200 shops and boutiques for visitors to peruse, with both Macy’s and Nordstrum anchoring the mall. Here countless cafes and restaurants serve up delicious dishes from all around the world, with outdoor and open-air dining both being on offer.

Besides shopping ‘til you drop and sampling tasty treats, you can also go bowling, stop by its state-of-the-art cinema or enjoy some splendid live music at one of its numerous bars and clubs.

3. Mercer Slough Nature Park

Another picturesque spot where you can immerse yourself in nature is the lovely, lush Mercer Slough Nature Park. One of the largest parks in the city, it sprawls across a huge site with wonderful wetlands and woods to be found alongside charming creeks, open meadows and agricultural areas.

Despite lying only five minutes south of the center, the park actually protects the largest remaining patch of natural freshwater wetlands around Lake Washington. Weaving their way amidst its murky swamps and waterways are plenty of paths and boardwalks to explore. There is also a fantastic water trail which you can kayak along.

Aside from enjoying its spellbinding scenery and awesome outdoor activities, visitors can check out Mercer Slough’s historic blueberry farm or the 1929 Mission-style mansion which houses its Visitor Center. To learn more about its history and nature, make sure to visit its excellent Environmental Education Center.

2. Downtown Park

Dominating and defining the city center is the delightful Downtown Park that acts as a green and blue oasis among all the high rises, offices and apartment buildings. A popular place to relax and unwind, it has gloriously leafy spaces and lawns for visitors to enjoy with pretty water features also on show.

As downtown was growing and developing at a rapid pace, the city stepped in to protect one of its last remaining green spaces in the early eighties. Since then, the park has been lovingly landscaped with a circular promenade, canal and formal gardens now lining the large lawn at its center.

In addition to all this, playgrounds and picnic areas can be found next to a reflecting pool, twinkling waterfalls and outdoor performance venues, while the city’s skyline and the soaring Mount Rainier can be spied off in the distance.

1. Bellevue Botanical Garden

Although the city boasts attractive outdoor spaces and nature areas, the beautiful Bellevue Botanical Garden is certainly the pick of the bunch. Home to all kinds of colorful plants, flowers, trees and shrubs, its paths are a treat to stroll along with ponds, wetlands and wild areas dotted here and there.

Founded in 1992, it has scenic sections to explore with flower-filled meadows and verdant woodlands located alongside exquisitely manicured gardens. These include, not only the Japanese-themed Yao Garden, but a Native Discovery Garden full of native plants from the Pacific Northwest.

Other than visiting during its stupendous, but seasonal, Dahlia Display, the most memorable time of year to explore the gardens is during winter when thousands of fairy lights magically illuminate its paths, plants and ponds.

Map of Things to Do in Bellevue, WA

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Bellevue's Best Eats, Drinks, Shopping & Things To Do On The 2 Line Light Rail

Get ready to ride.

Sound Transit's new 2 Line opens on April 27, 2024 , with 8 new stations from South Bellevue to Redmond Technology. The light rail trains will run every 10 minutes from 5:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., seven days a week. This means that getting around Bellevue and Redmond will be traffic-free! Here's your guide to riding the new light rail system, complete with all the things you can do at each of the stations. 

What's the Light Rail?

Fair question. Sound Transit builds and operates transit services in our region, and their light rail system offers two-way rapid service trains that operate in their own right of way - meaning you can zip through traffic. The vehicles have large windows, bicycle hooks , and space to stow luggage. It's a really great way to get around!

Riding Costs

Pay for your ride with an ORCA card , which you can purchase at a ticket machine with cash and credit/debit cards at any of the new stations, or use the Transit GO ticket app . With an ORCA card, you can also transfer to any of the buses or Sounder trains. Fares are $2.25 - $2.50 and reduced fares are available. Thanks to Move Ahead Washington, a statewide transportation funding package, all youth 18 and younger get to ride for free. You just need to bring a Youth ORCA Card or a current high school or middle school student ID. 

South Bellevue Station 

Address: 2700 Bellevue Way SE, Bellevue, WA 98004

The South Bellevue Station includes bus and paratransit transfer facilities with 1,500 parking stalls. In 2025, this station will connect to Seattle's International District Station. This is a great stop to access a bike and pedestrian trail that brings you through the evergreen Mercer Slough Nature Park . You can also take an 18 minute walk to REI Co-op Kayak Rentals at Entai Beach , where you can rent paddleboards, kayaks, and canoes to enjoy the peaceful waters of Lake Washington.

Mercer Slough Nature Park

-Access Points: Winters House; Blueberry Farm; Sweyolocken Boat Launch; Bellefields Trailhead;...

REI Boathouse at Enatai Beach Park

REI’s Boathouse at Enatai Beach Park in Bellevue is conveniently located just off Interstate 90. The...

East Main Station 

Address: 229 112th Ave SE, Bellevue, WA 98004

The East Main Station provides easy access to the Hilton Bellevue and Bellevue Club Hotel . Take an 18 minute stroll west on Main Street and you'll find yourself in the quaint Old Main/Old Bellevue neighborhood, where you can shop at glassybaby, get pastrami sandwiches at Gilbert's on Main , enjoy high tea from Fogrose Atelier at Rouge Cocktail Lounge, or visit the Meydenbauer Bay Park , where you can rent paddleboards, kayaks, and canoes at the REI Boathouse at Meydenbauer Bay . As always, if you're done walking, call upon BellHop for a free lift. 

Explore Bellevue's Old Main Street

Steps away from Meydenbauer Bay Park with stunning views of Lake Washington, is the Old Bellevue neighborhood, lovingly called "Old Main" or "Old Main Street." Explore Old Main Street Packed with family-friendly activities, lively brunches, enticing cocktail lounges and tasting... Read More

Old Bellevue Merchants

Steps Away From Meydenbauer Bay Park With Stunning Views Of Lake Washington, Is The Old Bellevue...

Bellevue Club Hotel

As the premier boutique hotel on Seattle’s East Side, the Bellevue Club Hotel offers a luxury stay...

Hilton Bellevue

The Hilton Bellevue hotel is just 10 minutes from downtown Seattle on the non-toll I-90. Surrounded...

FogRose Atelier serves Afternoon Tea at Rouge Lounge on Bellevue's Main Street. Enjoy savory nibbles...

Gilbert's Main Street Bagel Deli

For 26 years Gilbert's On Main has been Bellevue's only authentic deli sandwich experience....

Meydenbauer Bay Park

Note: Under Construction until 2018. A hidden local gem, Meydenbauer Beach Park is located near...

REI Boathouse at Meydenbauer Bay

REI’s Boathouse in Meydenbauer Bay Park is at the heart of Bellevue. Close to downtown, the park...

Coffeeholic House

Coffeeholic House is a startup shop founded by passionate people who wants to establish a new coffee...

Bis on Main

Bis on Main BRUNCH Saturday: 10am-2pm Sunday: 10am-2pm Bis on Main takes Chef/Owner Bobby Moore back...

Peony Kitchen

Bellevue downtown station .

Address: 571 112th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA 98004

The Bellevue Downtown Station drops you off in the middle of the bustling and walkable downtown, with access to shopping, dining, and entertainment.

The closest hotels to this station are the Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Bellevue and the Seattle Marriott Bellevue . To get to the  W Bellevue , Westin Bellevue , and Hyatt Regency Bellevue , it's an approximate 15 minute walk. If you don't want to walk, you can always hail a BellHop for free.

Seattle Marriott Bellevue

Step into the lobby of the redesigned Seattle Marriott Bellevue and feel the comfortable, relaxed...

Courtyard by Marriott Seattle Bellevue/Downtown

Experience the luxury of the newly renovated Courtyard Downtown Bellevue hotel, centrally located in...

The Westin Bellevue

Natural Beauty Meets Urban Sophistication Upscale sophistication waits at The Bellevue Collection,...

W Bellevue. Where green meets global glamour. Where rugged and relaxed are reimagined and redefined....

Hyatt Regency Bellevue

Hyatt Regency Bellevue, on Seattle’s Eastside, is in the heart of downtown Bellevue. Nestled between...

Shopping, Arts, Events, Nightlife

For luxury shopping at Prada, Gucci, David Lawrence, and more,  The Shops at The Bravern is just next door. Going to see a show or attend a conference? This station is a quick walk to the Meydenbauer Center and the Meydenbauer Center Theater. Take a walk in the walkabout downtown area and you'll find over 200 shops and restaurants at The Bellevue Collection , which is also home to the Topgolf Swing Suite and a very unique minigolf spot at Forum Social House . This is also where you'll find the Bellevue Arts Museum along with plenty of nightlife options at Lucky Strike, Suite, W Living Room, Legion, and more.

The Shops at The Bravern

Enjoy exploring this vibrant outdoor destination. Since the opening in 2009, The Shops at The...

Bellevue Arts Museum

Bellevue Arts Museum provides a public forum for the community to contemplate, appreciate, and...

The Bellevue Collection

The Bellevue Collection is the Northwest's premier shopping and dining district with more than 200...

Bellevue Downtown Park

The Bellevue Downtown Park is a 21-acre oasis of green in the heart of Bellevue. The park features a...

Meydenbauer Center Theatre

The arts come alive on the Eastside, thanks to the Meydenbauer Center Theatre. This...

Lucky Strike

W living room bar and the porch.

Relax in the buzzing social atmosphere of the Living Room Bar and The Porch. Our bar at the W...

Eating, drinking, and snacking

Downtown Bellevue is a mecca of culinary options, ranging from gourmet hot pot at The Dolar Shop  and Hai Di Lao to luxurious dumplings and Xiao Long Baos at Din Tai Fung, from steakhouse vibes at Whiskey by John Howie  and panoramic views at  Duke's Seafood , Ascend Prime Steak & Sushi  to iconic omakase at  Takai by Kashiba  and Spanish tapas at  Castilla . Experience gastronomic Indian fare at  Farzi Cafe  and sip on the impressive margarita flights in between tacos at   Cantina Monarca . Find sips and snacks at Dote Coffee Bar or apps and craft cocktails at Civility & Unrest . There's plenty to explore!

Takai by Kashiba

Named Best New Omakase restaurant by Eater, Takai by Kashiba serves high-end, traditional Edomae...

Cantina Monarca

Cantina Monarca is a modern take on traditional Mexican cuisine and an elevated tequila lounge...

Castilla Restaurant and Tapas Bar

Nestled in downtown Bellevue, authentic and intellectually honest in her presentation, Chef Clara...

Farzi Cafe'

The first Farzi Café opened in 2014 in the modern and thriving city of Gurgaon, 30 kilometres...

Duke's Seafood & Chowder

Ascend prime steak & sushi.

Experience Bellevue’s best views with an unparalleled dining experience from the 31st floor at...

Whiskey by John Howie

Whiskey by John Howie features global selections of rare and well done whiskies with something for...

Dote Coffee Bar

Civility & unrest.

Civility & Unrest is a speakeasy-inspired lounge centered upon the craft cocktail insider...

Din Tai Fung

Water grill.

Sophisticated seafood restaurant with extensive raw-bar options & a menu updated daily.

Legion Sports Bar

Upscale Sports Bar, Southern Food Inspired, and Creative Cocktails. At Legion, our story is rooted...

The Lakehouse

James Beard Award-winning Chef Jason Wilson’s interpretation of a Northwest farmhouse concept...

Earls Kitchen + Bar

Our globally-inspired kitchen is diverse, interesting, and full of flavour. We also serve up some...

Joey Bellevue

Paddy coyne's irish pub, wilburton station .

Address: 800 118th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA 98005

The Wilburton Station features an elevated central platform with views of the Bellevue skyline and Lake Bellevue. From here, you can explore a variety of shopping and dining options. The Pumphouse Bar & Grill  is a long standing family-owned and operated American restaurant known for serving beers in their Super Stein. This is a 21+ spot with some of the best homestyle hamburgers and breakfast items. Enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine from I Love Sushi On Lake Bellevue , serving traditional Gozen, bento boxes, donburi, sushi, sashimi, and rolls. You can also pay a visit to Whole Foods or Japanese grocery store Uwajimaya to pick up snacks, drinks, and more. If you're coming from Canada, this is the stop to get off at when visiting the Trader Joe's.

The Pumphouse

Family-owned and operated since 1978, the Pumphouse is a Bellevue landmark! No Minors - We are over...

I Love Sushi

37 Years since 1986 The first restaurant specialized in sushi opened 37 years ago in Bellevue. It...

Spring District Station

Address: 1600 120th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA 98005

The new urban Bellevue neighborhood is a vibrant place made up of walkable streets, open spaces, and independent shops. This is where Meta is headquartered and is a great place to hang out when visiting Bellevue Brewing Company and Dote Coffee Shop . This is also home to the Global Innovation Exchange, which has wonderful meeting spaces and is where some of the most brilliant minds are developing innovative solutions.

Bellevue Brewing Company, LLC

Spring district.

It’s a new urban Bellevue neighborhood — a vibrant place made up of walkable streets, open spaces...

Global Innovation Exchange (GIX)

The Steve Ballmer Building is a modern, flexible space just minutes from downtown Bellevue in the...

The BelRed Station 

Address: 1500 130th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA 98005

Where Bellevue meets Redmond, the BelRed Station is located in an industrial neighborhood that is now an arts village. This is the perfect stop to visit the Mercury Coffee Roastery & Bakery , located next to their headquarters. Garnering a local cult following for their coffee, pastry, and lunch items, this spot offers exclusive menu items not available anywhere else. You'll be able to see the team in action, as they process their coffee, make their baked goods, and more. Be sure the check out their massive cinnamon rolls! For fabulous Taiwanese cuisine, Facing East is a favorite among locals and chefs. Nearby, you can also visit Mox Boarding House , atylish restaurant & game store featuring a menu of eclectic eats, a game library & draft beers.

Mox Boarding House

Mox Boarding House Bellevue on Bel-Red Road hosts beautifully decorated Art-Deco designs with a...

Mercurys Coffee Co.

We are a local company founded in Woodinville, Washington, by Morgan Harris in 1998. Over the years,...

Facing East

Facing East opened in 2006, bringing traditional Taiwanese food made with love, care, and...

Overlake Village Station 

Address: 2801 152nd Ave NE, Redmond, WA 98052

The Overlake Village Station is located in the Overlake area of Redmond, home to 46,000 jobs and growing residential neighborhoods. Get off at this station to get to the K1 Speed for electric go-karting in this indoor racing center, which also serves food. There are many local restaurants in the area, including Dosa House Indian Food , modern izakaya at Shinya Shokudo , and Thai cuisine at Bai Tong Thai Restaurant Redmond.

Indoor Go Kart Racing Our track features a fast straight that will see you reaching top speeds of...

Shinya Shokudo

“Shinya Shokudo” translates to Midnight Diner in English and originates from a well-known Japanese...

Dosa House Pure Vegetarian Indian Food

Located in the Bel-Red area, Dosa House is a countertop-style, South Indian vegetarian restaurant...

Redmond Techology Station  

Address: 15590 NE 36th St, Redmond, WA 98052

The Redmond Technology Station is your gateway to the Microsoft Visitor Center and Company Store . The Microsoft Store and Visitor Center is an interactive exploration of the past and future of Microsoft. You can check out the very first personal computer or take a sneak peek at the future of Microsoft Artificial Intelligence + Research. Follow along on a guided tour, or set off on your own. You can purchase exclusive merchandise from the Microsoft Store here. 

Microsoft Visitor Center

The Microsoft Store and Visitor Center is an interactive exploration of the past and future of...

Anna Yan is the communications manager at Visit Bellevue. She enjoys dining, travel, outdoor adventure, golf, and obsessing over hotels. 

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2 Bellevue restaurants for a delicious (and entertaining) meal

The dining room at Bellevue’s Daeho Kalbijjim & Beef Soup is loud. There’s upbeat Korean pop and the general din of diners, but also robots that whir by, beep-booping a “hello” or table number. Amid that cacophony there’s a loud, intermittent click, followed by the hiss of a blow torch and the inevitable “ooooh!” as diners watch mounds of mozzarella melt into beef stew.

It’s like hearing the sizzle of fajitas being paraded through a dining room, creating a Pavlovian response. I couldn’t resist getting my own bubbling cauldron of stew, even at a price tag of $81.95.

Daeho is a San Francisco-based chain that opened in January on a previously sleepy corner just off Interstate 90. Shortly after opening, my colleague Tan Vinh reported wait times stretching 90 minutes , but my server said weekday lunches and early dinners have calmed down. On the weekend, you should still be prepared to wait (as evidenced by the signs with etiquette suggestions that dot the walkway to the restaurant). One way to gauge the line prior to driving over is to check Yelp for the waitlist, joining if necessary before you show up.

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Now, for the dish in question: the kalbijjim with braised beef rib and the optional cheese add-on ($5.95). Like everything on the menu, the dish comes with a full assortment of banchan — traditional kimchi, radish kimchi, sesame-oiled bean sprouts, creamy white seaweed salad and stir-fried fish cakes, plus your choice of purple or white rice.

The stew — presented in a hot cast-iron pot big enough to feed at least two — arrives bubbling, even before being torched to melt the cheese. There are hunks of tender short rib plus rice cakes, potato, Korean radish, carrots and onions bathing in a thick, reddish broth that has an inherent sweetness alongside the sour spice of gochujang and chili. Traditionally a celebration dish in Korea, this kalbijjim feels like a labor of love burbling on your table; it’s so good that I can see why my Korean friends say soup season is year-round.

This dish is massive and on the pricier side, so if you’re at Daeho by yourself, or you’re not into sharing, there are other options. The hot stone bibimbap, spicy cold noodles, spicy beef rib soup and seolleongtang (an ox-bone soup) are all nicely proportioned and range from $19 to $25.

For a different kind of meal-with-a-show, head to Istanbul Cuisine Cafe , a walk-up window situated in the outdoor courtyard near Macy’s in Bellevue Square.

The casual restaurant is a window-fronted galley kitchen where you can see the dough for pide and gozleme being rolled thin before being placed on the flat top griddle, where they’re cooked to order. It’s food done quickly but with care. There are also wraps on the menu, plus a small case with grab-and-go items like stuffed grape leaves and baklava.

It’s tough to choose between the pide and the gozleme. They’re essentially food cousins; the pide is a bit puffier and more breadlike, hugging the fillings, while the gozleme is much thinner and more delicate, the filling spread thinly inside and sealed between two dough layers. Both are served with creamy, herbed yogurt sauces, with meat and vegetarian available for fillings.

The beef gozleme ($16) is mixed with scallions, the tissue paper-thin dough delicate and slightly blistered. After it’s finished cooking on the oiled flat top, it’s sliced into large strips that can then be rolled up and dunked into the yogurt sauce and eaten.

The lamb pide ($18) has lamb and beef gyro meat, tomatoes, fresh parsley, scallions and cheese piled on top of a slightly puffier bread, which gets pulled up and around the fillings. Slices of the elongated pide are sturdy enough to be picked up like a slice of pizza.

It’s mesmerizing to watch the dough be expertly manipulated from roller to flat top — and the results are equally delicious.

Daeho Kalbijjim & Beef Soup : 3703 150 th Ave. S.E., Bellevue; 425-559-7800, daehokalbijjim.com

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2024 NCFR Conference Hotel and City Information

• Overview and Theme
• Registration
• Affiliate Councils Proposals
• Hotel and City
• Health and Safety

Nov. 20-23 | Hyatt Regency Hotel | Bellevue, Washington

Reserve Your Hotel Room

The NCFR Conference room rate is $165 per night.

Use  our reservation link  to book your hotel room at the Hyatt Regency Bellevue at the conference room rate of $165 (plus taxes and fees).

If you experience difficulty booking your room, please contact the hotel directly at (425) 462-1234. Mention NCFR Annual Conference for the negotiated $165 rate.

Book by 5:00 p.m. PT, Oct. 25, 2024, to receive the conference room rate.

Hotel Website

Hotel Accommodations & Amenities

The Hyatt Regency Bellevue is headquarters for the 2024 NCFR Annual Conference. All presentations, meetings, poster sessions, exhibits, and events will be held at this location. Staying in the official NCFR room block is convenient for you to stay connected to conference activities and informal networking opportunities.

All guestrooms include:

• Complimentary premium internet up to 25 MB per device
• 60" smart TV with Chromecast
• Individual climate control
• Mini-refrigerator, coffee maker, iron and ironing board, and hairdryer
• In-room safe

Check in: 4 p.m. Check out: Noon

Pet-friendly  and ADA compliant rooms  are available.

Complimentary access to the StayFit Fitness Center and pool for length of stay over the conference dates.

Self-parking rates are $35/day (with in and out privileges). Parking validation is provided by Hyatt up to 3 hours complimentary self-parking. Parking is complimentary beginning Friday after 8 p.m., through Sunday at midnight. Valet is not included. Valet parking rates are $45/day (with in and out privileges).

Food and Dining

Hyatt Regency In-Room Dining: Breakfast 7-10 a.m., Mon.-Sun.

The Hyatt Regency Hotel features nine dining options   within the hotel, including dining with a piano bar, rooftop deck for cocktails, large lounge area, breakfast buffet, a deli, a pan-Asian menu, and a complimentary aerial arts show. 

Eques Mon-Fri: 6:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Sat: 7:00 a.m. – Noon. Sun: 7:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. See menu

Joey Bellevue Open Daily: 11:00 a.m. – Midnight See menu

13 Coins Mon-Wed: 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. Thur-Sat: 7:00 a.m. – 1:00 a.m. Sun: 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. See menu

Fonté Coffee Roaster Mon-Sat: 6:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Sun: 6:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. See menu

Suite Bellevue Mon-Thur: 3:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Fri: 3:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m. Sat: 4:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m. See menu

Daniel's Broiler Open Daily: 4 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. See menu

Fresh N More Mon-Fri: 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. See menu

Needs Deli / Needs Mercantile Mon-Fri: 7:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. See menu

Hours are subject to change without notice.

There are more than 50 Seattle Eastside restaurants in The Bellevue Collection, from grab-and-go to upscale steakhouses with views of Mt. Rainier and Lake Washington, all connected via skybridge to the hotel. 

Travel and Transportation  

The Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is the gateway to Bellevue. Find information to plan arrival and departure.  Find more airport information

Additionally, the Seattle Paine Field International Airport, also known as the Paine Field in Everett (PAE), is a commercial and general aviation airport primarily serving the Seattle metropolitan area. Find information to plan arrival and departure.

Ground Transportation

The Premier Airport Shuttle is an option for students or attendees coming to the conference together. For 4 people, a 1-way fare ranges from $60-$75. The shuttle can take conference attendees and participants directly from the airport to the hotel in Bellevue.

Public Transport

The Line 560 is an alternative route that does not require a bus change, and it can take travelers from the airport terminal to the Bellevue Transit Center, and then approximately a 10-minute walk to the Hyatt. The 560 comes every 30 minutes Monday-Friday and hourly Saturday, Sunday & Holidays.

Circuit is an all-electric shared vehicle that offers affordable eco-friendly rides in Bellevue, to and from places like Bellevue Square, Main Street, Downtown Park, and more. 

BellHop is an electric, on-demand, free shuttle service that offers a shared experience with other BellHop riders, to and from places like Old Main restaurants, downtown attractions, Spring District market pop-ups, and more.

See additional transportation options

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