15 Amazing Things To Do In Bellevue, Washington

Bellevue, Washington, often overlooked in favor of its iconic neighbor Seattle, has developed into a destination in its own right. Nestled between Lake Washington and the Cascade Mountains, Bellevue offers a mix of outdoor adventures, upscale shopping, and cultural experiences.

In this guide, I’ll share some of my favorite things to do in Bellevue, based on my experiences as a travel consultant and frequent visitor.

1. Explore Bellevue Downtown Park

Start your Bellevue adventure in one of the city’s most iconic and beloved spaces—Downtown Park. Spanning 21 acres, this beautifully landscaped urban sanctuary is nestled in the heart of Bellevue and offers a serene retreat amidst the city’s vibrant energy. The park’s signature feature is a graceful half-mile promenade that encircles a reflective central pond, all framed by lush lawns and rows of mature trees. As you stroll or jog along the pathway, you’re treated to sweeping views of Bellevue’s sleek skyline, blending nature and city in perfect harmony.

During my visit, I found that the early hours were especially magical—watching the sunrise cast golden light over the skyline felt like witnessing the city awaken from a dream

2. Shop and Dine at The Bellevue Collection

No trip to Bellevue is complete without indulging in a bit of shopping and culinary exploration at The Bellevue Collection. More than just a mall, this dynamic complex—comprising Bellevue Square, Lincoln Square, and Bellevue Place—creates a retail and dining experience that’s as stylish as it is accessible. With over 200 shops ranging from high-end designers like Burberry and Tory Burch to well-loved staples such as Nordstrom, Zara, and UNIQLO, there’s something here for every taste and budget.

But shopping is only the beginning. The Bellevue Collection is also a food lover’s paradise, offering everything from elegant sit-down restaurants to quick gourmet bites. On one of my visits, I savored the unforgettable soup dumplings at Din Tai Fung, a globally renowned Taiwanese restaurant whose Bellevue location lives up to its hype. The delicate craftsmanship of each dumpling, paired with a vibrant, bustling atmosphere, made for a truly memorable dining experience.

3. Discover Mercer Slough Nature Park

Mercer Slough Nature Park offers an unexpected escape right on the edge of the urban landscape. Just minutes from downtown Bellevue, this 320-acre wetland sanctuary is one of the largest of its kind in the region. The park features an extensive network of walking and biking trails that wind through serene forests, open marshlands, and shaded boardwalks.

Perhaps the most enchanting way to experience the park is by canoe. As you paddle gently through the still waterways, surrounded by cattails and birdsong, the hum of the city fades into the background. It’s a unique way to glimpse the ecological richness of the Pacific Northwest while soaking in a moment of complete tranquility. During my canoe trip here, I was struck by the contrast between the natural stillness and the bustling city just beyond the trees—it felt like discovering a secret side of Bellevue.

4. Relax at Meydenbauer Bay Park

Tucked away along the shores of Lake Washington, Meydenbauer Bay Park is one of Bellevue’s most scenic waterfront retreats. This revitalized green space blends natural beauty with thoughtful design, making it a favorite for locals and visitors alike. Here, sandy beaches invite barefoot strolls, grassy lawns offer space for impromptu picnics, and a long, curving pier stretches out into the water, offering peaceful views of sailboats gliding across the lake.

This park is ideal for a relaxing afternoon or a romantic sunset outing. For the more adventurous, kayak and paddleboard rentals provide the perfect opportunity to explore the bay from a different perspective. On my last visit, I spent a sun-dappled afternoon lounging by the water, watching families play, dogs splash, and the occasional paddleboarder gracefully navigating the calm waves.

5. Wander Through Bellevue Botanical Garden

A lush sanctuary in the heart of the city, Bellevue Botanical Garden is a peaceful, 53-acre haven that invites visitors to slow down and reconnect with nature. Far from a typical urban green space, the garden seamlessly blends artful landscaping with preserved native woodlands and wetlands. It’s a place where every season brings a different kind of magic. In spring, azaleas and rhododendrons burst with color. In summer, the Dahlia Display Garden becomes a painter’s palette of blooms. Autumn introduces a symphony of golden leaves, while winter dazzles with the beloved Garden d’Lights, turning the landscape into a glittering wonderland.

One of the most memorable parts of my visit was wandering through the Yao Garden, a Japanese-style space designed for contemplation. The path winds past waterfalls, stone lanterns, and meticulously pruned pines—each step offering a sense of calm.

6. Visit Bellevue Arts Museum (BAM)

Bellevue Arts Museum, affectionately known as BAM, is more than a museum—it’s a space where creativity lives and breathes. With a strong focus on Northwest artists, the exhibitions here are refreshingly intimate, often exploring the intersection of tradition and innovation. From contemporary ceramics and textile art to thought-provoking installations and architectural design, each exhibit invites dialogue and introspection.

During my last visit, I was struck by an exhibit featuring local artists who transform everyday materials—like recycled glass or repurposed wood—into powerful narratives about sustainability and identity. The museum itself is a work of modern architecture, flooded with natural light and thoughtfully arranged to guide you through a journey of discovery.

7. Hike Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park

Tucked into the Issaquah Alps just a few miles from Bellevue, Cougar Mountain is a wilderness escape that feels worlds away. Covering over 3,000 acres, this regional park features 38 miles of trails that take you deep into moss-draped forests, across bubbling creeks, and up to rocky ridgelines with sweeping vistas.

Trails like the Red Town, Licorice Fern, and Wilderness Creek loop offer everything from peaceful forested strolls to heart-pumping climbs. On the De Leo Wall Trail, I paused at the overlook to watch clouds roll over the valley—it felt like a scene pulled from a landscape painting.

This park is also a living classroom for geology and ecology lovers. It overlays remnants of 19th-century coal mining operations, which means you’ll occasionally see interpretive signs and historic artifacts embedded in the forest.

8. Attend the Bellevue Festival of the Arts

Every July, downtown Bellevue bursts into color and creativity during the Bellevue Festival of the Arts. More than just a street fair, this juried outdoor event is a celebration of craftsmanship and community. Over 300 artists from across the country gather here to showcase their work, which ranges from fine art and pottery to handmade jewelry, textiles, and sculpture.

The air buzzes with live music and the tantalizing scent of gourmet food trucks, while kids craft their own masterpieces in the activity tents. It’s not only a great place to pick up a one-of-a-kind gift or artwork—it’s a way to experience Bellevue’s artistic soul firsthand. I always leave the festival inspired, arms full of new treasures, and my heart filled by the creative spirit.

9. Take a Day Trip to Snoqualmie Falls

Just a scenic 30-minute drive from Bellevue lies one of Washington’s most breathtaking natural wonders—Snoqualmie Falls. Plunging 268 feet into a rocky canyon, this waterfall is not only a favorite Instagram backdrop but also a deeply spiritual site for the Snoqualmie Tribe. Standing at the upper viewing deck, you can feel the power and mist of the falls—a moment that humbles and inspires.

For a more immersive experience, take the short but steep trail down to the lower observation deck. The hike winds through fern-covered forests and opens up to a dramatic base view where you can feel the thunder of the water echoing in your chest. Nearby, the historic Salish Lodge offers luxury stays and a scenic dining experience, perfect for a day trip that turns into an overnight escape.

10. Explore Crossroads Park and Shopping Center

If you want to experience Bellevue the way locals do, there’s no better place than Crossroads Park and its neighboring shopping center. This area, nestled in the city’s northeastern corridor, blends the simplicity of neighborhood life with an eclectic global flair. Start your outing at Crossroads Park, a green haven popular with families, athletes, and anyone looking for fresh air. You’ll find basketball courts, a skate bowl, open lawns, and one of Bellevue’s best playgrounds—perfect for kids to burn off energy.

After some outdoor time, stroll over to the Crossroads Shopping Center. It’s not your standard mall; it’s a cultural crossroads, quite literally. Inside, you’ll find small, family-run eateries offering everything from Indian curries and Thai noodles to Eastern European pastries and Mexican street tacos. The central dining area features communal tables and a stage where local musicians play live jazz, folk, and even world music on weekends. It’s informal, spirited, and always buzzing with life.

I’ve spent many cozy afternoons here, sipping Vietnamese iced coffee while watching a guitarist strum to a crowd of nodding heads. It’s a community in its most relaxed and inclusive form.

11. Wine Tasting in Woodinville

Just 20 minutes northeast of Bellevue lies Woodinville Wine Country, a lush and charming valley that’s become the beating heart of Washington’s wine scene. Home to more than 100 wineries, tasting rooms, and artisanal distilleries, this area offers something for every palate—from bold Cabernet Sauvignons to delicate Rieslings, all crafted in the cool maritime climate of the Pacific Northwest.

Unlike the expansive vineyards of Napa or the chateaux of Bordeaux, Woodinville’s wine scene is intimate, walkable, and refreshingly approachable. You’ll find world-famous producers like Chateau Ste. Michelle nestled among gravel-lot micro-wineries, each pouring passion into every glass. What makes Woodinville so special is its sense of community; winemakers are often onsite, eager to share the stories behind each vintage, from barrel to bottle.

During my most recent visit, I made a stop at DeLille Cellars, and it instantly became a favorite. Known for its Bordeaux-style blends, DeLille has an inviting tasting room set on beautifully landscaped grounds. The ambiance is both elegant and relaxed—perfect for sipping a glass of their acclaimed D2 blend while gazing out over lush gardens and tranquil water features.

12. Play a Round at Bellevue Golf Course

This 18-hole, par-71 public course sits just minutes from downtown and is surrounded by tall evergreens that lend it a tranquil, almost rural feel. The fairways are wide but thoughtfully designed, offering enough challenge to seasoned golfers while remaining friendly for beginners.

As someone who’s tested her fair share of municipal courses, I can confidently say this one punches above its weight. The greens are well-maintained, the staff is welcoming, and the pace of play is usually smooth. There’s also a full driving range, putting green, and a pro shop stocked with gear and rentals. After your round, the on-site restaurant offers burgers, salads, and cold drinks—perfect for rehashing every birdie or mulligan with friends.

13. Take Flight with Bellevue Zip Tour

If you’ve ever dreamed of flying through a forest canopy, the Bellevue Zip Tour turns that dream into a thrilling reality. Hidden within the treetops of Eastgate Park, this eco-adventure features seven exhilarating zip lines and two aerial suspension bridges, giving you a hawk’s-eye view of the Pacific Northwest’s lush terrain.

The tour is professionally run by experienced guides who ensure you feel safe and confident every step (or leap) of the way. As you glide between trees up to 80 feet above ground, you’ll not only feel the rush of wind in your face but also see Bellevue from a totally new angle—forest views, mountain backdrops, and maybe even a glimpse of downtown in the distance.

This is an excellent outing for couples, families with older kids, or solo thrill-seekers looking for something different than the usual urban activities. The mix of adrenaline, nature, and camaraderie makes it a memorable part of any Bellevue itinerary.

14. Paddleboard on Lake Sammamish

Lake Sammamish State Park is a 512-acre day-use park at the south end of Lake Sammamish, offering a variety of recreational activities, including paddleboarding, kayaking, and swimming. The park features two lakefront beaches—Sunset Beach and Tibbetts Beach—providing easy access to the water.

For paddleboard rentals, Issaquah Paddle Sports operates within the park, offering a range of watercraft, including stand-up paddleboards and kayaks. They provide hourly and daily rentals, as well as lessons for beginners.

The park also includes picnic areas, playgrounds, hiking and biking trails, and opportunities for bird watching. It's a perfect spot for a family outing or a peaceful day on the water.

15. Visit Kelsey Creek Farm

Nestled within the heart of Bellevue, Kelsey Creek Farm offers a delightful escape into pastoral life, making it a perfect destination for families and nature enthusiasts alike. This 150-acre park seamlessly blends open spaces, forested trails, and a working farm, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to experience rural charm amidst an urban setting.

As you wander through the farm, you'll encounter a variety of animals, including goats, sheep, rabbits, chickens, pigs, cows, and ponies. The farm's two historic barns, perched atop a gentle hill, overlook lush pastures where these animals graze and play. Children and adults alike can enjoy observing these animals up close, learning about their behaviors and the roles they play on the farm.

Beyond the barnyard, Kelsey Creek Park features scenic walking trails that meander through forests and wetlands, offering peaceful spots for picnics and nature observation. The park's playgrounds and open fields provide ample space for children to play and families to relax.

Throughout the year, Kelsey Creek Farm hosts seasonal events such as the Sheep Shearing event in April and the Farm Fair in October, which celebrate traditional farming practices and community spirit. These events often include demonstrations, hands-on activities, and opportunities to learn more about sustainable agriculture.

Conclusion

From outdoor adventures to world-class shopping and dining, Bellevue has something to offer everyone. Its unique combination of urban luxury and natural beauty makes it the perfect destination for a weekend getaway or an extended stay. Whether you’re exploring lush parks, sipping wine in nearby Woodinville, or shopping at The Bellevue Collection, you’ll find no shortage of amazing things to do in Bellevue, Washington.

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FAQ

1. How far is Bellevue from Seattle?

Bellevue is just across Lake Washington from Seattle, about 10 miles or a 20-minute drive via I-90 or SR 520.

2. What is Bellevue known for?

Bellevue is known for its blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty, offering everything from high-end shopping at The Bellevue Collection to scenic outdoor activities in its many parks and trails.

3. Is Bellevue worth visiting?

Absolutely! With a variety of activities, from hiking and wine tasting to shopping and dining, Bellevue offers something for every type of traveler.

4. Best time to visit Bellevue?

The best time to visit Bellevue is between May and September when the weather is warm and ideal for outdoor activities. However, the city’s parks and shopping make it a year-round destination.

5. What’s the weather like in Bellevue?

Bellevue has a temperate climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Expect rain from November through March, with the best weather in July and August.