Welcome to the edge of the world
A sparkling and innovative city nestled between the Puget Sound and the Cascade Mountain range, Bellevue offers its visitors the best in luxury, natural beauty, and adventure.
Bellevue is a city rooted in the resilient spirit of the Pacific Northwest and as such, it is in our nature to enjoy the beauty and restorative power of the outdoors, the anticipation and excitement of world-changing ideas, and the sensory exploration of fashion, art, and culturally inspired cuisine. Welcome to Bellevue, we place every visitor on the verge of creativity, innovation, and style. We are a destination built by futurists— where the allure of aspiration touches everyone we meet.
Things to Do in Bellevue
Home to many lively festivals and events, Bellevue offers plenty of things to do. Whether you're looking to enjoy your own self-guided Bellevue Art Walk, luxurious shopping or rugged hikes, sample our fine dining or relax in a spa, go kayaking or backcountry skiing - there are many attractions and places to visit in Bellevue, Washington.
Arts & Culture
Bellevue Arts Museum
Bellevue Arts Museum provides a public forum for the community to contemplate, appreciate, and discuss visual culture. The Museum works with audiences, artists, makers, and designers to understand our shared experience of the world. Every last full weekend of July, BAM hosts one of the largest and most treasured art festivals of the year, the Bellevue Arts Museum ARTSfair.
KidsQuest Children’s Museum
Enjoy hours of delight and discovery at this hands-on, interactive museum for children and families designed to engage kids from birth to age twelve. Art, science, technology and daily life experiences are integrated in world-class exhibits and programs with strong ties to the Pacific Northwest. KidsQuest has received numerous local awards including Best Kid-Friendly Museum and Best Nonprofit.
Meydenbauer Theatre
The arts come alive on the Eastside, thanks to the Meydenbauer Center Theatre. This state-of-the-art, 410-seat facility is one of the Pacific Northwest's premier spaces for community-based performing arts. The theatre-located at Meydenbauer Convention Center-features a welcoming atmosphere and staff with the know-how to help performance groups produce stellar performances.
Museum of Flight
Let your imagination take flight at the largest independent non-profit air and space museum in the world! Visitor’s will be astonished by the impressive collection of over 175 aircraft and spacecraft, with thousands of artifacts and millions of photos to explore.
Chihuly Glass Park and City Sculptures
Take in a new art experience showcasing the most significant works of internationally acclaimed artist and pioneer Dale Chihuly at the Chihuly Garden and Glass. Large Dale Chihuly sculptures can also be seen within the Bellevue Collection’s Lincoln towers
Whisk
Whisk cooking school provides an interactive and collaborative setting where private classes, taught by a talented team of experienced chef-instructors, provide your team with a hands-on culinary experience. Cook, have fun and bon appetite!
Art Galleries and Exhibits
No matter your tastes, Bellevue has a host of acclaimed art exhibits and art galleries that showcase local artists as well as internationally famous pieces such as the Gunnar Nordstrom Gallery, the VUE art Gallery, Ryan Janes Fine Arts, and the Rotella Gallery.
Outdoor Recreation
Bellevue is the perfect basecamp city to explore all the natural beauty the Pacific Northwest has to offer. With over 80 miles of trails in Bellevue and home to Lake Washington & Lake Sammamish with close proximity (one hour in each direction) to three National Parks including The North Cascades NP, Mt Rainier NP & Olympic NP there is no location in North America offering this proximity to such natural splendor
Meydenbauer Bay Park
A hidden local gem, Meydenbauer Beach Park is located near downtown Bellevue on the shores of Meydenbauer Bay on Lake Washington. The small beach park is tucked away in a ravine like setting and from the parking lot, visitors walk down a path surrounded by trees to access the beach.
Beaches
Grab your beach towel, bucket, floaty toy and sunscreen and head for one of Bellevue's seven beach parks on the shores of Lake Washington. Bellevue has multiple beaches: Enatai Beach Park, Meydenbauer Bay Park, Newcastle Beach Park, Chism Beach Park, Chesterfield Beach Park, and Lake Sammamish State Park. The beaches are free and many of them are staffed by lifeguards on Summer afternoons. In addition to swim docks and sandy beaches many of the parks also include play areas and picnic tables. See you at the lake!.
Bellevue Botanical Garden
The Bellevue Botanical Garden is a 53-acre area that includes display gardens, meadows, wetlands, and forests. The specific gardens include the alpine rock garden, dahlia garden, entrance garden, fuchsia garden, ground cover garden, Lost Meadow Trail, native discovery garden, perennial border, water-wise garden, and the Yao Japanese garden. The park also has a recently constructed bridge that ventures over a ravine.
Bellevue Zip Tours
'Feel Wild in the City' - The Bellevue Zip Tour is a recreational zip-lining program located in beautiful Eastgate Park. The tour is comprised of 6 ½ zip lines that range in length from 78 feet to 458 feet long, and includes 2, wooden suspension bridges. Riders travel as fast as 35 MPH and are up to 80 feet off the ground.
Mercer Slough
A biologically diverse 320-acre wetland in the heart of urban Bellevue, Mercer Slough Nature Park is Lake Washington’s largest remaining wetland. The park provides a diverse habitat and is home to hundreds of species of plants and wildlife. Kayak through the slough, hike on the trails, pick blueberries at the blueberry farm, and learn about the habitat at the Mercer Slough Environmental Education Center.
Bridle Trails State Park
Located between Bellevue and Kirkland, Bridle Trails State Park is a frequent urban escape for Eastside residents. The park is comprised of 482 forested acres with 28 miles of well-maintained trails suitable for horseback riding, walking, jogging, and nature observation. This mature lowland conifer forest is home to diverse species of plants, mammals, fungi, amphibians, and birds. The park is also known for the horse shows that take place regularly at the on-site horse show grounds. A Washington State Parks Discover Pass is required for vehicle access to the park for day use.
Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park
Found within the “Issaquah Alps” region just minutes east of Bellevue, Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park is an expansive 3,115-acre forested park filled with native wildlife and remnants of Washington’s cultural and natural history. Over the years, Cougar Mountain has been home to Native Americans, miners, loggers, and the US army. The park now features a diverse wildlife habitat including second growth forests, streams and wetlands, and cliffs and caves that provide a home to a variety of species.
Golfing
Some of the best golf in Washington State lies within Bellevue or just a short drive away. Set amidst the natural beauty of the Puget Sound region, many courses provide scenic views along with distinctive golf experiences. If golf is your game, pack your clubs and get ready to tee off!
Perched on 350 hilltop acres, The Golf Club at Newcastle provides impeccable service and unimaginable panoramas from the course and from the beautifully appointed clubhouse and dining room. Fred Couples teamed with Bob Cupp to create 36 holes of championship golf and the course also features year-round practice facilities and a putting course. The Rusty Putter is Newcastle's 18-hole natural grass putting course featuring water features, bunkers and great views. Newcastle offers views of downtown Seattle, Puget Sound, Mt. Rainier and the Olympic and Cascade Mountains.
Snoqualmie Falls
While the City of Snoqualmie is best known for the beautiful Snoqualmie Falls, the small town boasts an eclectic range of stores, art venues, and restaurant offerings that are sure to appeal everyone. Additionally, more than 30 miles of trails in the surrounding area allow for walking, hiking, biking, and horse riding.
Guided Tours
In Bellevue, there are a variety of these outings to choose from, as well as a couple of self-guided options. Explore and learn best practices for a pacific northwest garden at the Bellevue Botanical Garden. Indulge in delicious food and wine at the Chateau Ste. Michelle guided winery experience. Kayak or paddle board through Lake Washington during the REI Co-op Paddle Tours. Go Whale watching with the Puget Sound Express tour.
Scenic Drives
Enjoy the area’s natural beauty from the comfort of your vehicle, with these scenic drives out of Bellevue.
Deception Pass
A strait-connecting bridge stretching between Whidbey and Fidalgo Islands — is one of the most magical views our state has to offer, so make sure to snap a picture! Drive over the bridge or stop by the State Park for 360 degrees, killer views. The area has great recreational zones where you can lay on the beach and rent kayaks and paddle boards.
The Cascades
About 2 hours from Bellevue, an incredible alpine landscape beckons. Explore several jagged peaks crowned by more than 300 glaciers, Baker, Diablo and Ross Lakes. Listen to cascading waters in forested valleys. Conquer two mountain passes, one day. Tackle the Snoqualmie and Stevens Passes — and the charismatic towns lining their peaks and valleys — for a crash course in the lovable ruggedness that the PNW is known for.
Mount Rainier
Ascending to 14,410 feet above sea level, Mount Rainier stands as an icon in the Washington landscape. An active volcano, Mount Rainier is the most glaciated peak in the contiguous U.S.A., spawning six major rivers. Subalpine wildflower meadows ring the icy volcano while ancient forest cloaks Mount Rainier’s lower slopes.
Food + Drink
Named one of America's "Best Suburbs for Foodies", Bellevue has emerged as one of the nation's greatest culinary scenes. Bellevue's global community serves culturally inspired cuisine and you can find a wide range of restaurants, guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. From Thai to tacos, there are hundreds of Bellevue dining options, we challenge food lovers to try it all.
The Lakehouse
James Beard Award-winning Chef Jason Wilson’s interpretation of a Northwest farmhouse concept offering vibrant, farm-inspired craft-cooking. The menu spotlights produce sourced from ever-evolving grower and farmer relationships, set in a refined, welcoming space reminiscent of an entertainer’s lake house. The restaurant features a farmhouse table for groups, private or semi-private dining.
Baron’s Sino Kitchen & Bar
Baron’s offers modernized versions of classical Chinese cuisine, unlike any other in Bellevue. The luxurious décor is guaranteed to enchant, and their fine-dining approach is perfect for your most special meal. Baron’s features a full-service bar with delicious cocktails made by world-class mixologists.
Fogo De Chao
Fogo de Chão is a leading Brazilian steakhouse, or churrascaria, which has specialized in fire-roasting high-quality meats since 1979 utilizing the centuries-old Southern Brazilian cooking technique of churrasco. Fogo offers guests a wide variety of simply seasoned meats, that are carefully fire-roasted to expose their natural flavors, including the house specialty picanha sirloin, filet mignon, ribeye, and lamb chops to name a few.
Wild Ginger
Wild Ginger Bellevue is a premier Asian restaurant located in the heart of downtown Bellevue across the street from Bellevue Square mall. It features authentic, freshly prepared cuisine that spans the Pacific Rim from China to Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam. Wild Ginger also boasts a lively bar with a great happy hour, an award-winning wine list, and accommodating service in a comfortable yet sophisticated setting.
Carmine’s
For classic Italian dishes in a group-friendly environment, one of the top restaurants is Carmine’s Bellevue, an elegant venue in the historic Old Bellevue neighborhood near Bellevue Park. The restaurant, which completed renovations in January 2020, features specialties like pasta (think daily risotto specials, spaghetti with house-made fennel sausage), and generous main courses (like double-cut bone-in pork chops and Northwest rack of lamb), accompanied by sophisticated cocktails.
Seastar Restaurant & Raw Bar
Seastar's catering team is available for events in our own spectacular rooms or in your beautiful home. The Seastar catering staff is here to take care of your every need, whatever your event may be. From business to family we have several options for every event.
Ascend Prime Steak & Sushi
Experience Bellevue’s best views with an unparalleled dining experience from the 31st floor at Ascend Prime Steak & Sushi. At this Asian-influenced, contemporary steak and sushi restaurant you’ll savor aged prime beef along with premium seafood and innovative sushi with an American twist. Take in the stunning view as you sip a cocktail in the lounge or discover an exciting new bottle of wine.
Monsoon
Monsoon East, located in Old Bellevue, offers contemporary Vietnamese food in a modern setting. The flavors of Vietnam meet the innovation of the Pacific Northwest.
For more delicious places to eat check out our restaurants page.
Shopping
The Bellevue Collection
The Bellevue Collection is the Northwest's premier shopping and dining district with more than 200 shops, 50 restaurants and entertainment venues, and 12,000 free parking spaces—All in One Place. Home to three luxury hotels including Hyatt Regency Bellevue, The Westin Bellevue, and W Bellevue, you'll find The Collection is all conveniently connected by sky bridges.
Shops at the Bravern
Enjoy exploring this vibrant outdoor destination. Since the opening in 2009, The Shops at The Bravern has revolutionized the experience of one-stop dynamic and luxury shopping. The Shops at The Bravern is the unrivaled destination for fashion and sophistication. Discover the prestigious brands including Bottega Veneta, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Moncler, Neiman Marcus, Hermès, Prada and Tod’s.
Main Street
Old Bellevue's main street boasts charming character with quaint storefronts, offering visitors hidden gems, specialty items in locally-owned boutiques and unique gift shops.
Crossroads
Crossroads Shopping Center is a one-of-a-kind shopping, dining, and entertainment destination featuring a unique mix of shops and 30 international restaurants.
Farmer’s Market
The award-winning market is composed of its own unique mix of vendors offering seasonal fruits & vegetables, cut flowers, fresh meats, one-of-a-kind artisan goods, and tasty cuisine, notably all vendors grow and make the products they sell, and we are proud to say everything sold at our market comes from within the great state of Washington. Whether you are looking for fresh ingredients, a grab-and-go meal, or a gift for someone special – Bellevue Farmers Market has got you covered.
Annual Events & Festivals
Join in the festivities by timing your visit to align with one of Bellevue’s annual events or festivals. Here’s a sampling of major recurring events in the city and surrounding area.
Bellevue Jazz & Blue’s Series (June)
Bellevue Downtown Association (BDA) is bringing together top national and regional talent to the Bellevue Jazz & Blues Series! Featured artists include Grammy Award winner Bobby Rush and Australian composer Blake Noble who will perform ticketed shows at the Meydenbauer Centre Theatre.
BAM ARTSfair (July)
Older than the city itself, BAM ARTSfair takes center stage every summer throughout the streets of downtown Bellevue with sculptures, jewelry and artwork from regional and national artists. Hosted by the Bellevue Arts Museum, the fair has been celebrated since the 1940s and showcases over 300 inspiring artists. Shop various arts, crafts and pieces and enjoy free events such as BAM Exhibitions, KIDSfair, the Sound & Movement Stage, food trucks, and much more.
Seafair Weekend (July)
Seafair Weekend is in August and has an exciting line-up of events and shows. The Blue Angels air show is certainly an epic event you don’t want to miss, whether you spectate on a boat or on land!
St. Jude Rock ‘n’ Roll Washington (September)
St. Jude Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series Washington is back this Labor Day Weekend! Starting and ending at the Bellevue Downtown Park, runners and walkers alike will take on an action-packed course filled with music every mile, stunning skyline views, and the spirit of the Pacific Northwest… all with Mount Rainier as your race day backdrop!
Garden d'Lights (November-December)
Watch nature blossom into color during the winter months at Garden d'Lights at the Bellevue Botanical Garden. The lights festival features over a half million lights that transform the flowers, trees, and bushes into a winter wonderland.
Snowflake Lane at The Bellevue Collection (December)
A magical evening performance taking place nightly on the streets of downtown Bellevue. Snowflake Lane features more than 200 live toy soldier drummers, costumed characters, lively music, falling snow and glittering lights. Plus, don't miss the holiday performance by the Jingle Belles.
Local Lodging
Bellevue offers a wonderful mix of over 30 well-appointed hotels and 5500+ guestrooms. Whether you are looking for location, luxury, a romantic getaway, family-friendly adventure or last-minute deal, you'll find a great place to relax and unwind.
The Bellevue Club Hotel
A premier boutique hotel on Seattle’s East Side, the Bellevue Club Hotel offers a luxury stay with 66 rooms and suites for those looking to stay well while traveling. Just steps from the amenities of our athletic and social club, the Bellevue Club, the newly-renovated rooms feature neutral pallets with Pacific Northwest accents. Take a dip in the pool, join a cycling class or get pampered at our spa.
W Bellevue
W Bellevue. Where green meets global glamour. Where rugged and relaxed are reimagined and redefined. Inspired by yesterday’s weekender lake house, W Bellevue is a modern and chic downtown Bellevue hotel for seekers of the bold and beautiful.
Hyatt Regency Bellevue
Hyatt Regency Bellevue, on Seattle’s Eastside, is in the heart of downtown Bellevue. Nestled between Lake Washington and the Cascades, the hotel is part of The Bellevue Collection, the Northwest’s leading shopping, dining and entertainment destination.
Hilton Bellevue
The Hilton Bellevue hotel is just 10 minutes from downtown Seattle on the non-toll I-90. Surrounded by natural beauty and convenient to popular attractions such as the Shops at the Bravern, Bellevue Arts Museum and Washington wineries, guests will find our hotel to be the perfect spot for their Northwest vacation!
AC Hotel
By focusing on the little things, we've created something big. Something new. Each of our spaces is built from the ground up with a visionary's spirit and a designers' eye. It's an experience that feels stylish, yet efficient. Alluring but purposeful. Every detail is considered to provide just the beautiful essentials. AC Hotels. The New Modern.
Find more places to stay.
Climate & Seasons
Bellevue offers visitors a mild climate where temperature extremes are moderated by our proximity to Lake Washington and the Puget Sound. Summers are dry and warm with average daytime highs around 73-80 degrees and low humidity. Days below freezing average just 15 per year and it seldom, if ever, snows. Annual rainfall averages 37 inches; less than New York city, Atlanta or Houston.
Getting to Bellevue
Getting to Bellevue is easy whether you are driving or flying into the area. Bellevue is centrally located in the region with easy access off of Interstate 405 as well as Interstate 90 and State Route 520. Seattle is a just short 10-mile b
