Bellevue has been named the “Best Sustainable and Scenic City” in the 2026 Good Housekeeping Travel Awards, a recognition that underscores Bellevue’s commitment to environmental stewardship, abundant urban green spaces, innovative transportation, and a thriving culinary scene. Framed by the sweeping views of the Cascade Mountains, the shimmering expanse of Lake Washington, and the unmistakable silhouette of Mount Rainier, Bellevue lives up to the meaning of its name, Beautiful View, grounding its sustainable vision in the landscape that defines it.
Selected through one of the industry’s most rigorous consumer-driven evaluation processes, the Good Housekeeping Travel Awards represent a gold standard in trusted travel recommendations. More than 125 travel experts, trained evaluators, and editorial staff assessed hundreds of destinations and experiences across five continents through detailed surveys and firsthand reporting.
Good Housekeeping highlighted Bellevue’s breathtaking setting and its community-wide commitment to sustainability, noting that “across the second largest natural lake in the state, you’ll find a sustainably minded community you might never want to leave.”
“We are honored to be recognized by Good Housekeeping as one of the nation’s leading sustainable and scenic destinations,” said Brad Jones, Executive Director at Visit Bellevue. “Bellevue’s parks, cultural vibrancy, innovative spirit, and deep connection to nature create a destination where visitors can explore, restore, and feel inspired. This award celebrates the purposeful dedication of our community and partners who together make Bellevue a truly extraordinary Pacific Northwest destination.”
The full list of 2026 winners and feature article, “23 Unexpected City Vacations to Add to Your Travel Bucket List,” are now available on goodhousekeeping.com. Bellevue and the other honorees will also be featured in the January/February 2026 print issue of Good Housekeeping.
About Visit Bellevue
Visit Bellevue Washington (VBW) is the city’s official Destination Management Organization (DMO), representing Bellevue’s hotels, Meydenbauer Convention Center, and the broader hospitality community. Funded by the Tourism Promotion Area (TPA), VBW leads destination storytelling and visitor experience development for one of the Pacific Northwest’s most dynamic cities. Located just 17 miles from Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA), Bellevue offers rare proximity to both world-class urban experiences and the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. With a vibrant waterfront, direct access to trails, lakes, and mountains, and a thriving culinary and cultural scene, Bellevue is a walkable, elevated basecamp for travelers seeking the unexpected. Follow @VisitBellevue to see where wonder leads.
