Blake Walsh

20 Best Things to Do in Bellevue, WA

  • Published 2022/05/22

Residing in the lap of Washington, Bellevue is a gem worth exploring.

The fifth-largest city in Washington, it’s a beautiful amalgam of natural and metropolitan elements.

Bellevue sheerly believes in responsible tourism, promising you a comfortable stay.

One remarkable aspect of this city is that it remains green most of the year.

With Lake Washington in the west and alluring mountains in the east, the city stands as the perfect place to go on your next trip.

Check out this list of the best things to do in Bellevue, Washington:

Retreat to Mercer Slough Nature Park

Aerial view of Mercer Slough

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Mercer Slough Nature Park is a haven for all environment enthusiasts.

As you enter through the gate, what emerges is a paradise.

The loamy path, boardwalks, and canal are all beautifully preserved.

You literally can walk amid berries, ferns, and everything green.

The slough is a canal and can be explored either by canoeing or kayaking.

As you sway around on the water, you’ll see lilies, blue herons, and many more.

Nature trail at Mercer Slough Nature Park

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Those who are not fond of water can walk one of the available trails.

You can either take up a historic trail to bump into old greenhouses or take up a Bellefield trail to set your foot in the forests.

The place’s tranquil atmosphere attracts many visitors.

Even though it is situated amid the bustling town, it is serene and quiet.

You can truly reconnect with nature here.

Kayakers on the water of Mercer Slough Nature Park

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Feast Your Eyes on Amazing Art at Bellevue Arts Museum

Colorful initials of Bellevue Arts Museum

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Bellevue Arts Museum is one of the city’s prominent tourist spots.

It constitutes art, craft, and design.

The museum holds exhibitions, events, and programs frequently to entertain and impart knowledge to the audience.

Their daily 1:00 pm docent tour is among the best tours they offer.

Exterior of Bellevue Arts Museum from across the street

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They also display Madeleine Albright’s brooches, which she used during her political campaigns.

This is no ordinary museum.

It hooks you right from the start.

They portray everything precisely and convey their stories effectively.

Signage of Bellevue Arts Museum on it's building

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Visit Bellevue Downtown Park

Ducks on the waters of Downtown Park

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Bellevue Downtown Park is located right in the heart of the city.

It is a lush green 21-acre vicinity adorned with memorial benches, vast stretches of greenery, a canal, and an enchanting waterfall.

The Inspiration Playground is the park’s highlight.

Water fountain of Bellevue Downtown Park

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It boasts a view of the skyline.

The park has a formal garden that makes for a perfect family hangout spot.

It is at times used to organize public events.

Landscape of Bellevue Downtown Park

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There are over 120 benches to sit and enjoy the view.

These benches were a part of a donation drive initiated by the state.

The park’s carefree atmosphere will help you let loose and enjoy the moment.

People walking along Bellevue Downtown Park

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Shop at Bellevue Square

Stores at Bellevue Square

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According to statistics, Bellevue Square welcomes 22 million visitors every year.

It’s considered the city’s shopping hub.

The square incorporates big brands and has 200 stores to choose from.

Exterior of Bellevue Square

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Apart from shopping, you can check out their dining and entertainment options.

It’s an all-in-one stop for your every want.

The architecture, which most fail to appreciate, is majestic and modern.

The staircases are designed in a subtle manner, and the colors are low-key.

Spend the Day at Meydenbauer Bay Park

Scenic sunset at Meydenbauer Bay Park

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Meydenbauer Bay Park is a scenic spot to relax or enjoy your choice of water activities.

The beach offers a variety of watersports to try out.

There are lifeguards on standby in case of emergencies.

You can go for a swim, but do not go farther as water currents might rise.

The park is well-kept and clean.

A bench facing away from Meydenbauer Bay Park's water

Myasuda, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

To enhance its beauty, the pier juts out into the bay.

The location gives some excellent views of the city.

You can rent a kayak or a paddleboard to venture into the enclosed space.

A pro tip: visit the park in the evening.

Witnessing the mesmerizing sunset will be a memorable experience.

A concrete pathway at Meydenbauer Bay Park

Another Believer, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Experience Bellevue’s Exciting Nightlife

Nightlife of Bellevue

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Bellevue’s nightlife is unmissable.

The city offers one of the best nightlife experiences in the state.

Tourists look forward to the setting of the sun, as the night is always young in Bellevue.

Bellevue's park at night

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Roam around the city, and you’ll notice that something or other is always happening.

The atmosphere is vibrant.

Bake’s Place, Tavern Hall, and The Suite are a few of the best places to visit at night.

Bellevue street scene at night

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Pick Blueberries at Larsen Lake Blueberry Farm

The calm waters of Larsen Lake

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Larsen Lake Blueberry Farm was established in the 1940s.

The U-Pick activities go on from mid-June to October.

There are numerous trails to choose from.

Aerial view of Larsen Lake Blueberry Farm's plantation

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The most appropriate time to go blueberry picking is in the early morning or in the evening.

You can choose your own blueberries and take them home.

The berries are well-taken care of and taste delicious—the perfect blend of sweetness and little sour.

The farm is an idyllic and relaxing place.

The plants of Larsen Lake Blueberry Farm

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Admire Flora at the Bellevue Botanical Garden

The beautiful plants and flowers of Bellevue Botanical Garden

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The Bellevue Botanical Garden is a haven for environmentalists and naturalists.

It is an urban refuge right in the center of an urban settlement.

Pretty flowers fully bloomed at Bellevue Botanical Garden

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Spread over around 7 acres, it has a wide variety of flowers and trees.

Rabbits constantly roam around the garden.

Colorful lights decorating the Bellevue Botanical Garden at night

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You can play with them if they are in a good mood.

If you are interested in nature photography, you can get some fantastic shots here.

Trail leading to Bellevue Botanical Garden's japanese area

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Strike a Pose and Snap Photos by the Heart Wall

Bellevue has instilled an artistic instinct for years.

There are various spaces in the city that display its love for art.

One such place is the Heart Wall—the mural located near Blank Space Cafe.

The wall, which is decorated with different-colored hearts, is the perfect spot to snap some Instagram-worthy photos.

This mural is situated away from the public’s eye in a secluded area, making it less known.

Check Out the Stores at Old Bellevue

Buildings along Old Bellevue

Joe Mabel, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Bellevue is divided into two sections.

Old Bellevue is a must-visit place.

It’s home to fantastic shops, restaurants, parks, and vintage streets.

The Old Bellevue street clock

Joe Mabel, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Old Bellevue boasts quaint roadside shops attached to cute cafes, unique gift shops that sell niche-based items, and local boutiques that sell amazing clothes at affordable rates.

If you love taking a piece of your travels back home with you, this is where to go souvenir shopping.

The main street of Old Bellevue

Joe Mabel, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Witness the Best View at Enatai Beach Park

The waters of Enatai Beach Park

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Enatai Beach Park is an immaculate park with a pristine beach.

It has a picnic area, a swimming space, a lifeguard, and canoeing and kayaking facilities.

It is an underrated spot.

You can swim in the enclosed spaces, but make sure not to cross the boundary as it may get risky.

Kayaking and canoeing are also pleasurable activities to enjoy here.

The guides are available to accompany you if you are not willing to go alone.

The waves here are moderate, so the waters are safe to explore.

If you are not a fan of water activities, you can lay down and soak in some vitamin D.

It is considerably silent and less crowded here, making it a great place to have a leisurely time.

Go Luxury Shopping at The Shops at The Bravern

Exterior of The Shops at Bravern

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Apart from Bellevue Square, The Shops at The Bravern is another go-to place for shopping in Bellevue.

It is a luxurious and spacious place that will give you the Upper East Side vibes.

Exterior of the Gucci store at The Shops at The Bravern

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They have classy brand outlets, such as Gucci and Louis Vitton.

If you have saved up a lot, you can surely opt for this place.

It has everything you see in high-end Hollywood movies.

High-end stores at The Shops at The Bravern

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Satiate Your Hunger at Daniel’s Broiler

Daniel’s Broiler is one of the top-rated restaurants in Bellevue.

They offer the best food options at reasonable prices.

They serve the best appetizers, including divine-tasting scallops, excellent main courses, and mouth-watering desserts.

Vegetarian dishes are included in their menu as well.

Daniel’s Broiler also offers the finest selection of wines.

All in all, it has everything for everyone.

Take Your Little Ones to the Kidsquest Children’s Museum

Exterior of Kidsquest Children's Museum

Julian Fong, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The museum is run by a non-profit organization and has adopted an interactive approach to engage children.

There are various exhibits and programs organized for kids aged 0 to 10.

This place is a lifesaver for every parent.

Lobby of Kidsquest Children's Museum

SuddenFrost, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

They have numerous play areas, and each of them is different from the others.

Your kids can spend hours here and forget everything else.

They host various activities all year long.

You can also enroll your children in one of the museum’s workshops.

Relax in the Pools at Bellevue Aquatic Center

The Bellevue Aquatic Center comprises the Blue Lagoon Pool and the Warm Springs Pool.

It is an excellent place for a wellness retreat.

The pools are safe and clean.

The authorities offer weekly deep-water aqua aerobics classes.

There are multiple diving boards and stretches for taking laps.

You can also slide into the water.

In the Warm Springs Pool, you can relax, rejuvenate and give your body some much-needed rest.

The water is moderately warm and good for your stiff muscles.

It is also known as the therapy pool.

Visit this place to experience the best aqua life.

Take in the Sun at Chism Beach Park

Trail leading to the waters of Chism Beach Park

Mariusz S. Jurgielewicz / Shutterstock.com

This secluded stretch of sand is a true beauty.

Lake Washington’s Chism Beach Park is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

It has a playground, a plethora of picnic spaces, and spectacular Seattle skyline views.

The calm waters of Chism Beach Park

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Additionally, it is home to Burrows Cabin, Bellevue’s oldest surviving edifice.

Chism Beach Park is an excellent place for the whole family to enjoy a day of fun in the sun, with plenty of room for everyone to sprawl out and relax.

Enjoy the Views from Above with Bellevue Zip Tour

The Bellevue Zip Tour is a fun and exciting way to see the natural side of Bellevue.

Guests zip through the trees, passing Douglas firs and broadleaf maples, while they view the sky.

The city-owned facility has 6.5 zip lines, ranging in length from 70 to 450 feet, and is open year-round except for the winter.

You’ll find the zip line tour at Bellevue’s Zip Tour from the South Bellevue Community Center.

When it comes to taking in the beauty of the Pacific Northwest from a different vantage point, the Bellevue Zip Tour is an excellent choice for both a family outing and a corporate retreat.

Get Up Close with Farm Animals at Kelsey Creek Farm

Exterior of Kelsey Creek Farm's barn

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Traveling with kids?

At Kelsey Creek Park and Agricultural, you can give your kids a real-life farm experience.

You’ll understand why this farm is so popular as soon as you see the beautiful white barns.

Sheep eating grass at Kelsey Creek Farm

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The 150-acre park has woodlands, natural wetlands, and meadows that you may explore through several paths and bridges.

A wide range of farm animals, such as sheep, goats, pigs, horses, and chickens, are available for public viewing and educational reasons.

Bring a picnic and enjoy a day of family fun at this park.

Scarecrow maze at Kelsey Creek Farm

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Bond with Your Friends at Mox Boarding House

The Mox Boarding House is a fantastic option for almost everyone.

One of the most incredible things to do in Bellevue if you’re looking for a good time is this board game café.

Find something that piques your curiosity from their vast assortment of games.

Set up in their café and play a game from its rental library while you eat, drink, or have a drink.

In this board game lover’s paradise, rainy days or quiet evenings are perfect for friends and family.

Treat Yourself to a Glass of Beer at Bellevue Brewing Company

Washington has become a near-ideal locale for making world-class beers because of its natural wonders and skillful brewers.

When it comes to beer, Bellevue Brewing Company’s beers are created and brewed with respect for the earth, natural resources, and the adventurous lifestyles typical in the area.

Head to this brewery when looking for a spot to release your stress after a day’s exploring in Bellevue.

Its small-batch brews are made with excellent ingredients and blend traditional and modern brewing methods.

It boasts beers that stand out for their clean, subtle tastes and superb balance.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for an elevated experience, Bellevue incorporates everything from a handpicked array of upscale activities to nature’s charm and power.

Shop ’til you drop at Bellevue or take a break from the hustle and bustle at one of the city’s numerous parks.

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