Things To Do
in Bellevue

Bellevue, Washington is a vibrant city located across Lake Washington from Seattle, known for its stunning natural landscapes and thriving business district. The city offers a blend of urban amenities and outdoor recreational activities, making it a perfect destination for both relaxation and adventure. Bellevue is home to a diverse population that enjoys a rich cultural scene, highlighted by festivals, art galleries, and theaters.

With its beautiful parks, shopping centers, and proximity to the Pacific Northwest's wilderness, Bellevue is a must-visit location for travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Downtown Bellevue
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at the local favorite, Belle Pastry, known for its French pastries and coffee. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll around the Bellevue Downtown Park to enjoy the scenic views.

afternoon
:

Visit the Bellevue Arts Museum to explore contemporary art and craft from the region. For lunch, head to the food court at Bellevue Square where you can find a variety of international cuisines.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at Seastar Restaurant & Raw Bar, famous for its sustainable seafood. End your day with a walk along the waterfront at Meydenbauer Bay Park to watch the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike at the nearby Mercer Slough Nature Park where you can explore wetlands and trails. Bring a packed breakfast or grab a muffin from a local café.

afternoon
:

After your hike, visit the KidsQuest Children's Museum for some family-friendly fun. For lunch, try the Pho T&N for a delicious bowl of Vietnamese pho.

evening
:

Spend your evening at the Bellevue Performing Arts Center watching a live performance or concert. Dine at the Mediterranean restaurant, The Greek Taverna, for a delightful meal.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Fast Food Meal$10
🍕Pizza (Large)$20
Coffee$4
🍽️Dinner for Two (Mid-range)$60
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2.75

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • A diverse and multicultural food scene.
  • Low crime rates and a safe environment for visitors.
  • Higher cost of living compared to other cities.
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to nearby Seattle.

Places to Visit in Bellevue

Visit one of these nice places.

Bellevue Downtown Park

A beautifully landscaped park with a waterfall, perfect for scenic photos.

Mercer Slough Nature Park

A natural sanctuary with lush wetlands, ideal for nature photography.

Meydenbauer Bay Park

Offers stunning sunset views over Lake Washington, a perfect backdrop for picturesque moments.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bellevue

Bellevue offers a diverse culinary scene that reflects its multicultural population, with options ranging from high-end dining to casual eateries.

Bellevue Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Salmon

Freshly caught Pacific salmon, often grilled or served as sushi.

Must-Try!

Pho

A popular Vietnamese noodle soup, rich in flavor and served with various toppings.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Bellevue Farmers Market

A seasonal market featuring local produce, artisanal foods, and handmade goods.

Street Food in Downtown

Various food trucks offering diverse cuisines like tacos, dumplings, and gourmet burgers.

Climate Guide

Weather

Bellevue experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Average temperatures range from 30°F (−1°C) in winter to 80°F (27°C) in summer. Rain is common during fall and winter months, while summers are usually sunny and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Personal Space

Residents value personal space and may be less inclined to engage in small talk with strangers.

Punctuality

Being on time is important in both social and business settings.

No Littering

Keep the city clean by disposing of trash properly; littering is frowned upon.

Safety Guide

Safety

Bellevue is generally considered a safe city with low crime rates. However, standard safety precautions should be taken, such as keeping personal belongings secure and being aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Emergency services are readily available, and the city has well-maintained public areas.

Tipping in Bellevue

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip servers 15-20% at restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and mobile payment options like Apple Pay are common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather and blooming cherry blossoms, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm temperatures attract locals to parks and lakes; perfect for hiking and water sports.

Fall

Cooler temperatures and vibrant fall foliage make it a picturesque time for hiking and photography.

Winter

Colder temperatures with occasional snow; great for winter sports in nearby mountains.

Nightlife Guide

Bellevue at Night

Bellevue's nightlife is vibrant, with a mix of upscale bars, live music venues, and nightclubs. The Downtown area features several cocktail lounges and wine bars, while the Bellevue Arts District hosts cultural events and performances. For a more relaxed evening, visitors can enjoy a craft beer at local breweries or dine at late-night restaurants.

Hiking in Bellevue

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Rattlesnake Ledge

A popular hiking trail offering stunning views of Rattlesnake Lake and the surrounding mountains.

Twin Falls Trail

A scenic hike that features beautiful waterfalls and lush forest scenery.

Airports

How to reach Bellevue by plane.

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)

Located about 20 miles from Bellevue, this major airport connects to numerous domestic and international destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Bellevue is quite walkable in its downtown area, with a compact layout that allows easy access to shops, restaurants, and parks. Many neighborhoods are pedestrian-friendly and have well-maintained sidewalks. However, some suburban areas may require a car for transportation due to longer distances between attractions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Asian-American Community

A significant portion of Bellevue's population is of Asian descent, contributing to the city's diverse culture and cuisine.

Tech Professionals

Due to the proximity to tech companies in the Seattle area, many residents work in the technology sector.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

With many local leagues and youth programs, soccer is a popular sport among residents.

Basketball

Bellevue has a strong basketball community with various recreational leagues and youth teams.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be heavy during rush hours, especially on main highways leading into Seattle. Public transportation options include buses and light rail, with an extensive network connecting Bellevue to surrounding areas. Rideshare services are also widely available, providing convenient travel options.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bellevue.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan

Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options, particularly in the Downtown area.

Gluten-Free

Several eateries provide gluten-free dishes, making it easier for those with dietary restrictions to dine out.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Bellevue is robust, with several hospitals and clinics available. The city is served by the Overlake Medical Center, which offers comprehensive medical services. Additionally, there are numerous urgent care facilities and specialists to meet various healthcare needs.

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