Things To Do
in Kirkland

Kirkland, Washington, is a picturesque city located on the eastern shore of Lake Washington, just a short drive from Seattle. Known for its vibrant waterfront, charming downtown area, and numerous parks, it offers a perfect blend of urban amenities and natural beauty. The city is a hub for art and culture, featuring galleries, theaters, and community events throughout the year.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find ample opportunities for recreation, making Kirkland a desirable destination for both locals and visitors.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Downtown Kirkland
morning
:

Start your day with a coffee at a local café, then stroll along the Kirkland waterfront, enjoying the views of Lake Washington.

afternoon
:

Visit the Kirkland Arts Center and explore the various art galleries and shops in downtown.

evening
:

Dine at a waterfront restaurant and enjoy the sunset over the lake.

day 2
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Hike the trails at Juanita Bay Park, observing the local wildlife and enjoying the serene environment.

afternoon
:

Spend time at Marina Park, where you can rent a kayak or paddleboard.

evening
:

Enjoy a casual dinner at a local brewery, sampling craft beers and pub food.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$15-$30
Coffee$3-$5
🚕Taxi Ride (5 miles)$15-$20
🏨Hotel Nightly Rate$100-$200
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2-$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful waterfront views
  • Rich cultural and artistic community
  • Abundance of outdoor activities
  • Traffic can be heavy during peak hours
  • Higher cost of living compared to nearby areas
  • Rainy weather can be a downside for some

Places to Visit in Kirkland

Visit one of these nice places.

Marina Park

Offers stunning views of Lake Washington and the Seattle skyline, perfect for sunset photography.

Kirkland Waterfront

The scenic waterfront provides beautiful backdrops with boats and parks along the shoreline.

Juanita Bay Park

Features trails and boardwalks with opportunities to capture wildlife and natural landscapes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kirkland

Kirkland boasts a diverse culinary scene, with options ranging from waterfront dining to cozy cafes and local breweries.

Kirkland Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Salmon

Freshly caught from the nearby waters, salmon is a must-try, often served grilled or smoked.

Must-Try!

Dungeness Crab

A local delicacy, it’s often served in crab cakes or as a main dish during the crab season.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kirkland Farmers Market

Held every Wednesday, it offers fresh produce, handmade goods, and local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kirkland experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Average temperatures range from 35°F (2°C) in winter to 80°F (27°C) in summer. Rain is common, especially in fall and winter, making an umbrella a must during those months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greet with a Smile

It’s polite to smile and make eye contact when greeting someone.

Respect Personal Space

People value their personal space; maintain a comfortable distance during conversations.

Be Punctual

Timeliness is appreciated in social and business settings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kirkland is generally a safe city, but standard precautions should be taken. It's advisable to stay in well-lit areas at night and be aware of your surroundings. Emergency services are quick to respond, and there are community policing initiatives in place.

Tipping in Kirkland

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip service workers 15-20% in restaurants and cafes.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and mobile payment options are also common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers; ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Warm temperatures perfect for water sports; the city is lively with events and outdoor dining.

Fall

Cooler weather with beautiful autumn foliage; great for hiking and enjoying local harvest festivals.

Winter

Chilly and rainy; however, it’s a cozy time to enjoy local cafes and holiday events.

Nightlife Guide

Kirkland at Night

Kirkland's nightlife is vibrant, featuring a mix of pubs, wine bars, and live music venues. Popular spots include local breweries that offer craft beers and casual atmospheres. The downtown area often hosts events and festivals that contribute to a lively evening scene.

Hiking in Kirkland

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bridle Trails State Park

Offers several miles of trails through lush forests, perfect for hiking and horseback riding.

St. Edward State Park

Features diverse trails winding through forested areas, with views of Lake Washington and picnic spots.

Airports

How to reach Kirkland by plane.

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)

Located about 20 miles south of Kirkland, SEA is the primary airport serving the region, offering numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kirkland is a highly walkable city, especially in the downtown area where shops, restaurants, and parks are within easy reach. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and many residents and visitors prefer walking or biking to driving within the city.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

Many young professionals live in Kirkland due to its proximity to tech hubs in Seattle and Redmond.

Families

The city is popular among families seeking good schools, parks, and a safe community environment.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is very popular in the region, with many youth leagues and adult recreational teams.

Basketball

Basketball enjoys a strong following, with local high school teams and community leagues actively participating.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kirkland can be congested during rush hours, particularly on major roads leading to and from Seattle. Public transportation options include buses that connect Kirkland to surrounding areas, and the city is bike-friendly with several dedicated lanes.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kirkland.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegan and Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Kirkland cater to dietary restrictions, offering plant-based dishes.

Gluten-Free

Several eateries provide gluten-free alternatives for those with dietary restrictions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Kirkland has several healthcare facilities, including hospitals and urgent care centers. The EvergreenHealth Medical Center is a prominent hospital offering a range of medical services. It's advisable to have health insurance for access to quality care.

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