Things To Do
in Kirkland
Kirkland sits on the northeast shore of Lake Washington, just east of Seattle, blending a scenic waterfront with a vibrant downtown. The city offers a walkable marina area, waterfront parks, top-rated restaurants, and a growing arts scene. Outdoor lovers enjoy cycling along the Lake Washington Loop and kayaking on the lake, while families appreciate parks and kid-friendly attractions.
All year, Kirkland serves as a gateway to the Eastside's shopping, culture, and natural beauty.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring freshly brewed coffee and pastries. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets of Kirkland’s Historic Center, admiring the unique architecture and local boutiques. Don’t forget to stop by the Kirkland Arts Center to appreciate the local art scene.
For lunch, indulge in some delicious seafood at a waterfront restaurant, enjoying views of Lake Washington. Afterward, take a guided tour of the Kirkland Performance Center, where you can learn about upcoming shows and community events. Spend some time in Marina Park, where you can relax by the water and watch the boats sail by.
As the sun begins to set, head to a rooftop bar for cocktails and panoramic views of the lake. Enjoy dinner at one of Kirkland’s acclaimed restaurants, sampling local dishes crafted with fresh ingredients. Cap off the night with a stroll along the waterfront, soaking in the serene ambiance.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a lakeside café, followed by a visit to Houghton Beach Park. Here, you can rent paddleboards or kayaks to explore the calm waters of Lake Washington. The morning sun glistening on the water sets a perfect backdrop for outdoor fun.
After a morning of water sports, enjoy a picnic lunch at the beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the company of friends or family. In the early afternoon, take a scenic walk along the shoreline, stopping to take in the beautiful views of the Seattle skyline across the lake. If you're up for it, join a beach volleyball game with the locals.
As evening approaches, head to one of the nearby beachside eateries for fresh fish tacos and refreshing drinks. After dinner, relax on the sandy beach, perhaps with a bonfire if permitted, as you watch the sunset paint the sky in vibrant colors. It's the perfect setting to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-6 |
| 🥗Lunch for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-50 |
| 🏠Rent for 1BR apartment (city center) | $2,000-3,000/mo |
| 🛒Monthly groceries | $300-600 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic lakefront with walkable downtown
- Strong dining and arts scene
- Close to Seattle and Eastside attractions
- Safe, family-friendly atmosphere
- Higher cost of living compared with national average
- Rush-hour traffic and limited parking in busy areas
- Rainy winters and variable spring weather
- Nightlife options are more low-key than Seattle
Places to Visit in Kirkland
Visit one of these nice places.
A premier sunset spot with views over Lake Washington and the Seattle skyline, with piers and sailboats as foregrounds.
Convenient vantage points with colorful boardwalks and waterfront views of the lake.
Tree-lined streets and marina towers provide charming urban-lake contrasts for street photography.
Intimate harbor scenes, boats, and reflections especially during golden hour.
Food in Kirkland
Kirkland Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Salmon grilled on cedar for smoky flavor, a Northwest specialty commonly found at waterfront seafood spots along Kirkland's marina.
Must-Try!
Pan-seared crab cakes with lemon aioli, featuring fresh Puget Sound crab at many seafood restaurants near the lake.
Dishes that highlight local produce and seafood with seasonal menus at Kirkland’s waterfront eateries and bistros.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering fresh produce, seafood, prepared foods, and artisanal goods, typically held near Downtown Kirkland on Saturdays.
Casual options along the marina with food trucks and stalls offering seafood bites and local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Smiles and small talk are common; greet staff politely and say thank you.
Queue in an orderly fashion; avoid loud conversations in residential areas; yield to pedestrians on sidewalks and crosswalks.
Safety
Tipping in Kirkland
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tip 15-20% of the pre-tax bill for good service. For counter service or quick-service, tipping is less expected but appreciated.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; carry some cash for small vendors or markets; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days and often dry weather; great for waterfront strolls, outdoor dining, and boating. Expect busy weekends and occasional heat.
Cooling temperatures with colorful foliage along the lakefront; ideal for golden-hour photography and outdoor activities.
Mild, wet winters with frequent rain; layer up and plan for indoor activities, though snowfall is uncommon.
Mild to warm days with blooming trees and gardens; perfect for walking tours and market visits.
Kirkland at Night
Hiking in Kirkland
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Wooded trails and horse-friendly routes just outside Kirkland in the Bellevue area.
Forest trails around the historic seminary site in nearby Kenmore.
Wetland boardwalks and scenic nature trails in Bellevue, offering wildlife viewing.
Airports
How to reach Kirkland by plane.
About 12-20 miles from Kirkland, with direct connections to many U.S. and international destinations.
Located in Everett, roughly 25-35 miles north, serving domestic flights and regional connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group with a diverse mix of nearby communities.
A sizable and growing segment contributing to local culture and business.
Many families situate in the area due to schools, parks, and safe neighborhoods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular water sports with local clubs and rental services on the lake.
Community leagues and family-friendly recreation across Eastside parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kirkland.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Kirkland restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for seasonal produce, grain bowls, salads, and plant-based entrees; communicate dietary needs clearly to staff.