Things To Do
in Lynnwood
Lynnwood, Washington sits in Snohomish County just north of Seattle, blending suburban comfort with strong regional access. It functions as a retail and transit hub, anchored by Alderwood Mall and a growing mix of restaurants and services. Parks, trails, and nearby shorelines offer outdoor recreation within easy reach of residents and visitors.
Its location makes day trips to Seattle, the Puget Sound coast, and the Cascades convenient for travelers staying in the area.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Lynnwood Convention Center, where you can marvel at the architecture and learn about local events. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café, savoring locally sourced ingredients. Afterward, take a stroll through the nearby parks, soaking in the fresh air and vibrant greenery.
Head to the Lynnwood Museum to delve into the rich history of the area, exploring fascinating exhibits and artifacts. For lunch, stop by a popular local eatery where you can enjoy classic American fare with a twist. Post-lunch, visit the nearby shops and boutiques to discover unique souvenirs and handcrafted goods.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant that offers a blend of international cuisines. Take a leisurely walk through the Lynnwood City Hall Park, where you can enjoy the serene ambiance and perhaps catch a local performance if one is scheduled. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a local pub, mingling with friendly locals.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner, fueling up for a day of adventure. Head to the nearby Alderwood Mall area and take a short drive to the beautiful Scriber Lake Park, known for its picturesque trails. Enjoy a morning hike, surrounded by lush forests and the sounds of nature.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the scenic spots within the park, taking in the tranquil views of Scriber Lake. After lunch, explore more of the park’s trails, spotting local wildlife and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. Consider renting a kayak or canoe to explore the lake for a unique perspective of the surroundings.
After a day in nature, return to Lynnwood and freshen up before heading out for dinner. Choose a restaurant that specializes in Pacific Northwest cuisine, where you can savor fresh seafood and local produce. Cap off the evening with a visit to a nearby coffee shop for a warm beverage and dessert, reflecting on your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $35-60 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment in city center (monthly) | $1,800-2,200 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $4-5 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $60-110 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Seattle and Puget Sound for day trips
- Strong shopping, restaurants, and transit options
- Family-friendly with good parks and recreation
- Growing, multi-cultural community with outdoor access
- Traffic congestion on I-5 and around major hubs
- Rainy winters and wet weather for much of the year
- Nightlife is more low-key compared to nearby cities
- Higher cost of living relative to national averages
Places to Visit in Lynnwood
Visit one of these nice places.
Calm water reflections and boardwalk views, especially good at sunrise.
Waterfront bluff and tidal beach with dramatic ocean vistas and golden-hour light.
Industrial-modern bridges and forest scenery along the rail-trail corridor.
Architectural lines and evening lighting provide urban-rural contrast.
Low-angle night shots of the city center and street life.
Food in Lynnwood
Lynnwood Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A common Pacific Northwest take on Japanese-inspired flavors, often served with rice and vegetables at casual eateries.
Must-Try!
Creamy chowder featuring local seafood such as salmon or shellfish, available at seafood-focused restaurants and pubs.
Smoked or grilled salmon prepared on cedar planks, a hallmark of Northwest cuisine.
Comfort noodles from Japanese-influenced eateries, widely available in the area.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market (late spring to fall) with local produce, prepared foods, honey, breads, and crafts.
A rotating selection of food trucks around the Alderwood Mall area and Lynnwood Transit Center serving Asian, Mexican, and American quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be respectful in lines and in conversation; casual but courteous interactions are common.
Queue in order for service at stores, coffee shops, and transit centers.
Respect personal space; small talk is common but not intrusive.
Safety
Tipping in Lynnwood
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and bars, 15-20% is customary for good service; tipping is generally expected for most service staff.
Most places accept cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay).
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with dry, comfortable weather (often high 70s to low 80s F). Pack sun protection and bring water for outdoor activities.
Mild temps with increasing rain; colorful foliage around parks, great for landscape photography.
Mostly rainy and cool, with occasional cold snaps; plan for damp conditions and shorter daylight hours.
Wetter transition to milder temps; blooming trees and plants create scenic viewpoints.
Lynnwood at Night
Hiking in Lynnwood
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal trail with ocean views and an accessible beach.
Forested trails with viewpoints and a historic lake environment.
Easy loops around a pond with seasonal scenery; a short drive toward Redmond.
Airports
How to reach Lynnwood by plane.
Major international gateway about 25-30 miles south; accessible by car or light rail via connecting services.
Regional airport about 10-15 miles north offering domestic flights and limited international service.
Floatplane airport offering scenic flights and charters to nearby Puget Sound islands and seaplane services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A substantial portion of the population, with growing diversity.
A significant and growing community contributing to local culture and cuisine.
A growing segment of the population adding cultural variety.
Common demographics in the suburban city centers and campus areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular at youth and adult clubs; local schools host regular matches.
A common seasonal sport in high schools and community leagues.
Played in parks and schools across the area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lynnwood.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian options; ask for meatless sauce bases or vegetable-forward dishes; many Asian and Mediterranean spots are vegetarian-friendly.