Things To Do
in Mountlake Terrace
Mountlake Terrace is a leafy suburban city in Snohomish County just north of Seattle, offering easy access to water scenery and city conveniences. It balances family-friendly neighborhoods with ample parks, trails, and community events. The area serves as a gateway to both urban exploration in nearby Seattle and relaxing nature escapes in the Puget Sound region.
From the city center, visitors can reach the bustle of Seattle or the calmer shores of Lake Ballinger within a short drive.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café in Mountlake Terrace, where you can savor freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries. Afterward, visit the Mountlake Terrace Library, which offers a charming atmosphere and an extensive collection of books. Take a stroll through the beautifully landscaped Evergreen Playfield, where you can enjoy the sights of children playing and families enjoying the outdoors.
In the afternoon, delve into the history of the area at the Mountlake Terrace Historical Society, where exhibits showcase the city’s past. After that, head to the nearby Mountlake Terrace Community Center to explore recreational facilities or catch a local event. Grab lunch at a nearby diner, where the friendly staff and community vibe will make you feel right at home.
As evening approaches, dine at a local restaurant featuring Pacific Northwest cuisine, where you can taste the freshest seafood. Take a scenic evening walk along the Interurban Trail, enjoying the sunset views over the surrounding greenery. End your day with a cozy dessert at a local ice cream shop, reminiscing about the day's adventures.
Begin your day at Lake Ballinger Park, where you can enjoy a hearty breakfast picnic by the lake’s edge. After breakfast, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the calm waters of the lake, soaking in the serene atmosphere. If you're feeling adventurous, try your hand at fishing from the shore or on a rented boat.
For lunch, head to a nearby café that offers delicious sandwiches and salads perfect for refueling after a morning of activities. Afterward, continue your water fun with a swim at the designated swimming area, ensuring to soak up the sun and enjoy the refreshing water. If you prefer, take a leisurely walk around the park's trails, appreciating the beautiful landscapes and wildlife.
As the sun sets, find a nice spot on the shore to watch the stunning colors reflect on the water. Enjoy a casual dinner at a lakeside restaurant where you can feast on grilled fish or classic burgers. Wrap up your evening with a relaxing bonfire at the beach, sharing stories and laughter with friends or family.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment rent in city center | $1,900-2,400 |
| 🚗Gasoline (1 gallon) | 4.50-5.00 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | 3-5 |
| 💳Monthly public transport pass | 60-110 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Seattle with easy access to urban amenities
- Parks and lakefront scenery popular for outdoor activities
- Nearby hiking and nature areas with a family-friendly vibe
- Good safety record and strong community events
- Limited nightlife within the city itself
- Public transit is useful but not as extensive as in Seattle
- Weather can be rainy and gray for long stretches
- Some services can be pricey due to the wider Seattle metro area
Places to Visit in Mountlake Terrace
Visit one of these nice places.
Rimmed by trees and boats, this spot offers tranquil water reflections and occasional wildlife across calm mornings or golden-hour sunsets.
A long, tree-lined corridor with bridges and open sky views—great for wide-shot compositions and urban-woodland contrasts.
Modern civic spaces and green landscaping provide clean lines and colorful skies during golden hour.
Coastal forest meets Puget Sound shoreline—dramatic seascapes, wet rocks, and expansive horizons for dramatic photography.
Food in Mountlake Terrace
Mountlake Terrace Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A comforting chowder highlighting fresh salmon from Puget Sound, often featuring local herbs and smoky bacon accents.
Must-Try!
Grilled salmon served on cedar plank with seasonal sides, a local staple frequently found in waterfront eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market with fresh produce, artisanal baked goods, and street-food snacks from regional vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Friendly, casual interactions are common. Hold doors for others, respect quiet in residential areas, and follow posted etiquette in parks and trails.
Safety
Tipping in Mountlake Terrace
Ensure a smooth experience
In the US, typical tipping is 15-20% for full-service dining; casual service may be lower. Tipping for counter-service is not always expected, but appreciated for good service.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful in smaller venues, and mobile payments are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming trees and gardens; expect occasional showers. Great for vibrant greenery and fresh-start photography.
Dry, long days with comfortable highs; ideal for lake activities, hikes, and sunset photography along the shoreline.
Cooling temperatures and changing foliage; golden-hour light and colorful canopies create warm, rich photography opportunities.
Rainy and cool with short daylight hours; indoor attractions shine, but coastal hikes can still be refreshing with proper gear.
Mountlake Terrace at Night
Hiking in Mountlake Terrace
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal forest trail to Meadowdale Beach; rugged but rewarding views of Puget Sound.
Long, flat trail ideal for walking and cycling through the city and neighboring towns.
Airports
How to reach Mountlake Terrace by plane.
Major international airport serving the Seattle area; about 25-40 miles driving depending on traffic; accessible via I-5 and Light Rail connections.
Smaller airport near Seattle for general aviation and regional flights; closer to downtown Seattle.
Commercial airport in Everett with regional flights; a reasonable option for certain carriers and general aviation.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Suburban families make up a significant portion of residents; many have stayed for generations.
Commuters who work in Seattle or Bellevue and appreciate the suburb's affordability and access to nature.
Retirees who value quiet neighborhoods and community services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular at community parks and youth leagues and supported by local clubs and high school teams.
Common recreational and school sports; pickup games at parks and community centers.
Nearby natural areas offer disc golf courses and hiking options.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mountlake Terrace.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in many cafes and casual dining spots; look for veggie bowls, salads, and seafood options for pescatarians.