Things To Do
in Mountlake Terrace

Mountlake Terrace is a charming suburban city located in Snohomish County, Washington, just north of Seattle. Known for its beautiful parks and green spaces, it offers a family-friendly atmosphere with a small-town feel. The city is bordered by Lake Ballinger and provides easy access to the surrounding natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

With a rich history and a growing community, Mountlake Terrace is an inviting destination for both residents and visitors.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Mountlake Terrace Recreation Pavilion, where you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast at their café and explore the nearby parks.

afternoon
:

Visit the Ballinger Park for a relaxing afternoon, where you can walk the trails, enjoy a picnic, or even try your hand at fishing in Lake Ballinger.

evening
:

Dine at a local favorite, such as The BBQ Joint, and conclude your day with a stroll through the city center to catch the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike at the nearby Brier Park, where you can immerse yourself in nature and enjoy scenic views.

afternoon
:

After your hike, head to the Mountlake Terrace Library for a free local art exhibit and community events.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a dinner at 88th Street Diner, known for its comfort food and warm atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Fast Food Meal$10
🍕Pizza (Large)$15
Coffee$4
🍽️Dinner for Two at a Restaurant$50
🏨Hotel Night$120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of parks and green spaces.
  • Close proximity to Seattle for additional attractions and activities.
  • Rich community culture with local events and markets.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation may not be as robust.
  • Rainy weather can be frequent, especially in fall and winter.

Places to Visit in Mountlake Terrace

Visit one of these nice places.

Lake Ballinger

A picturesque lake perfect for sunrise and sunset photography, surrounded by lush greenery.

Ballinger Park

Offers beautiful walking trails and scenic views, ideal for capturing nature shots.

Mountlake Terrace Civic Center

The modern architecture and surrounding gardens provide excellent backdrops for urban photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Mountlake Terrace

Mountlake Terrace boasts a diverse culinary scene that reflects its vibrant community. Visitors can enjoy a variety of local dishes that highlight fresh ingredients and regional flavors.

Mountlake Terrace Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Salmon Tacos

Fresh salmon grilled to perfection, served in soft tortillas with slaw and a zesty lime sauce.

Must-Try!

Teriyaki Chicken

Juicy chicken marinated in a sweet teriyaki sauce, served with rice and steamed vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mountlake Terrace Farmers Market

Open during the summer, this market features local produce, artisanal goods, and food trucks offering a variety of street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

Mountlake Terrace experiences a temperate oceanic climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Average high temperatures range from the mid-40s°F (around 7°C) in winter to the low 80s°F (around 27°C) in summer. Rain is common throughout the year, particularly in fall and winter, while summers are typically drier and sunnier, perfect for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Be Polite

Washingtonians value politeness, so saying 'please' and 'thank you' is important.

Respect Personal Space

People in this region appreciate personal space, so maintain a respectful distance in social interactions.

Environmental Awareness

There is a strong emphasis on environmental conservation; be sure to recycle and respect nature.

Safety Guide

Safety

Mountlake Terrace is generally a safe community with a low crime rate. However, like any urban area, it's important to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas, and keep personal belongings secure to minimize risks.

Tipping in Mountlake Terrace

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip servers around 15-20% in restaurants. Tipping is also appreciated in bars and for taxi services.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, but it's wise to carry some cash for smaller vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make this a great time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Warm weather is perfect for enjoying parks and lakes; however, be prepared for occasional rain.

Fall

The vibrant autumn colors create stunning landscapes, making hiking and photography particularly rewarding.

Winter

Cold temperatures may bring snow, creating a beautiful winter wonderland, but be prepared for icy conditions.

Nightlife Guide

Mountlake Terrace at Night

Mountlake Terrace offers a laid-back nightlife scene with a few local bars and restaurants that serve craft beers and cocktails. While the options are limited compared to larger cities, the atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploring. Live music events and trivia nights are popular at some venues, creating a fun and engaging environment for visitors.

Hiking in Mountlake Terrace

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Pilchuck Trail

A moderate 5.4-mile hike that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes.

Rattlesnake Ledge Trail

A popular 4-mile trail known for its breathtaking views of Rattlesnake Lake and the surrounding forest.

Airports

How to reach Mountlake Terrace by plane.

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)

Located approximately 30 minutes south of Mountlake Terrace, this major airport offers domestic and international flights, making it the primary gateway for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Mountlake Terrace is moderately walkable, with many amenities and parks accessible on foot. Sidewalks are prevalent in residential areas, and the community layout encourages walking. However, some locations may require a car for convenience, especially when traveling to more distant attractions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Mountlake Terrace has a strong family presence, with many parks and schools that cater to children and parents.

Young Professionals

The city has attracted young professionals seeking a suburban lifestyle while remaining close to Seattle for work opportunities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is a popular sport in Mountlake Terrace, with local leagues and teams for all ages.

Basketball

Basketball is widely played, with community courts available for informal games and organized leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Mountlake Terrace is generally manageable, though rush hour can lead to congestion on major routes. Public transportation options include buses that connect to nearby cities and Seattle, providing a viable alternative to driving. Biking is also encouraged, with several bike lanes available for cyclists.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Mountlake Terrace.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options to cater to dietary preferences.

Gluten-Free Choices

Several eateries provide gluten-free dishes and are accommodating to those with gluten sensitivities.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Mountlake Terrace is provided by several clinics and hospitals located within the city and in nearby areas. The Swedish Edmonds Hospital is a notable facility that offers comprehensive medical services. Emergency services are readily available, ensuring that residents and visitors have access to necessary medical care.

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