Things To Do
in Sammamish

Sammamish, located in King County, Washington, is a vibrant suburban city known for its beautiful lakes, parks, and recreational opportunities. The city offers a serene environment with a blend of nature and community, making it an ideal destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. With its close proximity to Seattle, Sammamish provides residents and visitors easy access to urban amenities while maintaining a peaceful atmosphere.

The area is characterized by its lush landscapes, friendly neighborhoods, and a strong sense of community.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Local Charm
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Sammamish State Park, where you can enjoy a morning walk along the lake and take in the scenic views.

afternoon
:

Visit the Pine Lake Park for a picnic lunch and engage in activities like kayaking or paddleboarding.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant like The 5-Point Cafe, known for its delicious burgers and vibrant atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with breakfast at a cozy café such as Café Vino, where you can enjoy fresh pastries and coffee.

afternoon
:

Explore the local art scene by visiting the Sammamish Arts Commission galleries and nearby art installations.

evening
:

End the day with a relaxing stroll at Beaver Lake Park, where you can watch the sunset and enjoy the natural beauty.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$15-$30
Coffee$4-$6
🏡Monthly Rent for a 1-Bedroom Apartment$1,800-$2,500
🚌Public Transportation Fare$2.75
🎟️Movie Ticket$12-$15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings and parks.
  • Family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of activities.
  • Proximity to Seattle for urban conveniences.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours.
  • Higher cost of living in comparison to nearby areas.

Places to Visit in Sammamish

Visit one of these nice places.

Beaver Lake Park

A picturesque park with beautiful lake views, surrounded by lush greenery, ideal for nature photography.

Sammamish State Park

Offers stunning landscapes and vibrant sunsets, perfect for capturing the essence of the Pacific Northwest.

Pine Lake Park

A serene setting with scenic views and ample wildlife, providing great opportunities for wildlife photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sammamish

Sammamish offers a delightful culinary scene that showcases local flavors and diverse cuisine options.

Sammamish Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Salmon

Fresh Pacific salmon, often grilled or smoked, is a must-try dish in the region, reflecting the Pacific Northwest's seafood heritage.

Must-Try!

Burgers

Sammamish is home to several burger joints that serve gourmet burgers with locally sourced ingredients.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Sammamish Farmers Market

Held weekly, this market features fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local delicacies, perfect for sampling and shopping.

Climate Guide

Weather

Sammamish experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and dry, with average temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). Winters are cool and wet, with temperatures typically between 30°F and 45°F (-1°C to 7°C), and occasional snowfall. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and scenic beauty, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect Nature

Visitors are encouraged to respect local wildlife and natural spaces, including leaving no trace when hiking.

Punctuality

Arriving on time for social gatherings and appointments is valued in the community.

Friendly Greetings

A simple smile and greeting can go a long way in creating a friendly atmosphere.

Safety Guide

Safety

Sammamish is generally considered a safe community with low crime rates. It is advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in more isolated areas and during nighttime. Keeping personal belongings secure and avoiding poorly lit areas is also recommended.

Tipping in Sammamish

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip service staff 15-20% in restaurants, and rounding up for taxi drivers is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, and contactless payments are widely used.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect blooming flowers and mild temperatures, making it a great time for outdoor activities like hiking and visiting parks.

Summer

Warm weather and longer days are perfect for enjoying water activities on the lakes and hosting outdoor picnics.

Fall

Experience beautiful foliage as the leaves change color, ideal for scenic walks and photography.

Winter

Cool temperatures and occasional snowfall create a picturesque winter landscape, perfect for cozy indoor activities and holiday events.

Nightlife Guide

Sammamish at Night

Sammamish has a laid-back nightlife scene, with a few bars and restaurants offering live music and entertainment. Most nightlife activities are family-friendly, and gatherings often happen in local parks during the summer. For a more vibrant nightlife experience, residents often venture into nearby Seattle, where a wide range of clubs and late-night venues are available.

Hiking in Sammamish

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Rattlesnake Ledge Trail

A popular hiking trail offering stunning views of Rattlesnake Lake and the surrounding mountains, suitable for moderate hikers.

Mount Si Trail

A challenging hike located a short drive from Sammamish, leading to breathtaking panoramic views from the summit.

Airports

How to reach Sammamish by plane.

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)

Located about 30 miles from Sammamish, SEA is the main airport serving the region, offering numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sammamish is a relatively walkable city with many pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods. Sidewalks are available in most residential areas, and local parks are easily accessible. However, some areas may require a car for longer distances or to reach commercial zones.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Sammamish is home to many families, drawn to the area for its excellent schools and safe neighborhoods.

Young Professionals

A growing population of young professionals is attracted to Sammamish for its proximity to Seattle and the quality of life.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is a popular sport in Sammamish, with many youth leagues and community events promoting the game.

Basketball

With local schools and community centers hosting leagues, basketball is a favored sport among residents.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Sammamish can become congested during rush hours, particularly on major roadways leading to and from Seattle. Public transportation options include bus services, but many residents prefer to drive due to limited transit coverage. Biking lanes are also available, promoting alternative transportation methods.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sammamish.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Many restaurants in Sammamish cater to vegetarian and vegan diets, providing a variety of plant-based dishes.

Gluten-Free Choices

Several eateries offer gluten-free options, ensuring that those with dietary restrictions can find suitable meals.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Sammamish is good, with several clinics and hospitals in the surrounding area, including the nearby EvergreenHealth Medical Center. Emergency services are readily available, and many healthcare providers accept various insurance plans.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide