Things To Do
in Union Hill-Novelty Hill
Union Hill-Novelty Hill is a serene semi-rural enclave in King County, northeast of Seattle, known for rolling hills and panoramic views of the Cascade foothills. The area blends quiet residential neighborhoods with nearby wine country, farms, and easy access to Redmond, Bellevue, and Woodinville. Outdoor spaces, farmers markets, and small-town hospitality define the pace here.
Visitors can enjoy scenic drives, farm stands, and memorable meals with a Northwest twist.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing breakfast at a cozy cafe in the heart of Union Hill. Afterward, head to a nearby vineyard where you can enjoy a guided tour and learn about the winemaking process. Don’t forget to take in the beautiful views of the rolling vineyards and lush landscapes.
Spend the afternoon at a local winery for a delightful wine tasting experience paired with local artisan cheeses. Relax on the vineyard’s terrace, soaking up the sun and indulging your taste buds. If time permits, explore the adjoining trails for a leisurely hike through the scenic countryside.
As the sun sets, find a charming restaurant in Novelty Hill to savor a farm-to-table dinner. Sample locally sourced dishes complemented by the area’s exquisite wines. End your evening with a stroll under the starlit sky, embracing the serenity of the countryside.
Begin with a delightful breakfast at a local diner before heading out to explore the nearby parks and nature reserves. Enjoy a hike where you can appreciate the diverse flora and fauna of the region. Take your time to capture stunning photos and soak in the tranquility of the natural surroundings.
After your morning adventure, visit a local art gallery to admire works by regional artists. Participate in a hands-on art workshop to create your own piece inspired by the natural beauty around you. This afternoon promises to be a blend of creativity and relaxation.
Wind down your day with a casual dinner at a bistro that features live music. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as you relax with a glass of wine and mingle with locals and visitors alike. Wrap up your evening by browsing downtown shops for unique handmade crafts and souvenirs.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week for two | $60-120 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $120-200 |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $4.00-5.50 |
| ☕Coffee and breakfast for two | $8-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Seattle’s tech hubs while retaining a quiet, scenic vibe
- Excellent access to Woodinville wine country and farm-to-table dining
- Limited nightlife compared to downtown Seattle
- Traffic can be heavier during weekday commutes toward Redmond and Bellevue
Places to Visit in Union Hill-Novelty Hill
Visit one of these nice places.
Expansive vineyards and manicured lawns provide classic Northwest vineyard photography, especially at golden hour.
River views and rustic bridges offer tranquil, nature-forward compositions through Redmond and Woodinville corridors.
Elevated residential lots and hillside vistas yield sweeping panoramas of the Cascade foothills on clear days.
Forest canopies, horse trails, and quiet clearings make for intimate forest photography.
Food in Union Hill-Novelty Hill
Union Hill-Novelty Hill Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Wild salmon grilled on a cedar plank with lemon, dill, and seasonal greens—an iconic Pacific Northwest preparation.
Must-Try!
Creamy arborio rice with locally foraged mushrooms, finished with herbs and a light parmesan finish.
Warm spiced apple filling topped with a buttery oat crumble, often served with vanilla bean ice cream.
Roasted beets, citrus, greens, and creamy goat cheese, drizzled with a walnut vinaigrette.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market featuring local produce, artisanal goods, and prepared foods from nearby farms and makers.
Local produce, baked goods, and street-style bites from food trucks and stalls on market days.
A rotating lineup of food trucks and pop-up vendors around Redmond and Woodinville, offering quick bites and global flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Friendly, casual greetings are common; a brief hello or nod is typical in shops and neighborhoods. Keep conversations polite and respectful.
Notice local residential quiet hours; respect private property and avoid loud gatherings in quieter neighborhoods.
Tipping conventions apply in dining and service settings, similar to other parts of the U.S.
Safety
Tipping in Union Hill-Novelty Hill
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and bars, 15-20% is customary in the United States. For counter-service or coffee shops, rounding up or a small tip is appreciated but not required.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful for small shops and markets. Mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are commonly supported in larger venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with frequent showers. Blossoms brighten trails and markets begin to hum with activity.
Warm, dry days with extended daylight. Perfect for outdoor tasting rooms, hikes, and riverwalks; expect more crowds on weekends.
Crisp air and vivid fall colors over the hills. Harvest season brings bountiful produce and wine events.
Cool and wet with occasional frosty mornings. Layers and waterproof gear recommended; indoor dining and winery visits are popular.
Union Hill-Novelty Hill at Night
Hiking in Union Hill-Novelty Hill
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails and horse paths with scenic vistas, easily accessible from Union Hill-Novelty Hill.
Paved or gravel paths along the river, ideal for a relaxed hike or cycling day.
Forested hills with quiet trails near Kenmore, offering a convenient nearby escape for hikers.
Airports
How to reach Union Hill-Novelty Hill by plane.
Major international airport about 20-30 miles from Union Hill-Novelty Hill, accessible by car or regional transit.
Airport in Everett offering domestic flights, roughly 25-35 miles north, with driving routes through the I-5 corridor.
Seattle area airport (Boeing Field) primarily handling general aviation, located closer to downtown Seattle.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Proximity to Redmond and Bellevue means a sizable presence of tech workers and related families.
Residential neighborhoods with schools, parks, farms, and community events.
Nearby Woodinville wine country attracts visitors who enjoy tastings, studios, and local crafts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular recreational leagues and local clubs; aligns with family-friendly outdoor culture.
Common in community centers and school facilities; weekend games and pickup for locals.
Widely enjoyed given the proximity to Cascade foothills and forested parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Union Hill-Novelty Hill.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants in the area offer vegetarian options; look for farm-to-table menus and request plant-based substitutions when possible. Many markets feature a wide array of fresh vegetables, legumes, and grains for DIY meals.