Things To Do
in Woodinville
Woodinville, United States sits just northeast of Seattle in the heart of Washington’s wine country, offering a scenic mix of evergreen forests, rolling vineyards, and family-friendly attractions. The town is renowned for its many tasting rooms and winery clusters, making day trips through wine country effortless. It’s a relaxing base with access to outdoor trails, farm-fresh markets, and refined Northwest dining, all within a short drive of the city.
Though small, Woodinville has a welcoming community feel, excellent spa and dining options, and easy connections to the broader Puget Sound region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the famous Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery. Enjoy a guided tour of the vineyard and learn about the wine-making process. Savor a morning tasting of their exquisite wines paired with light pastries.
Head to the nearby Columbia Winery for a relaxing afternoon of wine tasting and enjoying the scenic views. Pair your wines with a gourmet lunch from their on-site café. Take time to explore the beautiful grounds and capture some breathtaking photos.
Wrap up your day with a delicious dinner at The Barking Frog, a local favorite featuring farm-to-table cuisine. Savor an assortment of dishes inspired by the local produce and complement them with a glass of wine from your day's tastings. Enjoy the cozy ambiance and live music if available.
Kick off your outdoor adventure by hiking along the scenic trails of the Woodinville Riverfront Park. Enjoy the fresh air and the sound of the flowing Sammamish River as you explore this beautiful space. Don’t forget your camera, as you might spot some local wildlife along the way.
After your hike, grab a picnic lunch to enjoy at Wilmot Gateway Park, where you can relax by the water. Spend the afternoon playing frisbee or paddleboarding on the lake. The tranquil surroundings make it perfect for unwinding and soaking up the sun.
As the sun sets, head to a local brewery like 192 Brewing Co. for a taste of craft beers and bitter-sweet ales. Enjoy the casual atmosphere with friends or meet new people in the vibrant beer garden. Cap off your night with a food truck meal, exploring the local culinary scene.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $3-6 |
| 🧺Groceries (basic weekly staples) | $60-120 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3.50-4.50 |
| 🎟️Movie ticket | $12-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Accessible wine country with many tasting rooms within a short drive
- Family-friendly vibe with parks, markets, and nature trails
- Limited nightlife compared to nearby Seattle or Bellevue
- Some attractions are seasonal and crowd-dependent during harvest
Places to Visit in Woodinville
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic vineyard views with elegant architecture and reflective water features—perfect for golden-hour photography.
Wine country landscape with manicured rows, mountain backdrop, and modern winery architecture—great for wide-angle shots.
Long pedestrian bridge over the river with silhouettes of evergreens and water reflections during sunset.
Serene woodland paths, water views, and cozy lodge aesthetics ideal for nature and lifestyle photography.
Food in Woodinville
Woodinville Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Northwest favorite grilled on cedar for smoky, flaky salmon served with seasonal vegetables and potatoes.
Must-Try!
Creamy chowder featuring locally caught salmon, corn, and potatoes—perfect for a coastal-influenced meal.
A seasonal dessert highlighting the region’s apples with a flaky crust and vanilla cream.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, artisanal goods, and prepared foods; great for tasting fresh bites and meeting growers.
note
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be respectful in tasting rooms; wait your turn, avoid loud conversations, and pace tastings to savor the experience. Reserve tastings when required and avoid bringing outside food into most venues.
Smart casual is common for winery visits; avoid beachwear at refined venues. Quiet conversations and polite behavior are appreciated.
Photography is generally allowed in public areas of wineries, but some rooms may restrict flash or interior photography; respect posted signs.
Safety
Tipping in Woodinville
Ensure a smooth experience
In the U.S., tip 15-20% at restaurants and bars before tax; larger parties may require higher tips. Cash tips are always welcomed, but most places also accept tipping via card or app.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with plenty of sunshine; ideal for outdoor tastings, park strolls, and patio dining. Pack sun protection and stay hydrated; occasional warm spells can feel dry in vineyard settings.
Harvest season brings vibrant vineyard colors and seasonal menus; crisp air and comfortable layers are key. Expect more people around wine country as tours peak.
Cool, often wet weather; indoor tastings and fireside dining become popular. Bring a waterproof layer and be prepared for rain showers.
Mild temperatures with blooming vines and gardens; light rain can occur, so a compact umbrella is handy. Great for photography with soft light and fresh greens.
Woodinville at Night
Hiking in Woodinville
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Flat-to-moderate trail along the river; ideal for easy hikes, jogs, and scenic photography.
Scenic linear trail with waterway views; popular for long walks and biking near forested corridors.
A bit farther afield but a classic Northwest hike with multiple waterfall viewpoints and forest scenery.
Airports
How to reach Woodinville by plane.
Major international airport about 20–30 miles southwest of Woodinville; multiple ground-transport options to Woodinville.
Smaller regional airport northeast of Seattle; convenient for regional flights and private aviation.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families relocate to Woodinville for parks, schools, and a safe community feel, with plenty of weekend activities.
A large share of visitors and residents are drawn to the wine country and tasting rooms in the area.
Proximity to Seattle, Redmond, and Bellevue attracts professionals seeking a quieter suburban base with easy access to the city.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Strong regional interest with MLS teams in Seattle and vibrant youth leagues; weekend games and stadium events are common.
Local leagues and school programs are active; community courts and fields are popular in parks.
Scenic routes around wine country and along river trails attract cyclists and runners year-round.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Woodinville.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Woodinville, vegetarian options are widely available at farm-to-table restaurants and many tasting rooms; ask for veggie-forward plates or seasonal vegetables and salads; many venues can accommodate dairy-free or gluten-free requests with advance notice.