Bellevue Travel Guide
Plan your perfect trip to Bellevue, Washington with this comprehensive guide. Discover top attractions, hiking/biking routes, food scene, safety tips, and more.
- Introduction to Bellevue
- List of Places to Visit in Bellevue
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Bellevue
- Best Things to Do in Bellevue: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Bellevue
- Food and Drink Scene of Bellevue
- Where to Stay in Bellevue: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Bellevue: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Bellevue
- Best Time to Visit Bellevue
- Do’s and Don’ts of Bellevue
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Bellevue: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Bellevue
- Where to Go Next from Bellevue: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Bellevue
Bellevue is a rapidly growing city located in King County, Washington, in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. Located just 10 miles east of Seattle, Bellevue offers visitors a bustling downtown area, thriving business district, and a variety of outdoor activities.
In this guide, we will explore the best things to see and do in Bellevue, as well as provide invaluable tips and advice to ensure you have a memorable trip.
List of Places to Visit in Bellevue
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
The Bellevue Arts Museum is a must-visit destination for art lovers, featuring a variety of exhibitions from contemporary art to craft and design. The Bellevue Collection is a living museum that showcases the city’s rapidly changing landscape through a collection of historical photographs and artifacts. The KidsQuest Children’s Museum provides hands-on educational experiences designed for kids aged 0-10.
Natural Attractions of Bellevue: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Bellevue offers outdoor enthusiasts a plethora of options, including hiking and biking trails, kayaking, paddleboarding, and more. Among the most popular parks in Bellevue is the Mercer Slough Nature Park, which features over 320 acres of freshwater wetlands. Lake Sammamish State Park offers visitors scenic views of the water and the surrounding mountains, as well as swimming and boating opportunities.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Bellevue
Bellevue is home to an extensive network of hiking and biking trails, with over 100 miles of pathways meandering through lush forests, scenic hillsides, and waterways. Among the most popular routes are the Coal Creek Trail, the Bridle Trails State Park Trail, and the Redmond Watershed Preserve Trail.
Best Things to Do in Bellevue: Activities and Tours
The Bellevue Botanical Garden is a popular destination for visitors of all ages, featuring a variety of stunning gardens, walking trails, and interactive exhibits. The Bellevue Zip Tour offers visitors an exhilarating aerial adventure through the forest canopy, while the Bellevue Arts Festival offers a chance to enjoy live performances, art installations, and arts and crafts.
Week-Long Itinerary for Bellevue
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Monday | Explore the Bellevue Collection to learn about the city’s history |
| Tuesday | Enjoy a hike along the Coal Creek Trail |
| Wednesday | Visit the Mercer Slough Nature Park |
| Thursday | Take a day trip to nearby Snoqualmie Falls |
| Friday | Rent a bike and explore the city |
| Saturday | Check out the Bellevue Arts Museum |
| Sunday | Spend the day kayaking on Lake Sammamish |
Food and Drink Scene of Bellevue
Must-Try Dishes
Bellevue offers a variety of culinary delights, with plenty of local and international options available. Be sure to try some of the city’s signature dishes, including the seafood platter at The Crab Pot, the beef tenderloin at Daniel’s Broiler, and the pizza at Tutta Bella.
Local Beverages
Bellevue’s craft beer scene is growing and flourishing, with Three Pints Brewing Co., Bellevue Brewing Company, and Chainline Brewing Company being popular among locals and visitors alike. Additionally, local wineries such as The Woodhouse Wine Estates and Betz Family Winery attract wine connoisseurs.
Where to Stay in Bellevue: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Bellevue offers a variety of lodging options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Among the top accommodations in downtown Bellevue include the Hyatt Regency Bellevue, the Westin Bellevue, and the Bellevue Club Hotel.
What to Buy in Bellevue: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Bellevue offers a variety of unique souvenirs and locally made products. Among the most popular items are the handmade pottery and glass art pieces made by local artists, as well as the delicious locally made chocolates and coffee.
Local Culture and Customs of Bellevue
Bellevue residents are known for their friendly nature and willingness to help visitors. However, it’s important to respect local customs and traditions, including community standards and conservation efforts.
Best Time to Visit Bellevue
Bellevue is a great destination year-round, although summer offers the best weather for outdoor activities. However, be prepared for rain and cloudy skies throughout the year.
Do’s and Don’ts of Bellevue
Do:
- Explore the city on foot or by bike.
- Take a kayak or paddleboarding trip on Lake Sammamish.
- Visit the Bellevue Parks and Recreation Department for a variety of outdoor activities.
Don’t:
- Overlook the city’s growing arts scene, from galleries and museums, to outdoor concerts and festivals.
- Forget to pack rain gear.
- Leave valuables in plain sight in your car.
Safety and Health
Safety in Bellevue
Bellevue is a safe city to visit, with a low crime rate. However, visitors should take standard precautions to safeguard their personal belongings and valuables.
Health in Bellevue
Bellevue offers a high quality of medical care, with a variety of hospitals and clinics available. Visitors with specific health needs should carry their prescription medication and be aware of the location of these facilities.
Getting to Bellevue: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Bellevue
Bellevue is served by two airports, the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and the King County International Airport (BFI).
Bus Stations Near Bellevue
The Bellevue Transit Center is the main hub for King County Metro Transit, Sound Transit, and Community Transit buses.
Other Options
Visitors can also access Bellevue via car rentals, ride-sharing services, and the light rail system.
How to Get Around in Bellevue
Bellevue is an easy city to navigate, with an extensive network of bike lanes and pedestrian walkways. Bus service is available through the King County Metro Transit system, and ride-sharing services, taxis, and rental cars are also widely available.
Where to Go Next from Bellevue: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Bellevue serves as a perfect base for day trips to nearby destinations such as Snoqualmie Falls, Mount Rainier, and the Olympic Peninsula.
Conclusion
Bellevue offers something for everyone, from outdoor adventures and cultural attractions to a flourishing food and drink scene. With this guide in hand, you’re well on your way to an unforgettable visit to this vibrant city in the Pacific Northwest.
