Redmond (Washington) Travel Guide

Explore the best places to visit, things to do, and tips for a perfect trip to Redmond, Washington.


Redmond, situated in King County in the heart of Puget Sound, is a culturally diverse city located in the majestic Pacific Northwest region of the United States. Redmond truly embodies the beauty of the natural surroundings and the adventurous spirit of its residents and visitors alike. This comprehensive guide to Redmond aims to showcase all of the best of the city, from its culturally important attractions to its must-see outdoor adventures.

Introduction to Redmond (Washington)

Redmond is the largest city in the eastern suburbs of the Seattle metropolitan area, with a population of around 70,000. The city is known for being the home of Microsoft Corporation’s headquarters, notable wineries, and numerous parks and recreational activities, making it a prime location for adventurous travelers looking for some fun things to do.

List of Places to Visit in Redmond (Washington)

Here are some of the must-visit places in Redmond that visitors should not miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Marymoor Park - The park offers a wide range of activities such as hiking, biking, rock climbing, swimming, and more.
  • Redmond Town Center - A popular shopping and dining center in the heart of downtown Redmond. It features some of the best restaurants and shops in the area.
  • Microsoft Visitor Center - Take a look at the history and future of Microsoft technology and check out interactive exhibits.

Natural Attractions of Redmond (Washington): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sammamish River Trail - Biking and walking trail that runs along the Sammamish River, through the heart of Redmond, offering beautiful views of the city.
  • Bear Creek Trail - A great spot for walking or biking and immersing yourself in the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
  • Farrel-McWhirter Park - Perfect place for animal lovers with an equestrian center, petting farm, and nature trails on offer.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Redmond (Washington)

Redmond boasts some of the best hiking and biking trails in the region which are perfect for adventurous travelers looking to explore the great outdoors. The most popular routes for hiking and biking in Redmond include:

  • Sammamish River Trail - The trail is flat and paved, so it’s perfect for riders of all skill levels. It runs for 10.9 miles from Marymoor Park in Redmond to Blyth Park in Bothell.
  • Redmond Watershed Preserve - The preserve has over 800 acres of green forests, and it offers many trails for hikers to explore.
  • Tolt Pipeline Trail - This trail, which begins in Redmond and ends in Carnation, covers about 14 miles of wooded area and scenic views along the Snoqualmie River. It is perfect for those looking for a longer hike.

Best Things to Do in Redmond (Washington): Activities and Tours

In addition to the outdoor activities and sites to see, Redmond offers a variety of activities and tours that are sure to entertain visitors. Some of the best activities and tours to check out include:

  • Washington Wine Country Tour - Take a relaxing tour of the wine country just outside of Redmond, featuring some of the best tasting wines you can find.
  • Escape Room - Visitors can have fun solving puzzles and escaping the room in a set amount of time.
  • Flying Circus Flight Lessons - Visitors can Fly a light sports aircraft with a professional pilot, enjoying the beautiful views of Seattle and surrounding areas.

Week-Long Itinerary for Redmond (Washington)

For visitors who want the ultimate Redmond experience, a week-long itinerary is recommended to explore the city’s sights and activities. Here we have highlighted a suggested 7-day itinerary.

Day 1 Arrive and Check-In
Day 2 Visit Microsoft Visitor Center and explore Redmond Town Center
Day 3 Bear Creek Trail and Tolt Pipeline Trail
Day 4 Explore Washington Wine Country Tour
Day 5 Farrel-McWhirter Park and enjoy natural beauty
Day 6 Sammamish River Trail and Flying Circus Flight Lessons
Day 7 Departure Day

Food and Drink Scene of Redmond (Washington)

Redmond’s food and drink scene is vibrant and varied, with plenty of options to satisfy every palate. Visitors can check out the local wineries, breweries, and shops that offer a variety of delicious food and drinks.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Salmon Chowder - Pacific Northwest cuisine at its finest.
  • Dungeness Crab Cakes - A classic dish made with fresh seafood.
  • Pork Belly Sliders - A great appetizer choice with the sweet and spicy flavors.

Local Beverages

  • Redmond Craft Breweries - The city is home to several craft breweries that produce some of the best beers in the Greater Seattle area. Some noteworthy brews include Chainline Brewing Company and Postdoc Brewing Company.
  • Washington State Wines - Redmond is located in the greater Seattle area, which is home to some of the best wineries in Washington.

Where to Stay in Redmond (Washington): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Redmond offers many great accommodation options for visitors, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses:

  • Hyatt House Seattle/Redmond - Located close to Redmond Town Center, Hyatt House is perfect for anyone looking to be in the center of all the action.
  • Residence Inn by Marriott Seattle East/Redmond - The ideal place to stay for visitors who want extra space and amenities in their accommodation.
  • Archer Hotel Redmond - Situated right in downtown Redmond, Archer is perfect for visitors who want to walk to nearby restaurants, shops, and attractions.

What to Buy in Redmond (Washington): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visit the Redmond Saturday Market to buy souvenirs, local produce, and handmade crafts. Some of the popular items to look out for include locally made soaps, jewelry, and pottery.

Local Culture and Customs of Redmond (Washington)

Redmond boasts a rich and diverse cultural history that is still very much alive today. Visitors can take part in various cultural celebrations and traditions, such as Native American powwows and art fairs. The city also showcases a strong appreciation for the outdoors and various activities that can be done in nature, like hiking and biking.

Best Time to Visit Redmond (Washington)

The best time to visit Redmond is during the late spring and summer months, from May through August, when the weather is sunny and warm.

Do’s and Don’ts of Redmond (Washington)

Do:

  • Do participate in hiking and biking activities.
  • Do prioritize visiting local shops and support local businesses.
  • Do immerse yourself in the local culture and customs.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or leave garbage while exploring the city.
  • Don’t forget to tip restaurant servers and bartenders appropriately.
  • Don’t forget to pack for the diverse weather conditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Redmond (Washington)

Redmond has a relatively low crime rate, and the city is considered safe for travelers. As with any travel destination, it is always advisable to take precautions such as keeping your valuables close to you and being aware of your surroundings.

Health in Redmond (Washington)

Redmond has a great healthcare system and offers reliable medical care to visitors and residents alike. It is also important to note that air pollution levels in the city are low, which is great for travelers with allergies or respiratory issues.

Getting to Redmond (Washington): Transportation Options and Logistics

Redmond is easily accessible by a variety of transportation options.

Airports Near Redmond (Washington)

  • Seattle-Tacoma International Airport - Located around 25 miles from Redmond, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is one of the main airports in Washington and has connections to many domestic and international destinations.

Bus Stations Near Redmond (Washington)

  • Redmond Transit Center - Located in the heart of downtown Redmond, this transit center offers bus services to nearby cities and towns.
  • King Street Station - Seattle’s main transportation hub, and offers bus services to Redmond

Other Options

  • Visitors can take the subway, as well.

How to Get Around in Redmond (Washington)

Redmond is a very walkable city, which makes exploring on foot a convenient option. Visitors can also use public transportation options such as buses or taxis, while those looking for more autonomy can rent a car or consider using one of the city’s bike rental services.

Where to Go Next from Redmond (Washington): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Redmond is located close to some of the Pacific Northwest’s best destinations, including:

  • Seattle, Washington - The cosmopolitan city of Seattle offers visitors the opportunity to experience the Pacific Northwest’s best cultural attractions, such as the Space Needle or Pike Place Market.
  • Mount Rainier National Park - Explore the stunning natural beauty and majestic trails of Mount Rainier National Park.
  • San Juan Islands - Located off the coast of Washington, the San Juan Islands offer visitors the chance to explore unspoiled natural beauty, whale watching, and kayaking.

Conclusion

With its various sights and activities, Redmond is a perfect destination for anyone looking for outdoor adventure and fun activities. From its hiking and biking trails to its popular shopping centers and wineries, Redmond is sure to become a favorite for travelers who want to explore the Pacific Northwest.

Sammamish River at Marymoor Park in Redmond Sammamish River at Marymoor Park in Redmond Microsoft Visitor Center Microsoft Visitor Center Redmond Town Center Redmond Town Center