Mountlake Terrace Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Mountlake Terrace with this comprehensive travel guide featuring a list of must-see attractions, best activities, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more!


Introduction to Mountlake Terrace

Located in the North Sound region of Puget Sound in Washington state, Mountlake Terrace is a peaceful and charming suburb of Seattle. Its beautiful natural landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture make it an ideal destination for tourists looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse themselves in the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

List of Places to Visit in Mountlake Terrace

Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie, Mountlake Terrace has something to offer for everyone. Here are the must-visit attractions in Mountlake Terrace that you should add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Mountlake Terrace Historical Society: A small museum that showcases the history and culture of Mountlake Terrace through photographs, artifacts, and exhibits.

  • Veterans Memorial Park: A peaceful park that pays tribute to the brave men and women who have served in the military with memorials and displays.

  • Lake Ballinger: A scenic lake that offers fishing, kayaking, and other water activities, surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes.

Natural Attractions of Mountlake Terrace: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cedar Way Trail: A picturesque trail that stretches for 1.6 miles and offers stunning views of Mount Rainier, lush forests, and serene wetlands.

  • Mountlake Terrace Disc Golf Course: A popular disc golf course that features 18 holes and beautiful surroundings for players of all skill levels.

  • Nile Shrine Golf Course: An 18-hole golf course surrounded by stunning natural landscapes and offering a challenging game.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mountlake Terrace

If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, Mountlake Terrace offers plenty of hiking and biking trails that cater to all levels of experience. Here are some of the best routes that you should explore:

  • Lake Ballinger Loop Trail: A 2-mile loop around Lake Ballinger that offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding natural landscapes.

  • Interurban Trail: A 14-mile trail that connects the cities of Everett and Seattle, passing through Mountlake Terrace and offering beautiful sights of forests, hills, and streams.

  • Mountlake Terrace Park to Meadowdale Beach Park Trail: A 3.1-mile trail that takes you through lush forests, beautiful wetlands, and quiet beaches, offering an immersive outdoor experience.

Best Things to Do in Mountlake Terrace: Activities and Tours

From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, Mountlake Terrace has plenty of things to do for tourists looking for a fun and exciting experience. Here are some of the best activities and tours in Mountlake Terrace to add to your itinerary:

  • Cedar Way Elementary Farmers Market: A weekly farmers market that offers fresh produce, handcrafted goods, and local food vendors.

  • Popcorn at the Pond: A fun event that takes place at Terrace Creek Park, where you can enjoy a free popcorn and watch a movie under the stars.

  • Edmonds Arts Festival: An annual event that takes place in the neighboring city of Edmonds and features local artists, live music, and delicious food.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mountlake Terrace

If you’re planning to stay in Mountlake Terrace for a week, here’s a comprehensive itinerary that covers all the must-see attractions and activities:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Mountlake Terrace Historical Society Museum and Veterans Memorial Park
Day 2 Hike Cedar Way Trail and explore Lake Ballinger
Day 3 Play disc golf at Mountlake Terrace Disc Golf Course
Day 4 Take a day trip to Seattle and explore the city’s attractions
Day 5 Visit Kruckeberg Botanic Garden and enjoy a picnic lunch
Day 6 Explore Meadowdale Beach Park and hike to Edmonds Marsh
Day 7 Relax and enjoy a day at Nile Shrine Golf Course

Food and Drink Scene of Mountlake Terrace

Mountlake Terrace offers a diverse food and drink scene that showcases the local flavors and culture of the region. Here are the must-try dishes and local beverages that you should sample:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Seafood Chowder: A hearty and flavorful soup that features fresh seafood, vegetables, and herbs, served in most local restaurants.

  • Grilled Salmon: A Pacific Northwest favorite, grilled salmon is served with a variety of sides, such as rice, salad, and vegetables, and features the region’s freshest seafood catch.

  • Huckleberry Pie: A delicious and sweet dessert made from locally-sourced huckleberries, a unique berry that grows in the Pacific Northwest.

Local Beverages

  • Local Craft Beer: Mountlake Terrace is home to several local microbreweries that offer a range of craft beers, from IPAs to stouts.

  • Washington Wines: The state of Washington is known for its world-class wines, and Mountlake Terrace offers plenty of bars and restaurants that serve local wines from the region.

Where to Stay in Mountlake Terrace: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Mountlake Terrace offers a range of accommodation options that cater to all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in the area:

  • Embassy Suites by Hilton Seattle North Lynnwood: A luxurious hotel that offers spacious suites, an indoor pool, and a fitness center.

  • Motel 6 Seattle North: A budget-friendly option that offers comfortable rooms, free parking, and easy access to local attractions.

  • Tru by Hilton Seattle North: A modern and stylish hotel that offers complimentary breakfast, a fitness center, and a 24-hour snack bar.

What to Buy in Mountlake Terrace: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for a unique souvenir or gift to bring back home from Mountlake Terrace, here are some local products that you can buy:

  • Huckleberry Jam: Made from locally-sourced huckleberries, this jam is a delicious and sweet reminder of your trip to Mountlake Terrace.

  • Handcrafted Pottery: Mountlake Terrace is home to several local artisans who create beautiful and functional pottery, from coffee mugs to vases.

  • Artisanal Soap: Made from natural and locally-sourced ingredients, artisanal soap is a great gift for those who appreciate natural and eco-friendly products.

Local Culture and Customs of Mountlake Terrace

Mountlake Terrace is a friendly and welcoming community that prides itself on its rich culture and traditions. Here are some customs and cultural practices that you should be aware of:

  • Respect for Nature: Mountlake Terrace is located in a beautiful and pristine natural environment, and locals are proud of their clean and green community. Visitors are expected to respect and preserve the natural beauty of the area.

  • Friendly and Polite: The people of Mountlake Terrace are known for their friendly and polite demeanor, and visitors are expected to reciprocate this attitude.

Best Time to Visit Mountlake Terrace

The best time to visit Mountlake Terrace is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny, and outdoor activities and events are in full swing. However, the area is beautiful year-round, and each season has its charm and attractions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mountlake Terrace

To ensure a pleasant visit to Mountlake Terrace, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Respect the natural environment and wildlife.

  • Be polite and friendly to locals and other tourists.

  • Embrace the local culture and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment.

  • Use offensive or disrespectful language towards locals or other tourists.

  • Ignore local customs and practices.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mountlake Terrace

Mountlake Terrace is a safe and peaceful community, with a low crime rate. However, visitors should take the usual precautions and avoid walking alone or in dark areas at night.

Health in Mountlake Terrace

Mountlake Terrace has several hospitals and clinics that offer quality healthcare services, and visitors should ensure they have health insurance coverage before traveling.

Getting to Mountlake Terrace: Transportation Options and Logistics

Mountlake Terrace is easily accessible by several transportation options, including:

Airports Near Mountlake Terrace

  • Seattle-Tacoma International Airport: Located about 30 miles south of Mountlake Terrace, this airport is the largest in the region, and offers both domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Mountlake Terrace

  • Mountlake Terrace Transit Center: This transit center offers several bus routes that connect to Seattle, Edmonds, and other neighboring cities.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Visitors can rent a car from several car rental companies located at the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport or in Mountlake Terrace.

  • Taxi or Ride-Hailing Service: Several taxi and ride-hailing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in the Mountlake Terrace area.

How to Get Around in Mountlake Terrace

Mountlake Terrace is a pedestrian-friendly community, and most attractions and amenities are within walking distance. Visitors can also use the following transportation options:

  • Bicycles: Mountlake Terrace offers several bike lanes and trails, making it a safe and convenient option for getting around.

  • Public Transportation: Visitors can use the public transit system, which includes several bus routes that connect to other neighboring cities.

Where to Go Next from Mountlake Terrace: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Mountlake Terrace is located in a beautiful and diverse region of the Pacific Northwest, and visitors can explore several nearby destinations and excursions, including:

  • Seattle: Located about 14 miles south of Mountlake Terrace, Seattle offers a range of attractions, such as the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and the Chihuly Garden and Glass.

  • Edmonds: Located about 4 miles west of Mountlake Terrace, Edmonds is a charming and picturesque waterfront town that offers a range of shops, restaurants, and natural attractions.

  • Olympic National Park: Located about 100 miles west of Mountlake Terrace, Olympic National Park features pristine rainforests, rugged coastlines, and snow-capped mountains, offering a diverse and immersive outdoor experience.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or an outdoor adventure, Mountlake Terrace is a beautiful and charming destination that offers something for everyone. With this comprehensive tour guide, you’re now ready to plan your trip to Mountlake Terrace and make the most of your visit to this beautiful part of the Pacific Northwest.