Top Things to Do in Bellevue: Entertainment, Culture, and Recreation

When people think of the Seattle metro area, many imagine the Space Needle and Pike Place Market. But just across Lake Washington lies Bellevue—Washington's fifth-largest city and an increasingly vibrant destination that rivals Seattle itself for things to do, places to explore, and experiences to treasure.

With a population exceeding 154,000 residents, a median household income of $161,300, and a thriving tech-driven economy anchored by companies like Amazon and Microsoft, Bellevue has evolved from Seattle's suburban neighbor into a sophisticated city with its own distinct identity. Whether you're considering a move to the Eastside or already call Bellevue home, understanding what makes this city special requires exploring its diverse entertainment, cultural, and recreational offerings.

From world-class shopping and dining to pristine natural parks and cutting-edge museums, here are the top things to do in Bellevue that showcase why this city has become one of the Pacific Northwest's most desirable places to live.

World-Class Shopping: Luxury Meets Convenience

The Bellevue Collection: 5.5 Million Square Feet of Retail Excellence

The Bellevue Collection stands as the crown jewel of Pacific Northwest shopping, encompassing three interconnected districts: Bellevue Square, Lincoln Square, and Bellevue Place. With over 200 stores and restaurants spanning 5.5 million square feet, this isn't just a shopping center—it's a lifestyle destination that defines downtown Bellevue.

Bellevue Square has anchored the city's retail scene since opening as "Bellevue Shopping Square" in 1946. Today, it features everything from Nordstrom (which opened here in 1958 as a shoe store before expanding) to contemporary fashion, home goods, and specialty shops. The mall's open, airy design with natural light flooding through skylights creates an upscale yet welcoming atmosphere.

Lincoln Square adds entertainment and dining to the mix, featuring a state-of-the-art cinema, boutique shops, and an impressive collection of restaurants. The food court at Lincoln Square South showcases emerging culinary concepts like Club Seltzer (a non-alcoholic seltzer bar), KODE Pizza (Korean-Detroit fusion), and Dote (boozy coffee creations). For fine dining, Ascend Prime Steak & Sushi on the 31st floor offers panoramic views of downtown Seattle, the Cascade Mountains, and Puget Sound—worth visiting for cocktails and appetizers even if you don't stay for dinner.

Bellevue Place rounds out the collection with additional retail and dining options, creating a walkable downtown core where you can easily spend an entire day shopping, dining, and people-watching.

Hours:

• Bellevue Square: Monday-Saturday 10am-9pm, Sunday 11am-7pm
• Lincoln Square: Restaurant and entertainment hours vary
• Bellevue Place: Monday-Saturday 10am-8pm, Sunday 12pm-5pm

The Shops at The Bravern: The Ultimate Luxury Experience

For those seeking the ultimate in luxury retail, The Shops at The Bravern delivers an unparalleled experience. This European-inspired outdoor shopping destination features the largest collection of luxury brands in one Pacific Northwest location, including Hermès, Prada, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Bottega Veneta, Moncler, and Omega.

Integrated into the lower levels of downtown Bellevue's gleaming office towers, The Bravern offers impeccable service, stunning architecture, and an atmosphere of refined elegance. Dining options include John Howie Steak (one of Bellevue's premier steakhouses) and The Dolar Shop (authentic Chinese hot pot).

The clientele here reflects Bellevue's affluent demographics—with tech executives, entrepreneurs, and international visitors frequenting the boutiques. This is where Seattle-area residents including tech founders and executives do their luxury shopping without traveling to Paris or New York.

Hours: Monday-Saturday 11am-7pm, Sunday 12pm-6pm

Avenue Bellevue: Newest Luxury Addition

Opened in downtown Bellevue, Avenue Bellevue represents the city's continued evolution as a luxury destination. The development features two sculpted condominium towers with over 300 luxury residences, high-end retail, and sophisticated dining and nightlife options.

Highlights include the Intercontinental Bellevue at The Avenue (complete with a stunning Chihuly chandelier), Jo Malone's elegant scent station with complimentary arm and hand massages, and Fleur—a locally-grown high-end florist offering exquisite arrangements.

Cultural Attractions: Art, History, and Learning

Bellevue Arts Museum (BAM): Celebrating Craft and Design

Note: The Bellevue Arts Museum closed temporarily in March 2025 but is exploring reopening options and continues hosting occasional public events, exhibitions, and the long-running BAM Arts Fair. Check their website for current programming.

When open, BAM showcases primarily local artists with rotating exhibits, meaning each visit offers something new. The museum features crafts, design, and contemporary art from Pacific Northwest and international creators. The BAM Arts Fair remains one of the region's premier art events, attracting hundreds of artists and thousands of visitors annually.

KidsQuest Children's Museum: Interactive Learning for Families

Located in downtown Bellevue, KidsQuest Children's Museum is a hands-on, interactive destination that has been inspiring curiosity and creativity in families since 2005. The museum emphasizes STEAM education (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) through engaging exhibits and programs designed for children from birth to age 10.

This is a must-visit for families considering moving to Bellevue, as it represents the city's commitment to family-friendly amenities and quality childhood education. The museum's central location makes it easily accessible from anywhere in the city.

Public Art: Sculpture and Beauty Throughout Bellevue

Bellevue boasts a diverse public art collection of over 130 sculptures placed throughout the community, particularly concentrated in Downtown Park. The city has made deliberate efforts to nurture the arts, with the often-daring biennial Sculpture Exhibition drawing art enthusiasts from across the region.

Bellevue City Hall itself functions as a cultural legacy, featuring major works by Pacific Northwest artists that celebrate the history, culture, and people of Bellevue. Self-guided art walks through downtown allow residents and visitors to experience world-class sculpture in accessible public spaces.

Outdoor Recreation: Nature Within the City

Downtown Park: Urban Oasis in the Heart of Bellevue

This meticulously maintained 21-acre green space in downtown Bellevue serves as the city's central gathering place. Even on typical gray Pacific Northwest days, Downtown Park impresses with its manicured lawns, walking paths, water features, and thoughtful landscaping.

The park hosts numerous community events throughout the year, including:

• Bellevue Family 4th: The Eastside's largest Independence Day celebration with live music, family entertainment, and spectacular fireworks
• Snowflake Lane: A signature holiday tradition from late November through December featuring nightly "snowfall" and entertainment along Bellevue Way
• Bellevue Downtown Ice Rink: Seasonal ice skating at the Eastside's largest outdoor rink
• Live at Lunch: Free summer concert series
• Bellevue Jazz & Blues Music Series: Showcasing national and regional artists

Downtown Park perfectly captures Bellevue's character: sophisticated yet accessible, carefully planned yet welcoming, urban yet green.

Bellevue Botanical Garden: 53 Acres of Pacific Northwest Beauty

The Bellevue Botanical Garden stands as an urban refuge, encompassing 53 acres of cultivated display gardens, restored woodlands, and natural wetlands. This free public garden showcases plants that thrive in the Pacific Northwest climate, offering inspiration for home gardeners and peaceful respite for nature lovers.

Specific gardens include:

• Dahlia and fuchsia displays
• Water-wise garden demonstrating sustainable landscaping
• Yao Japanese Garden featuring traditional design elements
• Meadows and forest trails
• Recently constructed bridge over a scenic ravine

The garden hosts educational programs, seasonal events, and guided tours throughout the year. It's particularly stunning in spring (rhododendron bloom), summer (dahlia season), and fall (vibrant foliage).

Mercer Slough Nature Park: Lake Washington's Largest Wetland

This biologically diverse 320-acre wetland in the heart of urban Bellevue provides crucial habitat for hundreds of plant and wildlife species. Mercer Slough offers:

• Kayaking opportunities: Paddle through calm wetland channels
• Hiking trails: Multiple routes through diverse ecosystems
• Blueberry picking: Seasonal u-pick at the working blueberry farm
• Wildlife viewing: Spot blue herons, bald eagles, beavers, and otters (bring binoculars!)
• Environmental education: Visit the Mercer Slough Environmental Education Center

Pro tip: Bring bug spray during summer months, as mosquitoes can be abundant in the wetland areas. The park offers remarkable biodiversity just minutes from downtown Bellevue's high-rises—a testament to the city's commitment to preserving natural spaces.

Beach Parks: Seven Waterfront Destinations

Bellevue maintains seven beach parks along Lake Washington's shores, offering free access to sandy beaches, swim docks, and stunning water views. Most beaches are staffed by lifeguards on summer afternoons and include picnic tables and play areas.

• Meydenbauer Beach Park: Located near downtown, this popular beach offers incredible views of Lake Washington and the Seattle skyline. The park includes extensive green space, picnic facilities, and easy access to downtown restaurants and shops.
• Newcastle Beach Park: Though slightly farther from central Bellevue, this beach rewards visitors with spectacular sunset views and a peaceful, less crowded atmosphere. The park is perfect for picnics, barbecues, frisbee, and evening walks along the water.
• Chism Beach Park: A local favorite nestled in a forested area, Chism Beach features Seattle skyline views, abundant picnic tables, a playground, and the Burrows Cabin—Bellevue's oldest remaining structure. The park provides excellent swimming and fishing opportunities in summer months.

Bridle Trails State Park: 482 Acres of Forest Trails

Located between Bellevue and Kirkland, Bridle Trails State Park serves as a frequent urban escape for Eastside residents. The park encompasses 482 forested acres with 28 miles of well-maintained trails suitable for horseback riding, walking, jogging, and nature observation.

This mature lowland conifer forest provides habitat for diverse wildlife and offers a genuine wilderness experience minutes from downtown Bellevue. The park also hosts regular horse shows at on-site equestrian facilities, adding to Bellevue's unique blend of urban sophistication and rural heritage.

Bellevue Zip Tours: Feel Wild in the City

For adventure seekers, Bellevue Zip Tours at Eastgate Park offers recreational zip-lining through an old-growth maple and Douglas fir forest. This unique attraction allows visitors to soar through the treetops while remaining within city limits—a perfect example of Bellevue's "feel wild in the city" ethos.

The multi-element tour provides adrenaline-pumping excitement combined with stunning forest views, creating memories that distinguish Bellevue from typical urban environments.

Dining Excellence: A Culinary Destination

Bellevue has emerged as a genuine culinary destination with over 400 multicultural restaurants and eateries ranging from casual sandwich spots to 4-star gourmet, chef-driven establishments. The city's diverse population (42.4% White, 40.9% Asian, 49.6% speaking a language other than English at home) has created an international dining scene that rivals major metro areas.

International Cuisine Leaders

• Din Tai Fung: This Taiwan-based restaurant famous for its soup dumplings (xiao long bao) attracts lines of devoted customers. The Bellevue location maintains the exacting standards that made Din Tai Fung internationally acclaimed.
• The Dolar Shop: Shanghai's premier hot pot restaurant chose Bellevue for its first North American location, bringing authentic Chinese dining to the Eastside.
• Farzi Café: India's Michelin-honored restaurant established its first North American outpost in Bellevue, offering innovative Indian cuisine with molecular gastronomy techniques.
• Mavalli Tiffin Rooms: Bengaluru's legendary South Indian restaurant opened in Bellevue, serving authentic dosas, idlis, and traditional Karnataka cuisine.
• Cantina Monarca: Modern Mexican cuisine with fresh ingredients and creative cocktails at The Bellevue Collection.
• Wild Ginger: Pacific Rim fusion cuisine at Lincoln Square South, blending Asian flavors with contemporary presentation.

Upscale American Dining

• John Howie Steak: One of the region's premier steakhouses at The Bravern, featuring USDA Prime beef, fresh seafood, and an award-winning wine program.
• Ascend Prime Steak & Sushi: Located on the 31st floor of Lincoln Square, offering spectacular panoramic views alongside excellent steak and sushi.
• The Lakehouse: Waterfront dining at Lincoln Square with American cuisine and Lake Washington views.

This dining diversity reflects Bellevue's status as a global city where international tech workers, entrepreneurs, and families have created demand for authentic world cuisine alongside refined American fare.

Recreation and Fitness: Active Lifestyle Options

Golf Courses

The Golf Club at Newcastle: Perched on 350 hilltop acres, this premier facility offers 36 holes of championship golf designed by Fred Couples and Bob Cupp. The courses provide impeccable service and panoramic views of downtown Seattle, the Cascade Mountains, Mt. Rainier, and Puget Sound. Year-round practice facilities and a putting course make this a destination for serious golfers.

Bellevue Golf Course and Crossroads Par 3: For more casual players, Bellevue maintains two accessible municipal courses offering quality golf at reasonable prices.

Community Centers: Five Specialized Facilities

Bellevue's five community centers offer diverse recreational opportunities including:

• Climbing walls
• Skate parks
• Indoor pools (Bellevue Aquatic Center features both lap pool and warm-water therapy pool)
• Arts classes
• Zip lines
• Swing dancing
• Youth programs and sports leagues

The Activity Guide lists comprehensive programs from day camps and swim lessons to youth soccer and senior activities, demonstrating Bellevue's commitment to recreation for all ages.

Skate Parks: Four Options for Skateboarders

Bellevue has become a destination for skateboarders with one fabulous indoor park and three outdoor facilities. These well-designed parks reflect the city's investment in youth recreation and action sports.

Trails and Outdoor Access

With over 80 miles of trails throughout the city and 2,500+ acres of parks and open space, Bellevue provides exceptional outdoor access. Trails range from easy neighborhood walks to challenging climbs in nearby Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park (just minutes east of Bellevue in the "Issaquah Alps").

Seasonal Events: Year-Round Community Celebrations

Winter Holiday Magic

• Snowflake Lane (November 28–December 24, 2025): This signature Bellevue holiday tradition transforms downtown into a winter wonderland with nightly "snowfall," festive lights, and live entertainment along Bellevue Way.
• Bellevue Downtown Ice Rink: The Eastside's largest seasonal ice skating experience at Downtown Park creates magical memories from late November through early March.

Summer Celebrations

• Bellevue Family 4th: The Eastside's largest Independence Day celebration returns annually to Downtown Park with live music, family entertainment, food vendors, and spectacular fireworks lighting up the night sky.
• Live at Lunch: Free summer concert series spanning July through September, featuring diverse musical acts performing in the Heart of Bellevue.
• Bellevue Arts Fair Weekend: Co-produced by the Bellevue Downtown Association and Bellevue Arts Museum, this event features 350+ legacy and emerging artists exhibiting and selling handcrafted works across 20+ mediums.

Pride and Community

• Paws & Pride Dog Walk: The Eastside welcomes Pride Month with this LGBTQIA+ dog walk in Downtown Bellevue, supported by Symetra and organized by the Bellevue Downtown Association and Eastside Pride PNW.
• Farmers Markets: Bellevue hosts multiple farmers markets throughout warmer months, with the downtown market offering locally-grown produce, artisan goods, live music, and community atmosphere.

Day Trips from Bellevue: Regional Adventures

Bellevue's central Eastside location makes it the perfect basecamp for exploring the Pacific Northwest's natural wonders:

Nearby Destinations (15-30 minutes)

• Woodinville Wine Country: Just 15 minutes north, explore 70+ wineries including pioneers Chateau Ste. Michelle and Columbia Winery alongside boutique producers like Betz Family and Januik Winery.
• Kirkland: Charming waterfront city with art galleries, boutique shopping, beach parks, and exceptional dining along Lake Washington.
• Redmond: Home to Microsoft headquarters, Marymoor Park, and growing downtown core with breweries and restaurants.
• Sammamish: Suburban community offering Lake Sammamish State Park with beaches, trails, and water sports.

Regional Attractions (30-60 minutes)

• Snoqualmie Falls: One of Washington's most popular scenic attractions with 1.5+ million annual visitors, featuring a 270-foot waterfall, two-acre park, hiking trails, observation deck, and gift shop.
• Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park: Expansive forested park in the "Issaquah Alps" filled with diverse wildlife habitats, streams, wetlands, and remnants of Washington's mining history.
• Mt. Rainier National Park: Full-day tours available from Bellevue, offering glacier views, alpine meadows, and iconic Pacific Northwest landscapes.
• Downtown Seattle: Just 10 miles and 20 minutes across Lake Washington via SR-520 or I-90 floating bridges, providing access to Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, and urban attractions.

Transit and Accessibility: Connected Living

Sound Transit Link Light Rail

The 2 Line opened in April 2024, connecting Bellevue to Redmond with stations at South Bellevue, Bellevue Downtown (underground station serving the city core), and continuing to Redmond Technology Center. The extension to Downtown Redmond opened in May 2025, and the line is scheduled to extend to Seattle in early 2026, joining the 1 Line at Chinatown-International District.

This $3.7 billion infrastructure investment transforms Bellevue's connectivity, making car-free living more feasible and reducing commute times to major employment centers. The underground downtown tunnel preserves street-level walkability while providing rapid transit access.

Highway Access

Bellevue's central location with I-405 running through the city and connections to I-90 and SR-520 provides excellent regional access. Commute times to major Eastside and Seattle destinations remain reasonable despite growth, though rush hour traffic on I-405 requires consideration.

What This Means for Potential Residents

The breadth and quality of things to do in Bellevue reveal much about what makes this city exceptional for residents:

• For Families: World-class schools combine with family-friendly amenities like KidsQuest Museum, beach parks, community centers, and safe neighborhoods to create an ideal environment for raising children.
• For Professionals: Proximity to Amazon, Microsoft, Meta, Google, T-Mobile, and other tech employers reduces commute stress while luxury shopping, fine dining, and cultural attractions provide work-life balance.
• For Active Lifestyles: With 80+ miles of trails, seven beach parks, golf courses, community centers, and easy access to mountains and water, Bellevue supports outdoor recreation and fitness goals.
• For Cultural Engagement: Despite its reputation as a tech suburb, Bellevue offers sophisticated art, music, dining, and entertainment that rivals much larger cities.
• For Diversity Seekers: With 42.4% of residents born outside the U.S. and 49.6% speaking a language other than English at home, Bellevue's international character creates a globally-minded community.

Comparing Bellevue to Other Eastside Communities

Bellevue's amenities distinguish it from neighboring cities:

• vs. Kirkland: Kirkland offers more waterfront charm and walkable downtown character, while Bellevue provides greater shopping, dining variety, and urban sophistication.
• vs. Redmond: Redmond centers around Microsoft campus and suburban character, while Bellevue offers more luxury retail, upscale dining, and urban amenities.
• vs. Sammamish: Sammamish provides more affordable family housing and Lake Sammamish recreation, while Bellevue delivers walkable urban living and cultural attractions.
• vs. Mercer Island: Mercer Island offers exclusive waterfront living and top schools, while Bellevue provides more diverse housing options and greater amenity variety.
• vs. Bothell: Bothell offers more affordable entry points and small-town character, while Bellevue delivers big-city amenities and career opportunities.

Making Your Move to Bellevue

Understanding the depth of Bellevue's entertainment, cultural, and recreational offerings is essential when considering a move to this dynamic city. The things to do in Bellevue reflect a community that has thoughtfully balanced growth with livability, urban sophistication with natural beauty, and economic opportunity with quality of life.

Whether you're drawn to luxury shopping at The Bravern, weekend hikes through Mercer Slough, family outings to KidsQuest Museum, or fine dining at Ascend Prime, Bellevue offers experiences that enrich daily life in countless ways.

Contact our team to explore Bellevue neighborhoods and find your perfect home in this exceptional city. Cindy Kelly and her team specialize in matching buyers with Eastside communities that fit their lifestyle, from Bellevue and Kirkland to Redmond, Sammamish, and beyond.

Life in Bellevue is about more than just a home address—it's about access to world-class amenities, natural beauty, cultural richness, and a community that continues evolving while maintaining its commitment to quality of life. Ready to experience it for yourself?