Want a scenic Pacific Northwest escape with lakeside charm? Head to Kirkland, Washington! Located on the eastern shores of Lake Washington, Kirkland blends upscale shopping, waterfront dining, and outdoor beauty just minutes from Seattle. It’s a walkable, art-filled town perfect for relaxing strolls, wine tasting, and enjoying the best of the Puget Sound region.
Kirkland, WA Highlights:
- For Outdoor Lovers: Relax at Marina Park – Enjoy lake views, walking trails, and summer concerts in the heart of downtown.
- For Art Enthusiasts: Explore the Kirkland Arts Center and public art walks – Check out galleries, rotating exhibitions, and sculptures throughout the city.
- For Shoppers: Browse boutiques in Downtown Kirkland – Stroll through stylish shops, bookstores, and waterfront cafés.
- For Wine Lovers: Taste local varietals at Kirkland Urban and nearby wineries – Sample reds and whites from the Woodinville Wine Country scene just minutes away.
- For Families: Play and picnic at Juanita Beach Park – Swim, paddleboard, or enjoy the sandy shores and playgrounds.
Best Time to Visit Kirkland, WA
The best time to visit Kirkland is from May to October when the weather is sunny, the lake is bustling, and festivals fill the waterfront parks. Summers are perfect for outdoor dining, art fairs, and boat rentals.
How to Get to Kirkland, WA
- If you are traveling by car: Kirkland is just off I-405, about 20 minutes northeast of downtown Seattle and 30–35 minutes from SeaTac Airport.
- By Bus: King County Metro and Sound Transit buses connect Kirkland to Bellevue, Seattle, and other Eastside suburbs.
- By Plane: Fly into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and drive or use public transit to reach Kirkland.
Where to Stay in Kirkland, WA
- The Heathman Hotel – Elegant boutique hotel in downtown Kirkland with luxury amenities and walkability to the waterfront.
- Woodmark Hotel & Still Spa – Upscale lakeside retreat with spa services, fine dining, and stunning Lake Washington views.
- Courtyard by Marriott Seattle Kirkland – Comfortable, modern option with easy highway access and family-friendly accommodations.
Best Things to Do in Kirkland, WA
⮕ For families: Marina Park
Walk along the waterfront and enjoy lake views on a relaxing weekend outing.
Come enjoy 700 feet of Lake Washington’s shoreline in the middle of beautiful downtown. Marina Park’s 3.5 acres provide the perfect spot to spend the afternoon experiencing the sites and culture of Kirkland. Visitors can fish, bike, or take a stroll and browse the sculptures and interpretive markers that make up the various points of interest. Gas grills are allowed and a gazebo can be rented for special gatherings. The park hosts a variety of special events throughout the year and offers easy access to waterfront dining. Seventy-seven boat slips are available on a first-come first-served basis, and boat launch passes can be purchased.
25 Lakeshore Plaza Dr, Kirkland, WA 98033, 425-587-3300
⮕ For summer fun seekers: Juanita Beach Park
Swim, picnic, and savor summer fun on this family-friendly shoreline trip.
Juanita Beach Park is where families can have the best beach experience in the Kirkland area. The park offers fun outdoor amenities and activities for visitors of all ages. Renovated in 2011, its enhanced beaches and walking paths can now be enjoyed with better parking, restrooms, and picnic areas. Horseshoe pits, volleyball areas, tennis courts, ball fields, play grounds, an open-air amphitheater, and public docks all make for a fun day at the beach. Restrooms with changing areas and concession stands along with barbeque grills and group rental facilities are available in open season. The park is closed in the winter.
9703 NE Juanita Dr, Kirkland, WA 98034, 425-587-3300
⮕ For birdwatchers: Juanita Bay Park
Spot birds and explore peaceful boardwalks during a quiet nature walk.
Juanita Bay Park is a beautiful 110-acre nature preserve in the middle of Kirkland’s urban area. Steal away from the bustle of the city for a peaceful walk or jog along the park’s 3,000 feet of trails and boardwalks. Relax on the lawn with a picnic lunch and take in the views of the scenic wetlands and marshes, which abound with birds, turtles, beavers, and other wildlife and fauna. Guided tours are offered the first Sunday of every month at 1 PM. Park services are closed in winter, but visitors can enjoy the benches, green spaces, and views year-round.
2201 Market St, Kirkland, WA 98033, 425-576-8805
⮕ For cyclists and joggers: Cross Kirkland Corridor Trail
Bike or walk scenic paths and enjoy an easy, affordable outdoor escape.
The Cross Kirkland Corridor Trail is part of Kirkland’s revitalization and a reflection of the city’s commitment to establishing a healthy and eco-friendly community. A 5.75-mile section of the Eastside Rail Corridor will soon connect neighborhoods, schools, and businesses. Residents and visitors can now enjoy the 16-foot wide gravel interim trail that runs from 108th Ave NE to Slater Ave. Future plans are for the corridor to provide multi-modal transportation opportunities so that residents can lead a healthier lifestyle. Today it offers a playground and children’s zip line, a total-body resistance training area, a sand volleyball court, and a basketball court.
123 Fifth Avenue Kirkland, WA 98033, 425-587-3011
⮕ For casual recreation: 132nd Square Park
Play, picnic, and enjoy kid-friendly green space on a fun family trip.
132nd Square Park, located between 1-405 and Kirkland, is a great place between to stretch your legs and enjoy the outdoors. With its unique address at 132nd Avenue and 132nd Street, the park has manicured baseball and soccer fields, along with a playground, plenty of park benches, and a paved walking path. The 9.75-acre park offers lots of green space to play and picnic, and ample parking and restrooms are available. A popular attraction in the park is the reflexology walking path. Roll your feet along the uneven stones to experience this ancient healing art designed to improve circulation and relieve stress.
13159 132nd Ave NE, Kirkland, WA 98034
Recommended Activities for Couples
⮕ For scenic explorers: Argosy Cruises - Lake Washington Cruise
Sail smooth waters and admire sights on a romantic weekend boat ride.
Argosy Cruises - Lake Washington Cruise is the must-do attraction in the Puget Sound area. Their public and private cruises provide a rare opportunity to experience breath-taking scenery and Northwest tribal culture in one of the country’s most beautiful settings. One-hour sightseeing tours of Seattle Harbor are available Jan-March, and 2 1/2 -hour cruises in Ballard Locks are operated Jan-May. Scenic cruises on Lake Union celebrating Seattle’s history and industry open in March. Lake Washington cruises featuring homes of the rich and famous are available in May. Beginning April 16th, take the popular Tillicum Village Excursion complete with a fish bake and tribal show.
⮕ For lake lovers: Doris Cooper Houghton Beach Park
Relax on the shore and paddle calm waters during a summer afternoon trip.
Located between Carillon Point and downtown Kirkland, Doris Cooper Houghton Beach Parkis the ideal place to take in some sunshine while enjoying scenic views of Lake Washington and Seattle. Easily accessible from downtown Kirkland, the park offers a swimming beach, volleyball courts, a kayak launching area, and a playground. The park is open year-round with restrooms available April – October, and a lifeguard is on duty in the summer season. The shallow swimming area for children along with the sunbathing and diving docks make the park a popular attraction on warm, sunny days. Large groups are encouraged to contact staff before visiting.
5811 Lake Washington Boulevard, Kirkland, WA, 425-587-3360
Restaurants
⮕ For casual hangouts: Chainline Brewing Company
Sip local craft beers and enjoy an exciting night out with friends.
Chainline Brewing Company is Kirkland’s newest spot to sample the locally made Northwest Ales and Lagers. Embracing the Eastside’s vibrant outdoor lifestyle, the brewery is located on the bicycle corridor and features an outdoor trailside deck with beautiful scenery. You can sample their drafts in local restaurants, or check their website for what’s on tap and visit the brewery to enjoy its fun, relaxing atmosphere. A food truck offers daily specials, and Trivia takes place Tuesday evenings starting at 7PM. The brewery provides a family outing where children and dogs are welcome.
500 Uptown Court, Suite 210, Kirkland, WA 98033, 425-822-3455
⮕ For romantics: Cafe Juanita
Savor Northern Italian cuisine and indulge in a romantic, unforgettable dining experience.
Spacious and airy with almost Zen-like and understated décor, Cafe Juanita is the result of Chef Holly Smith’s love for Northern Italian cuisine and wine and her modern, healthy interpretation of old North Italian classics. The relatively small menu is full of tantalizing surprises such as octopus with smoked bone marrow, chickpeas, and salsa verde. Ingredients are local and seasonal or imported from Northern Italy, which in some cases is the best option. Many dishes are gluten-free, and they make their gluten-free pastas and breads in-house. Produce is organic whenever possible, and wine pairings are offered, with an excellent selection of Northern Italian and Northwestern wines. In the skilled and inspired hands of the chef Holly Smith, Café Juanita proves that eating healthy can be a superb gourmet experience.
9702 NE 120th Pl, Kirkland, WA 98034, 425-823-1505
If you are interested in local events:
- Kirkland Summerfest (August) – Weekend of live music, art, food, and lakefront activities downtown.
- Wednesdays in Marina Park (July–August) – Free outdoor concerts with lake views and picnic vibes.
- Fourth of July Celebration – Parade and fireworks light up downtown and the waterfront.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Kirkland, Washington:
- Woodinville (20–25 min) – Washington wine country with tasting rooms, distilleries, and fine dining.
- Seattle (20–25 min) – Explore Pike Place Market, museums, and the iconic Space Needle just across Lake Washington.
- Bellevue Botanical Garden (15–20 min) – Peaceful, lush gardens with walking trails and seasonal blooms.
- Redmond (15 min) – Visit Marymoor Park, enjoy concerts, or explore the tech hub’s lively center.
- Saint Edward State Park (15 min) – Forested trails, lake access, and historic lodge architecture in a serene setting.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- What is the history of Kirkland?
- Kirkland began as the vision of a British businessman who wanted to create a steel town.
- Although the steel industry did not succeed, the town thrived by milling wool and building ships.
- What role did Kirkland play in World War II?
- The Lake Washington Shipyard on Carillon Point was instrumental in the war effort.
- It built 25 warships for the U.S. Navy during World War II.
- What attractions can visitors enjoy in Kirkland?
- Kirkland offers a variety of experiences, including outdoor concerts, a well-known wine festival, and high-quality art galleries.
- Visitors can also enjoy whale-watching tours and stay in excellent hotels.
- What dining experiences does Kirkland offer?
- The town boasts a selection of superb cafes and restaurants along the romantic waterfront.
- These dining spots offer breathtaking views of the Seattle skyline across the Puget Sound.
Plan Your Trip