17 Best Things to Do in Redmond, WA

By VI Staff on October 25, 2019

Popularly known as the home of Nintendo of America and Microsoft, Redmond is a wonderful city in the state of Washington. Many even recognize the city as the “Bicycle Capital of the Northwest” - a name made popular from its annual Redmond Bicycle Derby, which is a multi-day event with a race around Lake Sammamish, a parade, and local foods and activities. There is so much to see and do during your visit there, and a few attractions which are unique to the area include the Microsoft Visitor Center, walking along the Sammamish River Trail, and visiting several of the craft breweries which consider Redmond home.

1.Woodblock

Woodblock is a vibrant restaurant that plays an integral role in the neighborhood. The dining establishment resembles more like eating over at a good friend’s place rather than a night out. You’ll find yourself being taken aback by the creative and eclectic rustic fare found on the menu. Every dish is made with intricate attention to detail and fine ingredients. Pair your meal with a classic drink, a seasonally inspired cocktail, an array of local craft beer, or a glass of old and new world wines. Their weekend brunch is extremely popular with patrons and includes choices of the croque madame, chicken and biscuits, breakfast tacos, or a Denver omelet.

Address: 16175 Cleveland St #109, Redmond, WA 98052, Phone: 425-285-9458

2.Marymoor Park

One of the largest and most popular parks in the area, Marymoor Park is visited by over three million people each year. The park was created in 1962, spans over 640 acres and can be found on the northern end of Lake Sammamish. There are several recreational activities for visitors of all ages to take part in such as walking, biking, and rock climbing. Additional amenities such as a velodrome, an off-leash dog park, a pet memorial garden, as well as a designated radio control aircraft flying field are also housed within the park. If you’re in Redmond during the summer, be sure to attend one of the park’s many events such as movie nights, concerts, and festivals.

Address: 6046 West Lake Sammamish Pkwy NE, Redmond, WA 98052, Phone: 206-477-7275

3.Sammamish River Trail

Running alongside a river of the same name, the Sammamish River Trail runs for over ten miles from Marymoor Park to Bothell. It is one of the most popular regional trails and attracts an array of people from walkers and joggers to cyclists and skaters; there is even trail access for horseback riding. As you venture through the trail, you’ll come along extraordinary views the river, the Sammamish River Valley, Mount Rainier, the Cascade foothills, and so much more. Be sure to keep an eye out for the unique local flora and fauna throughout the length of the trail.

4.Microsoft Visitor Center

From a garage startup to a leader in the global technology industry, Microsoft continues to have an amazing journey filled with growth and excitement. There’s no better place to understand their company than at the Microsoft Visitor Center in Redmond, Washington. Visitors will also be able to see and interact with some of the latest technology being developed anywhere in the world and explore the future of AI. Test out your gaming skills with Xbox Gaming or build a new world with Minecraft. Other aspects you’ll be able to see during your visit include Microsoft’s modern workspace, the Forza simulator, a LinkedIn photo booth, and much more.

Address: 92, 15010 NE 36th St, Redmond, WA 98052, Phone: 425-703-6214

5.Postdoc Brewing

Postdoc Brewing started long before it officially opened in 2013 as a garage-based passion project of Tom Schmidlin. Now, he is Head Brewer and co-owner along with his wife and their neighbors, and the garage brewery has grown to be a large-scale operation making waves in the craft brewing industry. Their taproom is extremely friendly and laid back, and visitors are even invited to bring in their puppies to hang out with them. Some of their most popular brews on tap include the Pineapple Blonde, the Barrel Admixture with Pink Peppercorn, the Motley Zoo Pale Ale, Stokes Law Pale Ale, the Lager Rhythmic, and the Demon Star which is Russian Imperial Stout which has flavors of roasted coffee and dark chocolate.

Address: 17625 NE 65th St #100, Redmond, WA 98052, Phone: 425-658-4963

6.Mac and Jack's Brewery

Mac and Jack’s Brewery originated in the early 1990s as a home brewery concocted by two friends, Jack Schropp and Mac Rankin. The craft brewery became official in 1993 and has grown drastically from a garage-based brewery to one of the largest breweries in the country. A majority of their beers are only available on draft, though some of the specialty beers can be purchased in cans or bottles. The brewery’s flagship beer, the African Amber, is one of the best-selling craft beers in the entire state and accounted for 95% of their production. Other popular brews include the Serengeti, the Blackcat, Theoretical Mass, Basket Case, and the Sum’Shine Pale Ale.

Address: 17825 NE 65th St, Redmond, WA 98052, Phone: 425-558-9697

7.Evans Creek Preserve

Spanning over 213 acres, the Evans Creek Preserve is an amazing outdoor space that provides fun for the entire family. You’ll be able to explore wetland areas, wildflower meadows, forested uplands and so much more. There’s a 3½ mile loop trail which pedestrians can use to wander through the preserve; it’s extremely quiet and calming and is a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Little ones love running around on the expansive fields and meeting the diverse array of wildlife that lives there. There are chances of coming across black bears, deer, beavers, hawks, songbirds, and so much more.

Address: 4001 224th Ave NE, Redmond, WA 98053, Phone: 425-295-0553

8.K1 Speed Seattle

If you’re in the mood for an exhilarating experience that combines speed and grace, then head on over to the indoor karting tracks at K1 Speed Seattle. The track is renowned for being challenging, yet suitable for visitors of all ages and abilities. They have both junior and adult electric karts to choose from so that visitors will be comfortable and have the best experience, no matter how the weather is outdoors. After you race against your friends and family, head on over to the Pit Cafe where you can refresh with snacks and drinks before your next race.

Address: 2207 NE Bel-Red Rd, Redmond, WA 98052, Phone: 855-517-7333

9.Cave B Estate Winery

The Cave B Estate Winery has been around for many years before, but the Woodinville Tasting Room opened in June 2013. The tasting room is housed in a quaint little residence that has been converted to a wonderful place to get together with friends and family. You can have a wine tasting on the open green lawn that spans far and wide. For a small fee you can get a flight of six wines from any of the open bottles available, and if you purchase any of the bottles of wine yourself, the fee can be used toward your purchase. Other items also available at the tasting room include wine accessories, Cave B merchandise, small gifts, jewelry, candles, metal and woodwork, and so much more.

Address: Woodinville Tasting Room, 14356 Woodinville, Redmond Road NE, Redmond, WA 98052, Phone: 425-949-7152

10.Sky River Mead Winery

Sky River Mead Winery is a place where patrons can be reintroduced to the exquisite world of mead and honey wine. The woman-owned winery is one of the older wineries in the entire state and can be found nestled in the rugged foothills of the Cascade Mountain Range. Their mead is brewed with hints of berries, pears, apples, and other fruits and flavors. The tasting room is unique and resembles a gallery space complete with the works of local artists. The patio area extends out into an expansive picnic area; it’s a marvelous place to enjoy a delicious glass of mead while exploring the evolving gardens and the beehives on display.

Address: 14270 Redmond-Woodinville Rd NE, Redmond, WA 98052, Phone: 425-242-3815

11.Forgeron Cellars

Established in 2001, Forgeron Cellars is considered one of the best vineyards in the state. The winemakers work with sustainable-focused growers because they believe that great winemaking starts with the essence of the fruit. You can partake in one of their tasting experiences, go on a tour of their full production facility, or do both. The private tasting experience will walk you through a flight of their most exceptional wines; the manager will walk you through the vineyards, curate the line-up, talk you through the flavor palate, and even go into detail about their winemaking practices for each of the wines you’re trying.

Address: 14344 Woodinville-Redmond Rd, Redmond, WA 98052, Phone: 425-242-8872

12.Second Story Repertory

The Second Story Repertory, or the SSR, opened its doors to the residents and visitors of Redmond in October of 1999. The SSR is renowned for being a wonderful date night location; they put on performances, dramas, musicals, comedies, and mysteries throughout the year. Every once in a while, you’ll also be able to attend poetry readings, improv comedy shows, and even burlesque performances - their schedule of events are varied and attract patrons of all ages. The live theater performances are one of the only places in the community where you can have such an experience. If you’re in Redmond for a longer period of time, you may want to take one of their classes on acting, stage directing, set displays, and much more.

Address: 7325 166th Ave NE Ste F250, Redmond, WA 98052, Phone: 425-881-6777

13.Icon Cellars

Having won several prestigious awards over the years, Icon Cellars produces an array of wines with a focus on Rhone varietals. The passion project of a man who spent over twenty years in the pharmaceutical/ biotech sector, Icon Cellars was an opportunity for Jim to showcase his love for wines and everything he’s learned about cellar operations and fine winemaking. Their tasting room is a wonderful place to try some of their most popular wines such as the 2016 Roussanne, the 2017 Petite Sirah, and the 2016 Gran Leon which is a 100% Malbec.

Address: 18564 142nd Ave NE, Woodinville, WA 98072, Phone: 425-223-7300

14.Kanishka

Indian cuisine is so rich in flavor and uses several spices and fresh ingredients to really pull a delicious dish together, and if you’re in the mood for traditional curries, naans, rice, and more, then there’s no better place in Redmond than Kanishka. The restaurant carefully combines the country’s traditional and unique food culture with more modern methods and twists. Their lunch buffet gives you the opportunity to feast on an array of different foods, letting you try a little bit of everything if you’re unsure of what you like. Other delicious items on the menu that shouldn’t be missed include the chicken pakora, the samosa chaat, and the chicken chilli tikka tandoori entree with bell peppers and onions.

Address: 16651 Redmond Way Ste 180, Redmond, WA 98052, Phone: 425-869-9182

15.Matts' Rotisserie and Oyster Lounge

Matts’ Rotisserie and Oyster Lounge in Redmond, Washington is a stylish and inviting dining establishment owned and operated by veteran restaurateurs Matt Fleck and Chris Matthew Hill. The upscale, yet casual, restaurant reflects their hard work and fun personalities. The menu comprises a wide range of cooking styles that showcase the chef’s diverse talents - everything from the rotisserie to the wood-fired grill is made of unique ingredients and created-from-scratch recipes. Be sure to try their hot Dungeness crab with the artichoke dip, the jambalaya, beef short rib stroganoff, the bleu cheese bacon burger, grilled halibut tacos, and the Berkshire applewood grilled pork chop. Located in: Redmond Town Center

Address: 7325 166th Ave NE f210, Redmond, WA 98052, Phone: 425-376-0909

16.Sip Thai Bistro

One of the newest additions to the dining scene in Redmond, Washington, Sip Thai Bistro is a fresh and contemporary restaurant that offers patrons a modern twist on a more traditional Thai cuisine. The unique environment is superb and has a laid back ambiance which is comfortable and cozy, making it the perfect place to feast on delicious, flavorful cuisine. Be sure to try some tasty Thai favorites like their pumpkin curry, the fisherman rice, and the crispy duck. No better way to end your meal than with one of the many fine teas served by the pot or desserts such as the Fried Banana served with a scoop of coconut ice cream or the ever popular mango sticky rice.

Address: 16146 NE 87th St, Redmond, WA 98052, Phone: 425-702-8411

17.BJ's Restaurant and Brewhouse

An integral part of the Redmond community, BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse can be found right in the middle of Redmond Town Center. They offer a dining experience unlike any other - the environment is casual, laid back, and perfect for groups of friends and family. You’ll experience only the finest service and freshest flavors when you visit BJ’s, and there’s something for everyone on the menu with over 120 items. Some of the most popular choices include the garden fresh specialty salads, their juicy handcrafted burgers, and the BJ’s Signature Deep Dish Pizza. Pair your meal with a craft brew such as the Tatonka Stout for the perfect blend of flavors. Located in: Redmond Town Center

Address: 7211 166th Ave NE, Redmond, WA 98052, Phone: 425-376-1560