Need a Pacific Northwest escape with a tech twist and outdoor charm? Head to Redmond! Known as the home of Microsoft, Redmond blends high-tech innovation with lush parks, scenic trails, and a walkable downtown. Whether you’re biking the Sammamish River Trail, tasting local brews, or exploring art installations, Redmond offers a perfect mix of nature and culture near Seattle.

Redmond, WA Highlights:

  • For Adventurous Travelers: Bike the Sammamish River Trail – A scenic 10-mile path connecting Redmond to Woodinville and Bothell along the riverfront.
  • For History Buffs: Tour the Redmond Historical Society’s exhibits – Learn about the city’s logging and agricultural roots at local museums and walking tours.
  • For Shoppers: Browse Redmond Town Center – Open-air shopping, dining, and entertainment with national retailers and local boutiques.
  • For Couples: Enjoy a wine tasting in Woodinville Wine Country – Just minutes away, savor local reds and whites at dozens of nearby wineries and tasting rooms.
  • For Families: Play at Marymoor Park – Explore 640 acres of recreation with a climbing wall, off-leash dog park, concerts, trails, and a summer outdoor movie series.

Best Time to Visit Redmond, WA

The best time to visit Redmond is from May through September for mild weather, outdoor events, and clear skies. Spring and fall offer beautiful foliage and fewer crowds, while winters are cool and damp—great for cozy cafés and indoor attractions.

How to Get to Redmond, WA

  • By Car: Redmond is located about 20 miles northeast of Seattle, accessible via I-405 and WA-520.
  • By Plane: Fly into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), about 40–45 minutes away by car or shuttle.
  • By Transit: Redmond is served by King County Metro buses, and future Link light rail service will connect to Seattle and Bellevue.

Where to Stay in Redmond, WA

  • Aloft Seattle Redmond – Stylish hotel near Microsoft and Marymoor Park, with modern amenities and a hip lounge.
  • Seattle Marriott Redmond – Located in Redmond Town Center, this upscale hotel is perfect for shopping and dining access.
  • Archer Hotel Redmond – Chic boutique hotel offering craft cocktails, a rooftop patio, and personalized service.

Best Things to Do in Redmond, WA

Dine on Artful American Fare at Woodblock

Dine on Artful American Fare at Woodblock

© 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

Play, Picnic, or Catch a Concert at Marymoor Park

Play, Picnic, or Catch a Concert at Marymoor Park

© Kirsten Wahlquist/stock.adobe.com

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

Bike or Stroll Scenic Greenways on the Sammamish River Trail

Bike or Stroll Scenic Greenways on the Sammamish River Trail

© Chris/stock.adobe.com

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.

Sip Science-Inspired Brews at Postdoc Brewing

Sip Science-Inspired Brews at Postdoc Brewing

© 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

Taste a Local Classic at Mac and Jack’s Brewery

Taste a Local Classic at Mac and Jack’s Brewery

© 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

What to do if you are traveling with kids:

Explore Forest Trails and Meadows at Evans Creek Preserve

Explore Forest Trails and Meadows at Evans Creek Preserve

© DmitriK/stock.adobe.com

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

Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:

Rev Up for Indoor Racing at K1 Speed Seattle

Rev Up for Indoor Racing at K1 Speed Seattle

© 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

Sample Wines with a View at Cave B Estate Winery

Sample Wines with a View at Cave B Estate Winery

© 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

If You’re Curious About Ancient Drinks, Try Sky River Mead Winery

If You’re Curious About Ancient Drinks, Try Sky River Mead Winery

© 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

Where to Eat in Redmond, WA

  • Woodblock – Inventive New American cuisine in a cozy downtown space with a standout cocktail menu.
  • Tipsy Cow Burger Bar – Local favorite for creative burgers, boozy shakes, and craft beers.
  • Matts’ Rotisserie & Oyster Lounge – Upscale casual dining with a Northwest twist, seafood, and steakhouse fare.

If you are interested in local events:

  • Redmond Derby Days (July) – Historic summer festival with bike races, live music, parades, and a vibrant community fair.
  • So Bazaar Night Market (August) – Evening street market with global food, music, and art pop-ups along the Sammamish River.
  • Valley Rhythms at Marymoor (Summer) – Weekly outdoor concert series featuring regional and international performers.

If you are looking for unique day trips within 30–60 Minutes of Redmond, Washington:

  • Seattle (30–40 min) – Explore Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, and vibrant neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and Ballard.
  • Bellevue (20 min) – Visit Bellevue Botanical Garden, the art museum, and high-end shopping in Bellevue Square.
  • Woodinville (15 min) – Wine tasting, craft breweries, and garden walks in a charming town just north of Redmond.
  • Snoqualmie Falls (45 min) – See one of Washington’s most famous waterfalls with dramatic views and nearby trails.
  • Mount Si or Rattlesnake Ledge (45–60 min) – Popular hiking spots for sweeping vistas of the Cascade foothills.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • What is Redmond, Washington known for?
    • Redmond is popularly known as the home of Nintendo of America and Microsoft, making it a key hub for technology and innovation.
  • Why is Redmond called the "Bicycle Capital of the Northwest"?
    • Redmond earned this title due to its annual Redmond Bicycle Derby, a multi-day event featuring a race around Lake Sammamish, a parade, and local foods and activities.
  • What unique attractions can visitors explore in Redmond?
    • Visitors can explore the Microsoft Visitor Center, enjoy a scenic walk along the Sammamish River Trail, and visit local craft breweries that call Redmond home.
  • What events should visitors check out in Redmond?
    • Be sure to attend the Washington Brewers Festival, which takes place at the end of June and showcases some of the best craft brews in the region.

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