Things To Do
in Kirkland
Kirkland is a city located in the state of Washington, on the eastern shore of Lake Washington. It is known for its waterfront parks, boutique shopping areas, and vibrant arts scene. The city has a mix of residential neighborhoods, commercial districts, and green spaces.
Kirkland is also home to tech companies and has a strong community focus on sustainability and outdoor activities.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $80 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a walk along the Kirkland waterfront, enjoying the stunning views of Lake Washington. Grab breakfast at a local café to fuel up for the day.
Visit the Kirkland Arts Center to appreciate local art and craftsmanship. Spend some time at Marina Park, relaxing and taking in the scenery.
Dine at a waterfront restaurant for a delightful meal with sunset views. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach to end your wonderful day.
Begin your day by visiting a popular coffee shop to savor some freshly brewed coffee. Take time to enjoy a pastry and people-watch in the vibrant downtown area.
Attend a workshop at the Kirkland Arts Center to try your hand at a new skill like pottery or painting. Explore the shops along Park Lane for unique finds.
Join a community event or live music at a local venue to unwind. Savor dinner at a cozy bistro to wrap up your cultural day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong community feel and sense of belonging.
- Access to beautiful parks and outdoor activities, including Lake Washington.
- Great public schools and educational opportunities.
- Proximity to Seattle offers cultural and employment opportunities.
- Diverse dining and shopping options.
- Low crime rates compared to national averages.
- High cost of living, particularly housing prices.
- Traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.
- Overcast and rainy weather can be challenging for some residents.
- Potential for rapid development affecting the community feel.
- Higher taxes due to Washington state's tax structure.
Best Activities in Kirkland
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful wetlands and wildlife at Juanita Bay Park, perfect for bird watching and leisurely walks.
Enjoy walking, running, or biking along the scenic Cross Kirkland Corridor Trail, which connects several parks and neighborhoods.
Spend a day at Marina Park, where you can relax by the waterfront, have a picnic, or take part in water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kirkland with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kirkland
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a beautiful view of Lake Washington and the Seattle skyline, perfect for photos.
Provides stunning views of Lake Washington and the surrounding natural beauty.
Great for birdwatching and capturing serene views of the wetlands and wildlife.
Food in Kirkland
Kirkland Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try local dish is the Cedar Plank Salmon, prepared with a unique smoking technique that infuses rich flavor. Head to Anthony's HomePort for a delectable serving of this Pacific Northwest classic.
Must-Try!
For a truly local delicacy, try the Geoduck Clams, known for their sweet and briny taste. Visit The Crab Pot for an authentic taste of this unusual but delightful dish.
Beecher's Handmade Cheese offers a delectable Mac and Cheese dish using their famous cheese. Don't miss the opportunity to savor this rich and creamy comfort food.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kirkland better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the Kirkland Wednesday Market to find a variety of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and ready-to-eat street food from local vendors. It's an excellent place to experience the community's food culture.
The Juanita Friday Market is another fantastic spot to sample street food offerings and shop for locally-sourced ingredients. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and indulge in diverse culinary delights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kirkland, it's important to maintain a respectful distance when interacting with others and to be mindful of personal space.
Being on time is valued in Kirkland, so it's considered respectful to show up promptly for appointments and social gatherings.
In the United States, including Kirkland, it's customary to leave a tip of around 15-20% at restaurants to show appreciation for good service.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kirkland with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kirkland
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Kirkland, United States, is customary in the service industry, especially in restaurants, cafes, and bars. It is generally expected to tip around 15-20% of the total bill for good service. However, the exact percentage may vary depending on the quality of service received.
Payment in Kirkland, United States, is predominantly done using credit or debit cards, as well as cash. Most businesses, including restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues, accept major credit cards and contactless payment methods. Mobile payment apps are also commonly used for transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kirkland.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is one of the best times to visit Kirkland, as the weather starts to warm up and the cherry blossoms bloom around the city. You can expect pleasant temperatures and the beginning of outdoor events and activities.
Summer is another popular time to visit Kirkland, with warm and sunny weather ideal for outdoor activities such as boating on Lake Washington, exploring parks, and attending outdoor concerts and festivals.
Fall in Kirkland brings beautiful foliage as the leaves change color, making it a great time for scenic walks and hikes in the surrounding nature areas. The weather starts to cool down, but it's still generally pleasant for outdoor exploration.
Winter can be a quieter time to visit Kirkland, with occasional snowfall creating a picturesque scene. The city is less crowded, and you can enjoy cozy indoor activities like visiting local wineries, exploring art galleries, and attending holiday events.
Kirkland at Night
Hiking in Kirkland
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A serene park offering trails for hiking and horseback riding, surrounded by lush forests and a variety of wildlife.
This park features beautiful trails through wooded areas and along the shores of Lake Washington, along with scenic views.
A scenic park with walking trails, wetlands, and views of Juanita Bay, perfect for leisurely hikes and bird watching.
A picturesque pathway along the shoreline of Lake Washington, ideal for walking and enjoying views of the lake.
Offers a short picturesque trail along the waterfront, perfect for a casual hike and enjoying views of the marina.
A beautiful natural area featuring miles of trails through forests and wetlands, great for hiking and exploring nature.
This multi-use trail runs alongside the SR 520 bridge, providing a unique hiking and biking experience with views of Lake Washington.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kirkland through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kirkland by plane.
The primary airport serving the Seattle metropolitan area, located approximately 20 miles south of Kirkland.
Located about 25 miles north of Kirkland, this airport primarily serves domestic flights.
Situated around 15 miles southwest of Kirkland, this airport mainly caters to cargo and general aviation.
Located approximately 70 miles northeast in Canada, this airport serves a range of international and regional flights.
Situated about 150 miles to the north, this major international airport serves as a gateway to Canada.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Kirkland, making up a significant percentage of the population.
A prominent demographic group, representing a diverse range of cultures and ethnicities.
A growing demographic group in Kirkland, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
A smaller, yet important demographic group that adds to the community's diversity.
Individuals identifying with multiple races, reflecting the increasing diversity of the population.
A very small demographic group in Kirkland, with cultural and historical significance.
A lesser-represented demographic group, contributing to the community's diversity.
The Soul of Kirkland
Discover the essence of Kirkland through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is a widely played sport in Kirkland, with many youth leagues and local teams promoting participation and skill development.
Basketball is popular in Kirkland, with numerous courts available in parks and community centers, along with leagues for all ages.
Running has a strong community presence in Kirkland, featuring numerous trails and annual events such as fun runs and marathons.
Baseball is played at various levels in Kirkland, with dedicated fields and youth leagues encouraging young players.
Volleyball is a popular recreational sport in Kirkland, with both indoor and beach volleyball options available for locals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kirkland.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Kirkland offer an array of vegetarian and vegan options, with creative plant-based dishes available at DERU Market, Cafe Juanita, and Hector's Restaurant.
For those seeking gluten-free options, the culinary scene in Kirkland is accommodating, with several establishments providing dedicated menus and knowledgeable staff to cater to this dietary requirement.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kirkland with these cultural adventures.
