whatdo

Things To Do
in Lake Stevens

Day Trips

Tours

Attractions

Prices

Lake Stevens is a charming city located in the state of Washington, United States. It is named after the beautiful lake that it surrounds, offering stunning views and outdoor recreational activities. The city has a mix of residential areas, parks, and shopping centers, providing a good quality of life for its residents.

With a strong sense of community and a small-town feel, Lake Stevens is a great place to live or visit.

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Lake Stevens Tours

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
  • ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $60 - $120
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Lake Stevens
morning
:

Start your day with a peaceful walk along the waterfront. Enjoy the fresh air and beautiful views of the lake.

afternoon
:

Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the waters. Get some lunch from a local café after your water activities.

evening
:

Visit a lakeside restaurant for dinner as you watch the sunset. Relax and reflect on your day with an ice cream treat.

day 2
Nature Adventure
morning
:

Hike on nearby trails such as the Centennial Trail. Breathe in the natural beauty around you.

afternoon
:

Visit the Lake Stevens Community Park for a picnic lunch. Enjoy the playground and the expansive green areas.

evening
:

Attend a campfire at a local campsite. Roast marshmallows and share stories under the stars.

Lake Stevens Day Trips

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery, with easy access to Lake Stevens for outdoor activities like boating and fishing.
  • Strong sense of community with various local events and activities.
  • Good schools and educational opportunities for families.
  • Proximity to Seattle offers access to a larger job market and urban amenities.
  • Lower cost of living compared to nearby urban areas.
  • Limited public transportation options, making a car necessary for most residents.
  • Can experience heavy traffic, especially during peak commuting hours.
  • Higher rates of rainfall compared to other regions may affect outdoor plans.
  • Limited shopping and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
  • Growing population may lead to increased congestion and strain on local resources.

Best Activities in Lake Stevens

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Lake Stevens Park

A popular park for picnicking, walking trails, swimming, and fishing.

Cavelero Park

Offers playgrounds, sports fields, and beautiful views of Lake Stevens.

Pilchuck Park

Ideal for hiking and birdwatching, with scenic views of the lake and mountains.

Places to Visit in Lake Stevens

Visit one of these nice places.

Wyatt Park

Offers a beautiful view of the lake and surrounding mountains, perfect for photos

North Cove Park

Scenic spot with a panoramic view of Lake Stevens, great for capturing the sunset

Lundeen Park

Scenic park on the waterfront with picturesque views, ideal for photography enthusiasts

Food in Lake Stevens

Lake Stevens offers a diverse culinary scene with a mix of traditional American fare and international cuisine. The town is known for its fresh seafood, locally sourced produce, and friendly neighborhood eateries.

Lake Stevens Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pacific Northwest Salmon

Locally caught salmon prepared using various cooking techniques, such as cedar plank grilling, and served with seasonal vegetables.

Must-Try!

Dungeness Crab Cakes

Succulent crab meat mixed with herbs and breadcrumbs, pan-fried to perfection, and served with a zesty aioli.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Lake Stevens Farmers Market

Open on Saturdays, this market offers a wide array of fresh produce, artisanal products, and ready-to-eat snacks from local vendors.

Food Truck Fridays

Every Friday, food trucks gather at the town square, offering a variety of cuisines ranging from wood-fired pizzas and gourmet burgers to international street food.

Weather

The climate is characterized as temperate maritime, influenced by its proximity to the Cascade Range and Puget Sound. Winters tend to be cool and wet, with temperatures often averaging in the low 40s Fahrenheit (around 5°C). Snowfall is infrequent but can occur, particularly in higher elevations nearby. Summers are generally warm and dry, with temperatures typically ranging from the upper 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (about 25-30°C). Rainfall is significantly lower during the summer months. The area also experiences a fair amount of cloud cover throughout the year, especially in the winter. Average annual precipitation is around 30-40 inches, with the majority falling between October and March. The region benefits from a mild climate, making it suitable for outdoor activities year-round, though residents do experience a distinct change of seasons.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect personal space

In Lake Stevens, it is important to maintain appropriate distance when interacting with others, especially in public places or social gatherings.

Use polite language and gestures

Polite language and gestures are valued in Lake Stevens, so it's important to use 'please' and 'thank you' and be respectful in verbal and non-verbal communication.

Respect local customs and traditions

Respecting local customs and traditions, such as participating in community events and festivals, is a way to show cultural sensitivity and respect in Lake Stevens.

Safety

Safety in this city is generally considered to be above average compared to national statistics. The community benefits from a close-knit environment where residents often look out for one another. Law enforcement operates actively to maintain peace and respond to any incidents promptly. Crime rates for property crimes and violent crimes are typically lower than the national average, contributing to a sense of security among residents. However, like any community, it’s advisable for residents and visitors to remain vigilant, especially in more populated areas or during nighttime. Local initiatives focus on community safety, including neighborhood watch programs and community policing efforts, which further enhance the overall safety of the area. Additionally, the city provides resources for emergency preparedness and safety education to keep residents informed and prepared for various situations. Overall, while no place is entirely without risk, inhabitants can generally feel secure in their day-to-day lives in this region.

Tipping in Lake Stevens

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Lake Stevens, tipping is customary in restaurants, bars, and other service-oriented establishments. It is common to tip around 15-20% of the total bill for good service.

Payment

Payment in Lake Stevens is predominantly done using credit/debit cards, cash, or digital payment methods. Most businesses accept major credit cards, and contactless payments are becoming increasingly popular.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring is a popular time to visit Lake Stevens as the weather starts to warm up and nature comes to life. Visitors can enjoy the blooming wildflowers, pleasant temperatures, and outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and boating.

Summer

Summer is the peak tourist season in Lake Stevens due to the warm weather and abundance of outdoor recreational activities. Visitors can expect crowded beaches, festivals, water sports, and lively community events.

Fall

Fall offers stunning foliage and cooler temperatures, making it an ideal time for scenic drives, hiking, and enjoying the changing colors of the landscape. The fall season also brings harvest festivals and seasonal food events.

Winter

Winter at Lake Stevens brings a quieter atmosphere with fewer tourists. While the weather may be colder, visitors can still enjoy outdoor activities like snowshoeing, skiing, and cozying up by the fireplace. The holiday season also brings festive events and celebrations.

Lake Stevens at Night

The nightlife in Lake Stevens offers a more laid-back and community-focused experience compared to the bustling atmospheres of larger cities. While it may not have the concentrated high-energy clubs found in urban centers, there are plenty of ways to enjoy an evening out. Local bars and pubs are popular spots where residents gather to enjoy a drink, listen to live music, and sometimes participate in trivia nights or karaoke. Restaurants in the area often provide cozy settings for dinner and drinks, with some offering patios or lakeside views for a more scenic night out. Additionally, occasional events and gatherings hosted by local organizations can add a unique flavor to the nightlife scene, such as seasonal festivals, outdoor movie nights, or special community events at local parks. For those looking to extend their night, nearby larger towns or cities can provide more diverse nightlife options including theaters, clubs, and a wider variety of entertainment. Overall, the nightlife in Lake Stevens is about enjoying the simple pleasures and tight-knit community vibes.

Hiking in Lake Stevens

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Pilchuck

A popular hiking destination offering stunning panoramic views of the North Cascades and the surrounding area. The trail is about 5.4 miles round trip with a significant elevation gain.

Lake 22 Trail

An 8-mile round trip hike that takes you to a beautiful alpine lake, surrounded by scenic mountain views. This hike features lush forests and a picturesque waterfall.

Snoqualmie Falls Trail

A short trail (1.5 miles) that leads to one of Washington's most iconic waterfalls. The views are breathtaking, especially in spring and fall.

Rattlesnake Ledge

A 4-mile round trip hike that provides stunning views of Rattlesnake Lake and the surrounding hills. A popular spot for both hiking and photography.

Twin Falls Trail

An easy 3.5-mile hike that follows the Snoqualmie River and showcases beautiful waterfalls cascading down moss-covered rocks, perfect for family outings.

Aiports

How to reach Lake Stevens by plane.

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)

The primary international airport serving the Seattle metropolitan area, located approximately 40 miles southwest of Lake Stevens.

Bellingham International Airport (BLI)

An international airport located about 50 miles north of Lake Stevens, serving both domestic and some international flights.

Pangborn Memorial Airport (EAT)

An airport located approximately 70 miles southeast of Lake Stevens, offering limited commercial flights and serving the Wenatchee area.

Everett's Paine Field (PAE)

Located about 20 miles west of Lake Stevens, this airport mainly serves domestic flights and is close to the Seattle area.

Walkability

Walkability in this city is influenced by several factors, including neighborhood design, accessibility to amenities, and the presence of walkable pathways and sidewalks. The local infrastructure features a mix of residential areas, parks, and commercial zones, but not all neighborhoods are equally pedestrian-friendly. Many parts of the city are characterized by suburban-style developments, which can often require residents to rely on cars for daily errands and commutes. However, there are areas where sidewalks and trails are available, making it easier for pedestrians to access nearby shops, schools, and recreational facilities. Efforts have been made to improve connectivity and safety for walkers, with some parts of the community offering pathways that link parks and public spaces. Overall, while certain districts may have good walkability and access to essential services, others may lack the infrastructure to support a fully walkable lifestyle. This variability often encourages ongoing discussions about urban planning and community development to enhance pedestrian experiences and reduce dependence on vehicles.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

White

The largest demographic group in Lake Stevens, primarily of European descent.

Hispanic or Latino

A significant demographic group representing individuals of Hispanic or Latino origin.

Asian

Includes individuals of Asian descent, particularly from countries like China, India, and the Philippines.

Black or African American

Represents individuals with origins in Africa or of African ancestry.

Two or More Races

Comprises individuals who identify with two or more racial categories.

Native American

Refers to individuals of indigenous North American descent.

Pacific Islander

Includes individuals from the Pacific Islands such as Hawaii, Guam, and Samoa.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is a widely played sport in Lake Stevens, with many youth leagues and adult recreational teams available.

Basketball

Basketball enjoys popularity in Lake Stevens, featuring school teams and community leagues.

Baseball/Softball

Baseball and softball are common sports for youth, with several leagues for children and adults.

Football

American football is popular at the high school level, with many students participating in local teams.

Lacrosse

Lacrosse is gaining popularity in Lake Stevens, especially among high school athletes.

Volleyball

Volleyball is played in schools and has community leagues, particularly during the summer.

Track and Field

Track and field events are prominent in schools, providing opportunities for both competition and fitness.

Hiking and Outdoor Activities

With access to natural spaces, hiking and outdoor sports are popular recreational activities in Lake Stevens.

Traffic

Traffic in this city is influenced by a mix of suburban characteristics and proximity to larger urban areas, particularly Seattle. Commuters frequently travel to nearby job centers, leading to peak congestion during morning and evening rush hours. Major thoroughfares like SR 204 and SR 9 serve as primary routes for both residents and those traveling through the area. The city's growth over the years has resulted in increasing traffic volume, with residential developments contributing to a higher number of vehicles on the roads. Public transportation options are limited, so many residents rely on personal vehicles. Seasonal factors, such as summer weekends, can also intensify congestion due to recreational activities in nearby natural attractions. Efforts to improve traffic flow and safety include infrastructure upgrades and the promotion of alternative transportation methods, but challenges remain as the population continues to grow. Overall, while traffic can be managed, peak times and ongoing development will require continued attention to ensure efficient movement throughout the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Lake Stevens.

Hotels Apartments

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Many eateries in Lake Stevens offer a selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes, including veggie burgers, tofu stir-fries, and plant-based bowls.

Gluten-Free Choices

Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find gluten-free alternatives at various restaurants and cafes, such as gluten-free pizza, salads, and quinoa bowls.

Healthcare

In this city located in Snohomish County, access to healthcare services is facilitated by a variety of local clinics, hospitals, and healthcare providers. Residents typically rely on nearby facilities in larger cities, such as Everett or Seattle, which offer more specialized medical care. Primary care options include family medicine and urgent care clinics that provide routine check-ups, minor emergencies, and preventive care. Dental and vision care services are also available, enhancing the comprehensive health services in the area. Local health initiatives may focus on community wellness, preventive health screenings, and education programs to promote healthy lifestyles among residents. Additionally, mental health services are increasingly recognized, with available resources for counseling and support. For more complex medical needs, residents often access the healthcare infrastructure in neighboring cities, which boast larger hospitals with specialized departments such as maternal health, pediatrics, and emergency care. Insurance coverage varies, but there are options for both private plans and public assistance through programs like Medicaid for eligible residents. Overall, healthcare in this community is characterized by a combination of local resources and greater access to specialized services in surrounding urban areas, ensuring a range of healthcare needs can be met.

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