Things To Do
in Sammamish

Sammamish is a city located in the state of Washington in the United States. It is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including lakes, parks, and forests. The city has a reputation for being a family-friendly community with top-rated schools and a high quality of life.

Sammamish offers a mix of suburban living and outdoor recreational opportunities, making it a popular place to live for those who enjoy an active lifestyle.

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
  • Coffee: $3 - $6
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $70 - $150
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $100

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Sammamish Outdoor Adventure
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing hike at the scenic Duthie Hill Park. Enjoy the natural beauty and perhaps spot some wildlife along the trails.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head over to the Sammamish Commons Park for some fun outdoor activities. You can take a leisurely walk around the lake or enjoy a picnic by the shore.

evening
:

Wind down your day with a visit to a local restaurant for dinner. Savor the flavors of the Pacific Northwest cuisine while overlooking the beautiful lake.

day 2
Sammamish Beach Day
morning
:

Begin your day at Pine Lake Park where you can swim or relax on the beach. Bring your beach towel and soak up the sun!

afternoon
:

Grab lunch at a nearby café before renting a paddleboard or kayak to explore the lake. It's a great way to stay active and enjoy the waters.

evening
:

As the day winds down, have a barbecue at the park with family or friends. Enjoy the stunning sunset while grilling your favorite meals.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Strong community and family-friendly atmosphere
  • Excellent schools and educational opportunities
  • Low crime rate and safe neighborhoods
  • Access to numerous parks and outdoor recreational activities
  • Proximity to major cities like Seattle and Bellevue
  • Vibrant local economy with various businesses and services
  • High cost of living and expensive housing market
  • Limited public transportation options
  • Can experience heavy traffic during peak hours
  • Less diversity compared to nearby urban areas
  • Weather can be rainy and overcast for extended periods
  • Fewer entertainment options compared to larger cities

Best Activities in Sammamish

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Sammamish Plateau Trail

Hiking and biking trail with scenic views of the surrounding landscape.

Beaver Lake Park

Offers a range of outdoor activities including hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching.

Sahalee Country Club

Golf course surrounded by natural beauty, providing a great outdoor recreational experience.

Places to Visit in Sammamish

Visit one of these nice places.

Beaver Lake Park

Beaver Lake Park offers stunning views of the lake, as well as picturesque walking trails and picnic areas for photo opportunities.

Sammamish Landing Park

Sammamish Landing Park overlooks Lake Sammamish and provides beautiful views of the water and surrounding scenery, perfect for capturing memorable photos.

Pine Lake Park

Pine Lake Park features a scenic lake with a picturesque dock, providing a serene setting and great photo opportunities for nature lovers.

Food in Sammamish

Sammamish, located in the state of Washington, offers a diverse culinary experience with a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and a blend of international flavors. From hearty Pacific Northwest cuisine to a vibrant food scene influenced by various cultures, there's something to tantalize every taste bud.

Sammamish Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Salmon Chowder

Creamy chowder with fresh salmon, potatoes, and herbs. A Pacific Northwest favorite showcasing the region's abundant seafood.

Must-Try!

Dungeness Crab Cakes

Delicately seasoned crab cakes made with locally caught Dungeness crab. Served with a tangy remoulade for a delightful appetizer or main course option.

Huckleberry Pie

Indulge in the sweetness of local huckleberries in a classic pie. The perfect blend of tart and sweet in a flaky crust.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Sammamish Farmers Market

This weekly market offers an array of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, handcrafted goods, and ready-to-eat treats. Try the diverse offerings from food trucks showcasing global street food flavors.

Weather

The climate in this region is characterized as a temperate maritime climate, which is influenced by its proximity to the Pacific Ocean. Winters are typically mild and wet, while summers are warm and relatively dry. During the winter months, temperatures usually range from the mid-30s to the low 50s Fahrenheit (around 1-10°C), with regular rainfall and occasional snowfall. The wettest months generally occur from October to March, contributing to the lush greenery that the area is known for. Summers, on the other hand, generally see temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit (approximately 18-30°C). This season often features sunny days with less precipitation, making it a popular time for outdoor activities. Overall, the region experiences moderate humidity and is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including forests, lakes, and mountains, thanks to its unique climate conditions.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect personal space

In Sammamish, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when having a conversation.

Practice inclusivity

Inclusivity and respect for diversity are valued in Sammamish, so it's important to be open-minded and show respect towards people from different backgrounds.

Follow social etiquette

Adhering to social etiquette such as being punctual, saying 'please' and 'thank you', and demonstrating good table manners is considered respectful in Sammamish.

Safety

Located in King County, Washington, this suburban city is known for its low crime rates and strong community involvement, contributing to a sense of safety among residents. The area benefits from an active police department that encourages community policing and public safety initiatives. Neighborhoods are well-maintained, and many residents participate in watch programs that promote vigilance and cooperation among neighbors, further enhancing community safety. Additionally, the presence of parks, recreational spaces, and schools encourages a family-friendly environment. Overall, the combination of community engagement, efficient law enforcement, and a suburban setting leads many residents to feel secure in their daily lives.

Tipping in Sammamish

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Sammamish, tipping is a common practice in the service industry. It is customary to tip around 15-20% of the total bill at restaurants, cafes, and other service-related establishments.

Payment

Payments in Sammamish are primarily made using credit or debit cards, and cash is also widely accepted. Mobile payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are also becoming increasingly popular.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (March to May)

Spring is a popular time to visit Sammamish as the weather starts to warm up, and beautiful cherry blossoms can be seen in bloom. The temperatures are mild, and outdoor activities such as hiking and picnicking are enjoyable.

Summer (June to August)

Summer is the peak tourist season in Sammamish with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It's an ideal time for outdoor recreational activities such as swimming, boating, and fishing in the nearby lakes.

Fall (September to November)

Fall in Sammamish brings colorful foliage and comfortable temperatures, making it a great time for scenic drives, hiking, and visiting local farms for apple picking and pumpkin patches.

Winter (December to February)

Winter in Sammamish is typically cool and wet, with occasional snowfall in the higher elevations. While outdoor activities may be limited, it's a quiet and peaceful time to explore indoor attractions and enjoy cozy evenings by the fireplace.

Sammamish at Night

Nightlife in Sammamish tends to be more relaxed and family-oriented compared to the bustling scenes found in larger cities. The primary focus is on community events and gatherings that encourage residents to connect in a serene and amiable environment. Although the city lacks the array of clubs and bars typical of urban nightlife, there are local eateries, cafes, and breweries that offer cozy spots for a night out. Seasonal events, outdoor concerts, and activities at local parks, such as Pine Lake Park, are popular. Restaurants often feature live music, trivia nights, or open mic sessions, providing entertainment without the need for extensive travel. For a more vibrant nightlife experience, residents usually head to nearby cities like Bellevue or Seattle, where a wider variety of entertainment options are available. Overall, nightlife in Sammamish embodies a community-centric and laid-back vibe, making it a perfect locale for those who prefer a quieter, yet still engaging, evening experience.

Hiking in Sammamish

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sammamish State Park

A beautiful park with access to Lake Sammamish, featuring scenic trails and picnic areas.

Mount Si Trailhead

A popular hiking spot offering challenging trails with stunning views of the Cascade Mountains.

Rattlesnake Ledge

A hike with breathtaking views of Rattlesnake Lake and the surrounding mountains.

Twin Falls Trail

A family-friendly hike that follows the South Fork Snoqualmie River and offers views of Twin Falls.

Tiger Mountain State Forest

A vast area with numerous trails, including the popular Poo Poo Point hike, known for its paragliding launch site.

Aiports

How to reach Sammamish by plane.

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)

The primary airport serving the Seattle metropolitan area, located approximately 25 miles southwest of Sammamish.

Paine Field (PAE)

A regional airport located in Everett, about 35 miles north of Sammamish, serving domestic flights and a limited number of international services.

Boeing Field/King County International Airport (BFI)

Located closer to downtown Seattle, about 20 miles southwest of Sammamish, mainly serving general aviation and some commercial flights.

Renton Municipal Airport (RNT)

Located roughly 15 miles southwest of Sammamish, serves general aviation and has some charter flight services.

Walkability

Walkability in Sammamish, Washington, is characterized by a blend of suburban development and natural landscapes. The city features a mix of residential areas, parks, and some commercial zones, which affects how easily residents can navigate on foot. The presence of trails, such as those at Lake Sammamish State Park and throughout various neighborhoods, encourages outdoor activities and provides safe walking paths. However, the overall walkability can be limited due to the reliance on cars for access to shops, restaurants, and services, as many of these are spread out. In terms of infrastructure, while there are sidewalks in many residential areas, the connectivity between different neighborhoods and amenities can vary. Some areas may have well-maintained pedestrian routes, while others may lack sufficient pathways, making walking less convenient. Community initiatives have been aimed at improving walkability, and there is an ongoing effort to enhance pedestrian access to parks, schools, and business districts. As urban planning evolves, the city is looking to balance development with walkable environments to make Sammamish more pedestrian-friendly in the future.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

White

Predominantly non-Hispanic White population, making up a significant majority.

Asian

Includes individuals of Asian descent, such as Chinese, Indian, and Filipino.

Hispanic or Latino

Individuals who identify as Hispanic or Latino, representing a smaller percentage of the population.

Black or African American

A minority group that includes both African Americans and those from other regions of Africa.

Two or More Races

Individuals identifying with two or more racial backgrounds.

Native American or Alaska Native

Includes individuals who identify as Native American or Alaska Native.

Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander

Represents a very small percentage of the population, including native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islanders.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

A popular team sport in Sammamish with numerous leagues and youth programs promoting skills and teamwork.

Basketball

Widely played in schools and community centers, offering competitive leagues and recreational play for all ages.

Volleyball

Enjoyed both indoors and on outdoor courts, with clubs and summer leagues fostering participation.

Tennis

A well-liked individual and doubles sport with public courts available and community tournaments hosted regularly.

Baseball

A traditional American sport with youth leagues and local teams, especially popular in spring and summer.

Swimming

Provides both recreation and competition with community pools and swim teams active throughout the year.

Golf

A recreational favorite with several golf courses in the area, offering opportunities for all skill levels.

Running

Promoted through local clubs and events, with scenic trails and parks encouraging fitness and community participation.

Traffic

Located in Washington State, the city experiences a mix of suburban and rural traffic patterns. It is primarily residential, which means that traffic is often heavier during morning and evening commutes when residents are traveling to and from work. The road network consists of several main thoroughfares that connect the city to neighboring areas, leading to congestion during peak hours. Because Sammamish is surrounded by natural landscapes and has limited public transportation options, many residents rely on personal vehicles for their daily commutes. As a result, traffic volumes can increase significantly, especially on major routes such as East Lake Sammamish Parkway and 228th Avenue NE. Infrastructure improvements and road maintenance efforts are ongoing to manage traffic flow, but challenges remain due to rapid population growth in the region. The city has been making efforts to enhance walkability and promote alternative transportation methods, which may help alleviate some congestion in the future. Overall, while traffic can be an issue during peak times, its suburban nature means that outside of those periods, congestion tends to be manageable.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sammamish.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan

Many restaurants in Sammamish offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, with options ranging from plant-based curries to hearty grain bowls filled with fresh, local produce.

Gluten-Free

Several eateries and bakeries in Sammamish provide gluten-free choices, including gluten-free bagels, pizzas, and desserts to cater to those with gluten sensitivities.

Healthcare

In this suburban city located in Washington State, healthcare services are accessible and diverse, catering to the needs of its residents. Local healthcare providers include primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities, ensuring that residents have options for both routine and emergency medical care. The city is in proximity to larger urban centers, such as Bellevue and Seattle, which host renowned hospitals and specialized medical institutions. Residents are able to access advanced medical services, including hospitals that offer comprehensive care in various fields such as cardiology, oncology, and neurology. Community health initiatives often focus on preventative care and wellness, with resources available for mental health support, physical therapy, and nutrition counseling. Local clinics and wellness centers may offer additional services such as vaccinations, screenings, and health education programs. Insurance coverage varies amongst the population, with many residents utilizing employer-sponsored plans or government programs. Overall, the healthcare landscape in this area reflects a commitment to quality care, with an emphasis on accessibility and convenience for the community.

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