Bellevue Washington - Sunset with City Views
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Bellevue Washington

4.6
·491k reviews·Cheektowaga, United States

Bellevue, WA: A modern city blending upscale shopping, vibrant dining, and serene green spaces like the Botanical Gardens.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Gardens in bloom, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Bellevue Washington - Sunset with City Views

Bellevue Washington

Best Time

Spring mornings

Gardens in bloom, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Bellevue, WA: A modern city blending upscale shopping, vibrant dining, and serene green spaces like the Botanical Gardens.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A beautiful city with great shopping and parks, perfect for a day trip or longer stay."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Park Smart

Utilize parking garages for easier access to downtown attractions.

👟 Comfortable Shoes

Essential for exploring parks and the expansive downtown area.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bellevue Botanical Gardens

Bellevue Botanical Gardens

12001 Main St, Bellevue, WA 98005

A lush urban oasis with diverse plant collections and serene walking paths.

Bellevue Square

Bellevue Square

575 Bellevue Square, Bellevue, WA 98004

Premier shopping destination with a wide array of luxury and popular retail brands.

Downtown Bellevue Park

Downtown Bellevue Park

401 116th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA 98004

Expansive urban park featuring a waterfall, amphitheater, and scenic city views.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Bellevue's Urban Core

Bellevue, WA, offers a vibrant downtown with shopping and dining. Consider parking garages for easier access to attractions like Bellevue Square. Public transport is available, but exploring on foot is best for the downtown area. Reddit

Embrace the Outdoors

Beyond the city buzz, Bellevue boasts beautiful green spaces. The Bellevue Botanical Gardens are a must-see for nature lovers. Plan for comfortable shoes if you intend to explore parks and trails. Reddit

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Gardens in bloom, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Beat the weekend shopper rush
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer evenings
Why
Pleasant weather for parks
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

30¢ wing night / Bellevue Hotel, Cheektowaga NY

🚗 Park Smart

Utilize parking garages for easier access to downtown attractions. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

Essential for exploring parks and the expansive downtown area. Reddit

🌸 Garden Serenity

Visit the Bellevue Botanical Gardens in spring for peak bloom. Reddit

🛍️ Shopping Strategy

Bellevue Square is a major draw; consider weekdays to avoid peak crowds. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Park Smart

Utilize parking garages for easier access to downtown attractions. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

Essential for exploring parks and the expansive downtown area. Reddit

🌸 Garden Serenity

Visit the Bellevue Botanical Gardens in spring for peak bloom. Reddit

🛍️ Shopping Strategy

Bellevue Square is a major draw; consider weekdays to avoid peak crowds. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Bellevue, WA, is praised for its modern urban amenities, upscale shopping, and beautiful green spaces like the Botanical Gardens and Downtown Park. Visitors appreciate the convenience of downtown attractions and the city's overall cleanliness and safety. Some find parking challenging during peak hours and the city can feel less vibrant on weekends compared to Seattle.

What People Like

Upscale shopping
Beautiful parks
Clean and modern

What People Dislike

Parking can be difficult
Can be quiet

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Bellevue is easily accessible by car via I-405 and I-90. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is about a 30-40 minute drive away. Public transportation options include King County Metro buses connecting Bellevue to surrounding areas. Reddit

King County Metro operates a bus system that serves Bellevue and connects it to Seattle and other Eastside cities. Light rail service is also expanding in the region, offering more transit options. Reddit

Downtown Bellevue is very walkable. For longer distances or to reach surrounding neighborhoods, consider using ride-sharing services or the local bus network. Reddit

Yes, Bellevue has several park-and-ride lots, particularly near transit hubs, making it convenient for commuters and visitors using public transport. Reddit

Driving is common, but parking in the downtown core can be challenging during peak hours. Utilizing parking garages is recommended for easier access to shopping and dining. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to the Bellevue Botanical Gardens is generally free, though donations are appreciated. Special events may have associated ticket costs. Reddit

Bellevue Square typically opens around 10 AM and closes at 8 PM or 9 PM, with slightly different hours on Sundays. It's always best to check their official website for the most current hours. Reddit

Downtown Bellevue Park is a public space and is free to enter and enjoy. Reddit

Yes, numerous hotels in Bellevue, WA, including options like the Hilton Garden Inn Bellevue Downtown and hotels near Bellevue Square, can be booked online through various travel websites and hotel direct sites. Reddit

Popular choices include the Hilton Garden Inn Bellevue Downtown, and hotels near Bellevue Square offer convenient access to shopping and dining. The best hotel in Bellevue Washington often depends on your specific needs and budget. Reddit

🎫 📍 Onsite Experience

Downtown Bellevue offers extensive shopping at Bellevue Square, dining options, and the beautiful Downtown Bellevue Park. You can also find art installations and a lively atmosphere. Reddit

Bellevue has a diverse culinary scene, from casual eateries to upscale dining. You'll find a wide range of cuisines, with many options concentrated in the downtown area and around Bellevue Square. Reddit

The Bellevue Botanical Gardens offer stunning floral displays, and Downtown Bellevue Park provides city skyline views. The architecture around Bellevue Square also makes for interesting shots. Reddit

Bellevue is generally considered a safe city with a low crime rate, especially in its well-maintained downtown and residential areas. Reddit

Bellevue offers a blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. It's known for its modern architecture, upscale shopping, and accessible green spaces, creating a dynamic environment. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Bellevue offers a wide variety of dining options. Explore restaurants in Bellevue Square for convenience, or venture into the downtown area for diverse culinary experiences. Reddit

Bellevue features a range of cuisines, from Pacific Northwest fare to international flavors. Look for restaurants with outdoor seating in pleasant weather or those offering unique tasting menus. Reddit

Many restaurants in Bellevue cater to families, offering kid-friendly menus and a relaxed atmosphere. Areas around Bellevue Square and the downtown core have numerous options. Reddit

Yes, Bellevue's diverse dining scene includes many restaurants offering vegan and vegetarian dishes. It's advisable to check menus online or call ahead. Reddit

Dining prices in Bellevue can vary widely, from affordable casual spots to high-end fine dining. You can find options to suit most budgets. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Bellevue Botanical Gardens are a prime spot for nature photography, especially during spring blooms. Downtown Bellevue Park offers cityscapes and architectural shots. Reddit

Yes, from elevated points in Downtown Bellevue Park or certain hotel rooftops, you can capture impressive views of the Bellevue skyline. Reddit

Golden hour (shortly after sunrise and before sunset) offers beautiful lighting for outdoor photography in parks and gardens. Midday can be good for capturing the modern architecture. Reddit

Photography is generally permitted inside Bellevue Square for personal use, but commercial photography may require permission. Be mindful of other shoppers. Reddit

Most Bellevue parks allow personal photography. However, commercial shoots or drone photography may require permits. Always check park signage or the city's website for specific regulations. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Bellevue offers several family-friendly attractions. Downtown Bellevue Park is a great spot with open spaces for kids to run around and a fun splash pad during warmer months. The Bellevue Botanical Gardens can also be an engaging visit, with plenty of nature to explore. Reddit

When dining, look for restaurants with dedicated kids' menus or a casual atmosphere. Many shopping centers, including Bellevue Square, have food courts or family-oriented eateries. Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid the busiest times, making the experience more relaxed for everyone.

🛍️ Shoppers & Foodies

Bellevue is a paradise for shoppers, with Bellevue Square being the undisputed highlight, offering a vast selection of high-end and popular retail brands. Beyond the mall, the downtown area features unique boutiques and specialty stores. Reddit

Food enthusiasts will find a diverse culinary landscape. From quick and casual eats to sophisticated fine dining, Bellevue caters to all tastes. Explore the numerous restaurants in the downtown core and around the shopping districts for a memorable gastronomic journey. Consider visiting during weekdays to enjoy a more relaxed shopping and dining experience.

🌳 Nature Enthusiasts

For those who love the outdoors, Bellevue provides beautiful green spaces. The Bellevue Botanical Gardens are a must-visit, showcasing a stunning array of flora throughout the year. Reddit

Downtown Bellevue Park offers a more urban park experience with walking paths, water features, and city views. If you're looking for day trips, Bellevue is a convenient starting point for exploring natural wonders like Mount Rainier or Olympic National Park, though these require significant travel time. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Bellevue's Green Spaces

Bellevue, Washington, is renowned for its commitment to green spaces, offering a refreshing contrast to its modern urban landscape. The Bellevue Botanical Gardens are a jewel, featuring themed gardens like the Japanese Garden and the Fuchsia Garden, providing a tranquil escape and excellent opportunities for nature photography. Visitors often praise the well-maintained paths and the sheer variety of plant life, making it a peaceful retreat. Reddit

Downtown Bellevue Park is another significant green lung, offering expansive lawns, a striking waterfall, and an amphitheater. It's a popular spot for picnics, leisurely strolls, and enjoying views of the city skyline. For those looking for more active outdoor pursuits, the surrounding areas offer numerous trails and access to Lake Washington, perfect for a day trip or a scenic drive. Reddit

When visiting these natural attractions, comfortable footwear is highly recommended, as you'll likely be doing a lot of walking. The best times to visit are often during the spring for blooming flowers or summer for pleasant weather, though each season offers its unique charm. Reddit

Shopping and Dining in Downtown Bellevue

Downtown Bellevue is a premier destination for shoppers, anchored by the expansive Bellevue Square. This upscale mall houses a wide array of national and international retailers, from luxury brands to popular department stores, making it a hub for retail therapy. Beyond the mall, the surrounding downtown streets are dotted with boutiques and specialty shops, offering a diverse shopping experience. Reddit

The culinary scene in Bellevue is equally vibrant, with a concentration of restaurants in the downtown core and within Bellevue Square. Visitors can find everything from quick bites and casual cafes to sophisticated fine dining establishments. The city boasts a diverse range of cuisines, reflecting its international population, with options for seafood, Asian, Italian, and more. Reddit

For those planning a visit, weekdays are often recommended to avoid the peak crowds that flock to Bellevue Square on weekends. Exploring the various dining options can be an adventure in itself, with many restaurants offering outdoor seating during warmer months. Reddit

Accommodation Options in Bellevue

Bellevue offers a range of accommodation options to suit different traveler needs and budgets. For those seeking convenience and modern amenities, hotels like the Hilton Garden Inn Bellevue Downtown and other downtown Bellevue hotels are popular choices, placing visitors close to shopping, dining, and business districts. Reddit

When searching for a place to stay, keywords like 'best hotel in Bellevue Washington' or 'hotel near Bellevue Square' can help narrow down your options. Many hotels provide easy access to major attractions and transportation routes, making them ideal bases for exploring the city and the wider Seattle metropolitan area. Reddit

Consider booking in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons or major local events, to secure the best rates and availability. Checking reviews for specific hotels can provide valuable insights into guest experiences regarding service, cleanliness, and location. Reddit

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