Looking for the best things to do in Bellevue? Across Lake Washington from Seattle, Bellevue has grown into a gleaming tech hub with upscale shopping, beautiful parks and gardens. Locals point to the Bellevue Downtown Park and its waterfall, world-class shopping at Bellevue Square/The Collection, and the Bellevue Botanical Garden.
Things to do in Bellevue
Downtown Bellevue & Shopping
A modern downtown with Bellevue Square, Lincoln Square and The Bellevue Collection — top-tier shopping, dining and the Bellevue Arts Museum — plus the Downtown Park with its circular canal and waterfall.
Gardens & Nature
The lovely Bellevue Botanical Garden (with its winter Garden d’Lights), Mercer Slough Nature Park, and Meydenbauer Bay Park on the lake.
Lake Washington & Trails
Waterfront parks, kayaking, and the regional trail network connecting to Seattle and the Eastside.
Things to do in Bellevue at night
Downtown Bellevue’s restaurants, rooftop bars and The Collection lead the evening, with Seattle a quick trip across the bridge or on the new light rail.
Free things to do in Bellevue
- The Downtown Park and its waterfall
- The Bellevue Botanical Garden
- Mercer Slough and Meydenbauer Bay trails
What Bellevue locals actually recommend
The best park-and-garden spots, downtown restaurants, quiet lake access — that comes from people who live here. On Neighborhood Nurturers’ Bellevue community, real neighbors answer “what should I actually do this weekend?” Join your Bellevue neighbors free →
Frequently asked questions
What are the top things to do in Bellevue, WA?
Enjoy the Downtown Park and its waterfall, shop and dine at The Bellevue Collection, visit the Bellevue Botanical Garden and Bellevue Arts Museum, and explore Mercer Slough and the Lake Washington waterfront parks.
What is Bellevue, Washington known for?
Being a major Eastside tech hub across Lake Washington from Seattle — known for its modern downtown, upscale shopping, beautiful parks and gardens, and top schools.
What are free things to do in Bellevue?
The Downtown Park and its waterfall, the Bellevue Botanical Garden, and Mercer Slough and Meydenbauer Bay trails are all free.
Is Bellevue worth visiting near Seattle?
Yes — for its Downtown Park, upscale shopping, botanical garden and lake parks, all a quick trip across the bridge (or on light rail) from Seattle.