Kirkland Travel Guide

The lively culture of city life meets the quietness of lakeside parks in this scenic and green community.

Kirkland is a city that makes the most of its lakeside setting by offering several attractive harbors, parks and walking trails along the waterfront. Not only that, but you’ll find all the art, shopping and dining you’d expect from city life. Enjoy an array of outdoor attractions based around scenic Lake Washington.

A British entrepreneur named Peter Kirk founded the city in the 1880s. Kirk was hoping to capitalize on the national need for steel by building a factory, but a stock market crash thwarted his dreams. In the early 20th century, Kirkland became one of the primary boatbuilding and fixing towns in the northwest.

Spend your days here outdoors. Marina ParkOpens in a new window, a quayside lined with public art, picnic spots and biking routes, is one of the city’s lakefront highlights. Bring fishing rods for a day of angling out on the tranquil water.

Hop on a bike and ride the Lake Washington Loop or plummet down the slopes of Big Finn Hill Park. For something at a slower pace, join one of the walking routes that wind around the beaches and marinas.

Bring your binoculars to Juanita Bay Park. This network of wetlands near the city center brims with wildlife.

Experience the cultural side of Kirkland on one of its art walks, which take place on the second Friday of each month. Join locals touring the public art sculptures of Downtown Kirkland. Alternatively, head to one of the many galleries in the city. Try the Howard/Mandville Gallery, Parklane Gallery or the Kirkland Arts Center for a varied selection of national and local works.

Kirkland is located to the northeast of SeattleOpens in a new window, about 30 minutes away by car from both King County International Airport and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. Visit in July and August for the hottest days and the lowest chance of rain.

One of the best ways to see Kirkland is by boat, so head out onto Lake Washington to drift along the city’s scenic coastline.