10 Fun Things To Do Near Kirkland, Washington (King County)
Looking for fun things to do in and around
Kirkland, Washington? Whether you live on the Eastside or you’re planning a weekend trip from Seattle, Kirkland is a great base for exploring
Lake Washington, cozy neighborhoods, and the wider King County area.
Below are 10 easy, relaxed things to do near Kirkland that work for couples, families, or solo travelers. Think lakeside walks, wine tasting, local eats, and classic Pacific Northwest scenery.
1. Stroll the Waterfront at Marina Park
If you do only one thing in Kirkland, make it a slow walk along the waterfront at
Marina Park.
The park sits right on Lake Washington, just steps from downtown Kirkland. You’ll find:
- A long paved path for walking or jogging
- Plenty of benches to sit and watch the boats
- A small sandy beach area and a big open lawn
- A public dock where you can walk out over the water
On a sunny evening, the sunsets over Seattle and the
Olympic Mountains can be stunning. I like to grab a coffee from a nearby café and just watch the paddleboarders and sailboats drift by. It’s calm, simple, and very “Kirkland.”
2. Taste Wine in Nearby Woodinville Wine Country
Just a short drive (about 15–20 minutes) from Kirkland is
Woodinville, one of Washington’s best-known wine regions.
Here you’ll find:
- Dozens of tasting rooms, from big names to tiny family wineries
- Laid-back patios with fire pits and string lights
- Food trucks and local restaurants pairing Northwest food with local wines
If you’re not a wine expert, don’t worry. Most tasting rooms are friendly and casual. Tell them what you usually drink at home (sweet, dry, red, white), and they’ll point you in the right direction.
Tip: Appoint a designated driver, or use a ride-share so everyone can relax. Weekday afternoons are usually less crowded than Saturday nights.
3. Walk or Bike the Cross Kirkland Corridor
Want an easy way to stretch your legs without driving far? Check out the
Cross Kirkland Corridor, a 5-plus-mile trail that runs through the city on an old rail line.
You can:
- Walk, jog, or bike on a mostly flat gravel path
- Pass through quiet neighborhoods, parks, and light industrial areas
- Enjoy peek-a-boo views of Lake Washington and the Seattle skyline in spots
The trail is especially nice in spring and summer, when the plants along the sides are green and full. I like to start near the South Kirkland Park & Ride and head north, then stop for lunch or coffee in the downtown area.
If you have kids, look for side paths that connect to little playgrounds and pocket parks right off the corridor.
4. Spend a Relaxed Day at Juanita Beach Park
Just a few miles north of downtown,
Juanita Beach Park is a family favorite on warm days.
Here’s what you’ll find:
- Sandy lakefront beach with shallow areas for kids
- A long dock and boardwalk to walk out over the water
- Playground, picnic tables, and grassy areas for frisbee or soccer
- Restrooms and seasonal lifeguards in summer
If you don’t feel like packing food, there are usually nearby spots where you can pick up pizza, ice cream, or coffee. Bring a blanket, sunscreen, and maybe a good book, and you’re set for a simple, low-stress day.
5. Explore Downtown Kirkland’s Shops, Cafés, and Public Art
Downtown Kirkland is small enough to walk in an afternoon but packed with things to see.
You can:
- Browse local boutiques and gift shops
- Grab coffee, craft beer, or a glass of Washington wine
- Try everything from burgers and tacos to sushi and Mediterranean food
- Spot public art and sculptures tucked around corners and along the water
If you like to mix walking with “people watching,” this is a great spot. On summer weekends, you may also find street fairs, classic car shows, or outdoor markets.
An easy route: Park once, loop through downtown, then finish at the waterfront parks for sunset.
6. Paddle, Kayak, or Cruise on Lake Washington
Since Kirkland sits right on
Lake Washington, getting out on the water is almost mandatory.
Common options include:
- Kayak rentals from local shops near the waterfront
- Stand-up paddleboards for a fun, full-body workout
- Boat rentals or cruises from nearby marinas
If you’ve never tried paddling before, don’t let that scare you. Start close to shore on a calm day and you’ll pick it up quickly. Life jackets are usually included with rentals.
From the water, you’ll see Kirkland’s waterfront homes, downtown parks, and on clear days, even Mount Rainier standing way off in the distance.
7. Take a Day Trip to Seattle by Car or Bus
One of Kirkland’s best perks is how close it is to
Seattle. Depending on traffic, it’s about a 15–30 minute drive into the city.
Once you cross Lake Washington on one of the floating bridges, you can explore:
- Pike Place Market – fish throwing, fresh flowers, and local vendors
- Waterfront piers – ferries, seafood, and views of Elliott Bay
- Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) and the Space Needle
- Neighborhoods like Capitol Hill, Ballard, and Fremont
If you don’t want to deal with downtown parking, look into buses or park-and-ride options from Kirkland. It’s an easy way to get a “big city” day trip while staying somewhere quieter at night.
8. Visit the Village at Totem Lake for Shopping, Movies, and Eats
North of downtown Kirkland,
The Village at Totem Lake is a modern shopping and dining area that’s great for a simple night out.
You’ll find:
- A movie theater with comfortable, modern seating
- National brands mixed with local shops
- Restaurants ranging from quick bites to sit-down spots
- Seasonal events like outdoor music or holiday activities
If you’re traveling with a group where everyone wants something different—some want sushi, others want burgers—this is a low-stress solution. Park once, then let everyone choose what they’re in the mood for.
9. Hike or Picnic at Bridle Trails State Park
Just southwest of Kirkland, on the border with Bellevue, you’ll find
Bridle Trails State Park, a forested escape that feels far from the city even though it’s close.
What makes it special:
- Over 25 miles of rustic trails through tall trees
- Frequent horse riders (this is a big equestrian area)
- Soft dirt paths great for walking or trail running
You’ll need a
Discover Pass to park (a Washington state parks pass), which you can buy online or sometimes at nearby retailers.
If you’re used to paved city parks, this place feels like stepping into a classic Northwest forest—ferns, moss, and birdsong instead of car noise. Just watch out for muddy spots in the rainy months and be respectful of horses on the trail.
10. Enjoy Arts, Festivals, and Markets in Kirkland & King County
Throughout the year, Kirkland and nearby King County communities host a mix of events that add some extra fun to your visit.
Depending on the season, you might find:
- Outdoor concerts in Kirkland’s waterfront parks
- Art walks and gallery nights downtown
- Farmers markets with local produce and crafts (often spring through fall)
- Holiday lights and winter events in nearby Bellevue and Seattle
If you’re planning a trip, it’s worth checking city event calendars in advance. A simple evening stroll feels different when there’s live music in the park or food trucks lining the street.
Planning Your Visit to Kirkland, Washington
Here are a few quick tips before you go:
- Weather: Summers are usually warm and sunny; fall, winter, and spring can be rainy. Pack layers and a light rain jacket.
- Getting around: A car makes it easier to reach Woodinville, Bridle Trails, and Seattle, but local buses and ride-shares also work.
- Time of year: Summer is ideal for beaches and Lake Washington, but fall colors and winter coziness have their own charm.
Whether you’re into nature, local food, or just peaceful lake views, Kirkland is a relaxed Eastside base with plenty to do within a short drive.
What Would You Do in Kirkland?
Have you visited
Kirkland, Washington or King County before?
- Which of these things to do near Kirkland sounds best to you?
- Do you have a favorite park, café, or viewpoint I didn’t mention?
Share your thoughts in the comments and tell others what you loved most about Kirkland.
If you found this guide helpful, please
share it with a friend who’s planning a trip to the Seattle area or looking for new places to explore on the Eastside!
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