Kirkland, Washington Travel Guide

Discover Kirkland, Washington: A lakeside haven with stunning parks, vibrant arts, charming downtown, and endless outdoor activities for the perfect getaway.

Nestled on the eastern shores of Lake Washington, Kirkland offers a unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant arts, and a charming downtown area. The city boasts an array of waterfront parks where you can enjoy stunning views, tranquil walks, and a variety of water activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding. Marina Park is a favorite spot, perfect for picnics and evening strolls along the pier. Art lovers will appreciate Kirkland's commitment to the arts. The Kirkland Arts Center, located in a historic building, showcases local talent through its rotating exhibits and art classes. Public art installations are scattered throughout the city, adding a touch of creativity to your explorations. Don't miss the chance to visit the Kirkland Performance Center, where you can catch a live show ranging from theater to music concerts. Kirkland's downtown area is a delightful mix of boutique shops, gourmet restaurants, and cozy cafes. Enjoy a leisurely day shopping for unique finds or savoring delicious meals at one of the many eateries that offer everything from fresh seafood to international cuisine. The city's friendly atmosphere and walkable streets make it easy to discover new favorite spots. For those who love the outdoors, the Cross Kirkland Corridor offers a scenic trail for biking, running, or a pleasant walk. This 5.75-mile trail provides a great way to see different parts of the city and enjoy the lush surroundings. Additionally, Kirkland hosts seasonal events such as outdoor summer concerts and winter holiday markets, making any time of year a great time to visit.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kirkland.

Visit Marina Park in the evening for a breathtaking sunset over Lake Washington.
Check the schedule at the Kirkland Performance Center for live shows and events during your stay.
Explore the Cross Kirkland Corridor for a scenic and easy-to-navigate trail experience.
Don't miss the Kirkland Wednesday Market during the summer for local produce and artisanal goods.
Parking can be limited in downtown Kirkland; consider using public transportation or ride-sharing services.

Explore Kirkland: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Kirkland

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Pike Place Market

Explore Seattle's historic Pike Place Market, a vibrant hub of local cuisine, crafts, and culture with stunning waterfront views.

4.6

Space Needle

Experience breathtaking views and rich history at Seattle's iconic Space Needle, a must-visit landmark for every traveler exploring the Pacific Northwest.

4.6

Seattle Center

Explore Seattle Center, a cultural hub featuring the Space Needle, museums, concerts, and beautiful gardens, embodying the spirit of Seattle.

4.6

Chihuly Garden and Glass

Discover the enchanting fusion of art and nature at Chihuly Garden and Glass, a stunning museum showcasing Dale Chihuly's iconic glass masterpieces.

4.7

Best landmarks in Kirkland

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Juanita Beach Park

Explore the scenic beauty and recreational delights of Juanita Beach Park in Kirkland, Washington, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and families.

4.6

Marina Park Al Locke Pavilion

Experience the serene beauty of Marina Park Al Locke Pavilion, a picturesque beach pavilion on Lake Washington in Kirkland, Washington.

4.7

Idylwood Park

Explore Idylwood Park, a beautiful lakeside retreat in Redmond, Washington, offering beaches, walking trails, and family-friendly activities amidst stunning natural scenery.

4.6

Kathakali, An Indian Eatery

Discover authentic Indian cuisine at Kathakali, An Indian Eatery in Kirkland, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.

4.3

Best restaurants in Kirkland

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Cactus Kirkland

Discover the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Cactus Kirkland - your go-to destination for authentic Tex-Mex cuisine in Washington.

4.4

Kathakali, An Indian Eatery

Savor authentic Kerala cuisine at Kathakali in Kirkland; an exquisite Indian dining experience awaits with every bite.

4.3

DERU

Discover the taste of the Pacific Northwest at DERU in Kirkland – where fresh ingredients meet delicious culinary creativity.

4.5

Isarn Thai Soul Kitchen

Experience authentic Thai flavors at Isarn Thai Soul Kitchen in Kirkland – where tradition meets taste in every dish.

4.4

Best bars in Kirkland

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BeachHouse bar + grill

Experience the flavors of New American and seafood cuisine with stunning views at BeachHouse Bar + Grill in Kirkland, Washington.

4.3

Flatstick Pub - Kirkland

Experience the joy of craft beer and miniature golf at Flatstick Pub - Kirkland, a vibrant destination for fun-loving tourists.

4.4

The Lime

Experience delicious grilled cuisine and vibrant nightlife at The Lime in Kirkland, where live music and great food come together.

4.4

Bottle and Bull

Experience the perfect blend of innovative cocktails and New American cuisine at Bottle and Bull, overlooking the scenic Lake Washington.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Kirkland

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Flatstick Pub - Kirkland

Experience the ultimate blend of craft beers and miniature golf at Flatstick Pub in Kirkland, a fun-filled destination for all ages.

4.4

The Lime

Experience the vibrant nightlife of The Lime in Kirkland, where live music and delicious food create unforgettable evenings.

4.4

Bottle and Bull

Discover the elegance of Bottle and Bull, a premier cocktail bar and New American restaurant in Kirkland, offering creative drinks and delectable cuisine.

4.5

Lucky 7 Bar and Grill

Experience the vibrant flavors and welcoming ambiance at Lucky 7 Bar and Grill, Kirkland's favorite spot for delicious American cuisine and lively gatherings.

4.2

Best shops in Kirkland

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Bellevue Square

Discover Bellevue Square: a premier shopping destination in Bellevue, WA, featuring over 300 stores, diverse dining, and exciting events.

4.5

Seattle Premium Outlets

Discover unbeatable deals and a delightful shopping experience at Seattle Premium Outlets in Tulalip, Washington.

4.3

The Outlet Collection Seattle

Discover unbeatable deals and diverse shopping options at The Outlet Collection Seattle in Auburn, Washington.

4.2

Nordstrom

Explore Nordstrom in Seattle's Central Business District for a unique shopping experience with top brands and exceptional customer service.

4.4

Explore Kirkland on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Kirkland, mapped for you.

Kirkland Essentials

Kirkland is located in King County, Washington, United States. The nearest major airport is Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), approximately 20 miles away. From the airport, you can take a taxi, shuttle service, or use ride-sharing apps to reach Kirkland. Alternatively, Sound Transit's Link Light Rail and King County Metro buses provide public transportation options to Kirkland.
Kirkland is well-connected with public transportation options such as King County Metro buses, which cover most parts of the city. For more flexibility, consider renting a car. Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft are also widely available. Bicycles are a popular mode of transport, and there are numerous bike rental services and dedicated bike lanes throughout the city.
The official currency is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful, but it is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or in case you visit places that do not accept cards. Mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Wallet are also commonly accepted.
Kirkland is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it is wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Some areas in nearby Seattle have higher crime rates, so be cautious if you venture outside of Kirkland.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The Kirkland Police Department and local medical facilities are well-equipped to handle emergencies. Kirkland also has several pharmacies for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Casual wear is generally acceptable. Religion: Do respect all religious sites and practices. Public Transport: Do give up your seat to elderly passengers and avoid eating or drinking on public transportation. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a friendly nod. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties and seafood. Don't tip less than 15% at restaurants, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Kirkland like a local, visit the Kirkland Waterfront and Marina Park for stunning views and vibrant community events. Explore the numerous parks and trails, such as the Cross Kirkland Corridor. Don't miss the Kirkland Arts Center and the local farmers' markets for fresh produce and artisanal goods. Engage with locals; they are often friendly and willing to share recommendations on hidden gems in the city.

When is the best time to visit Kirkland?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Kirkland

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Kirkland. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [haʊ-di]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [siː jə]
- YesYep
  [jɛp]
- NoNah
  [nɑː]
- Please/You're welcomePlease
  [pliːz]
- Thank youThanks
  [θæŋks]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me
  [pɑːrdən miː]
- How are you?How's it going?
  [haʊz ɪt ˈɡoʊɪŋ]
- Fine. And you?Good. You?
  [ɡʊd juː]
- Do you speak English?You speak English?
  [juː spiːk ˈɪŋɡlɪʃ]
- I don't understandI don't get it
  [aɪ doʊnt ɡɛt ɪt]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMenu, please
  [ˈmɛnjuː pliːz]
- I don't eat meatNo meat for me
  [noʊ mit fɔr miː]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [ʧɪrz]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCheck, please
  [ʧɛk pliːz]
- Help!Help!
  [hɛlp]
- Go away!Get lost!
  [ɡɛt lɔst]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [kɔl ðə kɑps]
- Call a doctor!Call a doc!
  [kɔl ə dɑktər]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [aɪm lɔst]
- I'm illI'm sick
  [aɪm sɪk]
- I'd like to buy...I want to buy...
  [aɪ wɑnt tu baɪ]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [ʤʌst ˈbraʊzɪŋ]
- How much is it?How much?
  [haʊ mʌʧ]
- That's too expensiveToo pricey
  [tuː ˈpraɪsi]
- Can you lower the price?Can you do better?
  [kæn juː duː ˈbɛtər]
- What time is it?What's the time?
  [wʌts ðə taɪm]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [ɪts wʌn]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [hæf pæst tɛn]
- MorningMorning
  [ˈmɔrnɪŋ]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [ˌæftərˈnun]
- EveningEvening
  [ˈivnɪŋ]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [ˈjɛstərdeɪ]
- TodayToday
  [təˈdeɪ]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [təˈmɑroʊ]
- 1One
  [wʌn]
- 2Two
  [tuː]
- 3Three
  [θriː]
- 4Four
  [fɔr]
- 5Five
  [faɪv]
- 6Six
  [sɪks]
- 7Seven
  [ˈsɛvən]
- 8Eight
  [eɪt]
- 9Nine
  [naɪn]
- 10Ten
  [tɛn]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wɛərz ðə]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [wʌts ðə ˈædrɛs]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Show me on the map
  [ʃoʊ miː ɒn ðə mæp]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
  [wɛnz ðə nɛkst bʌs]
- A ticket (to ....)One ticket to ...
  [wʌn ˈtɪkɪt tu ...]

History of Kirkland

Kirkland was founded in the late 19th century by Peter Kirk, a British-born steel tycoon. Kirk envisioned the city as a major steel-producing hub akin to Pittsburgh. He acquired land and established the Kirkland Land and Improvement Company in 1888, laying the groundwork for the town that would bear his name.
The Great Depression of the 1930s had a profound impact on Kirkland, halting many of its industrial activities. The steel mill industry, which Peter Kirk had hoped to flourish, never fully materialized. However, the economic downturn forced the community to diversify its economic activities, leading to a gradual shift towards other forms of commerce and trade.
During World War II, Kirkland became a significant site for shipbuilding. The Lake Washington Shipyards, located in Carillon Point, were instrumental in producing military vessels. This era brought a surge in population and economic activity to the area, solidifying its importance in the wartime economy.
Following World War II, Kirkland underwent rapid suburban expansion. The construction of the Evergreen Point Floating Bridge in 1963 improved accessibility to Seattle, making Kirkland a desirable residential community for those working in the larger metropolitan area. This period marked the beginning of significant residential and commercial development.
In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Kirkland found itself at the heart of the burgeoning tech industry in the Pacific Northwest. Major companies like Google and Microsoft established significant presences in the area, transforming Kirkland into a hub for technological innovation. This influx of tech companies brought new economic growth and a surge in population.
Kirkland has long been a center for arts and culture. The establishment of the Kirkland Arts Center in the 1960s and the Kirkland Performance Center in 1998 provided venues for visual and performing arts. The city is also known for its public art installations, galleries, and annual events like the Kirkland Summerfest, which celebrates local art, music, and culture.
Today, Kirkland is known for its vibrant waterfront, bustling downtown, and high quality of life. The city has maintained its unique blend of historical charm and modern amenities, attracting residents and visitors alike. With numerous parks, a strong sense of community, and ongoing cultural events, Kirkland continues to thrive as a dynamic and appealing city in the Pacific Northwest.