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Bellevue is the third-largest city in the state of Washington. It lies just east of Seattle across the waters of Lake Washington. This gorgeous city offers all the attractions that a city like Seattle can offer but with a luxurious, small-town vibe.
If you are looking to live near nature, Bellevue is the best place for you. The city has many things to do, including green spaces and recreational parks for its residents to enjoy. Here are some of the best parks in Bellevue and the amenities that they offer:
Park #1: Bellevue Downtown Park
Bellevue Downtown Park is a 21-acre green oasis located right in the heart of Bellevue. It is walking distance from the Bellevue Square Mall. Whether you want to relax on a bench, go for a morning jog, have a picnic with friends, or simply walk your dog, Bellevue Downtown Park is the perfect location.
Perhaps the most iconic feature of the park is the whopping 240-foot wide water feature that cascades into a reflecting pond. Bellevue Downtown Park also has a delightful stretch of lawn space where you can barbecue with Bellevue’s skyline and Mount Rainier in the background.
Park #2: Newcastle Beach Park
Located on the shores of Lake Washington, Newcastle Beach Park is Bellevue’s largest beach park. It is particularly popular with young children because it features a bright train toy and a large sandy beach for them to play on. The park has three picnic areas for reservation and one shelter, ideal for groups looking to picnic or barbecue.
Newcastle Beach Park also has sunbathing options, a nature trail, and a swimming pool. Whether you are looking to throw a birthday party for your children or host a family reunion, the 300-feet of Newcastle Beach Park is sure to have something for you.
Park #3: Robinson Community Park
Robinson Community Park has a wide variety of amenities: a tennis center, walking trails, an animal corral, a barn, athletic fields, a pond, open fields, and the historical Robinswood House. It also has a children’s play area, 2 soccer fields, a baseball field, a picnic area, and ten wooded acres with hiking paths. Robinson Community Park has something to please everyone!
Park #4: Entai Beach Park
The Entai Beach Park is the gateway to Lake Washington and the water trails of Mercer Slough Nature Park. This park has a picnic area, a boathouse, a swimming dock, and seasonal canoe and kayak rentals. It also has a playground, an open lawn, and a sandy beach.
The location of Entai Beach Park is not easy to find because it’s out of the way. It’s located under the I-90 bridge, but be sure you have detailed instructions on how to get there.
Park #5: Mount Rainier National Park
On clear days, you can see Mount Rainier from Bellevue. Ascending 14,410 feet above sea level, the Mount Rainier National Park is an iconic aspect of the Washington Landscape. It is located in northeast Lewis County and southeast Pierce County.
Mount Rainier is an active volcano and the most glaciated peak in the United States. It has 5 major rivers, including West Fork, Mowich, Puyallup, and Nisqually. The park has stunning hiking trails, mountain meadows, and waterfalls. The closest route from Bellevue is the Northwest Carbon River Entrance, although the Southwest Nisqually Entrance is usually the more popular option.
Park #6: Meydenbauer Beach Park
Meydenbauer Beach Park is a hidden gem that was significant in the history of Bellevue. It is located in the shores of Lake Washington, which also happens to be the landing point of ferries running from Seattle.
The park was redesigned in 2017 and expanded from 2.5 acres to 10 acres along the shores of Lake Washington. It has a beach house, a children’s play area, several picnic areas, a swimming beach, terraces for pedestrian walkways, and a 400-foot curved pier extending into the bay. Meydenbauer Beach Park is located close to Bellevue Square, just down the street from the major shopping district and only a block away from Pagliacci Pizza.
Park #7: Bellevue Botanical Garden
Bellevue Botanical Garden is a wonderful place to experience the natural world of the Pacific Northwest. It has 53-acres of natural wetlands, restores woodlands, and cultivated gardens with trails weaving throughout them.
Park #9: Clyde Beach Park
Image Source: David Herrara via Flickr https://www.flickr.com/photos/dph1110/2671588737
Clyde Beach Park is a 2.2-acre park that is conveniently located right off of Lake Washington. It features a play area, a picnic area, a boathouse, and a designated swimming area. Clyde Beach Park is great for families!
Conclusion: Best Parks in Bellevue
Whether you live in Bellevue or are just visiting, there are a number of great parks in and near the city for you to check out while you’re there. With the variety of different amenities each park offers, there’s one that is sure to please everyone. Read about the features of each one above and pick the one that’s best and most convenient for you.
What are your favorite parks in Bellevue?