Kirkland
47.6769° N, 122.2060° W
Welcome to Kirkland
Kirkland, Washington, is a welcoming and vibrant waterfront city on the eastern shore of Lake Washington, celebrated for its scenic parks, walkable downtown, and thriving arts scene. Home to more than 90,000 residents, Kirkland blends small-town charm with easy access to Seattle, Bellevue, and Redmond—making it one of the Eastside’s most desirable places to live, work, and explore. Its pedestrian-friendly downtown is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and acclaimed dining, all contributing to a community atmosphere that feels both charming and sophisticated.
Life in Kirkland is deeply connected to the water and the outdoors. The city features 11 beautiful waterfront parks—anchored by Marina Park—where visitors can enjoy sandy beaches, boat and kayak rentals, and sweeping lake views. Incorporated in 1905 and originally envisioned as an industrial town by Peter Kirk, the city has grown into a cultural hub known for the Kirkland Performance Center, public art, Summerfest, the Wednesday Market, and popular wine events. Strong schools in the Lake Washington School District, convenient access to I-405 and SR-520, and a stable local economy further enhance Kirkland’s reputation as a safe, livable, and inspiring community.
From strolling downtown shops and restaurants to exploring waterfront parks like Heritage Park, Waverly Beach, and Carillon Point, or biking the scenic Cross Kirkland Corridor, there is always something to experience. Whether you’re visiting for the day or putting down roots, Kirkland offers a beautiful balance of nature, culture, and connection.
Walk Score: 93
Things to Do: Kirkland
Waterfront
Kirkland’s picturesque waterfront features miles of public sandy beaches and scenic parks with hiking trails overlooking Lake Washington, with select viewpoints offering stunning views of Mount Rainier. Enjoy shady picnic spots, tennis and basketball courts, sandy beaches, waterfront trails with Lake Washington views, and even glimpses of Mount Rainier from Peter Kirk Park. Cruise the lake in an electric Duffy boat from Marina Park, walk or bike the Cross Kirkland Corridor, or visit Carillon Point for marina views and waterfront dining.
Art Life
The Kirkland Arts Center is a vibrant creative space where people of all ages can explore hands-on artmaking, view inspiring exhibitions, and connect with the local arts community. Year-round classes and workshops in ceramics, painting, drawing, printmaking, fiber arts, and more—led by skilled instructors—encourage artistic growth, personal expression, and meaningful community connection through the power of art.
Uncorked
Make sure to check out Kirkland Uncorked, where you can savor exceptional wines along the beautiful waterfront of Kirkland, Washington. Set in scenic Marina Park, this premier tasting experience invites you to explore remarkable flavors while enjoying sweeping views of Lake Washington. Join us for a vibrant celebration of wine, food, and community as we toast the very best of Washington’s rich culinary and winemaking traditions.
Winterfest
Celebrate the season at Kirkland Urban’s WinterFest, where the plaza transforms into a festive holiday wonderland filled with enchanting performers, family-friendly activities, live ice sculpting, snowfall on the promenade, photos with Santa, sweet treats, and joyful music throughout the day. Gather your loved ones for the after-dark tree lighting and experience a sparkling community tradition that brings the spirit of the season to life.
Market Day
Set along the water in both downtown Kirkland and the city’s north end, the Kirkland Farm’s Markets showcase locally grown produce, artisan foods, handmade crafts, and small-batch goods from regional farmers and makers. With live, down-home entertainment, family-friendly activities, and a welcoming neighborhood atmosphere, Kirkland’s farmers markets offer a joyful way to gather, explore, and celebrate the flavors of the Pacific Northwest.
Start the Day
Start your morning in Kirkland with a flavorful strawberry latte from Urban Coffee Lounge, perfectly paired with a raspberry croissant for a bright springtime boost. For a taste of Paris, stop by L’Experience Paris for a croissant eggs benedict and a mimosa, or savor expertly roasted coffee and inspiring artwork at Zoka Coffee. Whether you’re fueling up for a waterfront stroll or meeting friends, these local favorites make coffee time feel like a true neighborhood treat.
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Living Here: A Neighborhood Snapshot
Seattle’s neighborhoods are unusually distinct and character rich because Seattle isn’t one city — it’s like a constellation of small towns that just happen to be next to each other… each with its own micro culture, its own tempo, its own aesthetic language. Coffee, pubs, bakeries, boutiques, bookstores are very neighborhood specific and beloved here. People belong to their café. Their bakery. And the architecture makes it even better — old craftsman, mid-century, modern, industrial conversions, Victorian leftovers, Scandinavian touches. Porches, gardens, hidden alleys, random staircases… it all creates this lived-in story everywhere you walk.
