The Ultimate Weekend Guide to Bellevue, USA

Discover adventure in Bellevue, where the city meets nature.

03 May 2023

Bellevue is a vibrant city located in the state of Washington, United States, just a few miles east of Seattle. With its picturesque scenery, fantastic weather, and pedestrian-friendly streets, it is the perfect place for a relaxing weekend getaway. There is plenty to see and do, including shopping at the Bellevue Collection, exploring the downtown parks and museums, and hiking at Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Downtown Bellevue

  • Hotel: The Westin Bellevue a luxurious 4-star hotel with stunning views of the city.
  • Start with a coffee and pastry from Belle Pastry a quaint, family-owned bakery.
  • Visit the Bellevue Arts Museum, featuring local and international artists.
  • Enjoy lunch at 99 Park, known for its delicious seafood and rustic atmosphere.
  • Take a stroll through Downtown Park, an urban oasis filled with fountains and sculptures.
  • Shop at The Bellevue Collection, home to over 200 stores and restaurants.
  • End the day with a cocktail at Ascend Prime Steak & Sushi, a rooftop lounge with breathtaking views of the city.
Day 2

Rooftop Views and Wine Tasting

  • Start at the top with breakfast at The Nest, a rooftop bar at Thompson Seattle.
  • Take a short drive to Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery, for a wine tasting and tour of the estate.
  • Head back to Bellevue for lunch at Facing East, a Taiwanese restaurant with authentic dishes.
  • Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at Lake Sammamish State Park, with beautiful views of the lake and mountains.
  • End the day with dinner at Seastar Restaurant and Raw Bar, specializing in fresh seafood and sushi.
  • Bonus: Visit Snowflake Lane during the holidays for a magical winter wonderland experience, complete with a parade and fake snow!

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Bellevue by plane is to fly into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and take a taxi or rental car to Bellevue.

Car

Driving is a convenient way to get to Bellevue, as there are major highways connecting the city to other parts of the region. From Seattle, take Interstate 90 East to reach Bellevue.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no train station in Bellevue so traveling by train is not an option.

Boat

While there is no direct way to get to Bellevue by boat, there are a few options available. One can take a ferry to Bainbridge Island or Bremerton and then drive to Bellevue or rent a boat and dock it at one of the area marinas before driving or taking a taxi to Bellevue.

Bus

Taking a Greyhound bus to Seattle and then transferring to a local bus or taking a taxi or rental car to Bellevue is the best way to get there by bus.

More travel plans

Budget-Friendly Bellevue: A Day of Adventure

Bellevue is a lively city located in Washington that offers a variety of exciting activities and attractions for travelers on a tight budget. Visitors can explore beautiful parks such as Bellevue Downtown Park or Kelsey Creek Farm for free, and take advantage of free events and entertainment offered by the city. On a limited budget, visitors can also enjoy affordable dining options at local cafes or food trucks, and stay in budget-friendly accommodations like hostels or budget hotels in the area.

5-Day Itinerary: Adventure and Tech in Bellevue

As a tourist visiting Bellevue, you can enjoy the beautiful parks and outdoor activities, such as hiking or kayaking on Lake Washington. You can also explore the tech hub of the Pacific Northwest by touring Microsoft's headquarters or the Bellevue Arts Museum. Finish the day off by savoring the city's diverse culinary scene, including award-winning seafood restaurants and trendy coffee shops.

Bellevue Bliss: A Romantic Day Trip for Two

Bellevue offers a perfect destination for a romantic trip in Washington state. With its breathtaking views of Lake Sammamish and the Cascade Mountains, romantic walks and outdoor activities become enjoyable. Couples will also love the city's upscale shopping, world-class dining and luxurious accommodations.

Bellevue: 4 Days of Budget-Friendly Fun

For those looking to experience the Seattle metropolitan area without breaking the bank, Bellevue offers a wide range of budget-friendly options. Start by exploring the Bellevue Botanical Garden and Kelsey Creek Farm, both admission-free attractions. For affordable food options, head to Crossroads Mall or the International District for diverse cuisine at affordable prices.