Kirkland, WA

Travel Guide

An aerial view of a city with a large body of water in the background, a baseball field, and various buildings.
A wooden pier extending into calm waters with city lights in the background.
A long pier extending into calm waters, with a city skyline in the distance under a twilight sky.
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A lakeside residential area with houses, docks, and a sailboat.

Visit Kirkland for its waterfront parks, local shops, and nearby neighborhoods offering recreational and family-friendly experiences.

Kirkland is an ideal destination for outdoor and family travelers. You can explore Yarrow Bay Marina and enjoy the waterfront scenery, or visit Marina Park and Juanita Bay Park for urban green spaces. For activities, the Kirkland Performance Center offers theater performances, while Juanita Beach Park is a spot for recreation. If shopping is on your agenda, check out Kirkland Urban and The Village at Totem Lake for various retail options. Nearby, the Cross Kirkland Corridor Trail and Burke-Gilman Trail provide excellent footpaths for walking and biking, while Harbor Island is known for outdoor adventure tourism.

While you're in Kirkland, spend some time exploring nearby neighborhoods. Bellevue is known for family-friendly city experiences, featuring Bellevue Square and Lincoln Square for shopping and entertainment. Redmond, also nearby, is recognized for outdoor experiences, with parks such as 60 Acres Park and Marymoor Park offering recreational activities. Medina is another area known for its scenic beauty, where you can visit Medina Park or enjoy the Off Leash Area for dogs.

The best time to visit Kirkland generally falls between July and August when the weather is mild and mostly dry. These months can be busier with tourists, especially during peak times in April and June. November tends to be wetter, so if you're looking for a quieter experience, consider visiting from October to December when demand is lower. This way, you can enjoy the attractions with fewer crowds while still appreciating the area's offerings.

Where to stay in Kirkland

Find the best Kirkland areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Kirkland
Learn more about Kirkland
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Downtown Kirkland

While visiting Downtown Kirkland, you might make a stop by sights like Kirkland Performance Center and Lake Washington.

A wooden bridge over a calm lake with autumn foliage on the banks.
Photo by Chris Mockli
Open Photo by Chris Mockli

Juanita

Travelers like the lake views in Juanita, and Juanita Beach Park is a top attraction you might want to visit.

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Totem Lake

Totem Lake is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to The Village at Totem Lake and Cinemark Totem Lake Kirkland while you're in town.

An aerial view of a city with a large body of water in the background, a baseball field, and various buildings.

North Rose Hill

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in North Rose Hill and surrounding area, you can visit The Village at Totem Lake and Kirkland Performance Center.

A lake surrounded by dense forests and mountains.

Everest

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Everest and surrounding area, you can visit Kirkland Performance Center and Yarrow Bay Marina.

The Paramount Hotel

The Paramount Hotel

3.5 out of 5
724 Pine St Seattle WA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
$108 nightly
The price is $127 total per night from Nov 24 to Nov 25
$127 total
Nov 24 - Nov 25
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Seattle. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 restaurants, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the restaurant and the helpful ...
The Paramount Hotel
The Belltown Inn

The Belltown Inn

2.5 out of 5
2301 3rd Avenue Seattle WA
$87 nightly
The price is $103 total per night from Dec 15 to Dec 16
$103 total
Dec 15 - Dec 16
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Seattle. Enjoy free WiFi, a rooftop terrace, and free bicycles on site. Our guests praise the helpful staff and ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (5,259 reviews)
"Staff was helpful when my key card wouldn’t open my door and the rooms are very clean!"

Reviewed on Nov 13, 2026

The Belltown Inn
Mediterranean Inn

Mediterranean Inn

3 out of 5
425 Queen Anne Ave N Seattle WA
$104 nightly
The price is $123 total per night from Dec 14 to Dec 15
$123 total
Dec 14 - Dec 15
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Seattle. Enjoy free WiFi, a rooftop terrace, and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the helpful staff ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (6,296 reviews)
"Great property close to the arena."

Reviewed on Nov 14, 2026

Mediterranean Inn
See all 6,047 properties in Kirkland
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
The Boylston Hotel Capitol Hill

The Boylston Hotel Capitol Hill

4 out of 5
1517 Boylston Ave Seattle WA
Stay at this aparthotel in Seattle. Enjoy free WiFi, train station pick-up service (surcharge), and Tempur-Pedic beds. Popular attractions Pike Place Market ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (571 reviews)
"clean room, near a lot of different places to shop & eat at"

Reviewed on Nov 13, 2026

The Boylston Hotel Capitol Hill
Oxford Seattle

Oxford Seattle

2 out of 5
1920 1st Ave Seattle WA
Stay at this aparthotel in Seattle. Enjoy free WiFi and housekeeping. Popular attractions Pike Place Market and Seattle Waterfront are located nearby.
Oxford Seattle
Kasa Capitol Hill Seattle

Kasa Capitol Hill Seattle

4 out of 5
1208 Pine Street Seattle WA
Stay at this aparthotel in Seattle. Enjoy free WiFi, a rooftop terrace, and a 24-hour fitness center. Popular attractions Pike Place Market and Seattle Waterfront ...
9/10 Wonderful! (313 reviews)
"The room was very clean and location was great. The only issue was the heating unit. It seemed that it worked on the motion sensor because even after constant communication with the staff, the heating unit was not fixed. Since there was no motion in the living room the heating unit was automatically ..."

Reviewed on Nov 14, 2026

Kasa Capitol Hill Seattle
See all properties in Kirkland
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Kirkland attractions

A sunset over a calm lake with a bridge and forested shoreline.

Juanita Beach Park

9.4/10 (111 reviews)
Why not spend a carefree afternoon at Juanita Beach Park during your travels in Kirkland? Wander the parks or discover the area's sunsets.
See properties

Things to do

Sky View Observatory General Admission

Sky View Observatory Tickets

$28
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
Sky View Observatory Tickets
Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass Combination Ticket

Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass Combination Ticket

$78
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass Combination Ticket
Boeing

Boeing Factory Tour with Guided Transport from Seattle

$135
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Boeing Factory Tour with Guided Transport from Seattle
Only Wildlife and Whale Watching Tour Leaving from Seattle

Seattle: Half-Day Wildlife and Whale Watching Cruise

$155
per adult
74% of travellers recommend
Seattle: Half-Day Wildlife and Whale Watching Cruise
Whale & Wildlife Watching Tour from Seattle

Only Whale Watching Tour Departing from Seattle Waterfront

$117
per adult
86% of travellers recommend
Only Whale Watching Tour Departing from Seattle Waterfront
Chihuly Garden and Glass in Seattle Ticket

Chihuly Garden and Glass in Seattle Ticket

$48
per adult
84% of travellers recommend
Chihuly Garden and Glass in Seattle Ticket
See all activities in Kirkland

Frequently asked questions

Is Kirkland worth visiting?
Kirkland is worth visiting for its beautiful outdoor spaces, including Juanita Beach Park and Bridle Trails State Park, perfect for recreation. Travelers can also explore distinct areas like Moss Bay and Bridle Trails. The destination offers a variety of dining options, with popular Asian and Italian cuisines to enjoy.
When is the best time to visit Kirkland?
The best time to visit Kirkland is from May through September, when the weather is generally pleasant. For fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of December through March are a good option, offering cooler weather for travelers.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Kirkland?
The best neighborhoods to explore in Kirkland depend on what you want to see:

  • Moss Bay features attractions like Kirkland Performance Center, Kirkland Urban, and Peter Kirk Park.
  • Bridle Trails offers outdoor recreation at Bridle Trails State Park, plus entertainment at Techcity Bowl & Fun Center and Bellevue Golf Course.

What is Kirkland known for?
Kirkland is known for being named after Peter Kirk. Travelers can explore its outdoor spaces like Juanita Beach Park, Bridle Trails State Park, and Marina Park. The city also offers a strong Asian food culture, with various dining options to discover.
What is a good itinerary length for Kirkland?
A good itinerary length for Kirkland is two to three days to enjoy highlights like Juanita Beach Park, Marina Park, and exploring the Moss Bay neighborhood. An extended stay of four to five days allows more time to visit Bridle Trails State Park and experience the Seattle Christmas Cruise with Santa and Holiday Choir, if traveling during the holidays. See Kirkland Activities.
What are the top things to do in and around Kirkland?
In Kirkland, travelers can enjoy beautiful parks, waterfront views, and seasonal cruises:

  • Visit Juanita Beach Park for its beach and natural surroundings.
  • Explore Bridle Trails State Park, a natural area perfect for outdoor activities.
  • Stroll through Marina Park to enjoy the waterfront and nature.
  • Experience a Seattle Christmas Cruise with Santa and Holiday Choir during the holiday season.

How do I plan a trip to Kirkland?
Plan your Kirkland trip by searching Expedia for hotels in areas like Moss Bay or Bridle Trails. Book flights, rental cars, and activities, such as the Seattle Christmas Cruise with Santa and Holiday Choir, in advance. For outdoor plans at places like Juanita Beach Park, remember to have indoor backups for weather flexibility.
What cuisines can you find in Kirkland?
In Kirkland, you can find Thai cuisine, featuring dishes like Pad Thai, Green Curry, Tom Yum Soup, and Mango Sticky Rice. Travelers can also enjoy a wide range of other options, including Japanese, Chinese, and Indian dishes, as well as Italian, Mexican, and Mediterranean fare.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Kirkland?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Kirkland by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Kirkland with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Kirkland trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Kirkland?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Kirkland can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Kirkland trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Kirkland trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Kirkland trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Kirkland trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Kirkland?
If it's your first trip to Kirkland, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Kirkland hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Kirkland hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

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