Bellevue, Washington, while not officially Seattle’s Sister City, shares a close-knit relationship with its neighbor just across Lake Washington.
This thriving city has a significant tech presence, being the original home of Amazon, founded by Jeff Bezos in 1994, along with other major companies like T-Mobile and Valve.
However, the true essence of Bellevue goes beyond its tech roots.
In 2024, Bellevue attracted over two million tourists, drawn not only by its technology but by its flourishing culinary and cultural landscapes.
Visitors flock to this vibrant city to experience an array of attractions, including Michelin-starred restaurants, lake cruises, breweries, and world-class gardens.
Bellevue is poised for a greener future as it sets ambitious plans to become carbon-free by 2040.
Additionally, the city has been recognized for its diversity, being dubbed a ‘minority city’ with over 50 global languages spoken among its residents.
For those planning a visit, arriving with an appetite is crucial—Bellevue is home to a rich Asian-American culinary scene.
Food enthusiasts can immerse themselves in inventive fusion dishes and traditional fare, particularly in vibrant neighborhoods like Crossroads.
The recent culinary boom has seen over 80 new restaurants open their doors in the last five years, further heightened by the recognition of local chefs through James Beard Awards.
One of the highlighted food tours, Bites of Bellevue, has also gained prominence, being featured on USA Today’s Top 10 Walking Food Tours.
Some must-visit restaurants include Jiang Nan, which boasts Michelin recognition, and Banaras, named the No. 3 Best New Restaurant in the U.S. by USA Today.
Wine lovers can indulge at notable spots such as Browne Family Vineyards tasting room and Bellevue Brewing Company.
After enjoying the culinary treasures, visitors can explore Bellevue’s impressive green spaces.
The Pacific Northwest is known for its natural beauty, and Bellevue is committed to preserving its parks while promoting sustainability.
The city’s unique BellHop service offers free, fully electric ridesharing, while BikeHop provides a complimentary city-wide e-bike rental service.
Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of dozens of parks and recreation areas to enjoy the lush Pacific Northwest ambiance.
For an adventurous outing, Bellevue Adventures Park even offers an ADA-accessible zipline.
Lake exploration is a highlight for many; visitors can take eco-friendly electric boat tours on Bellevue Lake or opt for kayaking at Meydenbauer Bay Park & Boathouse.
Bellevue’s green spaces are truly a sight to behold.
Don’t miss the Bellevue Downtown Park, which features a stepped canal and waterfall, or Clyde Beach Park for its inviting lakefront and beach.
Mercer Slough Nature Park offers expansive wetlands, perfect for leisurely nature excursions.
With Bellevue’s growing popularity among travelers, the hotel scene has also expanded.
The introduction of new accommodations includes the first InterContinental property in the Pacific Northwest, which opened in December 2024.
Additionally, an Autograph Collection SOMM Hotel & Spa is expected to debut this summer, promising luxurious offerings.
Current well-known hotels such as The Westin Bellevue, W Bellevue, and the Hyatt Regency Bellevue also continue to cater to increasing visitor numbers.
In summary, Bellevue, Washington presents a unique blend of culinary and cultural experiences coupled with a strong commitment to sustainability and diversity, making it a remarkable destination worth exploring.
image source from：travelawaits
