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Washington
King County

Kirkland

Attractions and Places To See around Kirkland - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Kirkland include a diverse array of natural beauty, cultural sites, and historical points. Situated on the eastern shores of Lake Washington, the city offers abundant waterfront parks and an extensive trail system. Visitors can explore various cultural venues, art centers, and historical buildings that showcase the city's heritage. The blend of outdoor activities and cultural experiences makes Kirkland a notable destination.

Best attractions and places to see around Kirkland

  • The most popular attractions is Fremont Bridge, a bridge that serves as an efficient crossing point. It is known for its opening mechanism, which can be observed with patience.
  • Another must-see spot is Gas Works Park, a man-made monument and public park. Visitors can expect unsurpassed views of Lake Union and the metropolitan skyline from this historical site.
  • Visitors also love Pike Place Market, Seattle's original farmer's market founded in 1907. It is a center for locally sourced artisan and specialty foods, shops, and restaurants, attracting thousands of visitors annually.
  • Kirkland is known for its waterfront parks, extensive trail systems, and cultural venues. The area offers a variety of attractions, from natural landmarks and outdoor activities to art centers and historical buildings.
  • The attractions around Kirkland are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 145 upvotes and 6 photos shared across the highlights.

Last updated: April 24, 2026

Fremont Bridge

Highlight (Segment) โ€ข Bridge

Careful when riding North-to-South. If you want to continue on the Chesiahud Lake Union Loop trail, you need to use the long three-stage crosswalk across 4th Avenue BEFORE crossing Nickerson St/Westlake Avenue. The trail branches off the sidewalk to the East side of Westlake Ave. If you cross after that intersection, you will need to cross back again to get on the trail rather than the street.
Riding South-to-North, beware of cars cutting you off by turning right at the "Waiting for the Interurban" statue. They don't seem to look out for cyclists right there.

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Pike Place Market

Highlight โ€ข Settlement

Pike Place Market is Seattle's original farmer's market, founded in 1907. The market is the center of locally sourced artisan and specialty foods, lots of shops, restaurants and bars. It is recognized around the world and attracts thousands of visitors each year. It is a great place to explore and is one of the best places to people-watch in the city. Check out the wildly entertaining fishmongers slinging salmon while you are here.

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Space Needle

Highlight โ€ข Monument

So, who does not know the famous Seattle Space Needle? But did you know, that the iconic landmark was built in 1962 for the 1962 Worldโ€™s Fair: the Century 21 Exposition themed "The Age of Space"? From the 605 feet tall tower you can see downtown Seattle, Mount Rainier, Puget Sound, and the Cascades and the mountains of the Olympic pensinsula.

In 2018, the Space Needle got the World's first and only rotating glass bottom platform. The tower is open for a visit year-round, but opening times may vary, especially on holidays. Prices for tickets have risen in the past years to 35 up to 37.50 Dollars.

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Log Boom Park (Tracy Owen Station)

Highlight โ€ข Rest Area

On Kenmore's Lake Washington waterfront, this 3.9-acre park provides access to nearly 1200 lineal feet of shoreline. The public dock is an excellent spot to watch seaplanes land, cast a fishing line, or simply enjoy the sunset. The Kenmore History Path, playground area, picnic tables, access to the Burke-Gilman Trail, daytime moorage, and restroom facility are among the other amenities. Tracy Owen Station was renamed after Tracy Owen, a former member of the King County Council.

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Gas Works Park

Highlight โ€ข Monument

Gas Works Park was developed on the site of a former coal gasification plant on the shores of Lake Union, directly across from downtown Seattle. In 1965, the city purchased the 19-acre tract for parkland. The park, with its Great Earth Mound peak, was opened to the public ten years later (constructed from on-site excavated material). The location provides unsurpassed views of the lake and metropolitan skyline. The boiler house was converted into a picnic shelter with tables and fire grills, while an old exhauster-compressor structure was turned into an open-air play barn with a maze of brightly painted machinery for kids. In 2013, the Gas Works Park was added to the National Register of Historic Places.

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Tips from the Community

Lauren & Bailey ๐Ÿ•๐Ÿพ
October 31, 2025, Space Needle

Wonderfully high.

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Here you can find many nice stalls.

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Strolling along the pier

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Wolf
May 4, 2025, Space Needle

The Space Needle is a must-see when visiting Seattle.

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A very beautiful market with lots of flowers and also lots of fish, well worth seeing.

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Cool place, lots of unique smells and tons of people make sure to carry money and wallets close as pickpockets are frequent

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Small park with a great view of downtown Seattle

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Sue
December 12, 2024, Gas Works Park

This 19.1-acre park is a wide, grassy open space with plenty of pathways for a great run. There is a big hill on the grounds that is popular for flying kites, a playground, a sundial, and a gorgeous view of Seattle. The park gets its name due to the ruins of a former coal gasification plant, preserved behind a fenced area.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best parks and natural areas to visit in Kirkland?

Kirkland is rich in natural beauty, especially along Lake Washington. You can explore Log Boom Park (Tracy Owen Station), offering shoreline access and views. Other popular spots include Marina Park, Juanita Beach Park, and Juanita Bay Park, which is excellent for birdwatching. For a more forested experience, Bridle Trails State Park provides miles of trails for hiking and horseback riding.

Where can I find cultural and historical attractions in Kirkland?

Kirkland has a vibrant cultural scene. Visit the Kirkland Arts Center, housed in the historic Peter Kirk Building, for rotating exhibits and workshops. The Kirkland Heritage Society and Heritage Hall preserve the city's history, while the Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art showcases a diverse art collection. The Cascadia Art Museum focuses on Pacific Northwest art.

Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in Kirkland?

Yes, Kirkland offers several family-friendly options. Many parks like Marina Park, Juanita Beach Park, and Waverly Beach Park feature playgrounds, swimming areas, and picnic spots. Log Boom Park (Tracy Owen Station) also has a playground and access to the Burke-Gilman Trail. The Cross Kirkland Corridor is a paved trail suitable for family walks and bike rides.

What kind of outdoor activities can I do around Kirkland?

Beyond exploring parks, Kirkland offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating on Lake Washington. The Cross Kirkland Corridor is perfect for walking, biking, and jogging. For more structured outdoor adventures, consider routes like the 'Cross Kirkland Corridor โ€“ Sammamish River Trail loop' for gravel biking or 'Juanita Beach Loop' for an easy hike. Find more routes in the easy hikes around Kirkland or cycling around Kirkland guides.

Where can I find scenic viewpoints in Kirkland?

For stunning views, head to Marina Park for vistas of Lake Washington and the Seattle skyline. Carillon Point also offers scenic waterfront views. Gas Works Park, though not directly in Kirkland, provides unsurpassed views of Lake Union and the metropolitan skyline from a historical site.

Are there good walking or running trails in Kirkland?

Absolutely. The Cross Kirkland Corridor is a 5.75-mile paved multi-use trail ideal for walking, running, and biking. Juanita Bay Park features well-maintained trails and boardwalks for leisurely strolls. For easy hikes, you can explore routes like the 'Kirkland Waterfront' or 'Bridle Crest Trail'. More options are available in the easy hikes around Kirkland guide.

What are some unique landmarks or points of interest in Kirkland?

Kirkland features several unique landmarks. Look for the whimsical 'Puddle Jumpers' sculpture and the striking 'Vessel Grouping Fountain Sculpture' by John Hoge, where boulders glow at sunset. The historic Peter Kirk Building and the Old Kirkland on Market Street, with its turn-of-the-century brick buildings, offer a glimpse into the city's past.

Can I bring my dog to parks and trails in Kirkland?

Many parks and trails in Kirkland are dog-friendly. Gas Works Park is noted as dog-friendly. Always check local regulations for specific parks regarding leash requirements and designated off-leash areas to ensure a pleasant visit for everyone.

What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Kirkland?

Visitors frequently praise the stunning waterfront views, especially from places like Log Boom Park (Tracy Owen Station). The blend of natural beauty with accessible trails and vibrant cultural spots is also highly appreciated. The ability to enjoy both serene natural escapes and engaging urban experiences makes Kirkland a popular destination.

Are there cycling routes available near Kirkland's attractions?

Yes, Kirkland is very cycling-friendly. The Cross Kirkland Corridor is a popular paved trail for cyclists. You can also find routes like the 'Lake Washington Loop: I-90 to SR 520' or 'Old Market Street Trail โ€“ Cross Kirkland Corridor loop'. For more detailed cycling options, refer to the cycling around Kirkland guide.

Where can I find information about the history of Kirkland?

The Kirkland Heritage Society and Heritage Hall are dedicated to preserving and showcasing the city's rich history through exhibits and artifacts. You can also see historical structures like the Peter Kirk Building, built in 1891, and the cluster of brick buildings on Old Market Street, which formed Kirkland's original commercial district.

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