The Best of Bellevue
Taken from the French word for “beautiful view”, the name Bellevue perfectly depicts the lush Pacific Northwest city located east of Lake Washington. Below is my guide to the best of what this beautiful city offers.
Celebrating over 50 years, the Bellevue Botanical Gardens have been a community treasure providing “a place of beauty, serenity, and learning for thousands of visitors each year”. Guests of the Gardens are treated to a sprawling 53-acres of “cultivated gardens, restored woodlands, and natural wetlands” native to the Northwest.
With its humble start as an annual art fair, the Bellevue Art Museum evolved into a permanent staple in Bellevue in 1975 as a way for the community to “experience art, craft, and design”. Bellevue Art Museum, or commonly referred to as BAM, seeks to “engages the community through exhibitions, programs, and publications, featuring regional, national, and international artists”. Each year BAM hosts the largest art and craft festival in the Pacific Northwest where over 300 local artists display their work.
Experience the ultimate in luxury brands at the “European-inspired shopping destination” known as the Bravern. Boasting the only Neiman Marcus retailer in the Pacific Northwest, The Shops at The Bravern pair the “best customer service with the ultimate luxury brands in the world, featuring endless inspiration and style for local and global fashion enthusiasts”. Shop high fashion stores like Jimmy Choo, Louis Vuitton, and Prada and build an appetite for fine dining at John Howie Steak House or Mariposa.
Take a stroll through the downtown 20-acre Bellevue Park where a serene waterfall cascades into a shimmering reflecting pond and provides a “respite from the activities of busy urban life”. Located in the heart of Bellevue, the park is encircled by a 1.5-mile promenade perfect for jogging or walking along the perimeter for the park. Since it’s grand reopening in June, the park has included a “new Inspiration Playground which will have a universally accessible design and feature sensory-rich play experiences and equipment suitable for all ages and abilities”.
Located centrally in downtown Bellevue, Kelsey Creek Farm gives visitors a taste of the country life without having to leave the city. White-rail fencing, sprawling lawns, and an assortment of farm animal friends to interact with, cultivate an authentic farm experience to be rememebers for years to come. From birthday parties to tours, the farm gives visitors a chance to experience a feel of country life.
If you are looking to make Bellevue your new home, contact me to begin looking for your perfect abode!