Kenmore WashingtonATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Kenmore, Washington.
1. St. Edward State Park
LUSH LAKESIDE FOREST RETREAT
St. Edward State Park offers visitors a beautiful natural setting along Lake Washington with rainforest-type trees and scenic lake views. The park features hiking trails, picnic areas, and a historic seminary building that adds architectural interest to the natural surroundings. Visitors can enjoy outdoor recreation activities including swimming in summer months, wildlife viewing, and photography throughout the changing seasons.
2. Log Boom Park
WATERFRONT FAMILY RECREATION
Log Boom Park is a charming waterfront park on Lake Washington offering something for everyone in the family. The park includes a play area for children, picnic facilities, and excellent water access for those wanting to enjoy the lake. Its location makes it perfect for watching boats, enjoying sunsets over the water, and accessing the Burke-Gilman Trail.
3. Wallace Swamp Creek Park
NATURAL CREEK HABITAT
Wallace Swamp Creek Park provides visitors with a natural wetland experience in the heart of Kenmore. The park features walking trails that meander alongside Swamp Creek, offering opportunities to observe local wildlife and native plants. Its protected status helps preserve important ecological habitat while providing residents with accessible green space.
4. Rhododendron Park
COLORFUL BOTANICAL DISPLAY
Rhododendron Park is known for its stunning seasonal displays of rhododendrons and other flowering plants throughout its grounds. The park offers walking paths, picnic areas, and peaceful settings for nature appreciation. Visitors particularly enjoy the vibrant colors during spring blooming season when the namesake flowers are at their peak.
5. Catalyst Fine Art
LOCAL ART SHOWCASE
Catalyst Fine Art serves as an important cultural venue showcasing works from local and regional artists in various media. The gallery hosts regular exhibitions, artist talks, and community events that connect residents with the vibrant arts scene. Visitors can appreciate contemporary artwork while supporting the creative economy of the Kenmore area.
6. Moorlands Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION SPACE
Moorlands Park provides Kenmore residents with a versatile community recreation area suitable for various activities and gatherings. The park features sports facilities, playground equipment, and open green spaces for casual use. Its central location makes it a popular destination for local families and community events throughout the year.
7. Nine Yards Brewing
CRAFT BEER DESTINATION
Nine Yards Brewing offers craft beer enthusiasts a selection of house-brewed ales and lagers in a welcoming taproom environment. The brewery has established itself as a community gathering place with a family-friendly atmosphere and regular events. Visitors can sample innovative brewing creations while enjoying the casual Pacific Northwest brewery culture.
8. Cairn Brewing
TRAIL-SIDE CRAFT BREWERY
Cairn Brewing creates hop-forward ales and lagers in their Kenmore facility with a taproom located conveniently along the Burke-Gilman Trail. The family and dog-friendly establishment focuses on community-building through craft beer and regular events. Cyclists and trail users particularly appreciate its accessible location and relaxed atmosphere after outdoor activities.
9. Burke-Gilman Trail
REGIONAL RECREATIONAL PATHWAY
The Burke-Gilman Trail passes through Kenmore, offering a scenic multi-use path for cyclists, runners, and walkers connecting to the broader Seattle area. This regional trail follows historic railroad routes and provides access to parks, businesses, and natural areas throughout the community. The trail serves as both a recreational asset and important transportation corridor for non-motorized travel in the region.
10. Kenmore Air Harbor
SCENIC SEAPLANE BASE
Kenmore Air Harbor serves as both a working seaplane base and unique attraction where visitors can watch floatplanes take off and land on Lake Washington. The facility offers scenic flights and charter services to destinations throughout the Pacific Northwest, including the San Juan Islands. Aviation enthusiasts particularly enjoy observing the operations of this historic seaplane operator that has been in business since 1946.
11. Space Needle
ICONIC SEATTLE LANDMARK
The Space Needle stands as Seattle's most recognizable landmark, offering 360-degree views from its 605-foot observation deck. Built for the 1962 World's Fair, this futuristic tower features a rotating glass floor and spectacular vistas of the city, Puget Sound, and surrounding mountains. Visitors from Kenmore can easily reach this iconic attraction in under 30 minutes, making it a popular day trip destination.
12. University of Washington
HISTORIC ACADEMIC CAMPUS
The University of Washington campus offers visitors beautiful Gothic architecture, museum collections, and seasonal attractions like its famous cherry blossoms. Located near Kenmore, the 703-acre campus includes notable landmarks such as Red Square, Suzzallo Library, and Drumheller Fountain. Visitors can enjoy self-guided tours, athletic events, performances, and the tranquil beauty of this historic institution founded in 1861.
13. Chihuly Garden and Glass
STUNNING GLASS ART EXHIBITION
Chihuly Garden and Glass showcases the extraordinary glass artworks of Northwest artist Dale Chihuly in a stunning exhibition space near the Space Needle. The facility includes a glasshouse, exhibition halls, and outdoor gardens where colorful glass sculptures intermingle with carefully designed landscaping. Visitors from Kenmore can experience the magical interplay of light, color, and form that has made Chihuly's work internationally renowned.
14. Green Lake Park
URBAN RECREATIONAL OASIS
Green Lake Park centers around a glacial lake with a 2.8-mile pathway that attracts walkers, joggers, and cyclists throughout the year. The 324-acre park features swimming beaches, boat rentals, playgrounds, and sports facilities just a short drive from Kenmore. Visitors appreciate the park's combination of natural beauty and recreational opportunities in the midst of the urban environment.
15. Pike Place Market
HISTORIC PUBLIC MARKET
Pike Place Market has operated continuously since 1907 as one of America's oldest public farmers' markets and a top tourist attraction in the region. The market spans nine acres with hundreds of shops, restaurants, produce stands, craft vendors, and the famous fish-throwing fishmongers. Kenmore residents can easily visit this iconic destination to experience Seattle's vibrant food scene, watch street performers, and shop for unique local products.