Downtown Bellevue's Best Hidden Outdoor Spaces

Tired of eating lunch in the same spot every day and looking for a change of scenery? Want a quiet space away from the office to gather with friends and colleagues? We know it can be challenging to switch up routine and find a new space to gather, relax, or enjoy the fresh air, so we did it for you. Here are five little-known Downtown destinations to sit back and appreciate everything that our "city in a park" has to offer. 

City Center Plaza - Gravel Pathway

Hidden among a blanket of color-changing leaves, this spot is only a stone's throw away from the hustle and bustle of a working Downtown. Nestled between Skyline Tower and City Center Plaza lies a winding gravel path lined with shaded benches. It's the perfect place for a moment of solitude or a lively conversation, depending on your mood. Just look for the grove of trees adjacent to the public outdoor seating area and be the first to watch the seasons change.

Nearby Eats:

• Bowl Gogi
• Cafe An'Clair
• Pho Cyclo Cafe
• Sushi Kudasai

Civica Office Commons - Outdoor Patio

If you frequent Fonté Coffee, you may be one of the lucky ones familiar with this hidden gem. Accessible through Civica Office Commons or via a stairwell at NE 2nd and 107th Ave NE, this terrace is equipped with bocce ball, fountains, and tables for groups both large and small. The quiet oasis highlights the best parts of the urban landscape while maintaining a natural, outdoorsy feel.

Nearby Eats:

• Amazon Go
• Caffe Ladro
• Fonté Coffee
• The Melting Pot

Elements Apartments - Open Air Plaza

While residents of the Elements building may be well acquainted with the outdoor amenities their home has to offer, nearby neighbors may not have experienced everything this plaza provides. Filled with the aroma of fresh baked goods and brewed coffee, this spot is outfitted with an array of seating options, thriving trees, and a state-of-the-art central fountain.

Nearby Eats:

• Cielo Cocina Mexicana
• Minamoto Japanese Restaurant
• Story Coffee Bellevue
• The French Bakery

Key Center - Backside Seating 

Stunningly built Key Center's outdoor space is just as impressive as their colorful lobby. Right off 108th Ave NE, follow the unassuming path next to the parking garage entrance and be greeted with a space perfect to enjoy a quiet, uninterrupted lunch in a thoughtfully landscaped space.

Nearby Eats:

• Deli Queen
• Inchin's Bamboo Garden
• Jimmy John's
• Starbucks

West Main - Native Plant Corridor

Newly built West Main may have one of the most impressive outdoor courtyards in Downtown Bellevue, and it's still relatively undiscovered. Equipped with sprawling benches and sculptural pieces inspired by the native flora of the PNW, this outdoor space is lush with meticulously chosen native plant gardens and a welcoming atmosphere. Follow the path lining the back of the buildings and find yourself in quiet corridor bordered with seating. Take advantage of this space while most of the buildings remain vacant -- we anticipate this gem won't stay hidden for long.

Nearby Eats:

• Broiler Bay Hamburgers
• Haidilao Hot Pot
• Pagliacci Pizza
• Royal Bakehouse

This blog is part of the Heart of Bellevue: our campaign to showcase local businesses while connecting you with stories of activity, creativity and recovery. Find out about our campaign and explore more of what’s happening around Downtown.