Hello Again, Bellevue: Five Reasons to Love Working in Downtown Bellevue

Five Reasons to Love Working in Downtown Bellevue

It can be a daunting endeavor to come back to work after a long period of working from home, but we are here to remind you why Downtown is such a great place to return to. The Heart of Bellevue is more than just the tall skyscrapers we sit in day after day... there's a whole community that makes Downtown unique. Here are five reasons you'll love coming to work in Bellevue every morning. 

1. WALKABLE & PEDESTRIAN FRIENDLY

As growth continues in Bellevue, the downtown area is becoming a connected place that is walkable, safe and easy to get around. Bellevue supports walking and biking as a healthy and attractive alternatives to driving. Recognition of the city's efforts include a 2019 Silver Bicycle Friendly Community award from the League of American Bicyclists and a 2014 Silver Walk Friendly Community award from the Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center.

The Grand Connection is another Bellevue signature that functions as a series of cohesive connected and memorable spaces. The 1.5 mile walk from the waterfront at Meydenbauer Bay Park, through Old Bellevue and Downtown Park, and across the Interstate 405 is an ambitious place-making initiative that will continue to develop. Downtown workers will continue to enjoy a memorable and pedestrian-friendly experience throughout the Heart of Bellevue.

2. FOOD FROM AROUND THE WORLD

Everyone can agree, Downtown Bellevue offers something for everyone. Over the past few decades, Bellevue has grown from a quiet suburban community into a dynamic, international and multicultural city. The internationally-inspired cuisine in Downtown Bellevue is vital to continuing the diversity we see around us. Head over to Old Bellevue and grab a seat at Monsoon to try a taste of Vietnamese family recipes inspired from Executive Chef & Founder Sophie Banh and Eric Banh. Make your way to Bellevue Square and discover MokSHA, specializing in Southern Indian dishes. Local couple Lakshmi and Padma Thanu create recipes and spice combinations he knows from home. Take a stroll down to Fern Thai on Main where you'll find co-owner Kay Feungarom creating Thai dishes that represent Thai culture and Thailand as a whole. The City of Bellevue continues to welcome the world and strengthen diversity in Downtown. Wherever you decide to grab a bite, you're guaranteed to find something that keeps you coming back for more.

3. A CITY WITHIN A PARK

Often called a “city in the park”, Bellevue has amazing natural sprawling greens and sights you can’t find anywhere else.  Bellevue Parks & Community Services is home to over 2,700 acres of parks and open spaces, including 90+ miles of trails. The parks have won numerous awards, including being a recipient of 2005 National Gold Medal Award from the National Recreation and Park Association. A great area to enjoy the view is the Bellevue Downtown Park, offering 21-acre of trees, a fun playground for the little ones and a gorgeous 240-foot waterfall. You’ll get the chance to be right in the center between the tall skyscrapers and quaint Old Bellevue.

At Meydenbauer Bay Park, you'll discover a viewing terrace, hillside woodland, an outdoor classroom, pedestrian pier, shoreline, ravine and more. The REI Boathouse offers canoe and kayak rentals on days where a break is needed.

Want a take a dip in the water? Head over to Enatai Beach Park, a gateway to Lake Washington and the water trails of Mercer Slough Nature Park. This almost 3-acre park features a swimming area, swimming dock and picnic areas perfect for a weekend outing.

There is no shortage of beautiful parks. Take your work outside and soak up the refreshing air and great views.

4. UNIQUE COMMUNITY EVENTS

Downtown Bellevue is a great destination for fun activities to bring friends, families and anyone who loves to have a good time! Each year, several community events are hosted throughout the city, including free summer lunchtime concerts, the Bellevue Jazz & Blues Music Series and the Bellevue Downtown Ice Rink. There are many more events, including a 4th of July dog jog and walk, the Bellevue Farmer's Market, and the annual Bellwether Art + Experience event happening this month.

See All Downtown Events

5. Shopping, Shopping + more shopping

In addition to the 200+ retailers as part of The Bellevue Collection, there are many great locally-owned businesses around Downtown. Small boutiques in Old Bellevue include Hedge & Vine for home décor, or Smith & Main for those wanting to update their wardrobe. If you're looking for high-end wear, head over to The Bravern for an assortment of luxury stores like Gucci and Louis Vuitton, to name a few. Whatever your style or budget, there are shops open and ready to be explored. 
 

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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.