Bellevue is one of the most overlooked cities in Washington. It shouldn’t be. Bellevue is a fun and important part of Pacific Northwest culture. Whether you want to experience the dining options or first-rate shopping, you’ll find there’s something for everyone. Bellevue has a wide variety of activities, most of which are free to do. This city also has a verdant outdoor environment with rich places to explore throughout the year.

1. Bellevue Downtown Park

The Bellevue Downtown Park is one of the best places to unwind. This park has 20 acres of lush green landscapes and open space to walk, run, and crawl. This park has become an important part of the Bellevue community. It’s home to hundreds of concerts, events, and festivals throughout the year, including the Fourth of July fireworks show, outdoor movies, and summer concert series.

It’s also the perfect place to get away from the monotonous of business meetings. When you take a walk on the promenade, you’ll see the 240-foot-wide waterfall. It’s also ideal for enjoying the sights of the downtown skyline and Mount Rainier. There are many ways to enjoy Bellevue Downtown Park, which is the mission of this area.

2. Bellevue Arts Museum

The Bellevue Arts Museum features art from a mix of local and international artists. Each of its exhibits features masterpieces that give you a glimpse into that artist’s creative process. It’s conveniently located in the Bellevue downtown district, which is just steps away from the Hyatt Regency Bellevue on Seattle’s East Side. It’s also a short walk away from the Downtown Park.

3. The Bellevue Collection

You don’t want to miss out on the Bellevue Collection. It doesn’t just have one but three shopping areas in the Downtown district area that combines dining and shopping with hotels near The Bellevue Collection. The first area is the Bellevue Square which has over 200 retail stores. Lincoln Square is known for its dining, while the Bellevue Place is home to such bastions of good living like the Hyatt Regency Bellevue on Seattle’s East Side, luxury retailers, and several art galleries.

The Bellevue Collection has everything you need to stay busy and active in between business meetings. If you’re visiting this city during the holidays, then you’ll want to shop at Snowflake Lane. This district comes to life with electronic animations, falling snow, glittery lights, and holiday music. It’s also the perfect place to get some holiday or birthday shopping done.

4. Bellevue Botanical Garden

If you’re a nature lover then you’ll enjoy the Bellevue Botanical Garden. This glimpse into the Pacific Northwest flora contains 53 acres of lush gardens. It gives business travelers the opportunity to get in touch with nature and learn about the environment. The Bellevue Botanical Garden will definitely put things into perspective and give you a calmer mindset.

You can walk among many of the displays and gardens in this area. Some of the most popular areas include the Dahlia Display and the Rock Garden. You can also participate in the many classes, tours, and workshops that this garden offers throughout the year.

5. The Bellevue Zip Tour

If you need an adrenaline rush, then you’ll love the Bellevue Zip Tour. You’ll be flying over broadleaf maples and Douglas firs as you take in the scenery below. There are over six zip lines, ranging from 70 to 450 feet. The Zip Tour operates every season except for winter.

It’s conveniently located in the west side of the South Bellevue Community Center. Whether you are a looking for a release or a great place for a team-building activity, the Bellevue Zip Tour has an intense way to take in the Pacific Northwest scenery from a new perspective.