Welcome to Kenmore!
Nestled along the northern shores of Lake Washington, Kenmore is a small city that people love in part for its central location in the region. Whether you need to head toward Seattle or Bellevue for work, both are just to the south of Kenmore, and the many commuting options in the city (including seaplanes!) ensure you have a variety of choice to suit your own personal style.
Kenmore is home to a myriad of things to do, whether you need to enjoy some indoor activities with the family in the winter time, or want to get outside for some adventures in the sunshine when summer rolls around. Downtown Kenmore is brimming with up-and-coming amenities and attractions, and new developments (like the Lakepointe Development) offer even more opportunity for dining, shopping, housing, and more.
Getting Out & About
“St. Edward State Park is the highlight of Kenmore in terms of getting out into the woods and feeling like you’re miles from home, but you’re not. Miles of hiking and wooded biking trails are found at this stunning state park. There’s a pretty hike from the top of the hill all the way down to Lake Washington—don’t forget good shoes since it’s a little steep. [There’s also] a huge playground next to the old seminary is a highlight for families.” –Jen Bowman
“Although we don’t get there often enough, my family and I love to explore the low forest hiking trails in St. Edward State Park, set on the Eastern shore of Lake Washington. Our more adventurous friends regularly go mountain biking on the many miles of trails in the park, with their 5- and 3-year-old in tow. There’s terrain for every skill level.” –Claudette Meyer
“192 Brewing Co. and Cairn Brewing are right along the Burke Gilman Trail and family friendly. [There are] very cool outdoor spaces at 192 Brewing and Cairn Brewing have a very ‘Fremont’ vibe without having to head into Seattle!” –Jen Bowman
“I’m also a big fan of 192 Brewing! Take a bike ride on the Burke Gilman and stop in on Sunday afternoons for live music in the outdoor beer garden!” –Brian Hayter
Commuting From Kenmore
“522 is the main drag in Kenmore and it connects commuters to [the] Eastside and Seattle. Bus stops are plentiful here! Also, the Burke Gilman trail runs between 522 and Lake Washington. Makes a VERY scenic route to work for cyclists who have a final destination in Redmond or Seattle (and places in between). [Also there are] seaplanes! Kenmore Air is a great options for chartering or taking scheduled flights to the San Juans, Canada, and beyond!” –Jen Bowman
Homes in Kenmore
“New construction abounds in Kenmore. It’s Northshore School District, so get ready for a little sticker shock!” –Jen Bowman
“[There are] many homes located on the river or up on the hill with lovely lake and sunset views. [There is also a] private golf community [called] Inglewood Country Club.” –Michele Kimes
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4 Fun Family-Friendly Weekend Activities in Kenmore
If you live in Kenmore, we have your inside scoop on some of the best weekend activities in the area that everyone will love!
Here’s a look at 4 fun family-friendly weekend activities in Kenmore, as recommended by our locals:
SAINT EDWARD STATE PARK
When it comes to family-friendly fun in Kenmore, one of the first things that comes to mind for both Jen Bowman and Claudette Meyer is the fabulous Saint Edward State Park.
“Although we don’t get there often enough, my family and I love to explore the low forest hiking trails in Saint Edward State Park, set on the eastern shore of Lake Washington,” Claudette says. “Our more adventurous friends regularly go mountain biking on the many miles of trails in the park, with their 5 and 3-year-old in tow—there’s terrain for every skill level.” Jen simply says that there is “too much good stuff to share about Saint Edward [State Park],” proving that this spot is an absolute must for any outdoorsy group.
BREWING & BIKING
What better way to spend a weekend with the gang than with a bike ride and some grub? “192 Brewing Co. and Cairn Brewing are right along the Burke-Gilman Trail and family-friendly,” shares Jen. “Very cool outdoor spaces at 192 Brewing and Cairn Brewing has a very ‘Fremont’ vibe without having to head into Seattle!” Michele Kimes adds that 192 Brewing has “great outdoor seating in the summer [and a] wood stove inside for the winter. Great food and beer. Board games, pool table, kids are welcome and so is your pooch! Right on the Burke-Gilman trail…Cairn Brewery and Nine Yards [are] great places [too] but 192 is the best.”
“I’m also a big fan of 192 Brewing,” says Brian Hayter. “Take a bike ride on the Burke-Gilman and stop in on Sunday afternoons for live music in the outdoor beer garden!” If you’re looking to relax after a day along the trail, these are your go-to spots.
BOWLING
A popular pastime for families everywhere, Claudette suggests spending a weekend with some bowling at Kenmore Lanes. “It’s one of only a few bowling alleys still remaining in all of north King County,” she shares. With good food and cheap prices, it’s an affordable way to get everyone out of the house and having fun (with a little healthy competition thrown in!).
OUT & ABOUT TOWN (SHOPPING & RESTAURANTS)
For a simple weekend of shopping and food, don’t miss out on these top picks by Jen and Claudette. “I was introduced to Acapulco Fresh Mexican Grill by friends that lived just up the hill from this unassuming strip mall restaurant,” Claudette shares. “It is their regular go-to for take-out. The meals are fast, fresh, and authentic. Everyone raves about the salsa bar.” If you just need a quick pick-me-up, try Jen’s favorite, Espresso Works. “…Love Espresso Works for quick, independently owned drive-thru, family-friendly coffee along Bothell Way,” she says. “Daily drink specials and espresso bean on top of your cup! Love this coffee stand!”
If you’re looking for a gift, check out Ostroms Drug and Gift. “Ostroms Drug and Gift off Bothell Way has a really awesome gift shop…the perfect little gift is here,” says Jen. Whatever occasion you may need a present for, you are sure to find something fun, eclectic, and fitting. Finally, need something for a child, but don’t want to settle on something from a chain store? Then stop by Snapdoodle Toys. “Snapdoodle Toys is an independent, family-owned, specialty toy store located in the historic Schnitzelbank building along Bothell Way,” Claudette says. “We stop in for the specialty and innovative toys that one can’t find in chain stores.” Show you really care and support your community with a visit to these local spots today.
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Coming Soon to Kenmore: What You Can Expect in Kenmore’s Near Future
While Kenmore already offers a long list of excellent city amenities and a variety of housing options, there is always something new happening in the neighborhood. We wanted to take a moment to highlight 3 things you might especially be interested if you’re thinking about moving to Kenmore, and we talked to a couple of locals who have the scoop!
New Construction Homes
Curious about buying a home in Kenmore, WA? According to Jen Richardson-Bowman, “New construction abounds in Kenmore! It’s Northshore School District, so get ready for a little sticker shock!”
In Kenmore, you can expect to find some truly gorgeous homes. There are some incredible new construction homes, but there are older more established homes in the mix as well. Click here to take a quick look at some of Kenmore’s current home listings!
Lakepointe Waterfront Development
According to Michele Tenhulzen Kimes, “The waterfront development Lakepointe will transform the city by turning nearly 50 acres of industrial use space into shopping, dining and residential units.”
Located right on the shores of Lake Washington the Lakepointe development is a mixed-use development that will include a variety of land uses, and has been designed to “integrate the usage among residents, shoppers, vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists.” The plan was actually started back in 1989, and the proposed development has gone through several years of a citizen task force working with the developer to create a successful space. Weidner and Associates plans to invest $1 billion in the project.
Downtown Kenmore
Downtown Kenmore has been undergoing some serious changes, and there are even more redevelopment projects underway in the near future! While the Kenmore Town Square is complete, a new Hangar community building is in the works, and upcoming developments also include a large restaurant, commercial space, healthcare facilities, and more. Click here for the full overview of what you can expect in this Kenmore destination!
