Five Things to do in Kirkland
It’s now officially summer, and we truly believe that the Pacific Northwest is one of the most beautiful places to spend this season. Kirkland in particular is exceptionally beautiful this time of year. From the forest trails to Lake Washington, we are blessed that our campus is located in such a pristine area.
Restaurants
Kirkland is home to a thriving food scene, with just about every kind of restaurant you could ask for. What’s more, there are plenty of options compatible with a college budget. DERU is a favorite among Northwest University students, serving affordable pizzas, sandwiches, and salads, all made from locally grown ingredients. Downtown, you’ll find Cactus, a restaurant known for its unique brand of Southwestern and Mexican food. Right down the street from NU is Burgermaster, a 1950s-style drive-in with some of the Eastside’s best burgers and shakes. Kirkland is a paradise for food lovers, and the options listed here don’t even begin to scratch the surface. Pictured below: Burgermaster
Coffee Shops
Coffee lovers are proud to call Kirkland home. From boutique roasteries, to award-winning coffee drive-thrus, Kirkland’s coffee scene has it all. Thruline Coffee is located downtown and is known just as much for its delicious pastries as for its coffee. Right down the street is another Kirkland favorite, Zoka, which serves hand-roasted coffees as well as homemade baked goods and sandwiches. Kirkland’s wonderful coffee shops often double as study spaces for many NU students. If you don’t love coffee now, you just might after living in Kirkland. Pictured below: Zoka
Desserts
If you have a sweet tooth, Kirkland is sure to satisfy. Downtown, you’ll find plenty of options. Sirena Gelato, a favorite among NU students, is a family-run gelato and sorbet shop, and it’s just a short walk from the Kirkland waterfront. Lady Yum is known for its unique and fanciful macarons that come in all kinds of flavors—both traditional and unexpected. You can never go wrong with ice cream, especially Ben & Jerry’s, also located downtown. Pictured below: Lady Yum
Parks
Kirkland is surrounded by beauty—water, forests, and a charming downtown. What better way to enjoy Kirkland’s wonderful scenery than by taking some time to relax in one of its many parks? Head to Heritage Park to enjoy a view of Lake Washington and the Seattle skyline. If it’s nature you’re seeking, Bridle Trails State Park has over 482 acres of forests and trails. Peter Kirk Park offers the perfect place to relax right next to Kirkland’s bustling downtown. You won’t just be impressed by the city’s number of parks, but by how unique and inviting each one is. Pictured below: Heritage Park
Beaches / Waterfront
In the spring and summer, Kirkland’s waterfront comes to life, and you’ll find no shortage of fun. The Kirkland waterfront offers swimming, boating, volleyball, paddle boarding, and just about every other lakefront activity you can imagine. Minutes from the Northwest University campus, you’ll find Houghton Beach Park and the Marina Park Pavilion. Kirkland’s largest beach, Juanita Beach Park, is just a 10-minute drive from campus. Spend a day at the beach with friends, then head into Kirkland’s downtown for the evening. Pictured below: Kirkland waterfront