Weekend Plan
A Free Weekend in Bellevue
A two-day, entirely free weekend itinerary for Bellevue — parks, gardens, waterfront, and a Sunday farm walk.
Two full days in Bellevue without spending a dollar on admission. Our editors road-tested this itinerary in both summer and shoulder season — it works either way.
Plan your visit
- Best season
- May–October
- Time needed
- 2 days
- Cost
- Free (excluding meals)
- Family friendly
- Yes
- Accessibility
- Every stop below is stroller and wheelchair accessible
- Parking
- Free at every park stop
- Public transit
- Metro and East Link cover both days
- Dog friendly
- Leashed dogs welcome
Section 1
Saturday — Downtown and waterfront
Morning: start at Bellevue Downtown Park for the promenade loop and playground.
Midday: walk south through Old Bellevue to Meydenbauer Bay Park; picnic on the lawn.
Afternoon: continue west to Chism Beach Park for a swim or a shaded sit.
Evening: return to downtown; a free walk-through of Bellevue Square's public art collection closes the day.
Local editor tip
Pack a real picnic — Meydenbauer's benches are the best free lunch spot in the city, and the water views make packed sandwiches feel like a splurge.
Section 2
Sunday — Wetland, farm, and garden
Morning: coffee at Third Culture, then the Mercer Slough boardwalk before the crowds.
Midday: drive or bus to Kelsey Creek Farm Park; two hours minimum for the farm animals and pasture paths.
Afternoon: end at the Bellevue Botanical Garden — free, quiet, and at its best in late-afternoon light.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a car for this itinerary?
Saturday is fully walkable from Downtown Bellevue. Sunday's Mercer Slough and Kelsey Creek stops are much easier with a car or rideshare.
Is this itinerary good with kids?
Yes. Every stop is stroller-friendly, and Kelsey Creek Farm is one of the best free family stops in the region.
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