Tech hub east of Seattle across Lake Washington. Home to Microsoft and other major companies.

About Bellevue / Eastside

Bellevue has transformed from a sleepy Seattle suburb into the Pacific Northwest's second-largest city and a major tech hub in its own right, hosting the campuses of Meta, T-Mobile, and numerous other technology companies. Downtown Bellevue's skyline of modern towers, anchored by the Bellevue Collection (three connected shopping centers including the upscale Bellevue Square), reflects the area's affluence and rapid growth.

Bellevue's cultural scene has matured significantly, with the Bellevue Arts Museum showcasing contemporary craft and design, and the Meydenbauer Bay waterfront park providing green space with Lake Washington views. Bellevue Downtown Park, a 21-acre oasis in the center of the city, features a striking circular canal waterfall and is popular for lunchtime walks. The food scene spans diverse Asian cuisines (reflecting the area's significant Asian American population), farm-to-table restaurants, and upscale dining.

The broader Eastside encompasses Kirkland's charming waterfront, Woodinville's wine country (over 100 tasting rooms), and Redmond's tech campuses (Nintendo of America, Microsoft). The communities are connected by well-maintained trails including the Cross Kirkland Corridor and the Eastside Rail Corridor, making the area increasingly attractive for those seeking a balance of urban amenities and outdoor lifestyle with the Cascade Mountains visible to the east.

Nearby Landmarks

Bellevue Square Bellevue Arts Museum Bellevue Downtown Park Meydenbauer Bay Lincoln Square

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost $50-65
Time 30-50 minutes

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Rideshare (Grab/Uber)

Cost $45-60
Time 30-50 minutes

Level 3, outer drive

Train (Link + East Link/Bus)

Cost $5+
Time 60+ minutes
Frequency Varies

Step-by-Step Directions

Light Rail to downtown Seattle, then transfer to bus or East Link (when open).

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi $50-65 30-50 minutes Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Rideshare $45-60 30-50 minutes Budget-conscious, app users
Train $5+ 60+ minutes Budget, avoiding traffic

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

Sound Transit Express buses and Link Light Rail serve Bellevue until approximately midnight. After that, Uber/Lyft from SEA to Bellevue costs $40-55 and takes 25-40 minutes depending on time. Bellevue has a growing restaurant and bar scene in Old Bellevue and Main Street, though it is quieter than Seattle late at night.

Luggage Tips

If taking the Light Rail, the transfer in downtown Seattle adds time and walking. Direct rideshare or taxi from SEA to Bellevue is more practical with heavy luggage. Bellevue's streets are wide and flat with good sidewalks — navigating from the transit center to hotels is straightforward.

Accessibility

All Link Light Rail stations including the East Link extension to Bellevue are fully ADA accessible. Bellevue has modern infrastructure with excellent sidewalk accessibility, curb cuts, and accessible transit. Bellevue Square mall and downtown public spaces are all ADA compliant.