Ed Laine

Managing Broker and Team Leader
The Ed Laine Team

eXplore Bellevue

Bellevue, WA Community

Located between Lake Washington and Lake Sammamish, Bellevue has rapidly grown into one of Washington State’s most vibrant and dynamic cities. With a population exceeding 150,000, the city has evolved from its suburban roots into a high-rise, tech-forward economic center. In fact, Bellevue now supports more than 160,000 jobs and is a hub for King County’s Eastside.

It’s also been named one of the top 5 safest U.S. cities for solo female travelers by TripIt for CNBC Make It, making it not only a place of opportunity—but of peace of mind.

A Global and Highly Educated Community

One of Bellevue’s standout characteristics is its incredible diversity and education level. Nearly 71.1% of adults over the age of 25 hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, placing it among the most educated cities in Washington.

Even more impressive? 43% of Bellevue residents were born outside of the U.S., and almost half speak a language other than English at home. With over 50 languages spoken in local schools, Bellevue isn’t just a city—it’s a global village.

Premier Shopping in the Pacific Northwest

Bellevue has become a shopping paradise for locals and tourists alike:

  • The Bellevue Collection features 200+ stores, including Nordstrom, Chanel, Aritzia, and Marine Layer.

  • The Shops at the Bravern is your go-to for luxury brands like Hermès, Louis Vuitton, and Prada in an outdoor village setting.

  • Old Bellevue adds charm with boutique shopping, art galleries, and intimate cafés along Main Street.

A Culinary Destination with Global Flair

With more than 400 multicultural restaurants, Bellevue is a rising star on the food scene. Notable mentions include:

  • Farzi Café (Michelin-recognized, first in North America)

  • Mavalli Tiffin Rooms from Bengaluru

  • The Dolar Shop (Shanghai hotpot)

  • Din Tai Fung (Taiwanese dumplings)

  • Local gems like John Howie Steak and Ascend Prime Steak & Sushi

After dinner, enjoy a thriving nightlife scene with rooftop bars, wine lounges, and lively clubs.

A “City in a Park”

Bellevue isn’t all concrete and commerce—it’s called a “City in a Park” for a reason. The city boasts:

  • 2,800 acres of parks and open spaces

  • 78 developed parks

  • 98+ miles of multi-use trails

  • 14 miles of waterfront

Visit Downtown Park for its half-mile promenade, or escape to the Bellevue Botanical Gardens with its meadows, wetlands, and woodlands.

A Gateway to Adventure

Bellevue offers quick access to regional attractions:

  • Snoqualmie Falls (270 ft waterfall)

  • Woodinville Wine Country (70+ wineries)

  • Cascade Mountains (hiking, skiing)

  • Lake activities like kayaking and electric boat tours

Its central location—just 17 miles from Sea-Tac Airport and 10 miles from Seattle—makes Bellevue the perfect launching pad for business and recreation.

The Ideal Meeting and Event Destination

For conferences and corporate events, Bellevue delivers with:

  • 160,000 sq. ft. of meeting space

  • 2,400+ hotel rooms downtown

  • Hyatt Regency Bellevue (70,000 sq. ft. of meeting space)

  • Meydenbauer Convention Center (54,000 sq. ft.)

Major companies like Microsoft, Boeing, and T-Mobile have recognized Bellevue’s value—so should you.

Header Image Source: visitbellevuewa.com
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