Weekend Itinerary in Kirkland: How to Experience the Best of the Eastside

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Weekend Itinerary in Kirkland WA

What’s the best way to spend a weekend in Kirkland, WA?

A perfect weekend in Kirkland blends lakeside relaxation, outdoor adventure, local culture, and exceptional dining—all within a walkable, scenic setting.

Morning:

Start with a Lakeside Stroll and Local Coffee

Begin your day at Marina Park, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Lake Washington and the Olympic Mountains. The park's gentle breeze, local sailboats, and artistic touches make it an inviting spot to wake up slowly. The wide paths and green spaces are perfect for a light jog, yoga session, or leisurely stroll with a coffee in hand.

Just steps away, grab a fresh pastry and locally roasted coffee at Zoka Coffee or Kirkland Bakery—favorites among locals for their relaxed ambiance and quality ingredients. This morning ritual is a favorite for both residents and visitors exploring the best neighborhoods in Kirkland.

If you’re a fan of weekend farmers markets, the Kirkland Urban Market (seasonal, typically open Saturdays) offers fresh produce, handmade goods, and local fare. It’s a great way to support small businesses while sampling the region’s best flavors.

Midday: Nature, Water, and Open Spaces

Weekend Itinerary in Kirkland_ How to Experience the Best of the Eastside_ kayaking 8_8_2025If you're craving outdoor adventure, Juanita Beach Park is just minutes away. This 22-acre waterfront oasis features a sandy beach, kayak and paddleboard rentals, walking trails, and plenty of space for a picnic. It's also an excellent place to meet local residents and get a feel for the community.

Prefer forest trails over lake views? Head to O.O. Denny Park, a lesser-known treasure tucked into the hills. Towering evergreens, quiet walking paths, and bald eagle sightings make this a true local escape—and a reason many choose to live in nearby neighborhoods.

Afternoon: Elevated Dining & Boutique Shopping

Weekend Itinerary in Kirkland_ How to Experience the Best of the Eastside_ Boutique shopping 8_8_2025After working up an appetite, treat yourself to lunch at Café Juanita, a James Beard Award–winning Italian restaurant that’s long been a favorite among Eastside foodies. Set in a quiet, leafy area near the Kirkland/Kenmore border, this spot offers a taste of luxury that reflects the area's lifestyle.

Looking for a livelier vibe? Head to The Village at Totem Lake, Kirkland’s modern shopping and entertainment district. From indie boutiques to well-known retailers, a movie theater, and global cuisine options, it’s a fun way to experience the local flavor—and see what life might look like if you’re relocating to Kirkland WA.

Evening: Arts, Culture, and Lakeside Sunsets

Weekend Itinerary in Kirkland_ How to Experience the Best of the Eastside_ art walk 8_8_2025Cap off the day with a show at the Kirkland Performance Center, an intimate venue that hosts everything from live music to spoken word. The center is a cultural cornerstone and a great representation of Kirkland’s creative community.

If your weekend falls on the second Friday of the month, don’t miss the Downtown Kirkland Art Walk. More than 20 venues open their doors with live music, wine tastings, and work from local artists. It’s another reason why the top neighborhoods in Kirkland feel so vibrant and connected.

Finally, circle back to the water. Watching the sun set over Lake Washington from Marina Park or Juanita Beach is a relaxing way to reflect on the day—and for many, it's the moment that sparks a bigger idea: What if I lived here?

Living the Kirkland Lifestyle

Beyond weekend visits, Kirkland offers a high quality of life, strong community ties, and access to some of the best recreational and lifestyle amenities in the region. From the real estate market in Kirkland to its wide mix of neighborhoods—each with its own personality—this city continues to attract those looking for balance, beauty, and connection.

Whether you're relocating from out of state or just moving across the Eastside, choosing the right neighborhood and home is key. From downtown condos to luxury homes near the lake, the Kirkland real estate market has options for every lifestyle.

Let’s Make Kirkland Home

Weekend Itinerary in Kirkland How to Experience the Best of the Eastside alina 882025If you’re considering a move and want real, local insight into what it’s like to live, work, and play here—I'm here to help. As a long-time Kirkland real estate agent, I love guiding clients toward neighborhoods and homes that truly match their goals.

 

About the Author
Alina Araujo
Alina Araujo, Broker | Relocation Specialist | Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist | First Time Homebuyer Specialist

To me, real estate is much more than buying or selling a single home, condo, or piece of land. It is about developing long-lasting relationships with my clients and becoming their trusted real estate advisor for whatever their current and next chapters hold. That means helping my clients maximize their most important investment regardless of the market I promise to provide the market information you need to make important real estate decisions and help you achieve your unique goals.

My passion is providing peace of mind and stress reduction throughout the buying or selling process. My former background in mortgage experience provides me “behind the scenes” insight so I can guide you through your transaction with ease. For buyers, I can help you find your comfort zone in terms of price range and monthly budget. For sellers, I put my marketing hat on and help you find the most listing dollars in your property. My team and I put our expertise to work, combining the latest technology and marketing techniques, to market your home utilizing cutting-edge techniques. 


If you are relocating to the greater Seattle area, the Eastside, or throughout King and Snohomish Counties, consider me your go-to resource. I have lived here for almost 30 years and there is just so much to love! Regardless of whether you are just starting your area research or need a home ASAP, I am here, ready to help. 


When my focus is not on my clients, it is on my two kids, my family, and my French Bulldog (named Panda for his awesome black and white coloring). We love to travel, so if you have a recommendation, we are all ears!


I look forward to connecting with you.