Kirkland is a city in the northwest part of the state of Washington, United States. It is located at the eastern edge of Lake Washington at the mouth of the Sammamish River, not far from Seattle. The city has a population of about 90,000 and is a major financial and business center of the Puget Sound region. The city is most notable for its parks, waterfront, and open spaces. Kirkland is known for its vibrant arts scene and is home to the Seattle Symphony Orchestra, the Kirkland Arts Center, the Kirkland Performance Center and other local theatre companies.
1. Kirkland Parks and Places for a Walk on a First Date
A walk in one of the many parks of Kirkland is a great way to start a first date. Juanita Beach Park is a lovely lakeside spot to stroll. With great views of Lake Washington, the park offers a variety of activities such as swimming, boating, and picnicking. Another popular park to explore is Kirkland Waterfront Park, right on the shores of the lake. Here you can take a romantic stroll during sunset or take your date paddle boarding. There are also plenty of trails to explore in the nearby Bridle Trails State Park.
2. Places for a Coffee Date in Kirkland
If you're looking for a more laidback and casual first date, meeting for coffee is a great option. Kirkland is home to several great coffee shops such as the Red Cup Cafe and the Coffee Bunker. The Red Cup Cafe offers a variety of specialty drinks, along with pastries and sandwiches. The Coffee Bunker is a cozy cafe located in the heart of downtown Kirkland and serves delicious pastries, breakfast sandwiches, and coffee.
3. Kirkland Galleries, Museums, and Exhibitions to Visit on a Date
Kirkland is a great place to explore museums, galleries, and exhibits. The Kirkland Arts Center features rotating exhibits of art from local artists, plus exhibits from around the world. The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks and Visitor Center has a fascinating look at the history of the locks and offers outdoor walking tours of the grounds. If you're looking to explore more of local history, the Heritage Park includes a museum and an outdoor living history site representing the region's early years.
4. Live Music and Entertainment to Invite Your Date to in Kirkland
Kirkland is a great destination for live music, theatre, and other entertainment. The Kirkland Performance Center offers a variety of concerts, plays, and entertainment year round. The Kirkland Summer Concert Series offers free outdoor concerts in the summer, perfect for a romantic date night. The trendy Urban Comedy Store is a great place to experience some local comedy, and the Kirkland Bar & Grill is the place to go for live music.
5. Kirkland Pubs, Bars, or Restaurants for a First Date Drink or Food
Kirkland has an abundance of pubs, bars, and restaurants that are ideal for a first date. The Barking Frog offers a unique blend of comfort and elegance, perfect for that special night out. If you're looking for a more casual spot, you can check out the stylish Lucky Strike Lanes or the popular Flatstick Pub. There are also plenty of great places to grab a bite to eat in downtown Kirkland. Try Seattle’s renowned food trucks for some delicious street food, or check out one of the city's many farm-to-table restaurants.
6. Other Date Ideas to Try in Kirkland
Kirkland has plenty of other options for a fun first date. Take a romantic stroll on the downtown waterfront to take in the stunning views of Lake Washington. If the season is right, go strawberry picking at the local farm stands. Catch a movie at the Kirkland Urban Cinemas or visit one of the many local wineries, breweries, and distilleries. If you’re looking for something a little different, visit the nearby forest parks for an afternoon of hiking or explore the trails of the Mountains-to-Sound Greenway. No matter what your idea of a perfect first date is, Kirkland has something to offer. With its diverse and vibrant culture, there’s something to suit everyone’s taste. And with its many parks, galleries, pubs, and entertainment, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to make the perfect first impression.
