As children grow up, it can be challenging for families to find meaningful ways to connect with parents and grandparents. Redmond, Washington, offers the perfect playground with something for every family member to enjoy together.
From outdoor adventures to diving into movies and tackling escape room shenanigans, to relishing meals and festive evenings that unite the whole family, we spent a weekend roaming Redmond and uncovered just how easily this city sparked reconnection across three generations.
The writer was hosted.
Shopping and Entertainment
Redmond has no shortage of shopping and entertainment options, with Redmond Town Center seamlessly connected to downtown–the whole area is easy to explore on foot.
Redmond Town Center
Situated in the heart of downtown Redmond, Redmond Town Center is more than a destination for shopping and dining; it’s a vibrant community hub offering exciting, family-friendly activities throughout the entire year.
We visited on the opening night of Redmond Lights. Festivities stretched from Downtown Park to Redmond Town Center. The area was aglow and filled with holiday cheer. Tents offered special crafts and activities. Live music filled the air. Hot cocoa warmed our hands. Illuminated light installations added sparkle to the evening.
Are you ready to explore off the beaten path? Let us inspire you!
Conundroom Escape Rooms
What could be more fun than an unforgettable quest at Conundroom Escape Rooms? Designed by two imaginative brothers, Alex and TK, the immersive adventures span three unique locations throughout Redmond.
Between mom, dad, teen and grandpa, we spent a fun-filled 60 minutes solving puzzles and working together to save Wonderland at Alice: Reimagined, Save the Wonderland (updated in 2024). There were smiles, giggles and even some sighs of frustration. We were thankful for the helpful hints from our assistant, always just a call button away.
The wheelchair accessible adventure, for ages 14 and up, easily accommodated my elderly father’s needs.
IPIC Theater Redmond
Nothing felt cozier than the comfy recliners at IPIC Theaters Redmond. This elevated movie night, complete with freshly crafted dishes, treats, gourmet popcorn and even cocktails, was delivered right to our seats.
This place gives “dinner and a movie” a whole new meaning. With an entire row to ourselves, we munched on popcorn and candy until our hearts were content. After feeling completely spoiled, we left wishing every theater offered this kind of experience.
SecondStory Repertory
The SecondStory Repertory live theater at Redmond Town Center presents a year-round lineup of performances, from musicals and comedies to dramas, youth programs and special events. While we didn’t catch a show ourselves, it’s clear there’s something for audiences of all ages.
Flatstick Pub
The ultra fun Flatstick Pub is packed with mini golf, darts and an array of lively games, making it a great family-friendly spot until 8 pm–after which it transforms into a 21-and-up hangout. We passed by on our way to dinner and wished we had time to pop in, because it looked like a blast.
Parks and Attractions
Marymoor Park
The stunning 640-acre Marymoor Park is King County’s largest park, featuring something for all ages–from sports fields and dog parks to rock-climbing, trails, a remote-control airplane field, an outdoor concert venue and the only velodrome bicycle track in the Pacific Northwest.
While the boys (Dad and Grandpa) checked out the Edward B. Sand Memorial Airfield, a radio-controlled model airplane field, the girls (Mom and daughter) visited the Jerry Baker Memorial Velodrome.
The airfield, maintained by the Marymoor R/C Club, features dedicated airspace, a well-kept grass runway that impressed us, and nearby bleachers and picnic tables for spectators. The velodrome proved just as impressive, offering an outdoor concrete cycling track that draws riders for races, classes and clinics.
A quick stop at the open-air concert venue, where bands like Sublime and others perform during nicer weather, was also in order. The nearby Clise Mansion–originally named Willowmoor Farm and owned by Seattle businessman James Clise and his family in the 1900s–is a notable historic landmark that now hosts private events like weddings.
Element Cycles
What better way to explore the parks and trails of one of the region’s most bike-friendly cities than with a bike rental from Element Cycles, available year-round. They provide everything you need for a safe and enjoyable ride, and they also host a number of group rides and community events.
Redmond Public Art
Redmond has an incredibly rich art scene. Follow the public art walking map in downtown. It leads to over 32 creative displays, panels, sculptures, murals and more. Of course, there is even more art to explore beyond the city center.
Places to Eat
With so many diverse dining options, here are a few weekend favorites that aim to please every palate–from the youngest to the young at heart.
Due’ Cucina Italian Restaurant
The Redmond location is the sixth for Due’ Cucina, a concept dreamed up by two Italian high school friends who set out to make fresh, approachable Italian food accessible to everyone.
It was fun choosing from the in-house-made pasta for traditional dishes like polpette, basil pesto and carbonara. The marinated eggplant salad and burrata tricolore were standouts–and there are even focaccia sandwiches on the menu. Everyone found something they loved–and connected over tiramisu and cannoli.
The French Bakery
One of three Seattle Eastside locations, The French Bakery in downtown Redmond, couldn’t be sweeter. With so many delectable sweets and savories to choose from, paired with handcrafted coffees, happiness comes easily here. Baked fresh everyday, their delights put a smile on everyone’s face–and filled our bellies.
Agave Cocina and Cantina
A few minutes’ ride from downtown, Agave Cocina and Cantina is well worth a visit for its fresh take on Mexican cuisine. The spacious dining area, character-filled decor, extensive cocktail selection (both alcoholic and zero-proof) and friendly service were as enjoyable as the meal.
Tipsy Cow Burger Bar
Nothing says family time like a dinner at Tipsy Cow Burger Bar, where the lively atmosphere complements customizable 7-ounce, grass-fed, pasture-raised beef burgers, incredible sides and indulgent milkshakes–including boozy options for the adults.
Nearby Places to Visit
Woodinville
Redmond, just under 10 miles from Woodinville, makes the perfect base camp for wine tasting adventures, offering convenient access to some of the region’s best wineries, dining and entertainment.
Bellevue, Kirkland, Issaquah, Mercer Island
Beyond Redmond, the Seattle Eastside is full of cities and experiences that bring families together. With activities for all ages, you can spend quality time connecting and making memories everyone will cherish.
Where to Stay
The Seattle Marriott Redmond
There are quite a few hotels in Redmond’s downtown corridor, but we stayed at the Seattle Marriott Redmond. Its prime location puts Redmond Town Center, the IPIC Theater and downtown restaurants and attractions all within easy walking distance, so we had more time to dive into the fun without worrying about parking.
Our spacious adjoining rooms gave us just the right amount of privacy while also providing mobility-accessible options for grandpa. On top of that, the hotel offers valet parking for a daily fee, an on-site restaurant and bar, a seasonal outdoor pool and an M Club lounge free for Platinum, Titanium and Ambassador Elite members.
How to Get to Redmond, Washington
Fly
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is served by most major carriers and is approximately 55 minutes away from Redmond. The Seattle Marriott Redmond has stress-free car service to and from the airport for a fee. Of course, there is always Uber, too.
Drive
Depending on your starting point, Redmond is easily accessible via I-5 and conveniently located just off of I-405.
Rail
The Sound Transit’s 2 line (East Link) serves two stations in Redmond. With a brief walk and connecting bus ride from SeaTac or downtown Seattle, passengers can reach the city in about an hour.
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