Nestled at the base of the Issaquah Alps and 20 minutes from Seattle along Interstate 90, Issaquah welcomes visitors with its historic downtown, scenic trails, and culinary scene. The city is LEED GOLD certified, and its commitment to preservation and sustainability can be seen in its architecture. Don your flannel and explore the charming streets, cozy coffee shops, and gastropubs, or head out on more than 200 miles of trails.
Whether you’re hiking Tiger Mountain, exploring local art galleries, or visiting the salmon hatchery, there’s plenty to discover.
Things to do in Issaquah
Cultural Attractions
Village Theatre
Experience Broadway-quality productions without the fuss at this leading producer of musical theater since 1979. In Issaquah, Village Theatre is home to two venues: The Francis J. Gaudette Theatre and Hunt Family Theatre. With just under 500 seats, the Francis J. Gaudette Theatre is an intimate performance space perfect for a date night.
Issaquah History Museum
Built in 1889, the city’s train depot now houses a museum that delves into the Industrial Revolution, travel, communication, and the early economic development of Issaquah. Explore historic Issaquah at your own pace on a self-guided walking tour.
Issaquah Salmon Hatchery
Learn about the lifecycle of these iconic fish with a visit to the hatchery. While open year-round, the best time to observe salmon is during the spawning season from late August through November. View fish in the rearing ponds, check out the fish ladder, visit the aquarium room, and walk through the native plant and rain gardens.
Art By Fire
Washington is known as the epicenter of glass art in the Pacific Northwest. Try your hand at glassblowing or observe artists in action at this glass school and gallery in Issaquah’s downtown Creative District. Classes allow visitors to create their own art under the guidance of a professional glassblower.
Boehm’s Candies
Makers of handcrafted confections for 80 years, the alpine-themed Boehm’s Candies provides guided and self-guided tours of its factory and picturesque property. Get a behind-the-scenes look at chocolate making, enjoy samples, and visit the founder’s chalet and High Alpine Chapel. Tours are offered year-round. Candy-making classes are also available.
Northwest Pottery Collective
Dive into the ceramic arts in a fun and inclusive manner. Sign up for a session of free-wheeling, hand-building, or pottery painting for all skill levels.
Outdoor Adventure
Tandem Paragliding Experiences
Thrill seekers can find their next adrenaline rush in Issaquah, a premier paragliding destination. Both Northwest Paragliding and Seattle Paragliding launch from Tiger Mountain’s Poo Poo Point and can accommodate all ages and abilities, including those with mobility and visual considerations.
Mountain Biking
A renowned destination for mountain biking, Issaquah offers something for all skill levels. Duthie Hill Mountain Bike Park boasts miles of flowy and technical trails, including jumps and other features for the newbie rider to the competitive racer. Another popular option is Tiger Mountain, with 125 miles of memory-making trails you’re sure to think about for years to come. Guided rides are available, or you can rent from Ride or Foothills Mountain Bikes.
Tiger Mountain and many other outdoor recreation spaces sit on the ancestral lands of the Snoqualmie Tribe. Help protect these spaces by staying on marked trails and packing out trash.
Walks & Guided Hikes
The Issaquah Alps Trails Club offers guided hikes paired with educational content on topics such as birding, plein-air painting, nature walks, and environmental programs along the way. For those interested in yoga, Sarah’s GreenHeart Yoga provides a guided hike and yoga experience in a supportive environment.
Comfortable with self-guided exploration? Issaquah has miles of mostly flat pathways connecting the historic downtown to Lake Sammamish State Park, with quaint shopping districts and places to dine along the way. Don’t miss Jakob Two Trees the Troll on the Rainier Trail!
On the Water
Lake Sammamish State Park features sandy beaches, picnic shelters, a boat launch, and a summer concession stand. The park is equipped with ADA amenities, including a beach wheelchair, ramps, and accessible bikes. Issaquah Paddle Sports provides rental services for a variety of watercraft, while Paddling Yogini offers stand-up paddleboard yoga classes. For more fun on the water, Creekside Angling Company offers fly-fishing lessons and guided trips.
Shopping
Gilman Village
A landmark for over 50 years, Gilman Village is home to a diverse collection of local boutiques and restaurants. Support LGBTQ+ and BIPOC-owned small businesses as you wander the historic buildings connected by wooden boardwalks and brick pathways.
Issaquah Farmers Market
Held Saturdays from May through September in the historic Pickering Barn, you’ll find a fantastic array of fresh produce, local crafts, delicious food vendors, and live entertainment at this family-friendly market.
The Historic Shell Holiday Shop
Find jewelry, gifts, decor, stationery, and more crafted by more than 30 local artists and displayed in a charming historic building in Issaquah’s Creative District. Open on weekends from Thanksgiving through New Year’s.
Major Annual Events
Duthie Jam (May)
This laid-back, community-driven mountain biking event offers riding (or spectating), music, and food trucks at Duthie Hill Mountain Bike Park. Bring your friends, your bike (or not), and a little cash for food.
Fenders on Front Street (June)
On Father’s Day, hundreds of classic car owners from across the state showcase their vehicles along Front Street in historic downtown. Thousands of visitors arrive to admire the cars, listen to live music, and enjoy dining experiences.
Issaquah Open Studio Tour (September)
Spend the day with emerging and established artists right in their home studios. Each location hosts an activity or performance to bring you into the art-making process. Ask questions, make connections, bring the kids, take home an original piece, and leave inspired.
Salmon Days Festival (October)
Celebrate the return of the salmon at this two-day outdoor festival held the first weekend of October. More than 150,000 visitors flock to downtown and the salmon hatchery grounds to take in artist booths, enjoy live entertainment, and watch the salmon action at the fish ladder.
Issaquah Reindeer Festival (December)
The Cougar Mountain Zoo celebrates the season with Santa and his reindeer as they prepare for the big day. Considered one of the most unique holiday events in the Pacific Northwest, visitors can explore the zoo or opt for a guided tour or animal experience.
Where to Eat
Issaquah Coffee Company
Located in Gilman Village, this quintessential Pacific Northwest coffee shop serves up brews using its own brand of beans with names that pay homage to the area’s history (think Coal Miner and Midnight Oil).
Levitate Gastropub
This industrial-hip community hub brings locals and visitors together to enjoy modern American cuisine. Ingredients are locally sourced, and you’ll also find an impressive selection of craft beers, wines, and spirits from Washington. Come summer, don’t miss the outdoor beer garden.
Agave Cocina and Tequila
Discover contemporary Mexican food in the Issaquah Highlands urban village at this family-owned spot. The bar features hand-crafted cocktails made with fresh juices and natural purees. Enjoy great views from the covered patio.
The Well and Table
For fine dining in a casual atmosphere, head to this farm-to-table restaurant from owners Jason Stellman and Jaynie Wetherbee. The duo sources ingredients from local purveyors, showcasing Washington’s agricultural bounty and local wines. Outdoor seating overlooks Issaquah Creek.
Jaks Grill
For over 20 years, Jaks Grill has been serving up classic steaks and chops. Located in the heart of historic downtown, you’ll also find a stellar brunch menu and wine list at this casual spot.
The Black Duck Cask & Bottle
This pub in Gilman Village is a favorite of beer lovers thanks to its ever-changing tap list that showcases up to 17 pours, all sourced from craft beer masters.
Vino Bella Wine Bar
Dine on Italian classics like bruschetta or pizza while enjoying live entertainment in this cozy, exposed-brick space that features works by local artists.
Where to Stay
Hilton Garden Inn
Take in views of the Issaquah Alps at this hotel within two miles of trailheads, Lake Sammamish State Park, historic Gilman Village, and Cougar Mountain Zoo. Amenities include an onsite restaurant and an indoor pool.
Marriott Springhill Suites
The closest hotel to historic downtown and Gilman Village, this hotel is an excellent basecamp for exploration. Enjoy a modern Pacific Northwest vibe, an onsite bar, and an indoor pool.
Homewood Suites Extended Stay
This all-suite, pet-friendly hotel features an indoor pool and two charging stations for electric vehicles. Enjoy small plates and drinks at the complimentary evening socials.
Know Before You Go
Climate and Seasons
Aim to visit during Issaquah’s cozy seasons of autumn, winter, and spring. Locals embrace the mountain mists, dressing in layers and sturdy shoes for impromptu walks among fall colors, winter’s verdant mosses, or spring’s cherry blossoms.
Getting Here
You can reach the city by car along Interstate 90, just 20 minutes east of Seattle. Arriving by plane for an Alaskan cruise? Issaquah is only 30 minutes from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and 30 minutes to the cruise terminal piers in downtown Seattle.
Looking for more trip inspiration? Check out Visit Issaquah.
Featured image credit: Visit Issaquah