Redmond, WA, is known for its charm, outdoor activities, and natural beauty— but there are some unique activities just waiting to be explored. So whether you’re looking to buy a house in Redmond, WA, interested in renting an apartment in the area, or have your eyes on a rental home, you’ll find plenty of reasons to love exploring this city.
In this Redfin article, we dive beyond the usual spots you would expect to find in Redmond and uncover some unique things to do that will leave you eager to explore new adventures you may not even know exist.
1. Test your aim at Pacific Axes
Are you up for a challenge while also learning a new skill? Then look no further than Pacific Axes– a fun and unique Redmond experience where axe throwing meets arcade fun and craft beer. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned thrower, you can enjoy a laid-back atmosphere with plenty of games and drinks to keep the good times rolling. It’s the perfect spot for groups, solo adventurers, and anyone looking to experience the thrill of competition in Redmond.
2. Laugh until it hurts at Northwest Brewing
Whether you’re new to Redmond or a long-time neighbor, you’ll enjoy a gem of live entertainment at Northwest Brewing in the heart of downtown Redmond. On the second Saturday of each month, Cozy Comedy Productions—an independent group creating accessible comedy experiences—hosts live headlining comedy shows with the Pacific Northwest’s best comedians.
3. Live on the wild side with Savor the Wild Tours
If you’re looking for adventure, don’t miss out on a culinary journey with Savor the Wild Tours. Their beginner-friendly mushroom foraging classes are a fantastic way to explore the local parks and get to know your neighborhood better. Redmond’s parks are filled with all kinds of edible (and non-edible) plants, berries, and, of course, mushrooms. You can choose between a Mushroom Foraging 101 session or a Chef-Led Intro to Gourmet Mushroom Foraging + Cooking Class for a hands-on introduction to the amazing world of edible fungi. You’ll not only learn how to safely identify mushrooms, but you’ll also see Redmond’s green spaces in a whole new light, discovering the thriving ecosystems that support them.
4. Get your swing on
Challenge your friends to some friendly competition and improve your swing at the same time at The Golf Club at Redmond Ridge. Nestled in the watershed of Redmond, the Club offers 18 holes of championship golf and a wonderful dining experience at The Crooked Spoon.
The course is a testament to the contemporary Northwest golfing experience, blending the area’s natural beauty with pristine course conditions and demanding water features. Winding through a network of dense, native forests and skirting a series of carefully preserved wetlands during the early part of the round, the course ultimately treats players to spectacular views of the Cascade Mountains as they return to the clubhouse. Their high-ceilinged restaurant offers a perfect place to enjoy a post-round cocktail or a memorable evening meal with friends and family.
5. Unleash your creativity at Bright Moon Art Studio
If you’re exploring Redmond, make sure to check out Bright Moon Art Studio and tap into your creative side. Their studio offers a variety of creative experiences, from engaging crafting sessions and art activities for all ages to hosting private parties for special occasions. Whether you’re trying your hand at painting, pottery, or resin art, you’ll find an inspiring space to unleash your creativity and celebrate art with the local community.
6. Go on a magical retreat with The Emerald Forest
Located just east of Downtown Redmond, you’ll find a magical 5-star customer-rated experience—The Emerald Forest Treehouse. It features an outdoor hot tub and is open for overnight stays. On the 30-acre property, you’ll also discover the Emerald Forest Theater, an outdoor theater experience set high up in the trees. Unlike anything you can imagine, the theater is nestled within the most beautiful moss-covered forest. Both the forest and the theater are available for group rentals, such as movie nights, adult birthday parties (no kids parties), weddings, and more.
7. Keep the kiddos entertained
Unlock fun and creativity
Keeping kids entertained can definitely be challenging at times. Mixing up different activities not only helps the time fly but also sparks their creativity and curiosity. Luckily, Redmond is full of unique options that will keep your little ones engaged and having a great time.
Did you know there is a 12-acre outdoor preschool in the heart of Redmond that’s been around for 20 years? Tiny Treks Outdoor Preschool is a great place for kids ages 3 to 8 to explore and learn in a fun, natural environment.
Discover the future of innovation
Or, if you’re looking for a place to spark children’s passion for technology, Magikid Robotics Lab is the ideal destination. Located next to Microsoft’s Headquarters in Redmond, it offers hands-on robotics and coding classes that ignite creativity and build a logical mindset. With exciting VEX IQ competition training, weekly after-school classes, holiday camps, and even fun birthday parties, it’s a fantastic way for kids to develop their problem-solving skills while having a blast. Magikid Robotics Lab offers the perfect blend of learning and fun for the future innovators.
8. Uncover your adventure
Julie and her family moved to Redmond about three years ago and have since relaunched her small business Julia Christina Photography, capturing your most cherished moments and making life easier for parents. As a new resident, she loves everything about Redmond, especially how stepping outside means being surrounded by beautiful parks and hiking trails—there’s always something new to explore. If you want to support a small business and create some amazing memories, booking a shoot is definitely the way to go.
9. Grab a local craft beer
Washington—home to the world’s premier hop growing region—has long been a mecca for craft beer, and one of the area’s most unique new taprooms lies just north of Redmond. Watts Brewing Company brews award winning beers inspired by the family’s history raising bees for commercial pollination. From The Leafcutter to Xylocopa to the Apian IPA series, their world-class beers take their names from the names of bee species or pollination related terms. The nesting blocks used to raise the family’s leafcutter bees are built into the walls and tables of the taproom, and you can even see these friendly pollinators working in their outdoor beer garden during the summer. Be sure to check their schedule to plan your visit around beer release parties, live music, car shows, or to book the brewery for your own party.
If you’re looking for a variety of sour and barrel aged beers— check out one of Redmond’s most popular gathering spots, Postdoc Brewing. Located next to the fantastic Marymoor Park, you will undoubtedly see your neighbors at Postdoc while you enjoy their amazing craft beer and daily food trucks. Kids and on-leash dogs are always welcome.
10. Taste some delicious grub
Redmond has a fantastic food culture and restaurants that showcases a variety of flavors from its diverse community. You can find everything from cozy cafes to upscale dining, catering to all tastes. Redmond’s food scene truly reflects the community’s dedication to quality and connection. We’ve listed some places that blend traditional recipes with modern twists for you to enjoy with your loved ones.
Modern, artisanal Mexican cuisine
If you find yourself in downtown Redmond, you must stop by Agave Cocina & Cantina, a community staple that has been in the business for over 15 years. Known for scratch contemporary Mexican food and a large selection of curated sipping tequilas– Agave serves updated favorites plus vegetarian, gluten free and vegan items. With Happy Hour twice daily, every day, the bar and heated patio are lively.
Elegant American cuisine
Also in downtown Redmond, Redmond’s Bar & Grill is the perfect place to visit if you’re craving a variety of tasty options to please even the pickiest eaters in your group. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu offerings. From classic American comfort food to fresh seafood and signature cocktails, the restaurant caters to a wide range of tastes. With its cozy ambiance and friendly service, it’s a go-to destination for both casual dining and special occasions.
Authentic Japanese cuisine
Feeling indecisive? Why choose one when you can have both. Check out Towa and Nextowa, two delicious sister Japanese restaurants located side by side in Redmond. Proudly offering high-quality Japanese cuisine, these sister restaurants bring a commitment to excellence and authenticity in every dish. Towa specializes in the art of Kaiseki, featuring exquisite multi-course meals crafted with seasonal ingredients. Nextowa offers a diverse menu that celebrates classic Japanese flavors with a contemporary twist. Check out both locations for a delightful culinary experience that embodies the spirit of Japanese dining.
Discover the delight of bubble tea and baked goods
Meetea Café is a locally founded, women-owned boba tea shop in Redmond and a go-to spot for delicious drinks and baked goods. They pride themselves on using natural ingredients and brewing fresh tea every day, ensuring every sip is as flavorful as possible. Their house-made bakery items are perfect for a sweet treat while you hang out with friends, work, or study.
Feel the spark with every slice
Spark Pizza is a special place for the community to gather and create memories while enjoying world class pizza. If you’re seeking a laid-back atmosphere with outstanding food, beer, wine, cocktails, and outdoor seating, this is the place for you. Not only is the pizza top-notch, but this pizza joint also gives back through its Spark of Kindness charity events. During these special occasions, they raise funds for various non-profits by donating $5 from every pizza sold on the event day to the chosen charity.
A little taste of history
Enjoy delicious food and a history lesson at Village Square Café. The café opened in Redmond in the fall of 1986 with a classic 1940s theme. The founders aimed to create a warm and familiar place where everything on the menu is fresh and made with care by the excellent staff, embracing the community’s rich history.
Bucket List Activities in Redmond, WA: Final thoughts
Navid Farzadfar from Redmond Family Smiles sums it up best. “Living in Redmond means embracing a vibrant blend of nature, technology, and community. Redmond offers a rich outdoor lifestyle, with access to scenic parks like Marymoor Park and the Sammamish River Trail for biking, hiking, and picnicking. The city’s charming downtown area fosters a sense of community with its farmers’ markets, local eateries, and community events.”
We hope this article gives you some great unique activities in Redmond that you can explore solo or with loved ones.
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