Looking to relax in Kirkland with your kids or pets? Whether you're meandering through trails or enjoying a waterfront picnic, these 10 Kirkland parks offer a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
As a local, I've gathered a list of the best parks in Kirkland, showcasing why they are must-visit destinations for families and pet owners alike. So, grab your leash, pack some snacks, and let's explore the natural beauty that makes Kirkland a gem for outdoor enthusiasts.
Juanita Beach Park
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Park Rating: 4.5 stars (1,200 reviews)
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Why it's top pick: Stunning waterfront, sandy beach, and nature walks
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Park Location: Juanita Beach Park, 9703 NE Juanita Dr, Kirkland, WA 98034
Juanita Beach Park is one of the best parks in Kirkland, Washington, offering a beautiful waterfront setting with ample recreational amenities, including a sandy beach for sunbathing and a designated swimming area. This beloved destination's wetland boardwalk also attracts nature enthusiasts who enjoy birdwatching and peaceful strolls. Explore Juanita Beach Park
Waverly Beach Park
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Park Rating: 4.6 stars (750 reviews)
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Why it's top pick: Intimate beach and serene paddling spot
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Park Location: Waverly Beach Park, 633 Waverly Way, Kirkland, WA 98033
Waverly Beach Park, located in a tranquil Kirkland neighborhood, stands out among the best parks in Washington, offering stunning waterfront views with its intimate beach area. With a designated swimming area and a boat launch, visitors can effortlessly enjoy the serene scenery or partake in a paddling excursion, making it a favorite retreat for locals. Explore Waverly Beach Park
Big Finn Hill Park
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Park Rating: 4.7 stars (680 reviews)
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Why it's top pick: Extensive trails and dog-friendly spots
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Park Location: Big Finn Hill Park, 13220 Juanita Dr NE, Kirkland, WA 98034
Big Finn Hill Park is celebrated as one of the best parks in Kirkland, Washington, thanks to its vast 220 acres of trails and diverse ecosystems that offer a true wilderness experience for hikers, mountain bikers, and trail runners alike. This expansive park, which also includes a playground and an off-leash area for dogs, provides families with perfect spots for picnics and nature exploration. Explore Big Finn Hill Park
Juanita Bay Park
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Park Rating: 4.7 stars (1,100 reviews)
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Why it's top pick: Outstanding wildlife and educational experiences
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Park Location: Juanita Bay Park, 2201 Market St, Kirkland, WA 98033
Juanita Bay Park stands out as one of the best parks in Kirkland, Washington, offering visitors the chance to experience wetland habitats up close with its exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities and educational value. With an extensive boardwalk allowing exploration without ecosystem disturbance, the park attracts birdwatchers year-round and provides a tranquil retreat for those seeking reflection, relaxation, and nature photography. Explore Juanita Bay Park
O. O. Denny Park
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Park Rating: 4.6 stars (480 reviews)
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Why it's top pick: Unique combo of forest and beach
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Park Location: O. O. Denny Park, 12302 Holmes Point Dr NE, Kirkland, WA 98034
O. O. Denny Park is one of the best parks in Kirkland, Washington, known for its rich history and the unique combination of forested trails and beach access that offers diverse experiences for all ages. Whether it's indulging in picnics by the water or exploring the famous 600-year-old "Denny Tree," visitors will find this park a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. Explore O. O. Denny Park
Houghton Beach Park
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Park Rating: 4.7 stars (530 reviews)
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Why it's top pick: Family-friendly beach and seamless trail connections
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Park Location: Houghton Beach Park, 5811 Lake Washington Blvd NE, Kirkland, WA 98033
Houghton Beach Park is one of the best parks in Kirkland, Washington, known for its excellent swimming beach, stunning views of Lake Washington, and modern playground, making it a favorite for families and water enthusiasts alike. Additionally, the park's waterfront trail connects seamlessly to the Cross Kirkland Corridor, providing a perfect starting point for joggers and cyclists exploring this scenic route. Explore Houghton Beach Park
Heritage Park
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Park Rating: 4.5 stars (350 reviews)
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Why it's top pick: Mix of historical spots and event space
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Park Location: Heritage Park, 111 Waverly Way, Kirkland, WA 98033
Heritage Park is one of the best parks in Kirkland, Washington, featuring a harmonious blend of historical and contemporary amenities, including the restored Kirkland Woman's Club and expansive grassy areas for family activities. Located in downtown Kirkland, it serves as a cultural hub hosting community events and provides tranquil spots for relaxation, making it a beloved destination for both locals and visitors. Explore Heritage Park
132nd Square Park
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Park Rating: 4.4 stars (270 reviews)
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Why it's top pick: Versatile sports and recreation facilities
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Park Location: 132nd Square Park, 13199 132nd Ave NE, Kirkland, WA 98034
132nd Square Park is among the best parks in Kirkland, Washington, offering versatile facilities with numerous sports fields, a large playground, and picnic shelters, making it a community favorite for families and sports enthusiasts alike. With a popular skate park, basketball court, walking trails, and green spaces, it attracts a diverse crowd and provides a peaceful retreat for nature lovers seeking quiet time in Kirkland. Explore 132nd Square Park
Doris Cooper Park
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Park Rating: 4.6 stars (420 reviews)
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Why it's top pick: Peaceful atmosphere with a picturesque pond
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Park Location: Doris Cooper Park, 7818 NE Bailey Rd, Kirkland, WA 98034
Doris Cooper Park, a charming neighborhood sanctuary in Kirkland, stands out among the best parks in Washington due to its serene atmosphere and well-maintained facilities, including a picturesque pond that enhances its natural beauty. The park's winding trails, playground, and open grassy areas provide opportunities for birdwatching, family picnics, and moments of reflection, making it an ideal retreat from city life. Explore Doris Cooper Park
Bridle Trails State Park
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Park Rating: 4.7 stars (550 reviews)
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Why it's top pick: Extensive trails and serene equestrian experiences
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Park Location: Bridle Trails State Park, 5300 116th Ave NE, Kirkland, WA 98033
Bridle Trails State Park is a vast forested paradise within the city limits of Kirkland, earning its spot among the best parks in Washington with over 28 miles of trails through 489 acres that delight equestrians, hikers, and nature enthusiasts. Families and adventurers alike find solace in its well-maintained paths and diverse ecosystem, making it a genuine escape from urban life. Explore Bridle Trails State Park
