Bellevue
In the past 30 years, Bellevue has transformed from a bedroom community to a major business and retail center. Bellevue’s rapidly-expanding economy is anchored by high-tech firms, high-end retail businesses, banking, services, and numerous international companies.
While business booms downtown, much of Bellevue retains a small-town feel, with thriving, woodsy neighborhoods and a vast network of green spaces, miles and miles of nature trails, public parks and swim beaches. The city's public schools are consistently rated among the best in the country.
Surrounded by magnificent natural beauty and outdoor spaces, this one-of-a-kind place offers the ultimate in shopping, dining, and cultural attractions, all within easy strolling distance of popular hotels. Vibrant, modern, and growing, Bellevue is the gateway to the entire Puget Sound region. Within minutes you can explore Seattle's culture and history, visit Kirkland's waterfront parks and galleries, or tour Woodinville's Wine Country, home to over 100 tasting rooms and some of the world's best wines. You can even quench your taste for adventure with a day-trip to nearby mountains for hiking, biking, or skiing.
Fun Facts:
• In 2008, Bellevue was named number 1 in CNNMoney's list of the best places to live and launch a business, and in 2010 was again ranked as the 4th best place to live in America. In 2014, Bellevue was ranked as the 2nd best place to live by USA Today.
• The city's name Bellevue is derived from a French term for "beautiful view."
• As an example of the continuing transformation from a bedroom suburb of Seattle into a leading city in its own right, the largest mixed use project in the U.S. is currently under construction in downtown.