Winter Weekend Itinerary in Kirkland, WA

A winter weekend in Kirkland can be whatever you want it to be. Outdoor enthusiasts, foodies, and lovers of culture will all find something in this peaceful lakefront town. This itinerary gives you two full days of winter activities, plus another optional day for a winter excursion outside of the city.

Day 1: Lakefront Views & Cozy Indoor Time

Start the morning with a winter walk at Marina Park. It’s an easy spot to stretch your legs and take in the morning views of Lake Washington. Continue north along the shoreline to Heritage Park and visit the historic Heritage Hall or some of the park’s gardens. These paths stay accessible in December and make good options for families, especially those who may want to learn about Kirkland’s history at Heritage Hall.

Warm up at a café in the Kirkland Urban district, then browse nearby boutiques and galleries before heading to a waterfront spot for soup, seafood, or other comfort dishes.

In the afternoon, visit the Kirkland Performance Center for a matinee if the schedule aligns — winter months often include concerts, comedy, and family performances. If you prefer something low-key, stop into downtown art studios like the Kirkland Arts Center and its winter Holiday Art Market.

End the evening with something festive: stop by the Kirkland Ice Rink for some ice skating, or swing by the Google Holiday Lights to see the interactive holiday display before dinner at a heated-patio restaurant or a dessert spot near the water.

Day 2: Parks, Play, & Winter Attractions

Begin with a relaxed walk at Juanita Beach Park, one of Kirkland’s oldest and most popular parks. Adults can soak in the sweeping views while kids explore the shoreline or play on the playground.

Afterward, if the weather is dry, take a longer stroll or bike ride along the Cross Kirkland Corridor, a flat multi-use trail that cuts throughout the city. You might even spot some friendly critters.

Then, spend the afternoon at The Village at Totem Lake, where shopping, cafés, restaurants, and seasonal treats turn the area into an accessible indoor winter attraction. Take your time; there’s plenty to do, and this part of the day works well for mixed-age groups.

For dinner, try some of Kirkland’s best restaurants, including Sparrow with its warm, lively atmosphere or the award-winning Café Juanita, known for its elegant Northern Italian cuisine and exceptional service.

Optional: Day Trips & Quick Excursions

Use your final morning or afternoon for a short outing. Houghton Beach Park and Waverly Beach Park are both easy, scenic stops close to town, great for winter photos with Lake Washington in the background.

For light snow activities, drive east toward Snoqualmie Pass. Hyak Sno-Park (under an hour from Kirkland) has a groomed sledding hill and predictable parking with a day pass. Gold Creek Pond is another nearby choice for a short winter walk. Wrap up back in town with a final coffee or pastry from a local café before heading out.

So go ahead and plan your winter escape to Kirkland. Here, winter weekends feel effortless, full of lakeside strolls, festive dining, and charming holiday moments that actually let you unwind. You’ll head home refreshed, renewed, and already thinking about your next visit.

Author

Christian Lash

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