Awe-inspiring mountain vistas, a quaint downtown, lively dining options, and adventures around every turn – these are just a few reasons to add North Bend to your next Seattle day trip itinerary. A quick 30-mile drive from Seattle will bring your family to this outdoor oasis. Read on for tips to make the most of a kid-friendly day in North Bend.
Rattlesnake Lake (Image: Jessica Estes)
Morning
While there are many options in North Bend to get your caffeine fix, make a beeline for Arete coffee Bar, located inside Pro Ski and Mountain Service at 112 W 2nd St Ste C, North Bend). While you peruse the menu, kids will enjoy checking out the latest ski and mountain gear, watching ski films on the big screen opposite the coffee counter, and playing with toys and books stashed in the shop’s seating area. A full menu of drinks and food (including vegan and gluten-free options) is available all day. If you need another coffee and a change of scenery, Arete has a second location in North Bend located inside The Line Experience bike shop.
Arete Coffee (Image: Allison Peterson)
If you have babies or toddlers in tow, schedule time in your morning for a visit at The Village Project. This indoor playspace and community hub was designed to foster play and imagination for children ages 0 months-4 years old. Take advantage of The Village Project’s “Stay and Play” where caregivers stay to enjoy playtime with their children, or join in for special events like Dads + Donuts or Saturday morning Music & Me. Another option is to register for The Village Project’s flexible Playcare where you can drop off the kiddos with licensed childcare providers for up to two hours. Take advantage of your kid-free time to go for a hike, mountain bike ride, or enjoy a relaxing stroll through town.
The Village Project (Image courtesy Janine Soltman Photography)
Afternoon
Next, head over to Torguson Park to get some wiggles out. Bring along your wheels of choice for some unique play spaces in this metropolitan park. Bike riders can head over to the 35,000 square foot bike pump track where all ages and abilities will find trails to suit their level of adventure. A separate strider track is available for young riders so an adult can walk alongside them to help. If scooters or skateboards are more your speed, check out the 13,000 square foot skate park that features exciting elements for all skill levels. Even if you don’t have wheels, kids will enjoy the park’s other features including a playground, a 3-story rock climbing wall, paved trails, picnic shelters, and sports fields.
Torguson Park playground (Image: Allison Peterson)
After your busy morning, it’s time for lunch! Hop in the car and take the short drive across I-90 to the top-rated casual restaurant, South Fork. Families will appreciate the kid-centric children’s menu, clean family-friendly restrooms, a large outdoor covered sandbox, play fields (including tetherball and a giant tennis ball slingshot for dogs), and seasonal fire pits. The menu features fresh hand-crafted meals, beers and ciders on tap, an espresso bar, and outdoor BBQ’s in the summer. Wrap up your meal with tableside s’mores, and you’re sure to leave South Fork with happy tummies and lasting memories.
South Fork sandbox (credit: Allison Peterson)
Begin your afternoon adventures with a visit to the Northwest Railway Museum. Train-lovers and history buffs will enjoy exploring the train shed where you can see real trains and learn about the history of rail travel. For an immersive experience, purchase tickets for train excursions where you can take a 2-hour ride on a historic train (available Saturdays and Sundays April-October) — train ride tickets include admission to the museum’s Train Shed Exhibit Hall.
Northwest Railway Museum (Image: Allison Peterson)
Evening
Wrap up the afternoon with a visit to Tollgate Farm Park. Kids of all ages will enjoy the scenic playground at the base of Mt. Si and the huge grassy meadows (bring some balls or frisbees for a game of catch!). A stroller-friendly gravel path leads from the playground on a one-mile loop that passes by the park’s namesake, Tollgate Farm. Stop at the farm for a fence-side visit with the farm’s resident animals that include cows, goats, alpacas and rabbits. On your way back to the playground, stop to read the interpretive signs along the path that describe the area’s history in fascinating detail.
Animals at Tollgate Farm Park (credit: Allison Peterson)
Finish your day in North Bend at the family-friendly Volition Brewing Co. Grab a casual meal or a snack for the road from one of the brewery’s scheduled food trucks, or pick up giant corn dogs, sandwiches, or salads from neighboring Falling River Meats. Kids will enjoy playing Voliton’s pinball machines or exploring the outdoor patios. Check Volition’s calendar for a schedule of live music and events to add even more fun to your experience.
Pinball machines at Volition Brewing (Image: Allison Peterson)
With so many adventures to explore, a trip to North Bend is the perfect way to spend a day…or more!
More ways to explore North Bend:
- Si View Park and Community Center: Enjoy playgrounds, paved trails, sports courts, and greenspaces at this centralized park.
- Visit the North Bend Farmers Market at Si View Park on Thursday evenings June through early September.
- The Community Center at Si View Park includes a swimming pool with public swim sessions and seasonal indoor playgrounds for children ages 0-5.
- Scott’s Dairy Freeze: Stop by this retro burger shop for classic favorites like burgers, fries, shakes, and slushies.
- North Bend Theatre: Drop by this historic theater to watch a first-run blockbuster or outdoor adventure film. Special events and free family-friendly movie showings over school breaks make this a must-visit on every itinerary.
Scott’s Dairy Freeze (Image: Allison Peterson)
Go hiking
North Bend boasts several family-friendly hikes. A few local favorites include Oxbow Loop Trail and the Middle Fork Snoqualmie River valley, Twin Falls, Franklin Falls, Denny Creek, and Little Si. Visit the Washington Trails Association website to search for additional hikes in North Bend.
- Rattlesnake Lake:Enjoy exploring this recreation area from land or by water. Paved trails, hiking trails, and a watershed museum can be visited along the shores. Bring your water gear for splashing, swimming, or paddle boarding in the pristine waters of Rattlesnake Lake.
- Olallie State Park: With hiking trails, waterfalls, rock climbing, and a rushing river this state park offers something for everyone. Pack a picnic to enjoy at the park’s picnic area and play fields.
Playing in the Snoqualmie Middle Fork River. (Image: Allison Peterson)
