Edmonds, Washington

Edmonds Washington is a beautiful waterfront city located in the North Puget Sound region. With a population of just over 40,000, Edmonds is the perfect size for those who want to enjoy all the benefits of living in a small town but still be close to the big city.

The Edmonds community is very close-knit and supportive, and there are plenty of things to do and see in this vibrant city. From biking and hiking trails to art galleries and eclectic shops, there is something for everyone.

The waterfront is one of the biggest drawcards in the area and whether you want to relax on the beach, go for a swim or paddleboard, or take a scenic stroll along the boardwalk, Edmonds is the perfect place to enjoy all of it.

If you’re visiting Seattle, Edmonds is a great place to stay or day trip as it’s an escape from the hubbub of the city and is easily explored on foot. The option of boarding the Edmonds-Kingston ferry here also provides access to many other unique locations in the Puget Sound.

Things To Do

When we travel we always like to get out of the car and explore on foot. Edmonds is that kind of place, offering a quaint downtown packed with boutiques, cafes, shops, galleries, and other attractions all closely situated in an area known for its tree-lined streets and the small-town USA feel.

If you are the festival-attending type, be sure to visit Edmonds during one of their unique festivals as they take place throughout the year. In particular, check the dates of the Summertime Concert Series and the Edmonds Art Festival.

In addition to the walkable downtown area, the area has beautiful beaches and Puget Sound views that you don’t find just anywhere. It’s no wonder with the atmosphere around Edmonds that artists flock to the place and that it’s become known as an artist’s community.

Art is everywhere downtown as you notice the colorful hanging baskets and vintage street lamps. A great way to explore Edmonds is to take a self-guided walking tour of art throughout the downtown area. In the center of downtown, you will find the Cedar Dreams Fountain, an iconic art installation that tells visitors a story about local history.

Murals and sculptures are found throughout the downtown area. If you’re in town on the third Thursday of the month, you can take the Edmonds Third Thursday Art Walk (and be sure and visit the Edmonds Art Festival Museum while you’re there).

The Edmonds Center for the Arts is where you can hear the Cascade Symphony Orchestra, Sno-King Chorale, and see the Olympic Ballet Theatre. Other live theater events are held throughout the year, so be sure and check ahead.

Also, don’t forget the Summer Markets, which are held each Saturday May through October.

The Waterfront

A big part of Edmonds’ charm involves its location on the water and the waterfront parks are one big reason people from all over Puget Sound take the short drive to Edmonds. You can fish from a public pier or just throw a towel or portable chair on the beach and completely relax.

The views here are spectacular and there is literally something for everyone. If you’re a boat nut, you’ll enjoy seeing all the boats in the impressive Edmonds Marina, if you’re a diver, there is a 27-acre underwater park If you’re a dog-lover, you’ll be happy to know there is an off-leash area just south of Marina Beach on the waterfront, and so on and so forth.

Several parks are available for a picnic and some feature multiple walking trails. Visit Yost Park for the trails and a swimming pool; City Park and Hickman Park both have picnic facilities, barbecues, and play toys for the kids. Should you be a bird enthusiast, the Edmonds Marsh is a unique urban saltwater estuarine marsh, where you can find over 200 species of birds.

If you think the activities described here are more of a half-day adventure, consider spending the rest of the day taking the short ferry ride from Edmonds over to Kingston where you can explore the Kitsap Peninsula and visit such charming areas as Poulsbo and nearby Bainbridge Island. It’s then just another quick ferry ride back from Bainbridge to downtown Seattle, completing an incredible day of Northwest travel with enough photo opportunities to completely exhaust the memory in your camera.

In short, Edmonds is the kind of place that will appeal to anyone hoping to soak up a good measure of Pacific Northwest charm in a gorgeous waterfront environment that just happens to offer activities and attractions the whole family can enjoy.

How To Get To Edmonds

Getting to Edmonds is easy whether you’re coming from Seattle or another city in Washington. The town is located just off of Interstate 5, and there are a variety of public transportation options available. Those coming from Seattle can take the bus or light rail to Edmonds, while those coming from other parts of Washington can take the Amtrak train.

Where to Stay, Eat, and Shop in Edmonds

If you’re looking for a place to stay that will put you in the heart of the action, consider one of these three hotels:

The Edmonds Marina Inn is situated right on the water, offering stunning views of Puget Sound. The hotel also has its own private beach, perfect for an afternoon of exploring or simply relaxing.

For those who want to be close to downtown, the Best Western Harbor Plaza & Suites is just a short walk from all the shops and restaurants.

If you’re looking for something a little more budget-friendly, the Travelodge by Wyndham Seattle North Edmonds is a great option. No matter what your budget or preferences, you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay in Edmonds.

If your tummy is a little rumbly, there are also a ton of places to get delicious and unique food. If your hotel doesn’t offer breakfast, locals love the warm and inviting atmosphere of the Local Grind Café. The menu features classic American breakfast staples like eggs, bacon, and pancakes, as well as more unique items like chicken and waffles.

For lunch or dinner, the Black Frog Pub is a popular destination. The pub offers a wide selection of burgers, sandwiches, and salads, as well as an extensive selection of beer and wine.

Other popular restaurants include the Cask & Trotter, which specializes in craft cocktails and small plates, and the Edmonds Bakery, which offers a wide variety of freshly-baked bread, pastries, and desserts. With so many great places to choose from, Edmonds is a food lover’s paradise.

History Of Edmonds

Edmonds, Washington was founded in 1890 by George Brackett, a logger who arrived in the area in 1854. The town was originally known as “Alderwood”, but was renamed in 1884 after a nearby stream. In 1890, the Great Northern Railway chose Edmonds as its terminus, which helped to spur the town’s growth.

The Edmonds Historic Downtown District was established in 1983, and today the town is known for its quaint shops and Victorian-style buildings.

Visitors to Edmonds can also take a ride on the historic carousel, which was built in 1913 and is one of only two remaining carousels in Washington state. With its rich history and vibrant community spirit, Edmonds is a wonderful place to live and visit.