Redmond

ABOUT: Redmond’s claim to fame used to be, the “Bicycle Capital of the Northwest.” Now, Redmond is known around the world due to being where Microsoft’s headquarters and Nintendo of America’s campus are located. While many are initially attracted to the area for job opportunities, the abundance of outdoor activities makes Redmond a great place to live: swimming in Lake Sammamish at Idylwood Park, walking along the slough on the Burke-Gilman trail, biking in the Velodrome, enjoying every activity under the sun at Marymoor Park…even shopping at the outdoor mall, Redmond Town Center. Redmond is a city made up of valleys and hills that serve as natural boundaries for its many diverse neighborhood areas including Education Hill, Novelty Hill, Union Hill, Downtown, Bear Creek, Grass Lawn, Overlake, Idylwood, Willows, and more.

OUR TAKE: Jason was raised on Avondale Road in the pre-Microsoft era and graduated from Redmond High School. When a small hometown grows up and out so fast, it is a little bittersweet. But Redmond has a lot going for it. The downtown area has many great restaurants, coffee joints, and specialty shops. Redmond Town Center is a go-to for us. But with all the growth that has and is occurring, seeing Anderson Park, walking the old downtown on Cleveland and Leary, and driving on the old brick road, Redmond has reminders of yesteryear that will stand the test of time.