We’re so excited to have you join us for our wedding weekend on Mercer Island! Whether you’re an outdoor adventurer, a foodie, or someone looking for a relaxing day, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of our favorite things to do around the island and in Seattle. The "Pro" tips come from lived experience... your mileage may vary.

1. Explore Luther Burbank Park

Luther Burbank Park is a stunning waterfront park on the south end of Mercer Island, perfect for a peaceful afternoon. Enjoy the walking trails, picnic areas, and take in views of Lake Washington and Seattle’s skyline. There’s also a beach and playground for families to enjoy.

- Activities: Walking, picnicking, beachcombing, playground, fishing

- Location: 2040 84th Ave SE, Mercer Island, WA 98040

- "Pro" tip: rent bikes and pedal the perimeter of the island! A good map is available on the municipal website

2. Mercer Island Farmers Market

If you’re visiting on a Sunday, don’t miss the Mercer Island Farmers Market! Located at the Mercerdale Park, the market features fresh produce, handmade goods, local crafts, and food trucks. It’s a great place to grab a bite to eat and enjoy the local vibe.

- When: Sundays, 10 AM - 3 PM (Seasonal: May - October)

- Location: Mercerdale Park, 77th Ave SE & SE 32nd St, Mercer Island, WA 98040

3. Boating and paddleboarding on Lake Washington

For a more adventurous day, rent a kayak, paddleboard, or boat at one of the local rental spots around the island. Enjoy views of Seattle, the Cascades, and Mount Rainier on the horizon while getting out on the water.

- Rental spots: Island WaterSports (on Mercer Island) or Seattle Boat Rentals (in Seattle)

- "Pro" tip: Paddle among the floating houseboats - a unique and neat feature of Seattle. If you want a workout, go down to the Ballard Locks and ride them up and down - you may see some salmon while you're at it. If you stick to the lake, stay at the edges to avoid the float planes that sometimes land and take off from the center

4. Shopping and dining at Island Square

Mercer Island offers some wonderful boutique shops and local dining options. Head to Island Square for a range of great restaurants, from cozy cafes to upscale eateries. We haven't personally been, but we've heard that Sushi Maru (great sushi) and The Roanoke (American comfort food) are great

- Location: Island Square, 2950 78th Ave SE, Mercer Island, WA 98040

5. Pike Place Market

One of Seattle’s most iconic attractions, Pike Place Market offers a lively atmosphere with fresh seafood, artisan foods, flowers, and crafts. You can watch the famous fish-throwing at Pike Place Fish Market and visit the original Starbucks store. Perfect for a half-day outing.

- Activities: Shopping, eating, sightseeing, street performances

- Location of Pike Place Market: 85 Pike St, Seattle, WA 98101

- Location of the Great Wheel: 1301 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98101

- "Pro" tip: Try out Hellenika (for Greek ice cream), Beecher's (for cheeses), Pike Place Chowder (for chowder of course!), and snag a beautiful bouquet of local flowers from any of the many vendors. Also try a ride on the Seattle Great Wheel - good views!

6. Seattle Underground Tours

Several companies offer 1-2 hour tours of the Underground: a network of underground passages in Seattle's historic district. These tours offer up some great history and some laughs

- Location: varies in and around Pioneer Square

- "Pro" tip: We've been on two of these with different guides - both were quite knowledgeable and funny. Ask them questions!

7. Space Needle & Chihuly Garden and Glass

Take in breathtaking views of the Seattle skyline and beyond from the top of the Space Needle. Afterward, explore the Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit, which showcases stunning glass art installations by Dale Chihuly.

- Activities: Observation deck, art exhibition, photography

- Location: 400 Broad St, Seattle, WA 98109

- "Pro" tip: the views are great even if the weather is cloudy. Try out the Space Needle IPA when you get to the top and test your tolerance for heights on the outdoor glass walkways

8. Discovery Park

For outdoor enthusiasts, Discovery Park is Seattle’s largest green space, offering beautiful trails through forests, meadows, and beaches. It’s perfect for a relaxing hike or a family-friendly outing with spectacular views of the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.

- Activities: Hiking, wildlife watching, photography. Le

- Location: 3801 Discovery Park Blvd, Seattle, WA 98199

- "Pro" tip: Make your way to the water's edge to watch the sun set over the sound and mountains.

9. Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)

A must-visit for pop culture fans of all ages, the Museum of Pop Culture houses exhibits on everything from music and movies to science fiction and video games. Whether you’re a fan of Star Trek, Nirvana, or The Lord of the Rings, there’s something for everyone here.

- Activities: Explore interactive exhibits, see famous movie props, and learn about music history

- Location: 325 5th Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109

10. Seattle Children’s Museum

Located inside the Seattle Center, the Seattle Children’s Museum is a great place for kids to play and learn. With hands-on exhibits, a creative play area, and interactive displays, it’s a perfect stop for families with little ones.

- Activities: Interactive exhibits, art projects, imaginative play areas

- Location: 305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109

11. The Seattle Public Library – Central Library

Architecture lovers will appreciate the unique design of the Seattle Public Library’s Central Branch, which has been called one of the most innovative buildings in the world. Spend some time browsing books, relaxing, or just enjoying the striking architecture.

- Location: 1000 4th Ave, Seattle, WA 98104

12. Wine tasting in Woodinville

Just a short drive away from Mercer Island, Woodinville Wine Country is home to over 100 wineries, breweries, and distilleries. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just enjoy a relaxing afternoon, a wine-tasting tour through Woodinville is a great way to unwind.

- Activity: Wine tastings, relaxing vineyard atmosphere

- Location: Woodinville, WA (20-minute drive from Mercer Island)

13. Massage and spa day

Mercer Island and Seattle offer several fantastic spas for some relaxation during your stay. Treat yourself to a luxurious massage or facial at Sundara Spa on Mercer Island or the Willows Lodge Spa in Woodinville for a calming retreat.

- Locations: Sundara Spa (Mercer Island), Willows Lodge Spa (Woodinville)

16. Take a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island

For a classic Seattle experience, take the ferry from downtown Seattle to Bainbridge Island. Enjoy the stunning views of the Puget Sound, and explore the charming shops, cafes, and scenic parks on the island.

- Activities: Ferry ride, shopping, sightseeing

- Location: Seattle Ferry Terminal, 801 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98104

- "Pro" tip: you can walk on to the ferry or drive. Once you get to the other side, enjoy walks by the water, visit the Japanese American Exclusion Memorial, or grab some excellent pizza from Bruciato... you cut it with scissors. Scissors!

17. Take a day trip to a park

We are in a beautiful spot: within three hours of three national parks!

- Want to see to Mount Rainier or Olympic NP? You can DIY with a car. Alternatively, go with a tour group - they will pick you up from your hotel and show you the highlights. Viator has got some great daytrip options for ~ $130 - 250 per person

- King County Metro has offered a service called TrailheadDirect in years past: take a bus from Seattle to Mount Si or the Issaquah Alps. Fares were literally $2.75 in 2024

- Rent a car and check out any of the awesome natural areas nearby. Some of our favorites: Snow Lake in Snoqualmie Pass (1hr from Seattle), Twin Falls in Olallie (<1hr from Seattle), Oyster Dome near Bellingham (1.5hr from Seattle)

- "Pro" tips: If you're coming from other time zones, take advantage and get to trailheads early - think 6-8am. They fill up very fast on weekends. If you're headed to Mount Rainier, beware timed entry passes - check out the park website for details on when those are released

18. Check out Lavender Fest

A well-known summer attraction that starts July 18th in Sequim (2hr drive + ferry): https://www.lavenderfestival.com/. We have been to the Tulip Fest but not the Lavendar Fest - let us know how you like it!

Places we have been to and love, in no particular order:

- Mioposto: pizza and Italian. On Mercer Island itself!

- Byen Bakeri: pastries. Try the mazarin tarts

- Spice Waala: Indian street food

- Kedai Makan: Malaysian yum yum

- Dukes: seafood. This area is known for Dungeness crab, try the dip

- Ivars: also seafood, this time fast casual (except the longhouse location)

- Dough Zone. Dim sum in the International District. Levi looves the soup dumplings

- Stoup Brewing. Like it sounds. Levi likes the citra IPA and the mosaic mango pale ale. Also very near Salt & Straw (see below)

-Cheese Room Seattle. Italian place, cheese-forward so they say. Ravioli and all pasta that works hard and tells you to come back

-Bongos. Caribbean food. Fun vibe, island drinks, right near Green Lake if you want a nice walk by the water

And some local specialties:

- Lotus: think caffeinated Italian soda. You can find these at most coffee shops

- Speaking of coffee shops, try any of the local coffee here, it's a big scene

- Salt & Straw vs Molly Moons. Two local ice cream shops. People have fierce loyalties here

- The Seattle Dog. Susan was not convinced when she heard the ingredients but was made a believer upon first taste. Hot take: better than the Chicago and NYC style dogs

- Teriyaki. Some say it was invented in Seattle. Either way, there's an abundance of great options

- Geoduck. Not for the faint of heart. Google it. The only thing on this list we have yet to try