Bellevue Washington Hotels:: Accommodations and Attractions

Kelsey Creek Bellevue Wa

Photos of Kelsey Creek Park - front pastures and barns, and picnic shelter

A visit to Kelsey Creek makes a delightful outing with kids - it's worth the drive if you live in the Seattle area.

The park is made up of 150 acres of forest and wetland habitat, with a number of hiking trails (including a gravel loop trail that goes around the park's barns and pastures) that are easy enough for tots to traverse. A popular working farm is also located on the park grounds.

This sedate 150-acre park is a favorite with kids not only for the grass, sand and slides, but also for its resident population of pigs, chickens, horses and other farm animals. Kids get up close and personal with the animals, and have the opportunity to learn about animal care. For adults, the park offers more than two miles of hiking trails, including a gravel trail ideal for walking, jogging or biking. Admission to the park is free, so bring lunch and relax at one of the picnic tables.

Picnic tables and a covered picnic shelter are available for brown-baggers and events. The picnic shelter is located south of the parking lot (call or email for rental information); tables are located throughout the park. A play area for small kids is conveniently located near the picnic shelter area.

Kelsey Creek Farm's barns and pastures are home to a variety of farm animals. The farm hosts a number of kids' recreational programs, including pony care classes and farm experience tours, as well as living history workshops for families throughout the year.

Getting There: Located in Bellevue, about 20 miles east of Seattle. From Seattle: Take SR 520 to I-405 south or I-90 to I-405 north. Exit at SE 8th Street and drive east. Drive under the train trestle and straight across the Lake Hills Connector Road. Drive through a residential area, and go straight after the first stop sign. At the "T" (second stop sign), turn left. The park is on the right. Ample free parking.