Redmond, WA
Redmond, Washington
Redmond is located about 16 miles east of Seattle and has a population of about 65,000. There are around 24,000 households in Redmond, as well as 47 public parks totaling over 1,300 acres. The city of Redmond is home to many high-tech companies but is most commonly known as the home of Microsoft and Nintendo. Microsoft is by far the largest employer in the city and surrounding cities, employing over 40,000 people and contracting with nearly 100,000. Redmond is also known as the "Bicycle Capital of the Northwest" as it holds an annual bike race on the city streets.
Redmond is part of the Lake Washington School District, 2 high schools, 3 middle schools, 10 elementary schools. State standardized tests taken by students in the Lake Washington School District has placed Redmond in the state's top 10% school systems. The educational curriculum used by this district has been praised in many national education publications for its thorough approach to student-focused learning, and more than 100 districts throughout the country have adapted it into their systems.
Marymoor Park
Being King County’s oldest and largest public park, this 640-acre stretch of land features a rock-climbing course, a model airplane and drone flying field, an outdoor theater, a baseball field, a soccer field, multiple tennis courts, a playground, a community garden, and a velodrome. Marymoor Park hosts many events each year including the FSA Star Crossed, which is a bicycle race held every September using the velodrome. There is also an annual summer series of concerts held at the amphitheater in Marymoor Park. The venue has hosted a countless number of famous and notable music artists and events including Cirque du Soleil and Warped Tour.
Marymoor Off-Leash Dog Park
In addition to the activities held here, Marymoor Park is also well-known for its 48-acre off-leash dog area. The Sammamish River runs through the park, so dogs can swim and play in the cool water during the summertime! This huge former farm is the perfect place for dogs to run free and play as well as make new friends.
Redmond Town Center
Redmond Town Center has been around since 1997 and contains over 100 restaurants and stores in an outdoor venue. This famous outdoor shopping plaza features a wide variety of popular retailers and small local shops. Just a couple businesses found in the town center include Bed Bath & Beyond, Petco, BJ’s, Ulta, Ross, and Pier 1 Imports.
Farrel-McWhirter Farm Park
This unique 68-acre park has elements of fun available for people of all ages! Some features include a small farm where you can pet and interact with the animals, a horse-riding pen, covered picnic shelters with electricity and water, and dirt trails that connect to the City of Redmond Trail that can be used by walkers, bikers, and horse riders. It also offers a challenging orienteering course.
Redmond Derby Days
Redmond Derby Days is an annual community festival held during an entire weekend each July. It began as a race in 1939 that went around Lake Sammamish and was originally called the Redmond Bicycle Derby, and since then has become an annual event that hosts a bicycle race, parade, live entertainment, local food and beer offerings, and family-friendly activities. There is also a carnival with rides and attractions as well as a firework display at dusk.
