Discover Woodinville

A wine-lover’s paradise in Washington with so much more

By Michaela Ludwig

Nestled in the lush Sammamish River Valley, just 30 minutes northeast of Seattle, Woodinville, Wash., has gained a well-deserved reputation as a top destination for wine enthusiasts, outdoor lovers and those seeking a relaxing getaway. While wine tasting is at the heart of Woodinville’s charm, there are a variety of experiences to explore. From cozy accommodations to fine dining, unique events and outdoor activities, Woodinville has something for everyone.

The Woodinville Farmers Market

Where To Stay In Woodinville

Whether you’re looking for luxury or a quaint bed-and-breakfast experience, Woodinville offers a range of accommodations that cater to different tastes and budgets.

Advertisement

 

  • Willows Lodge
    • Description: A top-tier choice for those seeking luxury and comfort, this rustic-chic lodge is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is just steps away from some of Woodinville’s best wineries.
    • Amenities: Spa services, a hot tub and fireplaces in the rooms provide a cozy atmosphere, perfect for unwinding.
    • Nearby Attractions: Close to Chateau Ste. Michelle, DeLille Cellars and other renowned tasting rooms.
    • Website: willowslodge.com

 

  • Hampton Inn & Suites Seattle/Woodinville
    • Description: A great choice for those looking for more budget-friendly accommodations while still enjoying easy access to the area’s attractions.
    • Amenities: Offers free breakfast, a fitness center and comfortable rooms.
    • Nearby Attractions: Minutes away from Woodinville’s Warehouse District and Downtown Woodinville.
    • Website: hilton.com/en/hotels/seawohx-hampton-suites-seattle-woodinville-wa/

 

Advertisement
  • Hideaway Lodge Bed and Breakfast
    • Description: This cozy bed and breakfast provides a peaceful retreat with a personal touch, making it a great option for travellers.
    • Amenities: Each comfortable room is equipped with a private patio for guests to enjoy the lush property and beautiful gardens. A gourmet, homemade breakfast is served every morning.
    • Nearby Attractions: Hideaway Lodge is a stone’s throw from the region’s best wineries, and Willows Lodge Spa and Tolt-MacDonald Park are both close, as well – whether you’re looking for luxury or adventure, it’s nearby.
    • Website: hideawaylodgebnb.com/

 

  • The Somm. Hotel – Harvest
    • Description: This luxury hotel and spa is scheduled to be completed in the summer of 2025 and will offer comfortable, lavish rooms.
    • Amenities: The Somm. Hotel will be home to a 4,200-square-foot spa, with a large outdoor area for music performances, outdoor markets and more. There will also be a rooftop bar and patio, offering incredible views of Mount Rainer and the valley.
    • Nearby Attractions: Guests here will be just a stone’s throw from restaurants, wine tasting rooms, microbreweries and the riverside trail system.
    • Website: https://harvestwoodinville.com/somm-hotel/
The interior of Willows Lodge.

Events & Festivals In Woodinville

Woodinville hosts a variety of events throughout the year, catering to wine enthusiasts, outdoor enthusiasts, foodies and families. For more information about events happening around Woodinville, visit www.visitwoodinville.org/seasonal-events/.

 

  • Woodinville Arts Alliance Art & Wine Walks
    • Description: The Sip & Stroll events combine local art exhibitions with wine tastings from Woodinville-area wineries. The Woodinville Arts Alliance also offers an Exhibiting Artists Program, bringing art to local businesses, and there are art walks available year-round.
    • Date: Various dates throughout the year.
    • Website: woodinvilleartsalliance.com

 

  • Celebrate Woodinville Winterfest Holiday Fair & Tree Lighting
    • Description: This festive event marks the beginning of the holiday season with a holiday fair featuring artisan vendors and holiday-themed entertainment, as well as a grand tree lighting ceremony and community events.
    • Date: 7, 2024
    • Website: celebratewoodinville.com

 

  • Sammamish Valley Harvest Celebration
    • Description: This annual event celebrates the agricultural heritage of the Sammamish Valley and features farm tours, local produce and family-friendly events.
    • Date: Held in the fall. Check the website for specific date.
    • Website: sammamishvalley.org

 

 

  • Lavender Festival at JB Lavender Farm
    • Description: Enjoy the fragrant fields and beautiful views at this festival celebrating all things lavender. There are u-pick opportunities, local vendors on site and family-friendly activities.
    • Date: Held in the summer. Check the website for dates.
    • Website: https://www.jbfamilygrowers.com/
JB Lavender Farm
  • Woodinville Farmers Market
    • Description: This weekly market offers fresh produce, artisanal goods and local crafts in a bustling outdoor atmosphere.
    • Date: Saturdays from May to September
    • Website: woodinvillefarmersmarket.com

 

  • Auction of Washington Wines Picnic & Gala
    • Description: This premier wine event features an upscale picnic with local wines and a gala auction benefitting Seattle Children’s Hospital and Washington State University’s viticulture and enology program.
    • Date: Typically held in August. See website for specific date.
    • Website: https://auctionofwawines.org/

 

  • Celebrate Woodinville Summer Concerts & Festival
    • Description: Each summer, Woodinville hosts a series of concerts, as well as a festival featuring live music, local food vendors and a wine and beer garden.
    • Date: Held during the summer. Check the website for dates.
    • Website: celebratewoodinville.com/summer-event-series

 

  • Chateau Ste. Michelle Summer Concert Series
    • Description: Enjoy open-air concerts surrounded by vineyards, where nationally recognized musicians perform under the stars at the beautiful Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery.
    • Date: Held in the summer. Check the website for dates.
    • Website: ste-michelle.com/visit-us/summer-concerts

 

  • Over The Rainbow Hot Air Balloon Rides
    • Description: Soar above Woodinville and experience the breathtaking views of the valley and surrounding vineyards, forests and distant mountains.
    • Date: Available seasonally, typically May to October.
    • Website: overtherainbowhotairballoonrides.com
Photo by JB Lavender/Hot air balloon rides.

 

Top Restaurants In Woodinville

Woodinville’s food scene has blossomed alongside its wine offerings. From gourmet dining to casual eateries, below are some must-try spots.

 

  • The Herbfarm
    • Type of Food: Pacific Northwest cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.
    • Description: The Herbfarm is renowned for its dedication to regional foods, offering a unique dining experience that emphasizes the flavours of the Pacific Northwest. The restaurant is celebrated for its multi-course meals, each thoughtfully crafted to highlight seasonal ingredients. The Herbfarm has been recognized with the AAA Five Diamond award and is a member of the Slow Food movement, underscoring its commitment to artisanal and sustainable dining practices.
    • Website: theherbfarm.com
The Herbfarm
  • Heritage Restaurant and Bar
    • Type of Food: Modern American cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.
    • Description: Heritage Restaurant and Bar offers a contemporary dining experience, blending traditional American dishes with modern culinary techniques. The menu features a variety of options, including seafood, steaks, and vegetarian dishes, all prepared with fresh, local ingredients. The restaurant provides a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it suitable for both casual dining and special occasions.
    • Website: heritagewoodinville.com

 

  • Crossbuck Brewing Taproom and Walla Walla Steak Company
    • Type of Food: Steakhouse classics and brewery fare.
    • Description: Located in the historic Schoolhouse No. 23 building in downtown Woodinville, this establishment combines the elegance of a traditional steakhouse with the casual ambiance of a brewery taproom. Walla Walla Steak Co. offers a menu featuring updated steakhouse classics, while Crossbuck Brewing Taproom provides a selection of craft beers and casual dining options. The shared kitchen ensures a cohesive dining experience, catering to both fine dining and casual preferences.
    • Website: https://wwsteakco.com/woodinville-wa/

 

  • Cava Azul
    • Type of Food: Mexican cuisine.
    • Description: Cava Azul offers an authentic Mexican dining experience, featuring a menu that includes traditional dishes such as tacos, enchiladas and fajitas. The restaurant is known for its vibrant atmosphere and extensive selection of tequilas and margaritas, providing a lively setting for both lunch and dinner.
    • Website: http://www.cavaazul.net/

 

  • Fireside Lounge at Willows Lodge
    • Type of Food: Light fare and small plates with a Pacific Northwest influence.
    • Description: Situated within Willows Lodge, the Fireside Lounge offers a cozy and relaxed environment, perfect for unwinding by the fire. The menu features a selection of small plates, artisan cheeses and charcuterie, complemented by a curated list of local wines and craft cocktails. Live music is often featured, enhancing the inviting ambiance.
    • Website: willowslodge.com/woodinville-restaurants/fireside-lounge

 

  • The Pizza Coop and Ale House
    • Type of Food: Handcrafted pizzas and American pub fare.
    • Description: The Pizza Coop and Ale House is a family-friendly establishment known for its Detroit-style pizzas, made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu also includes a variety of salads, sandwiches and appetizers. With a rotating selection of local craft beers on tap, it offers a casual and welcoming atmosphere suitable for gatherings of all sizes.
    • Website: thepizzacoop.com

 

Turning Produce Into Alcohol

Woodinville is well known for its wineries, distilleries and breweries, with over 130 locations in the area. Visit www.visitwoodinville.org/sip/ for a list of establishments to check out.

New tasting rooms in Woodin Creek.

Outdoor Recreation In Woodinville

Beyond wine tasting, Woodinville offers beautiful outdoor spaces for those who love to get outside and explore.

 

  • Sammamish River Trail
    • Description: This scenic, 10.9-mile trail runs through Woodinville and connects to nearby Redmond and Bothell. It’s popular for walking, running and cycling, with views of the river and opportunities to spot local wildlife.
    • Highlight: Ideal for a peaceful morning walk or an afternoon bike ride between winery visits, you can start the trail at Wilmot Gateway Park.
Sammamish River Trail
Photo by Carol Hook Photography
  • Cottage Lake Park
    • Description: A quiet escape with picnic areas, fishing spots and a small boat launch, this park is great for families or those looking to enjoy a peaceful afternoon by the lake.
    • Highlight: Pack a picnic and enjoy the serene atmosphere, or you can bring a paddleboard and spend some time on the water.

 

  • Paradise Valley Conservation Area
    • Description: A short drive from Woodinville, this conservation area features over 13 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding through beautiful, forested landscapes.
    • Highlight: A great place to immerse yourself in nature, with trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging terrain.

 

Final Thoughts: Plan Your Visit To Woodinville

Woodinville, Wash., is a delightful blend of natural beauty, refined tastes and community spirit. It offers more than just world-class wine; it’s a place where you can find cozy accommodations, attend vibrant events, indulge in gourmet dining and explore the stunning outdoors. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend getaway or a family-friendly adventure, Woodinville’s welcoming atmosphere and diverse attractions are sure to create lasting memories.

 

Kimberly Ellertson, executive director for the Woodinville Chamber of Commerce, has lived in the area since 2007 and she’s enjoyed each day and watching her community grow.

 

“I have two young boys and they’ve grown up experiencing the outdoors, and my husband and I enjoy dining out at the restaurants here,” Ellertson explained. “Every day is something special here. You don’t need to leave Woodinville.”

The Spa at Willows Lodge

For more fun ideas about how to spend your time in Woodinville, the community has put together a list of ideas for visitors. If you only had two days, how would you spend them? Find out here: www.visitwoodinville.org/2-days-in-woodinville.

Where To Stay In Woodinville: https://visitwoodinville.org/stay/

Top Restaurants In Woodinville: https://visitwoodinville.org/dine/

Featured Product: BC Mag 2019 Calendar