Bellevue, Washington, sits on the other side of Lake Washington opposite Seattle. It’s technically a suburb of Seattle, although it is a unique and thriving city in its own right, full of much to see and do. Those who find Seattle too busy or crowded may find that Bellevue offers exactly what they’re looking for. It offers a friendly, smaller-town feel, while still being very close to all that the bigger city has to offer. Even better, it is a city with a vibrant and thriving LGBT community where all can feel welcome and at home. If you’re thinking of finding your next home in Bellevue, chances are, you’ll find plenty about it to love!
A Look at Bellevue's History
Bellevue was officially incorporated as a city in 1953, although it was settled much earlier, in 1863. It began as an important center of agriculture, but as Seattle grew Bellevue did as well. Its growth skyrocketed after its official founding in the 1950s, and it rose to become a major center of business and technology, which it remains to this day. As it grew it also became very diverse, progressive, and eclectic - and today it retains that vibe.
A Few Fun Facts About Bellevue
Read more fun facts about Bellevue here.
Bellevue’s LGBTQ Community
Bellevue is a city with a thriving LGBTQ community, which is diverse, welcoming, and supported by various resources, including:
PFLAG Bellevue is the Bellevue area’s chapter of the national PFLAG organization. PFLAG is the largest grassroots organization of its kind in the country and has 500 chapters with more than 200,000 members in the United States. PFLAG plays a critical role in providing advocacy, support, and resources to the LGBTQ community, and offers monthly support meetings, as well as resources, advocacy, and networking opportunities for the LGBTQ community, friends, and allies.
What's the Weather Like in Bellevue?
Those who live in Bellevue can certainly expect some of the rainy weather that the Pacific Northwest is well known for. On average, the area receives 42 inches of rain each year and about 5 inches of snow. Throughout the year, temperatures can range from a low of around 37°F in January to a high of around 76°F in July. This means that generally, any time of year is a good time to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors in Bellevue.
Can’t-Miss Events in Bellevue
Just a short drive from Bellevue, Seattle Pride is a celebration that is well worth the trip. The weeklong festivities include a parade, parties, family-friendly activities, and many other events. The celebration draws thousands of attendees each year, and it’s one party that you'll definitely want to put on your calendar.
The Best Neighborhoods in Bellevue
If you’re thinking of making a move to Bellevue, you will find that the entire city is very welcoming. Unlike some cities that tend to have one specific “gayborhood,” the LGBTQ community in Bellevue is sprinkled throughout the city, so there are many neighborhoods that would make wonderful places to call home. It is always advised to contact a Bellevue gay realtor who knows and loves the community, and who can help you find the perfect home in the ideal neighborhood. Like much of the Seattle area, homes in Bellevue can tend to be somewhat expensive, but for those with room in the budget, there are many wonderful options available. The current median list price of homes for sale in Bellevue is around $1.5 million.
Arts and Entertainment
PACE, which stands for Performing Arts Center of the Eastside is a center for dedicated arts professionals and forward-thinking civic leaders. The goal is to serve as a cultural and artistic hub for the area and to advance the arts in the greater Bellevue community.
In the heart of Bellevue, across from Bellevue Square and Bellevue Downtown Park is Old Bellevue. This beautiful historic area offers boutique shops, small businesses, and eclectic dining spots, all situated on a walkable, beautiful Main Street.
Parks and Recreation
Those who visit the Bellevue Botanical garden can expect to enjoy plenty of stunning natural beauty and a variety of local and exotic plant life. The Botanical Garden covers 10 acres of woodlands, meadows, and wetlands, and it is the perfect place to enjoy a beautiful Bellevue day.
At 320 acres, Mercer Slough Nature Park is Lake Washington’s largest remaining wetland, and it’s a gorgeous area full of countless plant species, a wide variety of wildlife, and so many beautiful trails and spots to relax.
Bellevue Nightlife
The Madison Pub is one of the most popular gay bars in the greater Seattle area. This friendly, relaxed spot offers strong drinks, plenty of TVs, pool, darts, a jukebox, and friendly crowds. It’s a great spot to put on your list for a night out in the Bellevue area.
The Pumphouse is a very popular Bellevue nightspot that's been around for decades. It offers breakfast, great bar food, big beer, and big TVs. Though not specifically an LGBTQ bar, it’s one of Bellevue’s most popular nightspots and it's very friendly and welcoming to all.
Contact a Bellevue Gay Realtor Today
If you're ready to make a move to Bellevue, at www.gayrealestate.com, we're here to help you take the first step toward finding an agent who knows and loves the community, and who can help you find a home and a neighborhood you'll love. We're proud to have a network of excellent realtors in Bellevue, and we would love to help connect you with the right one. Contact a Bellevue gay realtor today for a free, no-obligation consultation!
