The Bear Creek Bulletin

Spring Activities in Redmond: Fresh Ways to Enjoy the Season

As winter starts to fade, Redmond becomes one of the best places on the Eastside to get outside, try something new, and make the most of longer days. Redmond’s downtown area is known for its mix of shops, restaurants, local businesses, and community-centered experiences, while nearby parks and venues make it easy to fill your calendar as the weather improves. If you’re looking for simple ways to enjoy the season, we've listed some exciting spring activities here! 1. Take Advantage of Redmond’s Trails and Green Spaces Spring is one of the best times to explore the great outdoors. Cooler mornings, mild afternoons, and blooming greenery make it a great season for exploring. One nearby option is Bridle Trails State Park, which sits between Kirkland and Redmond and offers 28 miles of maintained trails, plus easy hiking routes like Raven Trail, Trillium Trail, and Coyote Trail. The park is known for its forest setting and seasonal wildflowers, which makes it especially appealing in spring. Plus, it's dog-friendly so you can bring your pup to enjoy the scenery too! If you want a spring activity that feels low effort but still gets you out of the apartment, this is an easy one to keep in rotation. A casual trail walk, a weekend picnic, or an early morning reset outdoors can be just as appealing as a packed event schedule. 2. Plan a Spring Outing to Redmond Town Center Redmond Town Center is one of the easiest places to spend a spring afternoon without overplanning it. The center features more than 120 stores, around 20 restaurants, fitness studios, hotels, and entertainment, so it works well no matter what you're in the mood for. The center is also promoting seasonal specials right now, including spring-themed offerings from several tenants. For spring weekends, Redmond Town Center is a good option when you want something flexible. You can keep it simple with lunch and a stroll, or turn it into a bigger outing with shopping, dessert, and time outdoors in the center’s open-air setting. Just a few minutes away from The Colony at Bear Creek , residents frequent the center for many occasions, so you can too! 3. Add a St. Patrick’s Day Activity to the Week Want to work a little St. Patrick’s Day energy into your spring plans? One option still on the calendar is the 2026 St. Patrick’s Day 5K Virtual Run, which runs through Tuesday, March 17, 2026. It gives people a flexible way to celebrate with exercise on their own schedule while still joining in on the holiday fun. If you're looking for a different way to celebrate the holiday here are some other local events and offerings: Arrow Lodge Brewing (March 17): St. Patrick's Day Permanent Jewelry Pop-Up with FancIce Jewelry (5:00 PM – 9:30 PM), featuring green beer and custom jewelry. Redmonds Grill (March 16-17): Live performances from the King County Pipes and Drums from 3-4 PM, plus Corned Beef & Cabbage and Guinness Beef Stew specials. 4. Catch a Spring Event in the Redmond Area If you like having something specific on the calendar, Redmond has a steady flow of community events and local happenings in spring. Experience Redmond’s March 2026 calendar shows several upcoming activities, including Drop-In Play at the Redmond Senior & Community Center, Line Dancing with Evamarie, Wednesday Drum Circle, Flatstick Pub Bingo, and March events at Brick & Mortar Books. Redmond offers something unique for everyone, whether you're a hobbyist looking to make friends with similar interests, or a new resident searching for a community! 5. Look Ahead to Late-Spring Weekend Plans As the season moves forward, Redmond gives you even more reasons to get out and explore. Redmond Town Center hosts its Exotics Car Show once a month from April to September! Plus, Marymoor Live’s 2026 show lineup begins in late May, including performances starting May 23, 2026 and continuing into June and July. Meanwhile, the Redmond Saturday Market is expected to return in May 2026! This is a local favorite that brings together artisans, farmers, and vendors in the heart of downtown. Make the Most of Spring at The Colony at Bear Creek One of the best things about living in Redmond, WA is having easy access to both everyday convenience and seasonal fun. Whether your ideal spring day includes nearby trails, community events, shopping, or a laid-back weekend outing, Redmond gives you plenty of ways to enjoy the season. Better yet, if you're loving the Redmond area, The Colony is the perfect place to call home and located near everything you need for spring! Plus, our neighborhood and outdoor amenities allow residents to enjoy the beautiful change in seasons from their back porch! If you enjoyed this blog and are looking for more local guides and Redmond to-do's, check out our full Bear Creek Bulletin portfolio.

Top Brunch Spots In Redmond

Can't decide whether you want lunch or breakfast? Why not choose both! Weekend brunch in Redmond can go a lot of different ways, but in the best way! Some mornings call for a full stack of pancakes and endless coffee, while others are better suited for flaky pastries. There's a surprisingly great mix of brunch spots in the area, which makes it easy to find something that fits your mood. To make the choice easier, we rounded up some of the best brunch places around Redmond for everything from classic comfort breakfasts to more elevated weekend outings. Whether you’re planning a casual catch-up, a coffee-first morning, or just want to try somewhere new, this list has you covered. Start Your Weekend Right with Brunch in Redmond 1. Woodblock If you want a brunch spot that feels a little more heightened, Woodblock is a strong pick in downtown Redmond. Their concept leans into seasonal, local ingredients with an upscale-casual vibe that works well for any occasion, from a relaxed Sunday brunch to a small group meet-up. It’s a great “let’s brunch somewhere nice” option without feeling overly formal. Because it’s in a central downtown area, it also works well if you want to eat first then spend time walking around nearby shops or grabbing coffee afterward. This is a good choice for residents who want a brunch experience that feels a little more social and date-night-adjacent than a standard breakfast stop. 2. Farine Bakery & Cafe Farine Bakery & Cafe is perfect when you want a brunch that feels cozy with a European feel. Their Redmond location is known for house-made breads, pastries, desserts, and bistro-style fare, which makes it an easy choice for a slower brunch, coffee catch-up, or a pastry-first morning. The café also offers both indoor and outdoor dining, which is always a plus on a nice day. If you like having options for both sweet and savory brunch choices, Farine is especially convenient because you can mix a full meal with bakery items to take home. It’s also a strong pick for casual weekend meetups when everyone wants something a little different. 3. Family Pancake House For a classic brunch, Family Pancake House is a local favorite. It’s the kind of place where you can go all-in on pancakes, eggs, and comfort-food breakfast plates. They emphasize made-from-scratch meals with fresh ingredients, and the Redmond location is easy to get to from The Colony at Bear Creek . This is a great pick when the goal is simple: hearty brunch and good portions. If you’re hosting friends or family from out of town, and want a reliable breakfast option, this is an easy one to keep in rotation. It’s also a great fit for those mornings when you want a sit-down meal without overthinking the menu. 4. The Screaming Parrots Cafe If you’re looking for a more café-style brunch, The Screaming Parrots Cafe is a fun option to check out. It’s known as a coffee-and-bites spot with a brunch-friendly feel, and it’s a great choice for a weekend stop when you want pastries, drinks, and a relaxed setting instead of a full diner meal. This is a nice pick for residents who prefer a quick but enjoyable brunch outing before errands or a walk around town. It also gives you some variety with a brunch option that leans more toward café culture than a traditional breakfast restaurant. 5. Doppio Cafe & Creperie For a brunch option that feels a little different from the classic pancake-house spots, Doppio Cafe & Creperie is a great choice. They serve craft coffee and teas alongside authentic European-style crepes. Doppio is an especially good choice when you want a brunch that feels cozy and casual but still a little more unique than a standard breakfast menu. It’s also a great choice for mixing things up if you rotate through local restaurants and want something beyond eggs-and-pancakes. 6. The Original Pancake House The Original Pancake House is a solid option if you’re in the mood for a classic brunch menu built around morning favorites. Their Redmond location is specifically positioned as a local hot spot for brunch and breakfast on the Eastside, and the brand is known for traditional breakfast comfort food. It’s a great go-to when you want a dependable brunch with a broad menu. It's also a great option for groups because the menu variety usually makes it easy for everyone to find something they like. Redmond Knows How To Brunch Redmond’s brunch scene has a nice mix of styles including elevated downtown eating, cozy bakery cafés, and classic pancake-house comfort. That variety makes it easy to find a spot that matches your mood, whether you want a long sit-down morning with friends or a quick coffee-and-pastry stop. The Colony team is full of foodies, so you can trust our recommendations! We've even put together a local Redmond restaurant guide for when you're looking for lunch or dinner! For even more neighborhood news, local events, or community tips, check out our full blog catalog in the Bear Creek Bulletin .

Decorating Trends For Your Apartment In 2026

Trends come and go, but the best apartment upgrades share one thing: they’re easy to live with (and easy to move with). In 2026, decorating is less about “redoing” your place and more about small swaps that make your home feel personal, cozy, and intentional, without committing to anything permanent. Below are simple, renter-friendly decorating trends you can try no matter your space, schedule, or lease length. Pick just one section to start or mix a few for a bigger impact. The key is choosing upgrades that change how you experience the room, not just how it looks in a photo. 1) Refined Layering Refined layering is the fastest way to make an apartment feel more “finished” without buying a lot. The trick is to add a few tactile pieces that create depth—so your room looks comfortable and intentional instead of flat. If you’ve ever felt like your place is clean but still missing something, layering is usually the “something.” A) Start with one “texture upgrade” Texture upgrades work because they change how light hits a space—knits, nubby fabrics, and woven materials add dimension even in neutral colors. In a small apartment, texture can do the job that bold color might do in a bigger home, but with less visual chaos. It also makes your sofa/bed look more inviting instantly. Try This : -Add a nubby throw blanket to the sofa or bed -Swap two pillow covers for something textured (bouclé, knit, linen-look) -Add a small woven basket (decorative and functional) B) Make it look intentional in 60 seconds Layering looks “designer” when it follows a repeatable pattern. Your brain reads repetition as order. If you add texture randomly, the room can feel cluttered; if you repeat one material and one color, it feels curated. This is especially helpful if you’re only buying a few items and want them to look like part of a plan. Quick habit tip : repeat one material twice (example: woven basket + woven tray), and repeat one color three times (example: throw + pillow + small vase). C) Match the vibe of your home base When you match your decor to the finishes you already have, the whole apartment looks more cohesive. Use your community’s photos as a cheat sheet for tones (warm vs. cool) and materials (wood, metal, stone looks). This helps you avoid buying pieces that feel right in a store but look “off” once they’re home. Looking for a head start on your decor ideas? Check out these photos from The Colony at Bear Creek and visualize your interior design plans! 2) Cordless Glow Lighting is one of the few upgrades that can make an apartment feel dramatically more elevated without changing anything permanent. In 2026, the shift is toward portable, rechargeable lighting that lets you put light exactly where you need it, whether that be bedside, shelved, or in a dining corner. Good lighting also makes everything else you already own look better. A) Add one small light where you “land” The best place for a new light isn’t where your room looks dark, it’s where you feel the darkness most. A small lamp near your “end of day” spot makes evenings calmer and instantly reduces the harsh overhead-light vibe. If you’ve ever felt like your apartment doesn’t feel cozy at night, a single warm lamp should fix that. Try this : -A small cordless lamp on a bedside table -A warm-toned bulb in a living room corner lamp (if you already have one) -A compact lamp on a bookshelf for a “soft corner” effect B) Layer your lighting Layered lighting makes a room feel bigger because your eyes move through different pools of light instead of one bright source. It also lets you switch your apartment’s mood based on activities like working, hosting a small gathering, or winding down. If you only add one upgrade to your space this year, choose lighting as it'll pay off daily. Try this : -Keep overhead lights for “task mode” -Add one table lamp for “evening mode” -Add one tiny accent light for “cozy mode” C) Use lighting to highlight what you already love Lighting isn’t just functional, it’s a spotlight for your personality. Aim it at one “feature” you already have: a plant, a framed photo, a shelf of books, or a record player setup. This creates a focal point, and focal points make a room feel styled even if the rest is simple. 3) Warm Minimalism Warm minimalism is for people who want a calmer space but don’t want it to feel empty or generic. The idea is fewer items, but each one earns its place through texture, shape, or meaning. This trend is especially apartment-friendly because it reduces clutter while still making your space feel “personal” A) Choose one “calm base,” then add one “statement” Starting with a calm base prevents your room from feeling visually noisy, which matters more in smaller layouts. Then, add one statement piece for a “pop” so the space doesn’t look like a hotel. This approach also helps you buy fewer things, since you’re choosing with purpose. Try this : -Calm base: neutral throw/pillows + simple tray on the coffee table -Statement: one bold vase, one sculptural bowl, or one oversized art print B) Upgrade a surface you see daily Surfaces, like countertops or tables, are where your home either looks effortlessly styled or unintentionally messy. Instead of adding decor everywhere, pick one surface you interact with every day and make it feel intentional. That daily moment (keys down, coffee made, phone charged) is the “real life” version of good design. Try this (pick one): -Entry table: add a small tray + one object you love -Nightstand: stack 2 books + a small dish for rings/keys -Kitchen counter: add a cutting board + a small bowl (function + style) C) Pull style ideas from your amenity spaces Your amenity spaces often follow a cohesive design theme. This includes clean lines, warm neutrals, modern finishes, and you can borrow that formula at home. If you want your apartment to feel more elevated without spending more, mimic the “hotel lobby logic”: one texture, one accent, one focal piece. It’s a simple design recipe that rarely misses. We’re lucky to be located in the beautiful Redmond neighborhood, and our Bear Creek community amenities are surrounded by natural foliage and calming greenery; an easy cue to bring a more natural look home with warm textures, soft neutrals, and one organic focal piece. 4) Patterns in Small Doses Patterns are back in 2026, but the modern approach is controlled, today it's about more “accent” than “takeover.” Pattern gives your apartment personality fast, and it can make neutral furniture feel more interesting without replacing anything. The secret is choosing a pattern that plays well with what you already have. A) Keep pattern to one “zone” When pattern is contained to one area, it looks confident instead of chaotic. This is perfect for open layouts where a rug or textile can visually define the living space. Plus, this makes future swaps easy, because if you change the patterned item, you can refresh the room again. Try this : -Patterned rug (defines the living space) -Patterned throw blanket (defines the sofa) -Patterned shower curtain (defines the bathroom) B) Pair pattern with solids so it doesn’t overwhelm Patterns feel like “too much” when everything is competing for attention. Two solids give the eye a place to rest, which makes the patterned piece look seamless. This rule is also helpful if you’re experimenting and not sure what your style is yet. Quick tip : for every patterned item you add, pair it with two solids. C) Go smaller if you’re unsure If you’re pattern-shy, start with something small and tactile like pillow covers, a table runner, or even a patterned hand towel set. Small pattern choices can still add energy, especially when the rest of your palette is calm. If you love it, scale up later with a rug or larger textile. 5) Collected + Personal The big vibe shift is away from “perfectly matched sets” and toward spaces that look like real people live there. A collected look feels warmer because it tells a story. For example, think travel, hobbies, family, or just your taste developing over time. This trend is great for renters because it’s built on smaller pieces you can move from place to place. A) Add one vintage (or vintage-looking) piece One vintage-style piece adds instant character because it introduces a different era, shape, or finish than modern big-box decor. It also breaks up the “everything new” look that can feel staged. Even something tiny like a unique dish, or a little bigger like a record player can make the whole space feel more layered. Try one of these : -A thrifted mirror -A ceramic dish or bowl -A small framed print with an older frame B) Create a “micro gallery” without committing You don’t need to hang a full gallery wall to get the same impact. Leaning frames on a shelf or console gives you that curated feel with zero permanence. It also makes seasonal swaps easy. You simply rotate one print and the whole corner feels refreshed. Picture this (pun intended) : -Lean 2–3 frames on a shelf or console (no holes) -Mix one photo + one art print + one text-based print -Keep frames in the same color family for a cohesive look C) Make it local (and fun) Decor hunting becomes way more enjoyable when you pair it with a simple routine. Consider a quick browse in a thrift store on your next coffee outing. Local finds tend to feel more original, and they naturally become conversation pieces when friends come over. If you don’t want “trendy,” going local is a cheat code for “personal.” If you need some inspiration on what stores to peruse, check out our post about nearby Redmond coffee spots and plan your route around them! 6) Soft Zoning Soft zoning is about making your apartment work better without adding walls or big furniture. The goal is to create small “moments” that match your day even if your space is compact. When your home has zones, it feels larger because it supports more than one mode. A) Use a rug to tell your brain what this area is for Rugs are underrated, especially because they create boundaries your brain instantly understands. Even a small rug can anchor a chair and side table into a reading nook, or define a workspace so it feels separate from your living area. This is helpful if you work from home and want your apartment to feel less like one big office. Try this : -A small rug under your desk chair = “work zone” -A runner by the bed = “wake-up zone” -A rug in front of the sofa = “wind-down zone” B) Add one “boundary item” A single vertical element like a lamp, plant, or shelf can imply a “corner” without taking up much space. Boundary items also help you create a focal point, which makes a room feel styled even with minimal decor. Think of it as giving each zone a headline. Visualize this: -A slim floor lamp beside a chair (instant reading nook) -A small shelf used as a divider -A tall plant at the edge of a zone C) Make your zone match your lifestyle The best zones reflect what you actually do, not what looks good online. If you’re into workouts, create a tiny spot where your mat is easy to grab; if you’re into cooking, style one counter so it feels like a “café corner.” When a zone supports a habit, you use it more efficiently, and your apartment feels like a home. Own Your Space One Small Update at a Time The best 2026 decorating trend is the one you’ll actually keep: a warmer lamp, a softer throw, a more personal shelf, or a better entry moment. Start with the room you use the most, and pick upgrades that improve your daily routine, that’s what makes a place feel genuinely yours. If you’re looking for more ways to love where you live, explore The Colony at Bear Creek’s community amenities, browse all our photos, and check out current Floor Plans for layout inspiration. For more local lifestyle guides, you can always catch up on The Bear Creek Bulletin .

2026 New Year’s Resolutions & Local Ways to Stick With Them

New Year’s resolutions are easy to make, but they’re notoriously hard to keep. The trick isn’t “more motivation,” it’s building a routine that fits your real life. Luckily, the Redmond community makes that easy, with miles of trails, iconic parks, and local businesses that turn good intentions into repeatable habits. Below are four popular New Year’s resolutions you may be striving for, plus specific Redmond spots and community resources that help you follow through. 1) Resolution: “Get Fit / Move More” If your goal is to improve your health, the best plan is one you can repeat. Mix structured classes (for accountability) with easy, low-friction movement (for consistency). Even the smallest activity can help you start the journey to a more active lifestyle. A) YogaSix Redmond (structured, repeatable fitness) If you want a routine that builds strength, flexibility, and momentum, try YogaSix Redmond . This yoga studio has a consistent schedule and multiple class formats, so it’s easier to stay on track when life gets busy. We here at the Colony at Bear Creek are big fans of yoga and this studio in particular. In fact, we host classes with YogaSix certified instructors on our property throughout the year! It's just one of the many perks our residents can take advantage of. Address : 7425 166th Ave NE, C245 Redmond, WA 98052 Quick habit tip : Pick two fixed days each week (example: Tue/Thu) and treat them like meetings you don’t cancel. B) Farrel-McWhirter Park (movement that feels fun, not forced) When you want a workout that doesn’t feel like a sweat session, head to Farrel-McWhirter Park for its multi-use trails. Here you'll even find an orienteering course, a surprisingly addictive way to “gamify” your steps. Try this simple schedule to start : - Weekday: 25–35 minute brisk walk - Weekend: “orienteering challenge” + a longer trail loop C) Make it effortless at home If your biggest barrier is time, lean on home-base convenience. Whether you’re working from home and using a walk pad or simply want to stroll through your surrounding neighborhoods, your home is a great place to start reaching your health goals! Luckily, residents at The Colony have access to a variety of indoor/outdoor features and Bear Creek amenities to help build a simple routine. 2) Resolution: “Spend More Time Outdoors” This resolution gets easier when you stop thinking about it as an “event” and start making it a default. Redmond has 59 miles of public trails (with many owned/operated by the city), which means you can get outside without a long drive or complicated planning. A) Redmond Central Connector Park (easy, repeatable miles) The Redmond Central Connector Park is a paved trail corridor that runs through key parts of the city making it perfect for walking, jogging, or biking when you’re building consistency. Spanning nearly 4 miles across Redmond, Sammamish, and other local neighborhoods, Central Connector is a great place to explore. Plus, the trail provides access to shopping districts so a morning stroll can turn into a coffee run! Try this : - 20 minutes outdoors on weekdays - Weekend: One longer weekend walk or ride (coffee afterward = instant reward) B) East Lake Sammamish Trail (scenic walking route) For a lakeside scenic option, the East Lake Sammamish Trail runs along the eastern shore of Lake Sammamish and connects through Redmond. This trail is great for longer walks, and you’ll feel like one with nature in no time. And if you’re a pet owner, check out our blog post about other popular dog friendly parks in Redmond ! C) Redmond Watershed Preserve (nature reset) If your resolution is less screen time and more forest time, Redmond Watershed Preserve is an ideal local escape with a true “deep breath” vibe. This is a great way to decompress from the hustle and bustle of the city. Plus, it's just a short drive from the community so you won't have to make any big plans, just hop in the car and go! Try this : Have a monthly "nature reset" walk schedule and make it the same weekend each month, so it becomes automatic. 3) Resolution: “Eat Healthier (But Treat Yourself)” “Eating healthier” works when you make the healthy choice an easy choice; this starts with what you buy. But remember, you don't have to sacrifice your guilty pleasures. So enjoy that post dinner sweet treat, just make sure to hold yourself accountable and indulge in moderation. Below are some local resources to help you in this health journey! A) Redmond Saturday Market (make healthy food feel like a treat) A Saturday market habit can quietly transform your week. Starting in May, the Redmond Saturday Market is a great way to build a routine around fresh ingredients and local vendors. Plus, it’s a great way to support your community! Try this : - Buy ingredients for two easy meals then repeat weekly when you find your recipe - Add one “essential” fruit/veg to your list each week and maybe even explore new flavors B) PCC Community Markets (quick healthy defaults) If you want a reliable option for quality staples and easy upgrades, PCC’s Redmond store is a strong go-to for keeping your fridge stocked with healthier alternatives to your typical grocery list. Try this : Choose a weekday “default lunch” (salad + protein, soup + toast, etc.) and repeat it for two weeks straight. Want more local food inspiration for nights you don’t feel like cooking? Check out these 8 Must-Try Redmond Restaurants . 4) Resolution: “Learn Something New (and Meet More People)” Many people set goals like “try new things,” “make friends,” or “get out more.” The easiest way to follow through is to join something recurring. This can include being involved in an organization, joining a club, or simply meeting people with the same interests as you at a local gathering. A) Redmond Senior & Community Center (classes + groups) Your neighborhood offers exercise, interest groups, art/music classes, workshops, and events through the Redmond Senior & Community Center. It’s an easy way to try something new with a built-in community. The center is also a great place to share your love for creativity with others. B) Redmond Central Connector Trail parkrun (weekly, free, beginner-friendly) As we mentioned above, the Redmond Central Connector Trail is a great place for exercising, but that’s not all. If you like the idea of meeting people without awkward small talk, parkrun is perfect: it’s a free weekly 5K where you can walk, jog, or run at your own pace. This event takes place every Saturday at 9:00am, so mark your calendar! C) Local running groups (accountability without the pressure) If you want a social routine that keeps you consistent, local run groups often host recurring meetups in and around downtown Redmond. It’s an easy way to set a “same day, same time” habit and you could even meet your new running mate. Make Your Resolution Routine Even Easier in the Redmond Area New year, new habits mean one small choice at a time. Whether you’re aiming to move more, get outside for a mental reset, cook a little healthier, or finally try something new, Redmond makes it easy to turn goals into a routine you’ll actually enjoy. Here at The Colony at Bear Creek , our new year resolution is to continuously provide the best experience and quality of life for our residents. Whether we’re hosting yoga classes on-site with certified instructors or planning community meet and greets to help our neighbors connect, we’re dedicated to all who stop by or find their new home with us. Looking for more local guides like this? Check out all our blogs at The Bear Creek Bulletin !

Best Dog-Friendly Parks in Redmond, WA

Looking for the best dog-friendly parks in Redmond ? Whether you want an easy stroll close to home or a freeing off-leash run, Redmond has plenty of great options for you and your pup. Below are five local favorites and a few quick tips to keep every outing fun, safe, and rule-friendly. Before You Go: Dog-Friendly Park Tips While visiting popular local parks, dogs should be leashed and under control unless you’re in a designated off-leash area, and it’s always important to clean up and properly dispose of pet waste. Also, keep in mind that dogs aren’t allowed on designated swim beaches or athletic fields, so plan your route around those areas and follow posted signage. For an easier outing, pack the basics—waste bags, water, and a small towel (especially for lakeside parks). If you like planning ahead, here is a handy printable overview of park amenities (restrooms, courts, fields, playgrounds, and more): City of Redmond Park Amenities (PDF) Best Dog-Friendly Parks in Redmond 1) Sunset Gardens Park (Bear Creek neighborhood) Sunset Gardens Park is a simple, close-to-home option that’s perfect for quick walks when you want fresh air without packing the car. It’s a classic neighborhood park with open space and a comfortable “easy loop” feel. It's ideal for morning potty walks, evening decompression strolls, or a short break between meetings. If you live at The Colony at Bear Creek , this is the kind of park that can become part of your daily routine because it’s just steps away (about a 2–5 minute walk). Address: 18304 NE 95th St, Redmond, WA 98052 2) Perrigo Park Perrigo Park is a great pick when you want a longer, steadier walk with plenty to see along the way. With lots of activity across the park including sport courts, fields, picnic areas, and walking routes, it’s a good place for structured leash walks and light training. The park includes athletic fields which means it’s best to stick to paths and permitted open areas. Perrigo is typically an easy quick trip from the Colony neighborhood (about 1 mile, around a 5–10 minute drive). Address: 9011 196th Ave NE, Redmond, WA 98053 3) Juel Park If your dog loves a sniff-heavy, enrichment-style outing, Juel Park is a calmer change of pace. It has a more relaxed vibe than some of the larger, busier parks, and it’s a nice spot for therapeutic walks where your dog can take their time exploring smells while you keep enjoy the scenery. It’s also a fun park to visit when you want to rotate your regular walk routes for a little variety. Plus, it's only a short drive from the Bear Creek community! (1.4–1.7 miles, roughly 6–12 minutes depending on time of day) Address: 18815 NE 116th St, Redmond, WA 98052 4) Marymoor Off-Leash Dog Park When you want true off-leash energy, Marymoor is the headline destination near Redmond. This park is widely known for its large designated off-leash area, making it a great option for confident, social dogs who do well with reliable recall and respectful play. Even if you’re going off-leash, bring a standard leash - dogs must be leashed outside the off-leash area (including other parts of the park and the parking lots). From The Colony at Bear Creek, it’s typically a quick drive (about 2.5 - 3 miles). Address: 6046 West Lake Sammamish Pkwy NE, Redmond, WA 98052 5) Idylwood Beach Park Idylwood Beach Park is a great choice when you want a more scenic stroll with Lake Sammamish views. It’s ideal for relaxed, on-leash walks where you can slow down, enjoy the water, and make the outing feel like a mini reset. Since this park includes a designated swim beach, be mindful of pet rules - dogs aren’t allowed on designated beaches, so keep your pup on permitted paths and grassy areas and follow posted signage. Idylwood is a little further away than other parks but it's definitely worth the trip! (roughly 12–20 minute drive). Address: 3650 W Lake Sammamish Pkwy NE, Redmond, WA 98052 A Simple Way to Enjoy More Dog Days in Redmond One of the best parts about living in Redmond is how easy it is to fit outdoor time into your week. These parks are perfect for a quick neighborhood loop, a longer walk at a bigger park, or an occasional off-leash adventure when your dog needs to let out some zoomies. If you’re based near Bear Creek, you’re naturally close to multiple parks, which makes it easier to keep a consistent walking routine and mix in variety without overplanning. And If you're looking for a great place to live with your furry friend, The Colony at Bear Creek is the perfect, pet-friendly apartment! Click here to explore everything our community has to offer and browse The Colony's Neighborhood . For more Redmond guides, local events, or Colony updates, see our full list of blogs in The Bear Creek Bulletin !

8 Must-Try Redmond Restaurants

Savor the Neighborhood, Best Restaurants Near Bear Creek Searching for the best restaurants in Redmond, WA? We’ve got you covered! Whether you’re considering a move to the Eastside, planning a visit, or simply looking for a new date-night spot, Redmond’s dining scene delivers. From cozy lounges and elevated comfort food to local delicacies, there’s a restaurant for every craving. Here are some of The Colony’s favorites, and all just minutes away from our community! 1. Tropea Ristorante Italiano Cuisine : Italian Atmosphere : Cozy, romantic, old-world If you’re searching for a true Italian date-night spot in Redmond, Tropea Ristorante Italiano is a top pick. Warm lighting, wine-lined walls, and classic dishes give this restaurant the feel of a tucked-away European cafe. It’s a great choice for anniversaries, business dinners, or any night that calls for a slow meal and good wine. We give the chicken parm paired with a glass of red a chef’s kiss! 2. Pomegranate Bistro Cuisine : New American / Bistro Atmosphere : Bright, modern, and relaxed For brunch, lunch, or a casual dinner with upgraded comfort food, Pomegranate Bistro is a local hotspot. The menu leans into scratch-made dishes, seasonal ingredients, and rich flavors. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a cozy spot that still feels a little elevated. Some fan favorites include their tomato soup, seasonal salads, and something from the bakery case. 3. Noburu Ramen and Sushi Cuisine : Japanese ramen / sushi Atmosphere : Casual, modern, cozy If you’re hungry for ramen, Noburu Ramen and Sushi should be on your radar. Rich broths, perfectly cooked noodles, and a lineup of creative sushi rolls make this spot ideal when you want something comforting but still fresh and flavorful. Their signature tonkotsu ramen and specialty rolls are perfect for sharing! 4. Village Square Cafe Cuisine : Classic American diner Atmosphere : Casual, cozy, neighborhood staple f your ideal weekend includes big breakfasts and bottomless coffee, Village Square Cafe brings old-school diner charm to your neighborhood. Village Square is a longstanding local favorite with hearty portions, friendly service, and that classic diner comfort that hits the spot every time. From pancakes and omelets to cinnamon rolls and corned beef hash, the menu is stacked with crowd-pleasers. 5. Redmond’s Bar & Grill Cuisine : American / Gastropub Atmosphere : Lively, casual, and very local In the heart of historic downtown, Redmond’s Bar & Grill combines a classic neighborhood pub feel with a broad menu and plenty of taps. Burgers, wings, and tasty main courses share space with seasonal specials, and TVs throughout make it a natural gathering spot on game days. 6. Kizuki Ramen & Izakaya Cuisine : Japanese ramen & izakaya Atmosphere : Bustling, modern, and social At Kizuki Ramen & Izakaya , traditional Japanese flavors meet a lively, modern setting in Redmond Town Center. The ramen here is all about depth of flavor: slow-simmered broths, tender chashu, and chewy noodles that hold their bite. Small plates like gyoza and karaage make it easy to share and sample a bit of everything, whether you’re stopping in mid-shopping or meeting friends for dinner. 7. Agave Cocina & Cantina Cuisine : Contemporary Mexican Atmosphere : Colorful, energetic, and great for groups Agave Cocina & Cantina brings bright, modern Mexican flavors to downtown Redmond. The menu focuses on fresh, natural ingredients and offers a wide range of tacos, enchiladas, and specialties, plus plenty of gluten-free and vegetarian options. A long list of tequilas and craft cocktails makes it a popular choice for happy hour and celebrations. 8. Spark Pizza Cuisine : Artisan pizza & Italian-inspired comfort food Atmosphere : Casual, creative, and buzzy with a neighborhood feel If you’re in the mood for seriously good pizza in Redmond, Spark Pizza deserves a spot at the top of your list. This cozy, wood-fired pizzeria is known for its inventive pies, quality ingredients, and a warm, modern space that feels like a local gathering spot. Between the covered and heated patio, full bar, and friendly atmosphere, it’s the kind of place where one quick dinner easily turns into a full evening with friends. Why Redmond’s Dining Scene Stands Out Redmond offers the best of both worlds: a relaxed, Eastside pace with a restaurant lineup that feels much bigger than the city’s footprint. Between historic downtown and the surrounding neighborhoods, you’ll find date-night spots, modern bistros, ramen bars, and more all within a short drive. In this community, good food is never far away. Whether it’s a quick bite, a cozy hang out, or a full-on food tour of the neighborhood, Redmond has you covered. And at the Colony at Bear Creek , residents are only a few minutes from the culinary delights these restaurants have to offer! For more local guides, community events, or neighborhood updates, see our full catalog in The Bear Creek Bulletin !