North Redmond - Redmond, WA

Ancient glaciers formed the rich basin where Redmond lies. In the 1800s, Native Americans found shelter among the dense Sammamish Valley forests, along with plentiful salmon in the Sammamish River. Loggers later poured into the area, inspiring a heyday, which brought saloons, hotels and eateries. In 1912, the City of Redmond incorporated with 300 community members.

Redmond's transportation modes evolved beyond stagecoaches and steamboats, and residents enjoyed high-quality roads. Notably, the Evergreen Point Bridge was completed in 1963, the longest floating bridge in the world.

Redmond has a tremendous commitment to the arts. The Arts Commission oversees the numerous public art displays, found indoors and outdoors throughout the city. The neighborhood also hosts the Redmond Lights poetry reading event, dedicated to works by poet laureates.

Locals gather for Redmond Derby Days, an annual event with a carnival, music and food, fireworks and the nation's largest bike race.

Over the years, North Redmond has grown to provide multiple entertainment choices while still maintaining its small-town feel. If you travel down Redmond Way to Old Town, you find a number of chain restaurants along with other unique selections.

Tropea Ristorante Italiano stands apart as a community favorite, hailed for its authentic recipes. Seafood fans enjoy the calamari diavola, a squid entree in a spicy marinara sauce, and the Spaghetti Pescatore. Known to serve "mind blowing pizzas," Tropea's satisfies locals who want the best Italian food in a friendly environment.

Beyond fast-food, Mexican fare can be hard to find in Redmond. When you crave the best, locals direct you to Hermosa Mexican Foods on 164th Avenue Northeast. Here you can order signature tamales and homemade salsas handed down from centuries-old recipes. Try a pork tamale and prepare to be hooked.

With North Redmond's appeal to the younger crowd, you find a number of good nighttime hangouts. Locals head to Salt on Northeast 74th Street to grab a drink and appetizers, and to watch the season's game. Order the Thai ginger chicken wings and a Hawktini, a cocktail, named for the region's loyalty to the Seattle Seahawks football team.

For the hottest party location, locals tout Palmers East as "the best and only dive bar in Redmond." The karaoke joint packs the house quickly, drawing people to the loud music, cheap beer and mingling crowd. On Tuesdays, they serve half-price burgers, making it a prime spot for good food, as well.

Most North Redmond residents commute by car. In the cold-weather state, drivers must be prepared for snow in the winter, especially in the hilly areas. Locally, residents may walk to close destinations, which everyone finds safe. Many people cycle in Redmond, either for leisure or as a transportation option. You see several bike lanes in this cycling capital.

Parking remains plentiful and free. Taxis and Uber service seem less popular, but they may be reserved. For drivers, two main highways conveniently run through Redmond. You can access state route 520 to travel to other east side suburbs or across Lake Washington to Seattle. State route 202 serves South Redmond and other east-side cities.

To take your pooch out for a play-day, visit the Marymoor Off-Leash Dog Park. Located on West Lake Sammamish Parkway, Redmond locals dubbed this park "Doggy Disneyland." With 40 acres to run free, energetic dogs find a big open space with no bells or whistles. Here pets find a place to make doggie friends in their community and just be dogs.

For a true Pacific Northwest experience, visit Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park. Found in nearby Issaquah, this park dedicates its green space to preserving the wildlife habitat with 5,000 acres of protected land. Redmond locals go to Cougar Mountain for the prime hiking opportunities. Featuring four major trails, you can access the trail heads easily and set out for a day of scenic recreation. Parents should watch children closely on the terrain.

Don't miss a trip to the Cougar Mountain Zoo. Little ones enjoy the annual Issaquah Reindeer Festival at a minimal cost for admission.

North Redmond's cost of living remains reasonable compared to neighboring suburbs on the east side. At a median cost of $1,052 for a one-bedroom, residents get more for their money. In neighboring Bellevue, locals pay around approximately $1,300 for a comparable apartment.

Public transportation runs roughly $2.50 for a base fare on Metro or Sound Transit. Redmond residents must pay a toll to travel across the Evergreen Point Bridge, SR-520, or the Lacey V. Murrow Memorial Bridge, Interstate 90. With no set costs, the toll varies depending on the day and time of travel. Some residents pay $6 for one ride across either bridge. Gas in the area runs roughly 10 percent above the national average.

Beer at a local pub averages $3.

The Redmond Town Center houses appealing shopping options for North Redmond. This community staple has retail stores for every member of the family, including Macy's, Chico's, and Gymboree.

Visit Trio for a luxurious display of designer favorites. Here you find Pepe Jeans, Max & Cleo dresses, and trendy styles by Ed Hardy and Boy Meets Girl. For a whimsical shopping experience, get lost in Charming Charlie. This sprawling shop sells accessories uniquely merchandised according to color. Stop in for the perfect red purse or purple earrings, and have fun buying rainbow-hued goodies.

Locals have several options for groceries. Whole Foods Market, Trader Joe's and QFC service the area, along with the Redmond Farmers Market. Pick up plants for your garden, locally-grown produce or a tasty crepe to enjoy.