Discover 9 Hidden Gems of Bothell
Discover some of the hidden gems that make Bothell a destination that’s worth the trip.
Nestled between the Cascade Mountains and the waters of Puget Sound — and only minutes from both Seattle and Woodinville’s wine country — Bothell, Washington is regarded (and rightfully so) as an idyllic basecamp for a classic Pacific Northwest adventure. While there’s a lot to explore on the periphery of this small Snohomish County city, don’t sleep on all the charm and beauty that lies within its diverse urban landscape.
1. Zulu’s Board Game Cafe – Nerd culture meets chef-inspired dishes
Zulu’s Board Game Cafe combines two of our favorite pastimes — playing board games and eating delectable dishes with friends. Located on Main Street, the restaurant regularly hosts game events and meetups and has an astonishing number of board games for you to rent and play at the cafe. Aside from the community, the best part of it all is the food. Chef Tony Jutt constantly whips up new recipes that are inspired by your favorite games and fantasy and science fiction franchises. Play a round or two of a new board game and order the Rumblecusp Ahi Nachos — if you lose the game, you’re still a winner!
Zulu’s Board Game Cafe
10234 Main St
2. Wildwood Spirits Co. – Award-winning distillery that captures the PNW “spirit”
Stop by Wildwood Spirits Co., a Bothell distillery, and get an insider’s look at how the expert distillers craft their award-winning spirits. The distillery is proud to source nearly all of its ingredients from local farms in Washington, making it a true gem of the Pacific Northwest. When you’re in the store, you can chat with their experts about their Dark Door Bourbon, Kur Gin, and more. And even better, enjoy a free tasting with an in-store purchase!
Wildwood Spirits Co.
19116 Beardslee Blvd.
3. McMenamins Anderson School – The coolest school in region is always in session
A destination within a destination, this former junior high has been transformed into a cultural playground. Dine in themed bars, soak in a saltwater pool, catch live music, or browse the small market—all without leaving the property. McMenamins is a one-of-a-kind experience that can’t be missed—whether you’re checking in or just stopping by.
McMenamins Anderson School
18607 Bothell Way NE
4. Pop Shops on Main – Brick-and-mortar spaces with rotating retailers
Bothell’s Main Street has embraced a new kind of retail with Pop Shops—small businesses that rotate in and out of cozy storefronts. Whether it’s a local artist’s studio, a handmade goods boutique, or a community-driven concept shop, there’s always something new to discover.
Pop Shops on Main
18134 Bothell Way NE
5. Kro Bar – Traditional cocktails with a modern twist
Self-described as an “eclectic bar with a speakeasy vibe and a passion for spirits that nods to another era,” Kro Bar is an intimate Bothell spot that specializes in craft cocktails, wine, and an impressive menu of more than 25 gins. Make a reservation during your next trip to Bothell — Kro Bar’s mixologists will work with you to create a cocktail that fits your mood, and their small plates menu is one you can’t miss out on.
Kro Bar
10116 Main St
6. CoCapsules – A clothing boutique with custom wardrobes and styling
Schedule a one-hour shopping appointment at CoCapsules and you could bring home a beautiful sweater, trusty new jeans, or a new staple blouse as a memento of your trip to Bothell! During the appointment, you’ll be matched with a stylist, and they’ll review your needs, walk you through CoCapsules’ current collection, and make personalized recommendations that fit you and your lifestyle. The Bothell boutique specializes in capsule wardrobes, but if that’s not your vibe, you can always level up your style with their individual pieces.
CoCapsules
10124 Main St
7. Ranch Drive-In – A classic burger joint that satisfies modern hunger
A longtime local favorite, Ranch Drive-In serves up made-to-order American comfort food with a nostalgic twist. From char-grilled cheeseburgers and old-school malted milkshakes to crispy onion rings, the menu keeps it simple and satisfying. Whether you’re wrapping up a ride along the Sammamish River Trail, catching up with friends, or enjoying a casual meal with family, this Bothell favorite hits the mark.
Ranch Drive-In
8218 Bothell Way NE
8. Bothell’s Public Art Walking Tour – A self-guided exploration of Bothell’s art scene
Wander through Bothell and discover a growing collection of public art that reflects the city’s heritage, natural beauty, and creative energy. An interactive map helps you explore each installation, learn about the artists, and uncover the stories behind the work. With new pieces added regularly, Bothell’s vibrant art scene is always evolving—so there’s something fresh to experience every time you visit.
Bothell’s Public Art Walking Tour
Throughout downtown Bothell
9. Sammamish River Trail – A bike friendly river trail that flows into Woodinville’s wine country
The Sammamish River Trail winds through a picturesque greenway, offering easy access to riverside parks, working farms, and the heart of a flourishing local wine scene. As the central segment of the Seattle region’s locks-to-lakes trail system, it connects the Ballard Locks to Lakes Washington and Sammamish via the scenic Burke-Gilman and East Lake Sammamish trails. This ride is worth the trip alone.
Sammamish River Trail
Bothell to Woodinville to Redmond. Connects to Burk-Gilman Trail from Kenmore, which connects to Seattle
This list contains several hidden gems, but it doesn't even begin to scratch the surface of all there is to discover in Bothell. Elevate your visit to Snohomish County by exploring all the amazing dining, shopping, lodging, and entertainment options in Bothell.
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