In 1884, an American Civil War veteran from Pennsylvania named David Bothell purchased 80 acres of timberland. After the Bothell family built a home, a shingle mill and a boarding home, the land was platted then named Bothell by its postmaster in 1888.
Welcome to
Bothell
Nestled in the Sammamish Valley between the Cascade Mountains and the waters of Puget Sound, just 20 minutes from Seattle, Bothell’s central location makes it a natural basecamp for adventure- with the best of the Pacific Northwest all within easy reach.
Yes. When you’re in downtown Bothell, you’ll come across a sign that says, “Welcome to Bothell...for a day or a lifetime.” It’s a motto that first came about in the 1960’s to highlight the city’s appeal as a great place to both visit and live. With its modern amenities, historic charm, and proximity to Seattle, the Cascade Mountains, Woodinville wine country, and more, Bothell is indeed the perfect place to live or visit. All are welcome!
Yes! Bothell has the distinct honor of residing in both Snohomish and King counties. It’s one of six cities in Washington state that straddles multiple counties.
The Sammamish River Trail is 11 miles of paved, car-free trail that’s great for bicyclists, runners, and walkers alike. It runs along the Sammamish River from Bothell's Blyth Park, through Woodinville wine country, and to Redmond’s Marymoor Park. The trail is flat and accessible for wheelchairs. Sammamish River Trail is a popular stretch of the Locks to Lake Corridor, which meanders 44 miles through Seattle, the eastside of Lake Washington, and the Cascade Foothills. It’s a very scenic and peaceful trail.
It’s not as creepy as it sounds. It’s actually quite the spectacle! At dusk, thousands of the black crows descend on the University of Washington, Bothell campus from all directions for what locals call the “Murder of the Crows.” The best months to see a Murder of the Crows are October–March, however, you can still watch a large number descend on the campus April–September.
Yes. Originally built in 1931 as Bothell’s first junior high school and named after the school’s first principal, Wilbur A. Anderson, the historic schoolhouse has evolved into a beloved landmark and popular Washington state destination. Now owned by McMenamins, a Portland, OR-based outfit that’s known for creatively restoring historic establishments in the Pacific Northwest, the Anderson School hosts a hotel, restaurants, bars, and entertainment. It’s something you have to see for yourself, and it’s definitely worth the visit.
