This Little Known Waterfront Park In Washington Is A Dream Come True For Families

If there's a better way to spend a warm, sunny day in Washington than by enjoying the great outdoors, we have yet to discover it. This is the time of year when our state and city parks come alive, and if you call Western Washington home, you're in for a treat this year. Bellevue's Meydenbauer Beach Park has recently been renovated, and it's incredible -- especially if you have little ones in your life.

Meydenbauer Beach Park is located on the shores of Lake Washington in Bellevue.

But unless you call Bellevue home, you may not have heard of it -- it's a bit secluded.

The park's waterfront location makes it a popular place on a warm summer day.

For years, Washingtonians of all ages have enjoyed relaxing at the small beach, sunbathing, and swimming here.

In March, the park re-opened after an enormous redesign.

The renovation expanded the park from 2.5 acres to 10 acres and added some exciting amenities.

For families, the most exciting new addition is the brand new waterfront playground.

The climbing structures incorporate natural elements like boulders and logs, so they fit right in.

The new 400-foot pedestrian pier goes out onto Meydenbauer Bay, giving you the feeling of walking on water.

As you can imagine, the views are stunning.

Getting to the beach from the parking lot is easy, as wide, paved paths will guide you.

Needless to say, if you have a stroller or you're packing a lot of gear, this will make your life exponentially easier.

You'll probably work up an appetite when you're here, and you're welcome to pack a picnic lunch -- but you don't have to.

The park is close to several fantastic local restaurants and Lincoln South Food Hall, a sophisticated food court.

Meydenbauer Beach Park is open every day from dawn until 11 p.m.

And it's definitely worth sticking around to catch the sunset.

Address: 419 98th Avenue NE, Bellevue, WA, 98004

Spend a summer day at Meydenbauer Beach Park and you'll appreciate all the hard work that went into making it so amazing. No wonder Bellevue was recently ranked one of the best places in America to call home.