Neighborhood Spotlight: Bothell, WA

Tucked along the Sammamish River and split between King and Snohomish Counties, Bothell is a place where history, creativity, and connection converge. Whether you’re taking a twilight paddle down the river or catching a glimpse of the legendary crow migration overhead, Bothell always gives you something to talk about—and feel at home in. Here are some of my favorites about Bothell.

✨ A School Turned Community Gem: McMenamins Anderson School

At the heart of town is one of Bothell’s most beloved landmarks—McMenamins Anderson School. Once a middle school, this historic building has been transformed into a full-service hotel and community hangout spot, complete with a brewery, movie theater, garden bars, and its tropical oasis: the North Shore Lagoon.

The Lagoon Pool, open year-round, is a saltwater swimming pool surrounded by tiki décor and palm trees. Bothell residents get free access during open swim (just show ID), making it a dreamy spot for midweek swims or weekend family outings.

🌲 Kayaks, Crows, and River Walks at Bothell Landing

Just steps from downtown is the Park at Bothell Landing—your go-to for open space, picnic tables, historic cabins, and access to the Sammamish River. It’s also where you’ll find kayak and paddleboard rentals, offering an easy launch into nature whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a curious first-timer.

And if you’re out at dusk, keep your eyes on the sky. You might witness one of the most mesmerizing sights in the region: Bothell’s crows.

Each evening, thousands of them fly in from all directions to roost together in the trees near UW Bothell and Cascadia College. It’s a phenomenon that turns the town into a living, breathing nature documentary—part eerie, part beautiful, and completely unforgettable.

🏡 Accessible Neighborhoods You’ll Want to Call Home

Bothell is made up of several unique and accessible neighborhoods, each with its own personality:

Downtown Bothell – Walkable, charming, and full of energy. This is where old and new mix beautifully—local bakeries, small businesses, and easy bike access to the Burke-Gilman and Sammamish River trails.
Canyon Park – A commuter-friendly hub close to I-405 with tech campuses and plenty of dining options. Great for those working on the Eastside or in Seattle.
Maywood Hills – Known for its cozy residential vibe and proximity to schools and shops—this area feels peaceful and connected at the same time.
Norway Hill – Tree-lined and tucked just above the city core, Norway Hill offers quiet living with views and access to trails that wind through native forest.

🚗 Location, Location… and Flexibility

Bothell’s location makes it a commuter’s dream. It sits at the junction of I-405 and SR-522, meaning you’re about:

20 minutes to Redmond or Kirkland
30 minutes to downtown Seattle
Close to Woodinville Wine Country
And just a short hop to nature getaways like St. Edward State Park and Lake Washington

Whether you work in tech, healthcare, or education—or just want to be close to everything without being in the thick of it—Bothell delivers.

💬 Final Thoughts

Bothell feels like a place where people grow roots—where you can take a break from the city pace, get to know your neighbors, and still catch a bus to Bellevue if you need to. It’s rich in history, alive with community spirit (and birds!), and full of opportunities to connect with nature and each other.

🏡 Ready to Buy or Sell in Bothell?

Whether you’re dreaming of a riverside trail, want to be near great schools and green spaces, or you’re ready to list your home in this dynamic market, I’d love to help.

As a local real estate agent who cares deeply about community connection and helping people find where they belong, I’m here to guide you through every step—whether you’re buying your first home, upgrading, downsizing, or investing.

📞 Let’s talk about your goals, your timeline, and what makes sense for you.

Rachel Jarvis

503-998-6406