Bellevue and the Community

Bellevue is known for its rich cultural offerings, its beautiful natural surroundings and its location in the area’s tech corridor which provides access to international companies.

The exterior of the C Building with autumnal trees

General Information

Bellevue College is located in Bellevue, Washington, which is consistently ranked one of best US cities to live and work. BC’s campus is situated on 100 wooded acres within sight of the Cascade Range and the Puget Sound, approximately five miles from downtown Bellevue and 10 miles from downtown Seattle. 

Virtual Tour

Experience the BC Campus in 360 degrees via a virtual tour, including a look inside buildings, and an opportunity to get a feel for our beautiful location.  

What Is There to Do Near Campus? 

BC hosts speakers, artists, musicians, activities and festivals on campus for a variety of interests and majors. 

These maps feature some popular places to eat and drink (and buy groceries) that are within walking distance of campus – most are within a half-mile.

Biking Around Campus

BC’s campus and the area in general is extremely bike-friendly. It’s easy to get around on two wheels! Our campus is located less than one mile from the I-90 Trail. Ride towards Seattle or Issaquah/Sammamish free from cars and traffic.  

On-Campus Services for Bikers Include

  • Fixit Repair Station at the parking garage entrance north of bus shelter 
  • Practice loading your bike on a bus with the practice rack also north of the bus shelter 
  • Bike parking and covered parking around campus 
Members of the sustainability team bike riding together

We make biking easy

Driving to campus alone is Bellevue College’s largest greenhouse gas emission source. We offer maps, tips, and more to be sustainable together. 

Explore bike maps and more

Proximity to Public Transit

Several bus lines run through campus, and even without a car, you can get to Seattle in about 20 minutes. Light rail will arrive within walking distance to campus in 2024, with additional service and connections coming in approximately 2025. 

How to get around? We’ve collected details about local transit maps, passes, schedules and trip planners in one place to make it as easy as possible.

The City of Bellevue

Bellevue is consistently ranked one of best US cities to live and work and there are tons of things to do here. Bellevue has more than 100 parks and trails, many lakeside, with more adventurous hikes and peaks nearby. Enjoy our cultural festivals, music events and museums.  

A student at a keyboard

Events

Bellevue is proud to host a variety of events all year round. Check out music events, festivals and the annual arts fair

Six adults walking down a path in the forest

Parks & Trails

Bellevue has over 2,500 acres of parks and open space, and features 80+ miles of trails. For steeper treks, the Cascade Mountains are only a short drive away. Some popular hikes in the area include Rattlesnake Ledge, Mount Si, and Poo Poo Point.

Bow of a yellow kayak looking out over open water

Kayaking

Located between Lake Washington and Lake Sammamish, Bellevue and the surrounding area offer opportunities for kayaking and other water sports, exploring wetlands and viewing a wide variety of plants and wildlife.

Snowshoe hikers with full packs and gear hiking through the forest

Snow Sports

Snowboarding, skiing, and snowshoeing are a short drive away in the Cascade Mountains.

Student charcoal drawing in art class

Bellevue Arts Museum

The Bellevue Arts Museum displays rotating exhibitions of contemporary visual art.

Mother and Daughter posing together.

Bellevue Botanical Garden

Featuring cultivated gardens, natural wetlands and a woodland trail, this is the perfect place for a quiet moment to enjoy the beauty of the Northwest.

Clear Long-stemmed Wine Glass on Brown Table

Eating & Drinking

There is a place for every palate and budget!

Image of an open sign in the door of a shop

Shopping

Bellevue is home to a well-known mall and a range of shopping destinations.