Kingsgate, Washington, is now part of Kirkland, former headquarters of the Seattle Seahawks. The team moved its operations to Renton in 2008.
Kingsgate is a small community that has recently been absorbed into Kirkland, Washington. Nevertheless, it retains its unique charm and identity. Amid stunning architecture and a natural setting, people tend to relax here and spend their time in the great outdoors. As Kingsgate / Kirkland is a suburb of Seattle, residents enjoy easy access to many recreation, entertainment and dining options. But with its waterfront area, Kingsgate doesn't need any help with leisure activities!
Moving to Kingsgate
Because Kingsgate is now a neighborhood in Kirkland, you won't find a neighborhood breakdown here. Sorry. But there are some things you should know about Kingsgate.
Finding a Place
The vacancy rate for the area is average, with an almost even split of single family homes and apartment complexes. But that doesn't mean you should dillydally when looking for a place here. The waterfront makes this a happening place, and rentals are snapped up like everything at a Black Friday sale.
What You'll Need
Unless you want to be on the short end of the rental stick, bring documents and checkbook with you while going apartment hunting. Bank statements, letters of reference, credit report and proof of employment tell a potential landlord that you're not someone with a big dream and a low character. Money tells him the same thing, and if you're not prepared to hand over a security deposit and first month's rent, at the bare minimum, forget about it!
Rental Options
If you're looking to make Kingsgate / Kirkland your home, you'll have plenty of options to choose from. You'll find rental homes and apartment complexes located throughout town. Many Kingsgate homes for rent feature contemporary amenities such as washer and dryer included. This beats having to make a trip to the laundromat. In some cases, it may be advisable to seek all utilities paid opportunities as services such as Internet connectivity may be discounted under such arrangements.
Another attractive option for folks interested in truly hassle-free living, serviced apartments offer the convenience of having all the housework tended by professional housekeepers. City apartments offer a unique living experience, combining the comfort and quiet of home with the convenience of central location. You'll never have to go far for the amenities you need such as gourmet groceries, local wine shops and more. Most housing options in Kingsgate are conveniently located to restaurants and diners, so if you're too busy or lazy to cook, you have an out.
Living in Kingsgate
The benefits of living in Kingsgate are too numerous to list here, but here is an attempt.
Recreation
Folks who live in this area love to be active! There are many local, community sports clubs, such as the Kirkland Baseball Commission, that organize practice and competition events for people of all skill levels. You should also check with the Kirkland Recreation Program for more information about local sport activities.
As summer approaches, everyone seems to head outdoors to one of several amazing local parks. With Lake Washington nearby all kinds of water-based recreational activities are available from boating to swimming and more. In order to stay safe, check with local recreational agencies regarding current activities.
There are many neighborhood parks as well in both Kingsgate and nearby Kirkland communities. Beyond local parks there is the nearby Saint Edward State Park as well as the Bridle Trails State Park, the latter popular with equestrian enthusiasts. There are many parks situated along the Lake Washington waterfront that feature a paved footpath. These footpaths are generally open from dawn till dusk. Another well-known and oft frequented park is Juanita Bay Park, popular with both locals and tourists.
Kingsgate Art Scene
Many of the area's local artists enjoy displaying their works at nearby galleries such as the Kirkland Arts Center. It's no wonder with the natural beauty of the area that Kingsgate plays home to several accomplished and recognized artists. Take a walk through a local park and keep an eye out for street artists who might consent to making an impromptu drawing of your ugly mug. Hey, money talks!
Take in The Night Life
The local nightlife is another vibrant aspect of what makes Kingsgate / Kirkland great. Live music aficionados will find no shortage of excellent, local venues featuring the coolest vibes around. Be sure to stop by Beach Cafe, George's, and Milagro Cantina. All are local favorites showcasing some of the best local talent. If you're really looking to party, head in to Seattle for the latest in avant-garde dancing and club sounds. In this city, you own the dawn.
Community Services
While Kingsgate may be a smaller community, it certainly lacks no essential city services such as access to state of the art medical facilities. In Kingsgate, enjoy access to leading medical care at the Evergreen Hospital Medical Center. Featuring on-call specialists in most major areas of medicine, this medical center is never far from home should medical services become necessary. Beyond outstanding medical services, a full range of community services is available to residents of Kingsgate / Kirkland. Residents enjoy convenient recycling collection as well as ecologically oriented waste removal and treatment.
And Remember Seattle Lives Right Next Door!
Of course, no discussion of Kingsgate is complete without mentioning all the exciting things to see and do in nearby Seattle. A mere 20-minute ride away, Seattle shines with all the splendor of a major, modern American city. There's an inexhaustible list of ideas for a day in the city from museums and art galleries to cutting edge technology centers, fine dining, and cultural performances.
Not many living locations have all that Kingsgate / Kirkland has to offer. With proximity to one of America's major cultural and urban centers, there's no end to the activity you'll have available to you.
