Mercer Island Local Living Guide

Experience Island Life on Lake Washington

Excellent schools. Beautiful parks. Great sense of community. These are just a few highlights of Mercer Island – an island as well as a city in King County, Washington, home to over 25,000 residents. Located at the center of Lake Washington, Mercer Island is connected by bridge to Seattle and Bellevue and is recognized as a top 50 suburb in the United States. It offers over 475 acres of parks and open space, including three public beaches, and more than 50 miles of hiking trails.

Mercer Island is highly sought after by families looking to raise their children on the island for its safety and excellent schools; young professionals who enjoy the easy commute and quiet remove; and retirees who seek out the many opportunities for community gathering and involvement.

Learn more about Mercer Island’s schools, neighborhoods, shopping, and more below.

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Downtown Mercer Island

Mercer Island’s Downtown (or Town Center) is the dynamic and evolving commercial hub of the island. It is also a gathering spot of islanders, whether to enjoy a shared meal at a local restaurant, to meet for a group fitness class, or to shop together at the local home decor or book store.

Real Estate

Thinking of buying or selling a home on Mercer Island? Learn about neighborhoods and market trends, and check out the latest market reports and featured listings.

Neighborhoods

Mercer Island has a varied collection of neighborhoods. All feature beautiful homes, yet each neighborhood has its own unique features and points of interest.

Schools

The Mercer Island Public School District has four elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school. There are also several private schools on Mercer Island, as well as about 15 preschool programs.

Playgrounds

Did you know Mercer Island has more than 10 playgrounds? And that’s not even counting playgrounds at our local schools. It’s no wonder that Mercer Island has been recognized for seven consecutive years as a “Playful City USA” by children’s non-profit KaBOOM!

Restaurants

From a romantic date night dinner to a green smoothie on the go, Mercer Island’s restaurant scene offers something for everyone.

Shopping

Though a visit to Mercer Island would not be complete without a stop to the community’s beloved bookstore, Island Books, the island has other great shopping as well. Don’t miss gifts and home decor at Terra Bella and the Boutique Lounge, beautiful women’s clothing at Hip Zephyr, antique and vintage items from Clarke & Clarke Art + Artifacts Gallery, and more!

Art Galleries

Mercer Island’s art scene offers a platter of world-class art from both local and international artists and supports a varied collection of art venues, from community arts organizations to professionally curated contemporary galleries.

Fitness

Looking for a place to get fit on Mercer Island? You don’t have to look far. The island has an enviable selection of both boutique fitness studios and fully featured, state-of-the-art health clubs. There’s a class and a club for everyone at every fitness level.

Swim & Tennis Clubs

Among Mercer Island’s best features are our swim and tennis clubs, providing social fun in the sun and great opportunities for both kids and adults to participate in competitive and recreational swim and tennis programs.

Things to Do

For newcomers and long-time residents alike, Mercer Island offers a surprising variety and abundance of recreational activities for all ages.

Beaches of Mercer Island

For some fun in the sun or a splash in Lake Washington, Mercer Island has a variety of beautiful beaches to enjoy. Bring the kids to build sandcastles at Luther Burbank or plan a picnic for two at Groveland or Clarke – each beach is different.

Classes & Activities for Kids

Looking for classes, summer programs, or after-school activities for your child? Mercer Island has dozens of opportunities for kids (ages 0 - 18) to explore and develop almost any passion, whether that's basketball or ballet, cooking or coding.

Mercer Island Library

The Mercer Island Library, a branch of the King County Library System, is a beloved community gathering spot, rich in island history.

Mercer Island Thrift Shop

With proceeds funding Mercer Island Youth & Family Services, Mercer Island Thrift Shop offers a treasure trove of housewares, designer goods, quality clothing, handbags, books, sports gear, and toys.

Meet your Guides

My Mercer Island is created and maintained by local real estate team, Charlie & Erin Sirianni. Need real estate assistance? Contact Charlie & Erin today!