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Union Hill-Novelty Hill, WA

Union Hill-Novelty Hill is an affluent, unincorporated community and census-designated place in King County, Washington, located east of Redmond and known for its suburban character, excellent schools, and natural surroundings.

About the City

Official Status and Administrative Affiliation

Union Hill-Novelty Hill is an unincorporated area and census-designated place (CDP) located in King County, Washington, United States . It is administered as part of King County, which is known for being the most populous county in Washington and the home of the Seattle metropolitan area, a global center for technology (Microsoft, Amazon) and innovation.

Historical Names and Nicknames

The area's name is a combination of two historical community names, Union Hill and Novelty Hill, reflecting the early settlement patterns in the region . It doesn't have widely recognized nicknames.

Date Founded and Age

The area was first recognized as a CDP by the U.S. Census Bureau in the 2000 census, making it a relatively newly defined statistical area . The communities of Novelty and Union Hill have deeper roots as rural hamlets in the late 19th and early 20th centuries .

Geographic Location and Coordinates

Union Hill-Novelty Hill is situated in northern King County at coordinates 47.6788, -122.0284 . It is bordered to the west by the city of Redmond, with downtown Seattle located about 20 miles (32 km) to the southwest . The area is characterized by its location on a plateau, with elevations around 168 meters (551 feet) above sea level .

City Type and Economic Specialization

Union Hill-Novelty Hill is primarily a residential and suburban community. Its economy is intrinsically linked to the nearby technology hubs of Redmond (home to Microsoft) and Seattle. It functions as a bedroom community for professionals working in these nearby tech centers.

Population and Demographics

As of the 2020 census, Union Hill-Novelty Hill had a population of 22,683 . The area is known for its affluence, ranking 5th out of 522 areas in Washington state by per capita income . It is characterized by a high density of families, with many households having children under 18 .

City's "Calling Card"

Union Hill-Novelty Hill is an affluent, unincorporated residential area in King County, serving as a peaceful, nature-oriented suburban base for professionals working in Seattle's Eastside technology hubs like Redmond. It is known for its high standard of living, access to excellent schools, and proximity to outdoor recreation.

Geography

Mountains and Ranges

While located in a hilly area, the CDP itself does not contain notable mountains. However, the region is dominated by the Cascade Range. To the south, the prominent West Tiger Mountain (891 meters / 2,923 ft) is a notable landmark visible from the area and a popular destination for hiking .

Water Bodies

Union Hill-Novelty Hill is situated near several significant water bodies. Evans Creek and Patterson Creek flow through the southern part of the community along State Route 202 . To the west is Lake Sammamish, a large freshwater lake approximately 9.5 km away, popular for boating, fishing, and camping .

National and Nature Parks

The Redmond Watershed Preserve is a significant natural area that is actually a separate portion of the city of Redmond, but it is surrounded by the northern part of the Union Hill-Novelty Hill CDP . This preserve offers miles of trails for hiking, trail running, and horseback riding through protected forest land. Marymoor Park, a large and popular King County park, is located about 8.1 km away in Redmond and features sports fields, a climbing wall, a dog park, and a concert venue .

Climate and Weather

Climate Type and General Characteristics

Union Hill-Novelty Hill has a Mediterranean climate (Köppen climate classification Csb), characterized by warm, dry summers and cool, very wet winters . The area is known for its moderate temperatures and significant seasonal variation in precipitation.

Average Monthly Temperatures

Temperatures are mild year-round. The warmest months are July and August, with average daily maximums around 27°C (81°F) . The coolest month is December, with average daily maximums of 8°C (46°F) and minimums of 2°C (36°F) . Record high temperatures can reach up to 41°C (106°F) in summer, and winter lows can occasionally drop to -10°C (14°F) .

Precipitation and Humidity

The area receives significant annual precipitation, averaging around 898 mm (35.4 inches) per year . The wettest months are from November through January, with November being the wettest (144 mm / 5.7 inches) . The summer months of July and August are the driest, with as little as 12 mm (0.5 inches) of rain in July . Humidity is generally high in the cooler, wetter months.

Sunny Days and UV Index

The region experiences a mix of cloudy and sunny days. The summer months offer the most sun, with July and August having a high number of clear, sunny days. The UV index in the summer can reach moderate to high levels.

Seasonality and Best Time to Visit

Landmarks & Nearby Attractions

While Union Hill-Novelty Hill itself is primarily residential, its location in King County puts it within easy reach of numerous regional landmarks. It is also home to the historic locality of Novelty, a small hamlet within the CDP .

Nearby Landmarks and Attractions

[Space Needle]

The Space Needle is an iconic observation tower in Seattle, located about 25.8 km (16 miles) from Union Hill-Novelty Hill. Built for the 1962 World's Fair, it offers 360-degree views of the downtown Seattle skyline, Mount Rainier, Puget Sound, and the surrounding Cascade and Olympic mountains. It is a must-see landmark for any visitor to the region .

[Microsoft Campus]

The headquarters of Microsoft is located in the neighboring city of Redmond, just 9.4 km (about 6 miles) west of Union Hill-Novelty Hill. While primarily a corporate campus, the Microsoft Visitor Center (Building 92) offers exhibits on the company's history and technology. The campus itself is set in a park-like environment with extensive walking trails .

[Chihuly Garden and Glass]

Located at the base of the Space Needle in Seattle, Chihuly Garden and Glass is a stunning exhibition showcasing the blown glass artwork of artist Dale Chihuly. The exhibit includes dramatic indoor installations and a lush garden where his glass sculptures are integrated with the landscape .

[University of Washington]

The main campus of the University of Washington in Seattle is approximately 21.8 km (13.5 miles) away. The campus is renowned for its beautiful architecture, particularly the Gothic-style Suzzallo Library, often called the "Harry Potter library," and the spectacular cherry blossoms in the Quad during spring .

[Marymoor Park]

Marymoor Park in Redmond, just about 8 km away, is a massive and diverse county park. It features a large off-leash dog area, a climbing wall, a model airplane field, community gardens, sports fields, and a popular summer concert series at the Marymoor Amphitheater. The Sammamish River Trail also runs through the park, providing a scenic route for cycling and walking .

Transport

Major Highways and Roads

The primary road through the area is Washington State Route 202 (WA-202), which runs along the southern edge of the community and connects Redmond to the west with Fall City and North Bend to the east . Access to the regional freeway system, including Interstate 405 and State Route 520 (which connects Redmond to Seattle), is easily gained by traveling west into Redmond.

Public Transportation

Public transportation in the area is provided by King County Metro. The primary bus service is Route 224, which connects the Union Hill-Novelty Hill area to the Redmond Transit Center, a major hub for the Eastside . From the Redmond Transit Center, riders can connect to a wider network of buses serving Bellevue, Seattle, and other parts of King County, including the RapidRide B Line.

Airports

The primary airport serving the region is Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) , located approximately 35-40 km (22-25 miles) southwest of Union Hill-Novelty Hill. It is a major international airport and a hub for Alaska Airlines. Travelers can reach the airport by car via I-405 and I-5 or by taking a combination of bus and the Sound Transit Link Light Rail from Seattle.

Museums

While Union Hill-Novelty Hill itself is an unincorporated area, its location in Washington's Eastside region places it within easy reach of a remarkable concentration of museums in the nearby cities of Redmond and Bellevue. These institutions offer everything from global technology history to interactive children's learning and contemporary art.

Microsoft Visitor Center

For those interested in the digital age, the Microsoft Visitor Center on the Microsoft campus in Redmond offers a fascinating look at the history of personal computing and one of the world's most influential companies. The museum features interactive exhibits, a timeline of Microsoft's major accomplishments from MS-DOS to Windows 11, and a collection of vintage computers and hardware. A highlight is the replica of Bill Gates' original office, providing a glimpse into the company's early days. Admission is free, making it an accessible destination for tech enthusiasts and families .

KidsQuest Children's Museum

Located in Bellevue, the KidsQuest Children's Museum is a premier destination for hands-on, interactive learning. Designed for children of all ages, the museum features exhibits that encourage creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving through play. Popular attractions include a mini grocery store and a water play area. KidsQuest also offers workshops, classes, and summer camps, covering topics from science and art to technology and engineering .

Bellevue Arts Museum (BAM)

A hub for contemporary craft and design, the Bellevue Arts Museum (BAM) showcases a dynamic range of works by regional and national artists. The museum's several large galleries feature constantly changing exhibitions, from paintings and sculptures to intricate mixed-media installations. BAM also offers artist demonstrations and engaging programs that provide insight into the creative process, making it a vital part of the region's cultural landscape .

Redmond Historical Society

For a deep dive into local heritage, the Redmond Historical Society serves as the primary resource for the greater Redmond region's past. The society collects and preserves artifacts and stories, offering exhibits and programs that celebrate local history. They frequently host engaging events, such as walking tours and lectures, and provide a free Historical Redmond Walking Tour app, which guides visitors through significant downtown locations .

VALA Art Center

The VALA Art Center in Redmond is a vibrant community hub for artistic expression. It showcases contemporary art from local and international artists across a variety of mediums, including painting, sculpture, and photography. Beyond its exhibitions, VALA hosts workshops, lectures, and events designed to engage the community and foster a deeper connection with the arts .

Other Unique Venues

The area is also home to some distinctive and smaller venues. The Public Art "Curious?" museum in Redmond offers a unique, thought-provoking experience with interactive exhibits and a sculpture garden designed to spark creativity . The Marymoor Windmill, a picturesque landmark in Redmond, stands as a charming piece of old-world architecture and a reminder of the region's agricultural past .

Sport and Sports Legends

Union Hill-Novelty Hill residents are part of a vibrant and active sports community, primarily centered in the nearby city of Redmond. The City of Redmond Parks & Recreation Department provides extensive opportunities for athletic participation and spectatorship.

Sports Teams and Leagues

Redmond boasts a robust network of community sports leagues catering to all ages and skill levels. These leagues are a cornerstone of local life, fostering community bonds and promoting wellness .

Sports Venues and Facilities

While Union Hill-Novelty Hill may not have a major stadium, the region is served by excellent public facilities managed by the Redmond Parks & Recreation Department. These include numerous well-maintained fields and courts for soccer, softball, and basketball, which host the various community leagues and events .

Sports Legends

As a residential community, Union Hill-Novelty Hill is not typically the birthplace of globally famous athletes. However, its residents are part of a community that highly values athleticism. Many young athletes from the area likely participate in the strong youth sports programs and may go on to achieve recognition at higher levels, contributing to the region's reputation as a healthy and active place to live.

Medical Institutions and Healthcare

Healthcare services for Union Hill-Novelty Hill residents are comprehensive and readily available, anchored by major providers in the immediate area and the wider Eastside region. The community itself benefits from a high concentration of physicians, with 308 physicians per 100,000 people, significantly exceeding the national average of 210 .

Swedish Medical Group

A dominant force in local healthcare is the Swedish Medical Group, which operates multiple facilities in and around Union Hill-Novelty Hill, bringing expert care close to home .

Redmond Care and Rehabilitation Center

For specialized nursing and rehabilitation services, the Redmond Care and Rehabilitation Center (7900 Willows Road Northeast, Redmond) serves the community. This nursing home, legally operating as Union Hill Healthcare, Inc., is certified for both Medicare and Medicaid, providing skilled nursing care and rehabilitation services .

Local Clinics and Specialists

In addition to the major Swedish facilities, residents have access to a wide array of specialized clinics, including chiropractic care like Towers Family Chiropractic and The Balanced Spine, and dental practices such as Village Dentistry. Occupational health services are available at US Healthworks in Redmond .

Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions

Union Hill-Novelty Hill's culinary identity is shaped by its location within Washington's diverse and innovative Eastside food scene. While the area itself is residential, its residents have immediate access to a wealth of dining options in neighboring Redmond and Woodinville, ranging from authentic international cuisine to classic Pacific Northwest fare.

Culinary Highlights of the Region

Pacific Northwest Cuisine

The region is celebrated for its exceptional Pacific Northwest Cuisine, which emphasizes fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

American Classics and Global Flavors

The area offers a diverse range of culinary experiences to suit every palate.

A Taste of Britain in Redmond

A unique culinary destination is The British Pantry (8125 161st Ave NE, Redmond). Established in 1978, this family-owned shop and restaurant offers an authentic slice of England. It features a full-service restaurant, Neville, serving classics like fish and chips, steak and kidney pie, and shepherd's pie. The adjoining market sells a variety of British specialties, including brands like Ambrosia, Branston Pickle, and Heinz baked beans, as well as teas, biscuits, and imported candies .

Unique Local Ingredients

The culinary scene is deeply influenced by the agricultural bounty of the Pacific Northwest. Chefs frequently highlight seasonal and regional ingredients such as wild mushrooms, fresh seafood (like salmon and Dungeness crab), and berries. The area's proximity to wine country in Woodinville also means that many restaurants feature exceptional local wines, with some like Barking Frog earning international recognition for their wine lists .

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