Mercer Island Map

Description: This map shows streets, roads, buildings, trails, viewpoints, and parks in Mercer Island.

Description: This map shows streets, trails, houses, buildings, cafes, bars, restaurants, restrooms, playgrounds, parking lots, shops, churches, points of interest, and parks in Downtown Mercer Island.

Description: This map shows where Mercer Island is located on the Washington Map.

Description: This map shows streets, trails, boat ramps, parking lots, restrooms, skate parks, swimming areas, picnic areas, libraries, and parks in Mercer Island.

Description: This map shows bus routes in Mercer Island.

Other Maps of Mercer Island

Mercer Island is a city located on an island of the same name in Lake Washington, situated between Seattle and Bellevue in King County, Washington. The island measures approximately 6.3 square miles and is entirely occupied by the city, making it unique among Puget Sound communities. It is connected to the mainland by Interstate 90, which crosses the lake via floating bridges.

Geography

The island is the most populous island in a lake in the United States. It lies in Lake Washington between Seattle to the west and Bellevue to the east. The island's topography includes rolling hills, with the highest point reaching approximately 350 feet above the lake's surface. The shoreline features a mix of developed waterfront and park areas.

History

The island was inhabited by Native American tribes before European-American settlement. It was named after Thomas Mercer, a Seattle pioneer. Early development was limited due to the island's isolation, accessible only by ferry. The completion of the Lacey V. Murrow Memorial Bridge (the original Lake Washington Floating Bridge) in 1940 transformed accessibility and spurred development. The island was incorporated as a city in 1960.

Demographics and Community Character

Mercer Island is an affluent community with a population of approximately 25,000 residents. The city is characterized by high median household incomes, well-regarded public schools, and residential neighborhoods consisting primarily of single-family homes. The population is diverse, with significant Asian American representation, particularly among families attracted by the school system's reputation. The community places emphasis on education, with Mercer Island High School consistently ranking among the top public high schools in Washington State.

Economy and Development

The economy is primarily residential, with most residents commuting to Seattle or Bellevue for employment. The town center along Mercer Way provides local retail, restaurants, and services. Commercial development is limited and carefully regulated to maintain the island's residential character. Property values are among the highest in the Seattle metropolitan area.

Transportation

Interstate 90 traverses the island, connecting Seattle and Bellevue via the Lacey V. Murrow Memorial Bridge and the parallel Homer M. Hadley Memorial Bridge. These floating bridges are among the longest in the world. Public transportation includes King County Metro bus service with direct routes to Seattle and Bellevue. The island's location provides convenient access to employment centers, Sea-Tac International Airport, and regional amenities.

Parks and Recreation

The city maintains an extensive park system, with over 20 parks totaling more than 500 acres. Luther Burbank Park, located on the northern tip of the island, is the largest and offers waterfront access, playgrounds, trails, and an off-leash dog area. The Mercer Island Community and Event Center provides recreational facilities and programming. Residents have access to Lake Washington for boating, swimming, and water sports. The island features several private country clubs and recreational facilities.

Main sights in Mercer Island

How to Get to Mercer Island

Mercer Island is located in King County, Washington, just southeast of Seattle. Here are the main transportation options:

By Car

Mercer Island is accessible via Interstate 90 (I-90). The island has several exits:

• Exit 7A - 77th Avenue SE (West Mercer Way)
• Exit 7B - Island Crest Way
• Exit 8 - East Mercer Way

From Seattle: Take I-90 East across Lake Washington. From Bellevue: Take I-90 West.

By Public Transportation

King County Metro provides bus service to Mercer Island:

• Route 204 - Connects to Bellevue Transit Center
• Route 630 - Express service to Downtown Seattle
• Route 550 - Seattle to Bellevue via Mercer Island

By Light Rail

The East Link Extension of Sound Transit's light rail system is planned to serve Mercer Island with a station at Mercer Island Park & Ride, expected to open in 2025.

From Seattle-Tacoma International Airport

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport Map

Take Link Light Rail to downtown Seattle, then transfer to:

• Route 550 bus to Mercer Island
• Or drive via I-5 North to I-90 East (approximately 30 minutes)

References