About Us
Hello and Welcome
The city of
— Visit & Event Planning Made Easy —
In Issaquah, awe is not just found in the grandeur of our landscapes but also in the small, quiet moments that speak to the soul. From the shores of Lake Sammamish to the skies above Tiger Mountain, this town invites you to discover the beauty and wonder that lie at every turn. Whether you seek adventure or solace, Issaquah promises an unforgettable journey of discovery and delight.
Beyond Issaquah’s scenic beauty and adventurous offerings, Issaquah exudes a quiet charm that captivates the heart. The town’s friendly community, coupled with its slow-paced lifestyle, provides a refuge from the chaos of urban life. On most evenings you will find live music, and Broadway-quality theatrical productions happening here year-round in our state-designated Creative Arts District. Visit Issaquah’s OFFICIAL EVENTS CALENDAR for a quick view of what is happening daily and coming up soon.
Visit Issaquah works with individuals, group tour operators, meeting planners, and event producers to help you put together a great group experience in beautiful Issaquah Washington. We’ll provide transparent, and complimentary services & consulting for your sourcing, negotiations, contracts, and vendor partners. YOU are in complete control of your final itineraries and group gathering decisions, we make sure you have clear and varied options.
Issaquah Washington is an environmentally sustainable, multi-cultural community deeply dedicated to supporting arts, culture, and responsible outdoor recreation. Issaquah is Washington State’s first LEED GOLD certified city, awarded in 2023. The accessibility of Issaquah, with its proximity to major highways and public transportation, ensures that this tranquil escape is never out of reach.
ABOUT Visit Issaquah
Mission: Convener of tourism and hospitality partners for positive economic development through destination marketing.
Established in 2018 as a nonprofit in Washington state, the purpose of Visit Issaquah is to serve as Issaquah’s official Destination Marketing Organization. Visit Issaquah increases tourism in the region by marketing arts and cultural events, outdoor recreation activities, our scenic beauty, unique meeting venues, and national brand hotels, to create additional tax revenue and spending in the community.
The management of Visit Issaquah is conducted by the Board of Directors consisting of 3-5 members, including one representative appointed by the City of Issaquah and at least two representatives from Issaquah hotels.
The Board of Directors hires staff. Currently, Visit Issaquah has one employee, the Executive Director.
The work of Visit Issaquah is funded by lodging tax dollars allocated annually by the Issaquah City Council.
Inclusive
Visit Issaquah is committed to creating an inclusive destination that promotes and values diversity. Visit Issaquah welcomes visitors diverse in age, race, gender identity, sexual orientation, physical or mental ability, and perspective. Our priority is to promote a destination where everyone is welcome, from any background, because it is the right thing to do. More than a core value, Visit Issaquah recognizes the process to foster an inclusive, welcoming location is an ongoing and ever-changing practice.
Land Acknowledgement
Visit Issaquah joins the City of Issaquah in its acknowledgement and pledge of respect, and protection to the land we occupy as Snoqualmie Tribe ancestral ground.
Sustainable
In 2023, the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) awarded the City of Issaquah with LEED® Gold certification for its exceptional performance in fostering a sustainable, resilient and equitable community. Issaquah is the first city in Washington state to achieve LEED Gold certification – and one of only five LEED-certified communities statewide.
Destination Stewardship Strategic Plan for Responsible Growth of Issaquah’s Visitor Economy
The Visit Issaquah Destination Stewardship Strategic Plan establishes a living framework to guide the city’s visitor economy toward a regenerative, community-led future. Rooted in values of stewardship, creativity, collaboration, and long-term resilience, the framework goes beyond traditional tourism planning. It seeks to balance economic vitality with ecological health, cultural integrity, and community well-being.
Visit Issaquah’s Board of Directors
Will Parkinson, Chair Emeritus, Area GM for Issaquah Hilton Properties
Billy Rossman, Treasurer, GM SpringHill Suites by Marriott Seattle Issaquah
Lisa Johnson Shennum, Secretary, Dir. of Sales, Homewood Suites Issaquah
John Parizek, Chairman, GM Hilton Garden Inn Seattle/Issaquah
Melia Adams Wilkinson, Premier Media 425 Magazine
Marty R. Dawood, Vice Chair, GM Arena Sports
Christy Garrard, former Executive Director, retired
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Just east of Seattle, where the Puget Sound meets the Cascade Mountains, awaits a destination like no other. A place within arm’s reach of the city, yet far enough away to serve as a true escape for visitors longing for the best of both worlds.