Points of Interest that Inspire & Excite
The city’s attractions engage, inform, inspire, and excite visitors from all over the country. From educational experiences to unforgettable views on the water, Renton attractions provide fun for everyone.
Renton History Museum
Located in a historic Art Deco firehouse constructed in 1942, the Renton History Museum houses the history of greater Renton, and its mission is to preserve, document, interpret, and educate through exhibits and programs. The museum has a vast collection of photographs, objects, and archives that include books, newspapers, records, school-life photos and memorabilia, and coal mining and firefighting artifacts, making learning about Renton a dynamic experience.
Renton Civic Theatre
Renton Civic Theatre was founded in 1987 as a professional performing arts center, and is located in a 1920s movie palace. The theatre puts on a wide variety of productions, and for more than 20 years, has been one of the premier venues for quality theater in the Greater Puget Sound region.
Renton Carco Theatre
Renton’s Carco Theatre is a 300-seat auditorium located within Cedar River Park. It’s a professional space used for independent film, children’s programs, and multicultural organizations, each of which showcase talent both onstage and onscreen. The theatre is a non-profit that supports expression and education for low-income and underfunded organizations.
IKEA Performing Arts Center
Opened in 2003 on the Renton High School campus, the IKEA Performing Arts Center is used for student theatrical training and is a venue for lectures, concerts, and community performances. It’s home to various arts organizations including the Rainier Symphony, the Renton City Concert Band, Ensemble Ballet Theatre, Evergreen City Ballet, and others. The IKEA Performing Arts Center boasts a wrap-around lobby, spacious dressing rooms, a 35-foot fly space, and multiple parking options. The space can be rented for events year round.
Northwest Seaplanes/Friday Harbor Seaplanes
Northwest Seaplanes offers Seattle Tour Flights from south Lake Washington, scheduled and charter flights to the San Juan Islands and British Columbia's Inside Passage. Sister company Friday Harbor Seaplanes offers daily scheduled flights to and from South Lake Washington and San Juan Island, from May through mid October. Conveniently located just 15 minutes from Sea Tac Airport with shuttle service available between their terminal and SeaTac! With this family owned and operated business, you won't be flying with the BIGGEST seaplane airline, but you'll be flying with the BEST!
Waterway Cruises on Lake Washington
Enjoy a cruise aboard a dining and entertainment yacht on Washington’s lakes and Puget Sound. There are a variety of cruises from which to choose – whether you’re looking for a romantic sunset voyage, a family-friendly journey, or a wine or beer tasting expedition, Waterways Cruises and Events has your perfect cruise experience. Spend a morning, afternoon, or evening on the water, and take in stunning views of mountains and city skylines.
Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park
Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park is a destination of choice for many visiting Renton. The park is situated on the southeast shore of Lake Washington, and boasts 57 acres of park land and 5,400 feet of shoreline, which translate to bountiful water-related activities. The park’s amenities include a launch ramp, picnic shelters, waterfront restaurants, sand volleyball courts, a polar plunge swimming area, over 1.5 miles of paved walking trails, an interpretive botanical walk, and playground equipment. Many who frequent the park also enjoy great bird watching and strolls on the fishing pier. During the holiday season, Ivar’s Clam Lights animates the park with thousands of lights in a stunning visual display that is free to the public.
Other Notable Attractions
- Jimi Hendrix Memorial Site
- Liberty Park Skate Park
- Henry Moses Aquatic Center
- Renton Library (architecturally award-winning library over the Cedar River)