Separated from mainland Seattle by the glistening waters of Lake Washington, Bellevue and Mercer Island are two of the Eastside's more select addresses. Although close enough to the city for a reasonable commute, both towns have developed unique identities that make them havens for families, and are where many of Seattle's movers and shakers choose to reside.

The largest city in the Eastside, Bellevue boasts scenic charm, exquisite shopping, and first-rate cultural attractions. Bellevue Square and the Crossroads Shopping Center make Bellevue a shopper's dream; yet, the 36-acre Bellevue Botanical Garden, the stunning Bellevue Art Museum designed by Northwest architect Stephen Holl, and Philharmonic Orchestra, provide a myriad of options for those in search of a culture fix.

Although geographically closer to Seattle than Bellevue, the serene ambience of Mercer Island makes Puget Sound's urban core seem like another universe. Only five miles long, Mercer Island is a well-to-do residential oasis that lays claim to the best school district in Washington State, quiet beaches, and an extraordinarily high number of professionals, CEOs, and executives.