Located off of West Mercer, the Roanoke Inn is one of the locals’ favorite spots. The story begins in 1914 when the number of tourists to the Island was increasing. George McGuire built a chicken-dinner inn to appeal to the visitors. When Mr. McGuire lost the restaurant because of debts, Mr. Green took it over and converted it to a hotel. After Mr. Green’s ownership there are many rumors to explain the ever changing ownership of the establishment. It is said that the Roanoke Inn was a brothel, then a place to get illegal booze during the prohibition. After the prohibition, the building was converted to a tavern. Drinks, groceries and ice cream were sold. In 1943, Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Reeck converted the building into an actual Inn. It became a home away from home for Islanders and visitors with a meal service and a bar. The establishment has been in the Reeck family and continues the family tradition to this day.
As Mercer Island grew, the residents of the North End wanted a place to meet and hold events. On a single day, all available men cleared the lot, poured concrete, and brought materials up a steep slope from the docks to build the Keewaydin Club. Fifteen to twenty years later, that building became the Community Club. In 1966, VFW Post 5760 bought the building, merged with the South End Club, and continues to rent the building out for events and meetings.
The Park on the Lid is so large it has three sections. The three sections are joined by a paved path that circles each area. In the first section you will find a picnic area, two baseball fields, a field for soccer practice, and a play area. The second section includes two basketball courts, four tennis courts, picnic tables, huge open fields, and play areas. The third section features an athletic field. The countless features and gorgeous views make this park an Island favorite.
The gorgeous 77-acre Luther Burbank Park features Lake Washington views, swimming, boating and fishing. Other amenities include a large play area, dog park, picnic areas, tennis courts, basketball court, boat dock, fishing pier, and amphitheater. The summer provides great entertainment such as Music in the Park. This remarkable place is also a perfect setting to enjoy New Years Eve and 4th of July fireworks.
The Community Center at Mercer View has it all! With over 42,000 square feet, this two story building has remarkable views of Lake Washington and the Cascade Mountains. It is open seven days a week and features a gymnasium, game room, children’s play area, fitness rooms, meeting rooms, two basketball courts, and locker rooms. Classes offered range from recreation and enrichment to arts & crafts and ballroom dancing. The Community Center is also a great place to relax. You can read a book in the library or enjoy your coffee, tea, or cocoa on the covered patio, by the double-sided fireplace, or in the friendship lounge.
North Mercer has even more to offer. Roanoke Park offers tennis courts, a picnic area, and play area. Roanoke Landing offers natural green space, gorgeous views, waterfront, and a landing.