-
Where is Kent located?
- Kent is a city situated in the Seattle-Tacoma metropolitan area.
-
How has Kent evolved over time?
- Once an agricultural city, Kent has now grown into a business hub that serves as a headquarters for many companies.
-
What natural attractions can visitors explore in Kent?
- Besides attracting businesses, Kent also draws in visitors due to its gorgeous landscape. Some of the natural attractions include Mount Rainier and Green River. Additionally, visitors enjoy gazing out at the rolling hills and lush valleys.
-
What other attractions does Kent offer?
- The city offers Italian and seafood restaurants, a race track, a sports and entertainment arena, and a pumpkin patch with a corn maze.
This post may include affiliate links. Click here for Affiliate Disclosure.
1. Tahoma National Cemetery
Walk along quiet paths and admire a peaceful, respectful retirement tribute.
© carmelod/stock.adobe.com
Tahoma National Cemetery is a cemetery dedicated to military personnel who served in the United States Armed Forces. Although established in November 1993, the cemetery did not start accommodating burials until Oct 1997. The serene setting of the cemetery overlooks Mount Rainier, affording a peaceful final resting place for the veterans buried here.
On-site, there is a Public Information Center that is run and managed by volunteers. Any questions or concerns of visitors can be addressed by this Center. They also serve as the liaison between cemetery personnel and families arranging burial services for their loved ones.
Tahoma National Cemetery, 18600 SE 240th St, Kent, WA 98042, Phone: 425-413-9614, View Map
2. Kent Station
Go shopping or enjoy dining at this easy-access spot for weekend fun.
© pedrosala/stock.adobe.com
Kent Station is a train station in northern downtown Kent. The trains started service in 2001 and a few years later, the bus service by King County Metro began. At the station, there are two platforms connected to a pedestrian overpass, a parking garage, and several bus bays.
The plaza near the train station is also home to a public art installation called Cornucopia. This art exhibit features several sculptures that depict the agricultural history of Kent. Some of the pieces include a river mosaic, trellises, and a train whistle shaped clock. The local government and Sound Transit played a major part in the completion of this project.
301 Railroad Ave N., Kent, WA 98032, Phone: 888-889-6368, View Map
3. accesso ShoWare Center
See concerts or sports and enjoy exciting indoor attractions with family or friends.
© Alena/stock.adobe.com
The accesso ShoWare Center is an entertainment and sports arena that hosts events all throughout the year. It first opened in 2009 and is large enough to accommodate up to 6,500 people. Since its opening, the arena has welcomed many singers, performers, athletes, and members of the community. Athletic teams who play here include the Seattle Thunderbirds, the Tacoma Stars, and the Seattle Mist.
Entertainment events performed here include concerts, trade shows, and family shows. The accesso ShoWare Center was the first venue of its kind to earn the GOLD certification from Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. They received this prestigious designation from the US Green Building Council.
625 W James St, Kent, WA 98032, Phone: 253-856-6777, View Map
4. Pacific Raceways
Watch fast cars and experience thrilling sights on a summer motorsport trip.
© Ruslan Gilmanshin/stock.adobe.com
Pacific Raceways is a race track and motorsports facility that was established in 1960. The track is owned and managed by the Fiorito family, and was built by Dan Fiorito Sr. and his two sons. They wanted to create a motorsports facility to offer a safe environment for racing. The race track measures 2.25 miles in length, includes nine turns and a 110-foot elevation change.
World-renowned international drivers raced this course and enjoyed the design and driving experience. Besides hosting professional drivers, Pacific Raceways also hosts law enforcement agencies who come here to practice pursuit driving. This facility is also home to the Pacific Grand Prix.
31001 144th Ave SE, Kent, WA 98042, Phone: 253-639-5927, View Map
5. Green River Natural Resources Area
Explore wetlands and look at birdlife on a relaxing fall nature walk.
© fox17/stock.adobe.com
The Green River Natural Resources Area (GRNRA) is a 304-acre preservation site with wetlands, urban wildlife, and a stormwater treatment facility. It’s located next to a public park and extensive trail system, that offers nature walks, bike paths, and several viewing towers.
Approximately 165 bird species and 53 mammal species nest, feed and brood in this wildlife habitat. This man-made site is one of the largest wildlife refuges in America. There are plenty of recreational and educational activities at this facility. Also, many volunteer opportunities are available to help maintain and manage this refuge.
22161 Russell Rd, Kent, WA, Phone: 253-856-5200, View Map
6. Mary Olson Farm, Kent, Washington
Visit this historic farm and discover rural life with kids and educational stuff.
© yrustr/stock.adobe.com
Mary Olson Farm on Green River Road is regarded as the greatest subsistence farm in all King County. Once belonging to Alfred and Mary Olsen, the farm is now a tourist attraction.
On the property, there’s a restored 1897 barn located on the farm that’s available for public tours. Visitors can also walk through the 1902 farmhouse and the century-old apple and cherry orchards.
Besides these farm attractions, other structures were preserved and restored. They include a weaving shed, smokehouse, chicken coop, and an old wagon road. Farms tours are free, yet, a donation is always appreciated.
28728 Green River Rd, Kent, WA 98030, Phone: 253-288-7433, View Map
7. Duke's Seafood
Savor fresh seafood and admire waterfront views on a romantic dining visit.
© Duke's Seafood
As a stockbroker, Duke liked taking his clients to lunch. After some time he developed a love for restaurants. So, he decided to open up one of his own. Today, Duke owns several restaurants, one of which is Duke's Seafood located in Kent Station.
When Duke discovered the carcinogenic properties of aspartame, he began to carefully study the ingredients of the food in his restaurant kitchens. Since that day, Duke's Seafood only serves food that is GMO-free, chemical-free, hormone-free, nitrate-free, and the list goes on. Simply put, the quality of food at Duke's is superior. The menu focuses on fresh, organic, sustainable food.
240 W Kent Station St, Kent, WA 98032, Phone: 253-850-6333, View Map
8. Paolo's Italian Restaurant, Kent
Go for handmade pasta and enjoy a cozy couples meal in spring.
© Paolo's Italian Restaurant
Paolo's Italian Restaurant began as a dream and later turned into reality on October 1, 1990. Chef Paul knew at the age of eight what he wanted to be - a chef. His love of cooking came from his Italian mother who was always cooking and from his father who was a restaurant owner.
After spending a summer traveling around Europe, Paul knew he wanted to infuse his passion for Italian food, wine, and friendly hospitality into the restaurant. And that's exactly what he did. Besides serving delicious Italian food, Paolo's Italian Restaurant also offers cooking classes, wine dinners, and catering services.
23810 104th Ave SE, Kent, WA 98031, Phone: 253-850-2233, View Map
9. Mama Stortini's Restaurant and Bar
Visit for comfort food and enjoy a quick bite with family or friends.
© Mama Stortini's Restaurant and Bar
Josephina Stortini is the woman and the inspiration behind Mama Stortini's Restaurant and Bar. She immigrated to the United States as a small child and made a home in the Seattle-Tacoma area.
While raising her children she spent a lot of time in the kitchen cooking and perfecting her sauces. Although she is no longer alive, her recipes still have a spot of the menu. In fact, the style of food at Mama Stortini’s can be described as a blend between the Old World Italy and the Pacific Northwest. So, besides the classic dishes from Southern and Central Italy, other menu items incorporate flavors of the Northwest.
240 W Kent Station St #104, Kent, WA 98032, Phone: 253-854-5050, View Map
Map:
Best Time to Visit |
Places to Stay |
Tips for Visiting |
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming cherry blossoms. |
Hampton Inn & Suites Seattle/Kent – A comfortable stay with easy access to local attractions. |
Visit the Kent Valley Loop Trail – Enjoy scenic walking and biking along the Green River. |
Summer (June-August) – Warm and great for outdoor festivals. |
Four Points by Sheraton Seattle Airport South – A stylish and convenient hotel near the airport. |
Check out Lake Meridian Park – A great spot for swimming, picnics, and kayaking. |
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air, colorful foliage, and fewer crowds. |
Best Western Plus Plaza by the Green – A scenic golf course hotel with great amenities. |
Explore ShoWare Center – Catch a hockey game, concert, or local event. |
Plan Your Trip
Table of Contents: