Need a fun day trip or weekend escape near Tacoma? Head to Lakewood! Discover scenic lakes, historic sites, and unique attractions just minutes from urban excitement. Whether you're into golf, gardens, or global eats, Lakewood offers a relaxed Pacific Northwest getaway with something for everyone.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Lakewood is from late spring through early fall (May through September). Mild temperatures and long daylight hours make it perfect for boating, hiking, and outdoor festivals.
How to Get There
- If you are traveling by car: Lakewood is easily accessible via I-5 and is about 45 minutes south of Seattle and just 15 minutes from Tacoma.
- By Train: Amtrak and Sounder commuter trains stop at the Lakewood Station, connecting the city to Seattle, Tacoma, and beyond.
- By Bus: Pierce Transit and Sound Transit offer extensive local and regional bus service.
Where to Stay
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Lakewood – Comfortable and modern, close to Joint Base Lewis-McChord and area attractions.
- Best Western Lakewood – Convenient and budget-friendly option near shopping and restaurants.
- Thornewood Castle Inn – Historic Tudor Gothic-style castle offering elegant rooms and lakefront views.
Top Attractions
⮕ Catch a Live Performance at the Lakewood Playhouse
Lakewood Playhouse is a 180 seat theatre in Lakewood Towne Center in the Seattle / Tacoma metropolitan area. It has been in operation since 1938, except for a few years during World War 2. There is a full history of the theatre's productions online. There are shows performed all year round, some only lasting a few days – like The War of the Worlds which runs every five years. Seniors, students, military personnel and groups enjoy discounts. Seasonal tickets and flexipasses are also available. The theatre offers workshops for young and old and frequently announces auditions.
5729 Lakewood Towne Center Blvd., Lakewood, WA 98499, Phone: 253-588-0042
⮕ Relax and Rejuvenate at Olympus Spa
There are two Olympus Spa venues within the Tacoma area. They were established by a Korean couple to cater exclusively to women. They believe that good health is vital for beauty. Mind and body are pampered at the spa. The day pass affords visitors access to earth energy rooms, dry and steam saunas and whirl pools. The meditation room and reading room are for mental relaxation and rejuvenation. Additional services include skin care, massages, facials and body scrubs. At the shop, treatment products are for sale. Korean tea and a light snack are on offer in the café. Specials include packages for Mothers' Day and 50% off the day pass on your birthday.
3815 196th Street S.W. Suite 160, Lynnwood, Phone: 425-697-3000
8615 South Tacoma Way, Lakewood, Phone: 253-588–3355 or 253-582-6625
Romantic Activities and Attractions:
⮕ Swim, Fish, or Paddle on the Scenic American Lake
This is the largest lake in the Lakewood area. At one time it was named Lake Richmond, after a Methodist missionary. It was renamed American Lake after an Independence Day party in 1841. There are two parks that offer year-round access to the lake, as well as private and military resorts. Swimming, fishing, walking and picnics are the favored pastimes. Several species of trout, bass and salmon can be caught here and stocks are monitored to ensure sustainability. There are several islands in the lake but only Silcox Island is inhabited.
⮕ Sip Local Wines at Stina's Cellars
Penny and Ethan Preston opened Stina's Cellars in 2006, after treating wine-making as a hobby for 10 years. They purchase grapes from throughout eastern and western Washington to make their limited wines. They offer wine tasting on site, and sales and club membership online. They market their wines at markets and various other outside events and sell through retailers in the area.
9316 Lakeview Ave SW, Lakewood, WA 98499, Phone: 253-227-9748
Where to Eat
⮕ Dine on Classic Comfort Food at Carr’s Restaurant and Catering
Chris and Ellen Carr have lived in the Lakewood all their lives. They both started their careers in the restaurant business in their teens, at Chris' aunt's restaurant. They have since realized their dream of owning their own restaurant. Carr's Restaurant and Catering offers home cooking, made with the freshest ingredients, cooked from scratch. They are open seven days a week but close after lunch on public holidays. They serve lunch, dinner and an all-day breakfast. Their menu is huge. The catering menu is equally diverse, from hors doerves to full meals, for parties of 10 to crowds of 500.
11006 Bridgeport Way SW, Lakewood, Phone: 253-584-4622
⮕ Grab a Burger and Bottomless Fries at Red Robin
For a party at home, Red Robin Gourmet Burgers has a variety of fire-grilled burgers, side dishes, wraps, sandwiches, salads and desserts that can be ordered online. There is an option for the order to be delivered or to be picked up. The franchise chain guarantees consistent quality.
10311 Gravelly Lake Drive SW, Lakewood, WA 98499, Phone: 253-588-2888
⮕ Get Your Wing Fix at Wingstop
Wingstop is a franchise chain of eateries that began in 1997 when the food offered at the single aviation-themed Wingstop store proved to be popular. Today, outlets can be found in 1250 venues across the globe. Chicken wings, fries, sides and dips are on the menu in a variety of flavors. Exotic mango habanero sides can be ordered alongside garlic parmesan or hickory smoked barbecue wings. Pieces, combos and group packs cater for all occasions. Drinks and desserts are also available when you collect your meal.
5919 Lakewood Towne Center Blvd SW, Lakewood
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Lakewold Gardens – If you love tranquil walks and beautifully landscaped gardens.
- Fort Steilacoom Park – Enjoy walking trails, sports fields, and a large off-leash dog park.
- Joint Base Lewis-McChord Museum – Learn military history through exhibits, artifacts, and vintage aircraft.
If you are interested in local events:
- SummerFEST (July) – Live music, food vendors, a car show, and fireworks at Fort Steilacoom Park.
- Lakewood Farmers Market (June–September) – Fresh produce, handmade goods, and live entertainment every Tuesday.
- Lakewood Film, Art, and Book Festival (Fall) – Celebrate creativity with independent films, art exhibits, and author talks.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Lakewood, Washington:
- Point Defiance Park (20–25 min) – Visit the zoo and aquarium, explore gardens, or hike forest trails in Tacoma.
- Museum of Glass (20–25 min) – See live glassblowing demos and inspiring contemporary art in downtown Tacoma.
- Chambers Bay (15–20 min) – Walk scenic waterfront trails or golf at this world-renowned course in University Place.
- Ruston Way Waterfront (20–25 min) – Stroll the Tacoma waterfront and dine with Puget Sound views.
- LeMay – America’s Car Museum (15–20 min) – Explore a massive collection of vintage and classic cars in Tacoma.
- Wapato Park (10–15 min) – Family-friendly park with lake views, walking paths, and a playground.
- Dupont (15–20 min) – Discover scenic golf courses, trails, and small-town charm just south of Lakewood.
- Steilacoom (10–15 min) – Washington’s oldest town offers waterfront views, historic sites, and ferry access to Anderson Island.
- Sunnyside Beach Park (15–20 min) – Relax, picnic, or hunt for sea glass at this peaceful beach in Steilacoom.
FAQ:
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What was Lakewood originally called?
- What is now Lakewood city was once called The Prairie.
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Who originally annexed the Lakewood area?
- The British Hudson Bay Company annexed the area and established Fort Nisqually as a fur trading post.
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How did the USA acquire the land?
- When the 49th parallel was declared the border, the land was purchased by the USA for $460,000.
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When did immigrants start settling in Lakewood?
- Immigrants began moving to the area in the 1850s, and soon mills and a school were established.
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When did Washington become a state, and how was Lakewood developed?
- In 1889, Washington, the 42nd state, was declared, and the area was planned to attract wealthy residents.
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What developments were built in early Lakewood?
- Several mansions and a golf course were built around the lake.
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What was the Tacoma Speedway?
- The Tacoma Speedway operated in the area from 1914-1922.
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How did Lakewood develop further?
- An airstrip later became an airport, and a military base and resort were established in the area.
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When was Lakewood incorporated as a city?
- Lakewood was incorporated as a city in 1995.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming cherry blossoms.
Best Western Lakewood – A comfortable and convenient stay.
Visit Lakewold Gardens – Explore a stunning historic estate with beautiful gardens.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and perfect for outdoor activities.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Tacoma South – Lakewood – A modern stay with great amenities.
Enjoy a day at American Lake – Go kayaking, swimming, or have a picnic by the water.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and beautiful autumn foliage.
Thornewood Castle Inn & Gardens – A unique stay in a historic lakeside castle.
Take a scenic drive through Fort Steilacoom Park – Experience fall colors and walking trails.
Plan Your Trip