Things to Do
Lakewood, Washington, may be a small town with a population of around 60,000, but it offers a variety of attractions. It serves as a suburb of Tacoma, leading many residents to enjoy both cities’ vibrancy.
Although Lakewood might not be the first place locals think of for leisure activities, it boasts numerous shops, excellent Asian dining options, and grocery stores. Furthermore, those seeking affordable housing will find options that cater to a range of budgets, from modest homes to luxurious properties near serene lakes.
Given the town’s proximity to Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM), many military personnel and families choose to live in Lakewood, making it an ideal location for both work and recreation.
One of the most recognized attractions in Lakewood is the Lakewood Towne Center. Following the demolition of the Lakewood Mall in the early 2000s, this area developed into a hub for shopping with big box stores and diverse dining options. One can find everything from Michael’s to Bed Bath and Beyond alongside numerous restaurants and grocery stores, making this the premier shopping destination.
Additionally, you can enjoy live performances at the Lakewood Playhouse, which is located within the Towne Center. This community theater presents a diverse array of plays and musicals, ensuring high-quality entertainment for visitors and locals alike.
The Pierce County Library System services the area, with the Lakewood Library being one of the largest. Situated at 6302 Wildaire Road Southwest, it provides community meeting spaces and public computer access.
Additionally, Lakewood is home to beautiful lakes, including American Lake, Gravelly Lake, Lake Steilacoom, and Lake Louise. American Lake is the largest and features two popular beaches, ideal for boating and outdoor activities. It’s an excellent spot for walks, picnics, and enjoying the sunny outdoors.
Lakewold Gardens is another gem in Lakewood. Designed by renowned landscape architect Thomas Church, these gardens showcase a variety of iconic Northwest plants, with the stunning rhododendrons being a major highlight.
The grounds feature a Georgian mansion, which is perfect for hosting events like summer weddings. It’s a wonderful choice for a leisurely afternoon spent amongst nature, where you can picnic, explore the garden store, or participate in public events for a small admission fee.
Hotels in Lakewood
For travelers seeking accommodations in Lakewood, you may consider the area as a more affordable option compared to downtown Tacoma. The distance is approximately a 20-minute drive, making it convenient for those who prefer a quieter stay.
The Thornewood Castle stands out as the premier accommodation in Lakewood. This magnificent Tudor mansion, built in the 15th century and transported from England, serves as a top-tier bed and breakfast. While it comes with a higher price tag, the experience is unmatched. Particularly, during the Halloween season, the castle often provides haunted tours for guests.
If a luxurious castle experience is beyond your budget, there are several budget-friendly hotel options available:
- Best Western Lakewood Motor Inn—6125 Motor Avenue Southwest, Lakewood / (253) 584-2212
- America’s Best Value Inn—4215 Sharondale Street Southwest, Lakewood / (253) 589-8800
- Candlewood Suites—10720 Pacific Highway South, Lakewood / (253) 584-0868
- Western Inn—9920 South Tacoma Way, Tacoma / (253) 588-5241
Living in Lakewood
Lakewood is generally considered an affordable place to live, similar to the nearby East Tacoma and South Tacoma areas. Home sizes vary significantly, but most homes typically range from 1,000 to 1,800 square feet.
The housing landscape features both small, rundown homes and luxurious lakefront properties. Most homes were constructed between 1960 and 1989, catering to military families due to the convenient access to JBLM and nearby highways like I-5.
Apartment options are abundant, ranging from economical choices to larger complexes with amenities such as pools. However, there’s a notable gap in apartment buildings between the major lakes, although various options exist to the north and west of the base.
Another cluster of apartments can be found near Pierce College, particularly along Military Road and Steilacoom Boulevard, where several options are available.
Getting to and From Lakewood and Seattle or Tacoma
Accessing Lakewood from Seattle or Tacoma is straightforward, especially for car owners. The area can be reached using I-5 exits 123 through 129, depending on your destination within Lakewood.
For those without a vehicle, Lakewood is well-served by Pierce Transit buses. The Lakewood Towne Center Transit Center acts as a hub, providing transfers to various buses that travel throughout Tacoma and Steilacoom, as well as several Express buses, including routes to the airport. Notable bus routes include 2, 3, 4, 48, 202, 206, 212, 214, and 574.
