Lakewood, Washington

Lakewood officially became a city on February 28th, 1996, making it the eighth largest city in the state. But look closely, and listen. You can still find the city’s countless lakes, enjoy the shading streets, feel the exuberance of activity as citizens continue to enhance Lakewood.

On the fringe of Tacoma, known as “the prairie” for almost a hundred years, lies Lakewood, Washington. The city was officially incorporated in 1996, and today stands as one of the most beautiful areas of the South Sound. We are fortunate to be surrounded by water in a region that gained popularity as a summer retreat for wealthy Americans in the early 1900s.

Joint Base Lewis-McChord begins just east of Dupont-Steilacoom road and encompasses a significant section of land in Pierce County. Lakewood has hosted military operations since before WWI. The first airstrip in Lakewood was the actually the infield of the motorcar track, built in 1914.

Real Estate in Lakewood

Lakewood real estate is in demand for vacation homeowners as well as full-time residents. Waterfront property in Lakewood is always in demand.

In the Lakewood area, we have four small lakes for waterfront living. They include:

Lake Steilacoom
American Lake
Lake Louise
Gravelly Lake

Of these, Gravelly Lake is the only private water body, but accessible to the public through Lakewold Gardens, a Georgian mansion with ten acres of breathtaking landscaping.

American Lake is home to Thornewood Castle, one of the few acknowledged castles in the U.S. Thornewood Castle took four years to complete (1907-1911) and set high standards for Lakewood real estate. Chester Thorne, the original owner, had a fascination with English castles and modeled his lakefront home in the Tudor fashion. The exterior bricks of the now bed and breakfast were part of an English castle and are approximately 450 years old.

Living In Lakewood

Time spent outdoors is part of our Lakewood culture. Water-related activities are an everyday occurrence, but we also have some of the finest golf courses in the country.

The Tacoma Golf and Country Club, the first golf club built west of the Mississippi, on American Lake, is a landmark in Lakewood. Before the club moved to its current location, folks would travel by trolley from Tacoma to enjoy a round or social hour.

American Lake Veterans Golf Course, the only golf course in the U.S. that caters to the rehabilitation of wounded and disabled veterans, has nine holes that Jack Nicklaus himself designed.

Our Lakewood Farmers Market is open on Tuesdays from June until September, and hosts vendors who provide everything from organic produce to live entertainment.

Lakewood Food Truck Festival is a part of our annual SummerFEST that celebrates our international influences and the cuisine they bring to Lakewood.

Other Lakewood attractions include: