Lakewood: Discover Parks, Lakes, and Historic Sites

Lakewood offers several specific themes to consider when planning a trip: lakeside paths, parks, historic gardens, and cultural events. If you’re looking for hotels in Lakewood, these interests can help you decide what to focus on during your stay. The following places differ in their landscapes, facilities, or historical significance—so you can plan around the activities that matter to you.

Paths and Facilities by the Water

The Waughop Lake Trail is a paved loop nearly one mile long, with views of the lake. It is suitable for strollers and bicycles, as well as people of all experience levels. This makes it a clear choice for anyone looking for a loop trail with lake views. The surface and facilities may change over time; check the latest information before your visit if needed.

The 5-acre American Lake Park is located on the north shore of American Lake. Its facilities include a swimming beach and a public boat launch. There is also a picnic shelter, picnic tables, and a playground; the restroom is open year-round. Boat launch operations and fees may change, so it’s a good idea to check the latest information before using it.

The 17-acre Harry Todd Park is a waterfront park in Lakewood’s Tillicum neighborhood. The park has sports fields, tennis and basketball courts, and picnic shelters. The lower section of the renovated area also has a swimming beach, a fishing pier, and boat moorage. Its range of facilities highlights the different activities and interests this park caters to.

Green Spaces and Park Sizes

Wards Lake Park is a 22-acre natural area in Lakewood that surrounds Wards Lake. Visitors can explore a grove of historic Garry oaks west of the lake. The lake and oak grove are two distinct landscape features that help define the character of this natural area.

Fort Steilacoom Park covers 340 acres. In comparison, Wards Lake Park spans 22 acres, compared with Fort Steilacoom Park’s 340 acres. If the size of a park matters to your plans, this difference is a useful point of comparison. Wards Lake Park also features the lake and grove as distinctive landscape features.

Historic Sites and Events

The Boatman-Ainsworth Residence still stands and is the oldest house in Lakewood. Lakewold Gardens is a historic estate surrounded by 10 acres of formal and naturalistic gardens. The city has also designated Lakewold Gardens as a landmark. Alongside parks, historic sites and gardens offer distinct themes to consider when planning a trip.

The Secret Garden at Thornewood Castle was named one of the five most beautiful gardens in America in 1926 and again in 1930. This historical recognition offers a different point of reference from Lakewold Gardens’ designated landmark status.

The Pierce College Science Dome is open for public shows, field trips, private shows, and other special events. If you’re planning to attend a show or event, check the latest schedules and programs ahead of time, as they may change.

Discover more destinations: University Place, Dupont, Gig Harbor, South Hill, Fox Island, Lake Tapps, Graham, Fife.

Go to the broader travel overview: Pierce.