Things To Do
in Federal Way
Federal Way is a city located in the state of Washington, United States. It is known for its diverse population and strong community spirit. The city offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including parks, trails, and water sports on Puget Sound.
Federal Way is also home to businesses, shopping centers, and cultural attractions such as the Pacific Bonsai Museum.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk at Dash Point State Park. Enjoy the views of the Puget Sound as you breathe in the fresh coastal air.
Head to Wild Waves Theme Park for some thrill rides and family fun. Don't forget to bring a swimsuit for the water attractions!
Wrap up your day with a relaxing dinner at a local seafood restaurant. Savor the flavors of the Pacific Northwest in a cozy atmosphere.
Visit the Federal Way Historical Society to learn about the area's rich history. The exhibits are engaging and suitable for all ages.
Stroll through the Pacific Bonsai Museum and admire beautiful bonsai trees. This serene space offers a unique experience for nature lovers.
Enjoy a local theater performance at the Federal Way Performing Arts and Event Center. Immerse yourself in the creativity of local artists.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Seattle and Tacoma offers access to urban amenities while maintaining a suburban feel.
- Diverse community with a variety of cultural events and community activities.
- Well-developed parks and recreational facilities, including waterfront access.
- Strong public school system and educational opportunities.
- Relatively affordable housing compared to neighboring cities.
- Traffic congestion, especially during peak commuting hours.
- Some areas may experience higher crime rates compared to national averages.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger metropolitan areas.
- Weather can be gloomy and rainy, which may not appeal to everyone.
- Economic opportunities may be limited compared to nearby larger cities.
Best Activities in Federal Way
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A popular spot for hiking, fishing, and beachcombing with beautiful views of Puget Sound.
Offers nature trails for birdwatching, hiking, and enjoying the serene wetland environment.
An amusement park with thrilling rides and water attractions for outdoor fun.
An outdoor garden featuring a diverse collection of Rhododendron species and a tranquil setting for leisurely strolls.
Provides opportunities for picnicking, fishing, and enjoying the scenic lake surroundings.
Tours
Uncover the best of Federal Way with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Federal Way
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of Puget Sound, beautiful beaches, and a variety of hiking trails for great photo opportunities.
Features a picturesque beachfront and parkland, perfect for capturing scenic views and sunset photos.
Provides panoramic views of Steel Lake and the surrounding natural beauty, ideal for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Federal Way
Federal Way Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Indulge in a succulent and fresh Pacific Northwest salmon, known for its rich flavor and delicate texture. It's best savored at Salty's Seafood Grill or Anthony's Homeport, both renowned for their seafood offerings.
Must-Try!
The sweet and tender Dungeness crab, a Pacific Northwest delicacy, is a must-try. Head to Crab Queen for a delectable crab feast.
Quench your thirst and treat your taste buds to the scrumptious milkshakes at Shake, Shake, Shake, which offers a variety of classic and inventive flavors.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Federal Way better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the vibrant Federal Way Farmers Market, where you can sample local produce, artisanal foods, and food truck delights. It's a hub of community and culinary discovery.
Take a stroll along International Blvd and savor an array of global street food offerings from the diverse food trucks lining the street. The eclectic flavors offer a culinary adventure.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Federal Way, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when in public places.
Being punctual is highly valued in Federal Way. Arriving on time for appointments, meetings, and social gatherings is considered respectful.
Wearing modest and appropriate attire in public places, especially religious and cultural sites, is a sign of respect for the local community.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Federal Way with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Federal Way
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in Federal Way, with the standard practice being to leave a gratuity of around 15-20% of the total bill at restaurants, bars, and for other services such as taxi rides and hotel accommodations.
Payment methods commonly accepted in Federal Way include cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment options such as Apple Pay and Google Pay. It is advisable to carry some cash as well, as some smaller establishments may have limited card acceptance.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Federal Way.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Federal Way is during the spring (April to June) when the weather is mild and the city is in full bloom with colorful flowers and blossoming trees. Expect pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds compared to the summer months.
Summer (July to September) is another popular time to visit Federal Way, with warm temperatures ideal for outdoor activities. This is the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher accommodation prices. Make sure to visit popular attractions like the Wild Waves Theme & Water Park during this time.
Fall (October to November) brings cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage as the leaves change color. It's a great time for scenic drives and outdoor hikes, and you may also catch some local fall festivals and events.
Winter (December to February) can be chilly and damp in Federal Way. While the city doesn't typically experience heavy snowfall, the weather can be wet. However, if you enjoy holiday decorations and indoor activities, this can still be a pleasant time to visit.
Federal Way at Night
Hiking in Federal Way
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic park featuring forested trails and views of Puget Sound, perfect for hiking and beachcombing.
A paved trail that offers a pleasant hiking experience with views of the surrounding natural areas.
A coastal state park with beach access, hiking trails, and picnic areas, ideal for a day outdoors.
This park includes trails around a serene lake, providing an excellent spot for hiking and enjoying nature.
Located a bit further out, this state forest offers a variety of hiking trails through lush forests and along rivers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Federal Way through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Federal Way by plane.
The primary airport serving the Seattle metropolitan area, located approximately 20 miles north of Federal Way.
The largest airport in Oregon, located about 160 miles south of Federal Way.
Located closer to Seattle, it is mainly a general aviation airport but also handles some commercial operations, approximately 25 miles north of Federal Way.
The largest airport in Eastern Washington, located about 280 miles east of Federal Way.
Located on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada, approximately 85 miles southwest of Federal Way, accessible by ferry.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Federal Way, comprising a significant portion of the population.
A considerable demographic group that includes various Asian ethnicities.
This group represents a notable segment of the population.
This demographic includes individuals of Hispanic or Latino descent.
A growing demographic group representing individuals who identify with more than one racial category.
A smaller demographic group that represents Indigenous peoples of the Americas.
This demographic includes individuals from Pacific Island nations.
The Soul of Federal Way
Discover the essence of Federal Way through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is a widely played sport in Federal Way, with numerous leagues and clubs for both youth and adults. The city has several fields dedicated to the sport, making it a popular choice among residents.
Basketball is popular in Federal Way, with many local teams, recreational leagues, and high school competitions. The city also offers several courts and facilities for playing.
Baseball has a strong following in Federal Way, with youth leagues, adult softball leagues, and community teams available. The city hosts games in various well-maintained parks and fields.
American football is popular at the high school level in Federal Way, with several high schools competing in the area. Community teams and youth programs also contribute to the sport's popularity.
Volleyball is enjoyed both indoors and outdoors in Federal Way, with recreational leagues available for different skill levels. The sport sees participation in schools and community centers.
Swimming is a popular activity in Federal Way, supported by local pools and swim clubs. The city promotes swimming as both a competitive sport and a recreational activity.
Running is a favorite pastime for many residents in Federal Way, with numerous parks, trails, and local running clubs encouraging fitness and community participation.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Federal Way.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Federal Way caters well to vegetarian and vegan preferences. Local eateries like The Rock Wood Fired Pizza and Wild Wheat Bakery Cafe & Restaurant offer an array of plant-based options to savor.
Those seeking gluten-free dining will find accommodating menus at restaurants like Indochine and Gyro World, where a range of flavorful gluten-free dishes are readily available.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Federal Way with these cultural adventures.
