Things To Do
in Fort Lewis
Fort Lewis, located in Washington state, is a major military installation of the United States Army. It serves as the headquarters of I Corps and is home to several combat units. The base offers a wide range of training facilities, including firing ranges and mock urban environments.
It plays a crucial role in training and deploying troops for missions around the world.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $75 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $60 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike at Mount Rainier National Park. Enjoy the stunning views and wildlife as you navigate the scenic trails.
After lunch, head to Crystal Mountain and take a scenic gondola ride. You'll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the surrounding areas.
Wind down by visiting a local brewpub. Relish a craft beer while enjoying the charming atmosphere and good company.
Kick off your day with kayaking on American Lake. Paddle through calm waters and soak in the serene environment.
Post-lunch, visit the Fort Lewis Military Museum to learn about the rich history of the area. Engage with interactive exhibits that bring the past to life.
Catch a sunset at the nearby Tacoma Narrows Park. Stretch your legs while enjoying the beautiful view as the sun sets over the water.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Located near scenic outdoor recreational areas, including mountains and forests for hiking, skiing, and camping.
- Rich military history and tradition, providing a sense of community and camaraderie among service members.
- Access to a variety of support services for military families, including educational programs and health care.
- Proximity to major cities like Seattle and Tacoma, offering diverse cultural, shopping, and dining experiences.
- Weather can be rainy and overcast, particularly in the winter months, which may affect outdoor activities.
- Cost of living can be high in the surrounding areas, particularly in urban centers.
- Military life can involve frequent relocations and deployments, which may disrupt family stability.
- Traffic congestion can be an issue, especially during peak commuting hours in nearby cities.
Best Activities in Fort Lewis
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the numerous trails around Fort Lewis, suitable for all levels of hikers, offering beautiful views of the surrounding nature.
Enjoy thrilling mountain biking trails that cater to various skill levels, providing an exciting way to experience the outdoors.
Take advantage of nearby lakes and rivers for fishing, whether from the shore or by kayak, with opportunities to catch a variety of fish.
Set up camp in designated camping areas, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying starry nights and campfire stories.
Observe the diverse bird species in the area, making it a great spot for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Find a scenic spot to enjoy a meal outdoors with friends and family, surrounded by the beautiful landscapes of Fort Lewis.
Take advantage of the diverse terrain for trail running, offering both challenge and stunning views throughout your run.
Look out for local wildlife as you explore the outdoors, providing opportunities to see animals in their natural habitat.
Tours
Uncover the best of Fort Lewis with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Fort Lewis
Visit one of these nice places.
Just a short drive from Fort Lewis, this national park offers stunning vistas of the iconic Mount Rainier, along with beautiful wildflower fields and picturesque hiking trails.
This park features scenic views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, perfect for sunset photography and leisurely walks along the waterfront.
With its expansive waterfront, lush gardens, and views of Tacoma, Point Defiance Park provides numerous opportunities for beautiful photographs, particularly at the park's zoo and aquarium.
The iconic Tacoma Narrows Bridge offers spectacular views of the waterway and city skyline, especially from viewpoints along the bridge and nearby parks.
The base itself offers various scenic spots with military history, landscaped areas, and views of Mount Rainier, making it a unique location for capturing photos.
Food in Fort Lewis
Fort Lewis Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty soup featuring locally caught salmon, potatoes, and a rich cream base. Best enjoyed at Tugboat Annie's Pub.
Must-Try!
This sweet and tender crab is a highlight of the local seafood scene. Get your fill at Anthony's at Point Defiance.
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food at Beecher's Handmade Cheese, known for their rich and creamy mac and cheese.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Fort Lewis better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit this lively market to sample fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, homemade baked goods, and local crafts. Open on Saturdays.
Experience a vibrant mix of street food from diverse cultures at this night market, featuring everything from Korean BBQ to Mexican street tacos.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Fort Lewis is home to a significant military population. It's important to show appreciation for service members and their families by being courteous and understanding when interacting with them.
The area is culturally diverse, with people from various backgrounds. Being open-minded and respectful of different cultures, traditions, and languages is crucial in fostering a positive community atmosphere.
Participating in local events and activities is a great way to demonstrate respect for the community. Engaging in volunteer opportunities or attending community gatherings can help build relationships and show support for local initiatives.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Fort Lewis with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Fort Lewis
Ensure a smooth experience
In Fort Lewis, as in many parts of the United States, tipping is a common practice, especially in the service industry. It is customary to tip waitstaff at restaurants around 15-20% of the total bill. Delivery drivers, bartenders, and hairdressers are also typically tipped, often in a similar range. However, some establishments may include a gratuity in the bill for larger parties or certain services, so it's important to check before tipping.
Payment practices in Fort Lewis generally align with the broader U.S. standards, where various payment methods are accepted. Cash, debit cards, and credit cards are widely used for transactions in restaurants, shops, and services. Many establishments also accept mobile payment options and contactless payments. It's common to provide a receipt for purchases, and consumers are encouraged to keep track of their spending, especially when using credit cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Fort Lewis.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit Fort Lewis as the weather starts to warm up and the flowers begin to bloom. Average temperatures range from 45°F to 65°F. Expect mild and pleasant conditions, ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring local parks.
Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season in Fort Lewis, with average temperatures ranging from 65°F to 80°F. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, biking, and festivals. It can get busy with tourists, so expect larger crowds at popular attractions.
Fall (September to November) is characterized by cooler temperatures ranging from 45°F to 70°F, with beautiful fall foliage. It's an excellent time for hiking and experiencing local harvest events. The crowds start to thin out compared to summer, offering a more peaceful experience.
Winter (December to February) brings colder temperatures ranging from 30°F to 50°F. Expect snow in some areas, making it a good time for winter sports like snowshoeing and skiing in nearby ranges. The holiday season can also bring festive events and activities.
Fort Lewis at Night
Hiking in Fort Lewis
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning national park featuring extensive hiking trails, breathtaking views of Mount Rainier, and diverse flora and fauna.
This national park offers a variety of hiking trails from forested paths to coastal hikes, providing a rich experience of Washington's natural beauty.
A popular trail in the Zion National Park area, known for its beautiful views of the canyon and the challenging river crossing.
Located on the eastern slope of the Cascade Mountains, this area features scenic trails with stunning views of glaciers and wildflowers.
A relatively easy hiking trail located near Fort Lewis with gentle slopes and nice scenery, perfect for families and casual hikers.
A short but steep hike leading to a beautiful viewpoint overlooking Rattlesnake Lake, ideal for a quick day hike.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Fort Lewis through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Fort Lewis by plane.
Located approximately 35 miles north of Fort Lewis, SEA is the primary international airport serving the Seattle metropolitan area and offers a variety of international and domestic flights.
Situated about 130 miles south of Fort Lewis, PDX is the largest airport in Oregon, providing numerous international and domestic flight options.
Located around 140 miles north of Fort Lewis in Vancouver, British Columbia, YVR is one of the major international airports in Canada, servicing numerous international destinations.
Approximately 260 miles east of Fort Lewis, GEG is a major airport in Eastern Washington, providing several international and domestic flight options.
Located about 400 miles southeast of Fort Lewis, BOI serves as the main airport in Idaho, handling various international and domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Caucasian population, reflecting the majority demographic.
Includes individuals with Spanish-speaking heritage.
Includes individuals of African descent.
Includes individuals of Asian descent, such as those from East Asia, Southeast Asia, and South Asia.
Includes individuals with indigenous heritage.
Includes individuals from the Pacific Islands.
Includes individuals identifying with two or more racial categories.
The Soul of Fort Lewis
Discover the essence of Fort Lewis through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport played in the fall and winter, featuring high school and college teams.
Widely played in schools and recreational leagues, basketball is a favorite winter sport.
Growing in popularity, soccer is played at various levels, including youth leagues and high school competitions.
A competitive sport in schools, cross country meets take place in the fall across various terrains.
An important part of the athletic curriculum in schools, with events taking place in the spring.
A popular summertime sport in Fort Lewis, featuring local leagues and youth teams.
A favorite among high school girls and played recreationally, especially during fall.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Fort Lewis.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Fort Lewis boasts numerous eateries that offer delicious plant-based dishes, such as the veggie burger at Shake Shake Shake and the vegan pho at Vien Dong Restaurant.
Traversing gluten-free in Fort Lewis is made easier with dedicated menus at places like Wild Orchid and The Table.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Fort Lewis with these cultural adventures.
