Tacoma
Known as the City of Destiny, Tacoma sits on Commencement Bay in the southern portion of Puget Sound. Just minutes from Seattle, Tacoma is the birthplace of internationally-acclaimed glass artist Dale Chihuly. His work is spotted throughout the city, especially the Chihuly Bridge of Glass at the Museum of Glass, a 500-foot-long pedestrian overpass linking the Museum of Glass to Downtown Tacoma. You can create your own work of blown glass at the Tacoma Glassblowing Studio. In addition to its creative culture, Tacoma offers residents and visitors access to world-renowned museums, unique venues, and outdoor recreation. Explore the rotating exhibits at LeMay-America’s Car Museum, Tacoma Art Museum, and Washington State History Museum. Grab a drink at Bob’s Java Jive or Dorky’s Bar Arcade before you head to a performance at Rialto Theater or the Tacoma Dome. Peruse the shops at Tacoma Mall and B & I Shopping Center. Take a hike, visit the zoo, and rent kayaks in Point Defiance Park. Access to major highways, Tacoma Link light rail, and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport make commuting and traveling from Tacoma a breeze.
Olympia
Olympia is more than just the state capital of Washington. It is a vibrant community-centered city with plenty of exciting entertainment options for residents and visitors alike. Olympia prides itself on supporting independent businesses, with popular local farmers markets, cafes, and handcrafted beer and wine. The South Sound Wine Trail leads you through Lacey, Olympia, Tenino, and Shelter and includes six award-winning wineries. Breweries are plentiful as well, like Fish Tale Brew Pub and Three Magnets Brewing Co. Restaurants range from casual to fine dining in Olympia, but waterfront dining is always a local favorite. Anthony’s Hearthfire Grill is a pristine waterfront restaurant at the edge of the Port of Olympia, with gorgeous sunset views and the freshest seafood. Budd Bay Café is another local favorite, with 180-degree bay views overlooking the marina. Hike the trails at Priest Point Park, kayak on the bay, fish on the docks, or simply enjoy the great outdoors at one of the many community spots in the area. Olympia is within minutes of countless recreational destinations, including Capitol State Forest, Olympic National Forest, and Mount Rainier National Park. Voted “Best Family Entertainment,” the Hands On Children’s Museum is a community hub for hands-on science and art education for the whole family. With events, festivals, and parades going on weekly in Olympia, there’s always something to do. After you’re finished exploring for the day, head home to your peaceful Olympia apartment. Whether you prefer luxury fixtures or modest digs, Olympia offers rental apartments to suit any style.
Lacey
Lacey is a primarily suburban community in the south Puget Sound area. Olympia is right next door, making it a convenient drive whether you’re going for work every day or just popping into town once in a while to take advantage of the shopping, dining, and entertainment. With Joint Base Lewis-McChord located just minutes away as well, Lacey is a popular option for military personnel seeking off-base apartments and houses. The city has no shortage of amenities to keep you occupied—several large shopping centers can be found near Interstate 5, parks and lakes are scattered throughout the community, and unique local restaurants and coffee houses are everywhere. Of course, like everywhere in Washington, the natural landscape surrounding the city is gorgeous— large nature preserves like Olympic National Park and Mt. Rainier National Park are easily within day trip distance.
