Overview
Parkland is an unincorporated community in Pierce County, Washington, situated a few miles southeast of downtown Tacoma. With a population of roughly 36,000, it functions largely as a residential and educational hub rather than a tourist destination in the conventional sense, yet it has a quiet, lived-in character that appeals to visitors passing through the South Puget Sound region.
The community's most prominent landmark is Pacific Lutheran University (PLU), a private liberal-arts institution that anchors the neighborhood culturally and socially. The university's campus, events, and performing-arts programs draw visitors throughout the academic year and give Parkland a collegiate energy uncommon for a community of its size.
Parkland sits at an elevation that offers occasional views toward Mount Rainier on clear days, and its proximity to Interstate 5 makes it a practical staging point for exploring Tacoma's museums, the waterfront, and the broader Pierce County landscape.
Getting There
By Air
The closest commercial airport is Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), located roughly 15–20 miles north of Parkland depending on the route. Rental cars, rideshare services, and shuttle operators serve the airport; verify current options directly with providers.
By Car
Parkland is easily reached via Interstate 5. Take the exits toward Pacific Avenue South or Steilacoom Boulevard and follow local signage. Most visitors arrive by private vehicle, which also remains the most practical way to get around once you are here.
By Public Transit
Pierce Transit operates bus routes that connect Parkland to Tacoma and surrounding communities. Route coverage and schedules change periodically; check the Pierce Transit website or app for current information before you travel.
Getting Around
A personal vehicle or rideshare app (such as Uber or Lyft) is the most convenient way to navigate Parkland and reach neighboring areas. The street grid is walkable within immediate neighborhoods and around the PLU campus, but distances between points of interest can make a car useful.
Pierce Transit bus service connects to Tacoma's transit network, which in turn links to the Sounder commuter rail and the Link light rail system for travel toward Seattle. Verify schedules and connections locally or on the Pierce Transit and Sound Transit websites.
Things to See & Do
Pacific Lutheran University Campus
A stroll through the PLU campus is a pleasant way to spend an hour or two. The campus features green spaces, public art, and the University Gallery, which hosts rotating exhibitions. The Lagerquist Concert Hall presents student and faculty performances throughout the academic year; check the PLU events calendar for current programming.
Parks and Green Space
Parkland has several neighborhood parks managed by Pierce County Parks. Waughop Lake, within the nearby Fort Steilacoom Park (just to the west in Lakewood), offers walking trails, open fields, and a historic campus of the Western State Hospital buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Verify access and hours locally.
Exploring Greater Pierce County
Many visitors use Parkland as a base for day trips. Point Defiance Park and Zoo & Aquarium in Tacoma, the LeMay–America's Car Museum, and the Washington State History Museum are all within a short drive. Mount Rainier National Park is approximately 60–70 miles to the east and makes for a full-day excursion.
Food & Drink
Parkland's dining scene is modest and community-oriented, centered around Pacific Avenue South and the streets near PLU. You will find a mix of independent restaurants, casual ethnic eateries, coffee shops, and fast-casual chains.
Several independently owned spots serve the student and faculty population near the university, offering everything from espresso—a Washington staple—to international cuisine. For a broader dining selection, Tacoma's revitalized downtown and its Stadium District are a short drive north and offer a considerably wider range of restaurants and bars.
Coffee culture is strong throughout the Pacific Northwest, and Parkland is no exception. Drive-through espresso stands are common along main arterials. Specific restaurant names and hours change frequently; check a current review platform for up-to-date recommendations before you visit.
Practical Information
Visas and Entry
Parkland is in the United States. For visa and entry requirements, visit TravelerPulse's Visas section and check with the U.S. Department of State or your home country's consulate for official guidance.
Emergency Services
In any emergency, dial 911. Pierce County Sheriff's Department provides law enforcement coverage for unincorporated Parkland. For non-emergency inquiries, verify the correct contact number locally.
Connectivity
Mobile coverage from major U.S. carriers (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile) is generally reliable throughout Parkland. Many coffee shops and the PLU campus offer public Wi-Fi.
Weather
Parkland shares the Pacific Northwest marine climate. Summers (June–September) are mild and relatively dry, with temperatures typically in the 60s–70s °F (roughly 16–25 °C). Winters are cool and rainy rather than extremely cold. Pack layers and a waterproof jacket for any visit outside of summer.
Safety
Parkland is a largely residential community. As with any urban-adjacent area, exercise standard precautions: keep valuables out of sight in parked vehicles, be aware of your surroundings after dark, and stick to well-lit streets if walking at night.
The community has faced challenges associated with its location along the Pacific Avenue corridor, which has historically had higher crime rates than some nearby areas. Staying informed about specific neighborhoods and using common sense will make for a trouble-free visit. For emergencies, call 911.
