Originally established as a logging settlement on the shores of Puget Sound, Federal Way is a bustling city within the Seattle metropolitan area. It is named after the Federal Highway U.S. 99 that travels through the area, connecting the tech hub of Seattle with the port city of Tacoma.
Things to do in Federal Way
If you’re visiting in the summer months, you can cool off at the Wild Waves Theme and Water Park, which is packed with thrill rides, themed pools and kid-friendly attractions. Originally opened in 1977 as The Enchanted Village, it is one of the most popular water parks in Washington state. Rent a cabana for a day of relaxation or get your adrenaline pumping on the Wild Thing roller coaster.
Green thumbs can admire the seasonal blooms of the Rhododendron Species Foundation and Botanical Garden, which boasts more than 700 species of rhododendrons from all continents. See the tropical vireyas planted in the Rutherford Conservatory, then stroll through the Himalayan Blue Poppy Meadow and the Alpine Rockery Garden. Adjacent is the Pacific Bonsai Museum, home to impressive miniature tree displays.
In the north-west corner of Federal Way is Dash Point State Park, a 161-hectare protected area on the edge of Puget Sound. It’s a popular setting for swimming, beach combining and skimboarding in the summer months and is traversed by hiking and mountain biking trails. Also in Federal Way is the multi-use BPA Trail, which connects Celebration Park and the wetlands of Panther Lake Park.
Getting around Federal Way
Federal Way is a 20-minute drive from the centre of Tacoma and 45 minutes from Seattle. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is also 20 minutes away. Buses travel through Federal Way while renting a car will give you greater freedom to explore the area.