Lakewood

 

The laid-back atmosphere and abundance of lush green spaces give Lakewood the feeling of easy living. It’s populated with friendly neighbors, connected by winding streets, and home to large expanses of nature. With several lakes nearby, residents don’t need to go far for recreation, especially in the summer.

Originally part of an area known as “The Prairie,” Lakewood was the site of numerous farming homesteads in the early years before Fort Steilacoom brought army lieutenants and the railroad to the area. This boom caused much of the farmland to disappear, replaced by stately homes built on lakes, some of which still stand today. Lakewood was established in the mid-1960s, which makes it relatively new compared to the historic towns around it, while Oakbrook spans roughly 950 acres and with approximately 1,200 residences.

There are a lot of new residences being built in Lakewood, mostly condos and single-family homes. However, the history of the area means there are also a number of larger residences on the lakefront. With its ever-growing options, there is something for everyone in Lakewood and nearby Oakbrook.

Oakbrook has a suburban feel set alongside the bustling atmosphere of Lakewood. It is Lakewood’s largest subdivision, full of life and opportunity. It’s accessible, friendly, and great for raising families. It’s close to Joint Base Lewis McChord, which makes it an ideal area to live for those who commute to JBLM for work.

Oakbrook has plenty of nearby shopping options, no matter what you’re looking for, and it’s also graced with a handful of restaurants that have been pillars of the Lakewood community for decades.

Nearby Lakewood Towne Center is the main shopping hub for Oakbrook. Lakewood Farmers’ Market is an extremely family-friendly market that even has balloon-making and free fruits and veggies for kids! Another great grocery option is H&L Produce, a local chain revered for having high-quality produce and meat provided to you by friendly staff!

If you’re in search of a great breakfast or brunch spot, look no further than Moon Rise Cafe. This neighborhood gem has homemade biscuits and gravy and a blackberry mimosa that is out of this world. Burs Restaurant has been around since 1952 and is half diner, half lounge. Carr’s Restaurant is another neighborhood staple full of favorites like their classic breakfast burrito and a dungeness crab benedict.

The best things to do here are outdoors. With a golf course, an abundance of green space, and annual events that showcase all that summer has to offer, Oakbrook is the perfect place for nature lovers.

Lakewood’s signature celebration, Summerfest, brings the community together for fun in the sun. With a triathlon, a classic car show, extreme athletic performances, food trucks galore, and music shows, there is something for everyone.

Play a championship course at Oakbrook Golf Club, which is one of the best public golf courses in the state. Fort Steilacoom Park’s 340 acres make it the largest park in Lakewood, and you have so many options for activities here. It also has an open-air theater, a permanent orienteering course, and an off-leash dog park. Take the Discovery Trail around the natural beauty of Waughop Lake, which is especially beautiful when all the leaves change in the fall.

Oakbrook is home to several excellent schools. Top educational opportunities include: