Live, work and play in Lacey

By Sonia Garza on April 13, 2018

Located in Thurston County and nestled between Olympia and Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Lacey is a popular residential destination for many incoming military families.

Getting There

Finding Lacey is quite easy from I-5, but getting there can take quite a while with interstate traffic. Just head south on I-5 if you're coming from Tacoma. Head north if coming from Olympia. To get to the heart of Lacey, take exit 109 to Martin Way. You can just as easily access Lacey's shopping area via exit 111.

Where to Stay

There are plenty of hotels, such as La Quinta Inn and Suites and Holiday Inn Express, just to name a few, located in the heart of Lacey with easy access to shopping, restaurants, activities and highway. There are more hotels here. If you're searching for a home, go through Burger Professionals Real Estate, a local real estate company, helping families find their next home. Their site is updated every 15 minutes so you are sure to find a home. Be sure to also check out Richmond American Homes, with Lacey-specific listings.

Eating Out

Lacey is jam-packed with eateries of all types, depending on your appetite. From fast food to dining in restaurants, you're sure to find something. Looking for a great breakfast spread? Try Hawks Prairie Restaurant and Sports Bar. The food is fabulous and yes, it's even kid-friendly! For lunch, head over to Meconi's Italian Subs. For a fine-dining experience, head to Ricardo's Kitchen and Bar. You will find much more off exit 111 and 109, not too far from the exits.

Top Tourist Attractions

The Regional Athletic Complex, known to locals as "The RAC," is regarded as one of the finest outdoor sporting venues in the state. With 100 acres of spectacular views of Mount Rainier, five softball / baseball fields and six regulation-size soccer / football / rugby fields, as well as picnic and outdoor event facilities, playgrounds, concession stands, two miles of walking trails, and family restrooms, this complex is sure to please a family of any age.

If a trip to the farm is in order, then don't miss out on Schilter Family Farm. There, you will find seasonal produce. During the fall, families flock to the farm for the harvest fest, featuring a bounce balloon, petting zoo, hay rides, barrel train, pumpkin patch, pony rides and more. During the winter, be sure to take to the farm to pick and cut your own tree.

Lacey Nature

Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge offers miles of walking trail to witness and uncover over 200 species of birds, mammals and wildlife. Be sure to bring your binoculars and camera to document the bald eagle sightings.

Tolmie State Park encompasses 105 acres with 1,800 feet of saltwater shoreline on Puget Sound. The park features an underwater park for scuba divers, a saltwater marsh, a beach, a forest and abundant wildlife.

If you love to shop, make sure to stop at the many shopping centers in Lacey, including South Sound Center (featuring Target, Sears, Kohls and Marshall's) and Hawks Prairie Village (featuring Home Depot, Costco, Big Lots, Walmart and more).

For more activities and events around town, check out the Lacey Parks and Recreation.

Popular with military families for the ease of commute and access to the interstate, and plentiful activities for families, Lacey is a top living choice. Just be ready for the commute time, which can range anywhere from 15 minutes to 40 minutes or more based on JBLM traffic.