Attractions
Whether you want to hit the beach, take a hike or explore a museum, there's much to see and do in the South South. These uniquely Pacific Northwest experiences are sure to entertain kids of all ages -- and parents, too. 1. Hands On Children's Museum For hours of creative play, head
Attractions
Explore the rich military history of Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) at McChord Air Museum and Lewis Army Museum. Both museums are open to the public and admission is free. McChord Air Museum Classified as a Heritage Center, the McChord Air Museum includes a gallery in the tower building on Barnes Blvd, Heritage
Military Life
Joint Base Lewis-McChord's (JBLM) Boy Scout Troop 62 gives military kids the chance to get outside, learn skills and build relationships. Rain or shine, these scouts camp. Away from screens and couches, they set up tents, make campfires and eat s'mores. Troop 62 joined with Cub Scout Packs 461 and 462 for
Military Life
Smiles, hugs and laughter -- the signs of friendship and camaraderie -- this is what you'll see at a Girl Scout Troop 40988 meeting. The room is filled with girls in blue and brown vests adorned with brightly colored patches. They're working together and having fun. The energy is palpable. At
Travel
Leavenworth is magical in the winter. Over half a million lights decorate the town and snow covers the surrounding peaks. A three-hour drive from Tacoma transports you to an alpine-style village with all the charm of Bavaria. Situated at the foothills of the eastern Cascade Mountains along the Wenatchee River, this
News Front
For nearly two decades, Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) has gifted the city of Gig Harbor with a Christmas tree. Each year, Gig Harbor works with its partner unit, the 201st Expeditionary Military Intelligence Brigade, to select and cut a Douglas fir to take center stage for its holiday festivities. This collaborative
Military Life
Youth swimmers stay active year-round and build confidence in and out of the pool. Swimming is a sport that allows for individual achievement and team participation. It builds endurance, strength and self-esteem. If this sounds ideal for your kids, check out these local swim teams. Metro Aquatics Swim Team Run by Metro
Military Life
If your child's birthday falls during the rainy months, the South Sound has you covered. Kids can jump, bowl, paint and skate at a variety of indoor party spots. They'll have a blast, and you won't have to clean up. Auburn Gymnastics Center -- DuPont Gymnasts and non-tumblers alike will love this
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Whether you just moved to the area and need a new troop or want to get your kids involved for the first time, you'll find a vibrant scouting community on and around Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM). GIRL SCOUTS Now is a great time to get involved in a local Girl Scout Troop.
Outdoors
Lakewood's annual SummerFEST will be held Saturday, July 14, at Fort Steilacoom Park. The whole family will enjoy this free event that's packed with entertainment, sports, food and fun. SummerFEST kicks off with a sprint triathlon at 9 a.m. followed by a Run Forrest Run 5k and 10k race at 11 a.m. Participants
Outdoors
Escape the business of everyday life with a relaxing getaway on the shores of American Lake. Joint Base Lewis-McChord's Northwest Adventure Center has 10 log cabins available for rent year-round -- all with unobstructed views of the lake. Studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom cabins are available from $85 to $160 a night. The
Family
When the waters of Puget Sound retreat, the shoreline reveals a world of fascinating sea creatures. Exploring the beaches at low tide is a fun activity for the whole family. You're likely to spot crabs crawling on the rocks and sea stars clinging to a pier. If you're lucky, you'll see
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May is Military Appreciation Month. It's a time to honor the men and women who serve in our Armed Forces. Many national and local businesses show their appreciation this month and year-round with military discounts and special offers. Check out just a few of the many deals available. ARMED FORCES
Outdoors
Summer brings a bounty of fresh produce and farmers market fun. Area farmers markets offer locally-grown produce, specialty foods, handmade crafts and live entertainment. Visiting these markets is a great way to eat healthy, find one-of-kind products, and support local farmers and artisans. Olympia Farmers Market Open year-round, the Olympia
Outdoors
Take advantage of the gorgeous Pacific Northwest summers and host your next get-together at one of the South Sound's many outdoor venues. If your child has a summer birthday, check out the party packages at these Tacoma wild spots. Tacoma Nature Center At this nature-themed park, kids can climb in a
Outdoors
Swimsuits, flip flops and sunglasses ... hello old friends. It's that time of year. The sun is starting to shine and the pools will soon be open. Luckily, Joint Base Lewis-McChord and its surrounding communities have many fun spots to swim and splash. SWIMMING POOLS JBLM has two pools for recreational swimming.
Travel
As part of Washington's capital city, West Olympia sits on the west side of Budd Bay and Capitol Lake. It includes the South Westside and Northwest Olympia neighborhoods and is home to plenty of green space including family parks and waterfront trails. How to get there This pocket of Thurston County is primarily accessible
Travel
Anderson Island's unspoiled beauty is just a 20-minute ferry ride away. As Puget Sound's southernmost island, Anderson Island is refreshingly undeveloped. There are no crowds, no traffic -- not even a stoplight. What you will find are pristine beaches, natural lakes and beautiful parks. It's a great place to hike,
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One of the benefits of living in the South Sound is that you can enjoy Seattle like a local. Pop up for a few hours to visit a museum or explore a neighborhood. Seattle offers plenty of family fun -- start with these introductory itineraries and keep going back for
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The South Sound may be congested, but it's amazing how quickly you can escape the gridlock and hit the beach. Whether you need a refreshing lunch break or have all day to hang out, check out these local parks and trails. Sequalitchew Creek Trail, DuPont This three-mile round-trip trail winds through a
