We are currently licensed to do VA Home Loans in Washington State only!
cornerstone-logo Cornerstone Home Mortgage/West Coast Veterans

VA Loan Blog

Things to do Near Joint Base Lewis McChord

Posted on by Dustin Schuller

Uncover the Hidden Gems: Things to Do Near Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM)

Things to do when you visit JBLM, near Seattle WA activities

Discover an array of exciting and diverse activities located in the vicinity of Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM). From indoor and outdoor activities to adventures to historic sites, your stay in the area will be unforgettable. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best things to do near Joint Base Lewis-McChord.

Exploring the Great Outdoors

Mount Rainier National Park: A Breathtaking Adventure

Mount Rainier National Park offers a stunning backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts, with its snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and impressive glaciers. Take advantage of the parks numerous hiking trails, campgrounds, and picnic areas, or try your hand at snowshoeing and skiing during the winter months.

Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge: A Haven for Wildlife Lovers

Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge is a pristine sanctuary for birds, mammals, and amphibians. Traverse the boardwalks and trails to spot various species in their natural habitat or join a guided tour to learn more about the refuge’s various life and conservation efforts.

Point Defiance Park: An Urban Oasis

Covering 760 acres, Point Defiance Park boasts breathtaking views, lush gardens, and miles of hiking and biking trails. Explore the parks, the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, and the Fort Nisqually Living History Museum, or rent a kayak or boat to experience the park from the water.

Delve into History and Culture

Museum of Glass: A Celebration of Artistry

The Museum of Glass showcases the extraordinary work of renowned glass artists with both permanent and temporary exhibitions. Attend a live glassblowing demonstration and even create your own masterpiece during a hands-on workshop.

Washington State History Museum: Journey Through Time

Discover the fascinating stories of Washington State’s past at the Washington State History Museum. Interactive exhibits and immersive displays transport you through time, from the region’s indigenous peoples to the modern era.

LeMay – America’s Car Museum: A Tribute to Automotive Innovation

Car enthusiasts will be thrilled by the impressive collection at LeMay – America’s Car Museum. With over 350 vehicles on display, the museum celebrates America’s love affair with the automobile and showcases the history of automotive design and technology.

Family-Friendly Activities

Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium: A World of Wildlife

From polar bears to sea otters, a day trip out to the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium offers an up-close encounter with animals from around the world. Participate in interactive exhibits and attend educational presentations to deepen your understanding of the natural world.

Hands On Children’s Museum: Unleash Your Imagination

At the Hands On Children’s Museum, children of all ages can engage in interactive play and hands-on learning. The indoor museum’s exhibits encourage creativity, problem-solving, and exploration across a range of subjects, including science, art, and nature.

Wild Waves, great place for kids, must visit for military families

 

Wild Waves Theme & Water Park: Thrills and Splashes Await

Wild Waves Theme & Water Park offers a perfect blend of excitement and relaxation. With thrilling roller coasters, a massive wave pool, and a variety of water slides, this park guarantees a fun-filled day for kids and the whole family.

Unwind and Dine in Tacoma

Ruston Way Waterfront: A Scenic Stroll and Dining Experience

Take a leisurely walk along the Ruston Way Waterfront, admiring the stunning views of Puget Sound and Mount Rainier. Stop at one of the many restaurants and cafes lining the promenade for a delectable meal or refreshing beverage.

Tacoma Art Walk

Tacoma Art Walk: Embrace the Vibrant Art Scene

Experience Tacoma’s thriving art community during the Tacoma Art Walk, which takes place on the third Thursday of every month. Galleries, museums, and studios open their doors for an evening of art appreciation, live music, and creative workshops. This event is a must-see for art lovers and those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture.

A World of Shopping and Entertainment

Tacoma Mall: Shop ’til You Drop

Tacoma Mall offers families an extensive selection of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Browse through popular retailers, indulge in a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants, or catch the latest blockbuster at the on-site movie theater.

Great American Casino, gambling, near fort lewis

 

Great American Casino: Test Your Luck

For a night of excitement, head to the Great American Casino. This lively entertainment venue offers a variety of gaming options, from poker and blackjack to slot machines. Enjoy live music, dine at the full-service restaurant, or soak up the electrifying atmosphere.

Discover the Charming Town of Steilacoom

Sunnyside Beach Park: A Relaxing Retreat

Nestled in the historic town of Steilacoom, Sunnyside Beach Park is a picturesque destination for a day of relaxation. Stroll along the sandy beach and shoreline, take a dip in the water, or enjoy a picnic in the grassy park area. The park also features a playground, volleyball courts, and barbecue facilities.

Steilacoom Historical Museum: Delve into Local History

Step back in time and learn about the rich history of Steilacoom, Washington’s first incorporated town, for free, at the Steilacoom Historical Museum. Housed in a restored 19th-century building, the museum’s exhibits showcase the town’s early days, from its Native American roots to its development as a thriving community.

Things to do on JBLM

JBLM Fitness Centers: Stay Active and Healthy

Joint Base Lewis-McChord offers a variety of fitness centers, each equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to help you stay active and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Participate in group fitness classes, utilize cardio and strength-training equipment, or join intramural sports leagues for friendly competition.

Eagle's Pride Golf Course, JBLM

 

Eagle’s Pride Golf Course: Tee Off on a Beautiful Course

Golf enthusiasts can enjoy the scenic 27-hole Eagle’s Pride Golf Course, located on JBLM. The well-maintained course offers challenging play for golfers at all skill levels, as well as a driving range, pro shop, and on-site restaurant.

Bowl Arena Lanes, Lewis McChord, fun for kids

 

Bowl Arena Lanes: A Strike of Fun

For a fun and engaging activity, head to the Bowl Arena Lanes, JBLM’s bowling center. Offering open bowling, league play, and cosmic bowling on weekends, this facility is perfect for a family outing or a night out with friends.

JBLM Outdoor Recreation: Explore the Pacific Northwest

The JBLM Outdoor Recreation program provides a wide range of activities and equipment rentals to help you make the most of the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty. Join a guided hike, rent a mountain bike, boat or participate in a white-water rafting trip to experience the region’s stunning landscapes.

Warrior Zone, Pool Tables, Lewis McChord life

Warrior Zone: A Hub for Entertainment and Relaxation

The Warrior Zone at JBLM offers a comfortable and welcoming space for service members to unwind and socialize. Enjoy a variety of amenities, including gaming consoles, pool tables, a theater, and a café serving delicious food and beverages.

With numerous recreational activities and facilities available on JBLM, service members and their families can easily stay active, entertained, and connected with others in the community.

Conclusion

With its array of outdoor adventures, walking trails, fascinating museums, family-friendly attractions, and picturesque towns, the area surrounding Joint Base Lewis-McChord offers endless opportunities for exploration and enjoyment. This comprehensive guide highlights just a few of the many experiences waiting to be discovered during your stay in the region.

What To Know About JBLM

Posted on by Post by cshm_admin

Is a move to the Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) on the horizon for you and your family? If so, you may have a few questions about the base before making the move. Thankfully, there’s a lot of information out there you can tap on, especially considering the fact that JBLM is a large base that offers double the services of many other sites.

There’s a Support Group Out There

Regardless of the unique circumstances you and your family are in, chances are that someone has been there, done that at a base the size of JBLM. Whether you are a special needs family looking for resources or a military wife pregnant with your first child, you are likely to find a social media group where you can get the support you need.

You Have Plenty of Housing Options

Whether you choose to live on the base itself or off it, you will find that there are plenty of housing options in and around JBLM. The majority of housing on-site has either been recently built or renovated, and plenty of off-site options are available just 20 to 30 minutes from the gates. Regardless of the specific type of housing you go for in the end, you can make use of the VA home loan to finance it.

Amenities Are Akin to Those of a Small Town

Not only can you find a dog park for walking your furry family members on-site, other amenities you can make use of include soccer fields, baseball fields, a track stadium as well as an accessible children’s playground.

In addition, if you are looking to continue your education, you will find many study areas throughout the site as well as a computer lab and bookshop. There are also a number of classes offered at JBLM in partnership with five different colleges!

There’s Plenty to See and Do

Did you know that JBLM is located between two cities: Olympia and Tacoma? Because of its strategic location, there’s plenty to see and do in the area, whether you fancy traveling an hour to Seattle or exploring Mount Rainier during your free time. Not only that, you will find that there are many destinations to consider for family days out!

Our Team at West Coast Veterans Can Assist with PCS Plans to JBLM

If a move to JBLM is coming up for you, you can trust our team at West Coast Veterans to devise a PCS plan that will work for you. All you need to do is give us a call, inform us of your report date and we can start making plans ahead of your arrival. You will need to get your financial documents ready for review as well as let us know your purchase price.

From there, we can start to make the most suitable options for you based on your remaining entitlement, or even suggest that you make the switch to another loan program altogether. We have been helping military buyers and families make the move since 2001, and we can help you, too!

For over two decades, we've been assisting active-duty service members and veterans all over the state of Washington and in Puget Sound. Feel free to read all about us at www.PCStoJBLM.com.

PCS To North Fort Lewis

Posted on by Post by cshm_admin

Is a permanent change of station (PCS) to North Fort Lewis on the cards for you and your family? There are many things you may need to do to get ready for the big move, not least of all confirming your eligibility and entitlement for the VA home loan. If you are at a loss regarding your financing options, the good news is that our professional team at West Coast Veterans can assist you with the entire process from start to finish.

You can find out some essential information about North Fort Lewis in this guide.

Location and Basic Information

North Fort Lewis is part of the Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM). It is located in Pierce County, Washington. Being located at JBLM puts you within close proximity of cities such as Olympia, Tacoma, Lakewood, and Seattle. You will find that your new base is easily accessible from airports and Interstate highways and that there are plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities in the area.

Housing

You have two main options when it comes to housing in North Fort Lewis: on-base or off-base. With a little more than 5,000 houses on-base, many military families choose to look in the neighboring cities for accommodation. If you have children, one thing you will need to consider is the presence of highly-rated schools where you are looking to settle.

Regardless of the housing option you choose to go for, you may need some help and advice with navigating your VA home loan. This is something that should be left to a professional team such as West Coast Veterans.

Amenities and Services

The services and amenities you can find at JBLM are some of the best that can be found on military bases nationwide. The merger of two bases means that JBLM is able to offer double the number of services and amenities. On-base, you can expect to find parks, playgrounds, soccer fields, libraries, a wellness center, and more. Families who require childcare will also find that their needs can be met here.

Things to Do

From your base at North Fort Lewis, you will be able to reach Seattle within an hour. This provides you with many possibilities for day trips and sightseeing. If you love the great outdoors, why not pay a visit to Mount Rainier National Park or take a ferry to Anderson Island during your downtime?

Lift the Load of PCS Planning Off Your Shoulders

PCS planning may be the last thing you wish to worry about when you are preparing your family to make a big move. When that’s the case, you can turn to our knowledgeable team at West Coast Veterans to lift the load off your shoulders.

All we require from you are a few details and financial documents, and from there, we will get to work making the most suitable recommendations for your needs. We have successfully helped many military families and veterans across the nation and even worldwide relocate to Washington, and you can be sure that we will make your move a success, too!

Since 2001, we've been assisting active-duty service members and veterans all over the state of Washington and in Puget Sound. Feel free to read all about us at www.PCStoJBLM.com.

Useful Links: