Federal Way – Unveiling the Allure of This Thriving City

Federal Way’s citizens wanted controlled, quality commercial and residential growth. They incorporated the city in February of 1990.

City officials dropped plans to pave over 11 acres of the Steel Lake Park Annex to make room for a new operations and maintenance facility, thanks to residents who spoke out.

You can’t get fresher than local organics at the Federal Way Farmer’s Market.

1. Historic Downtown

Located in the western part of King County, Federal Way was incorporated in February 1990. The city is surrounded by Puget Sound and offers many local parks and green spaces.

Originally, the area was settled by Hudson’s Bay Company explorers along an Indian trail that traveled north/south. The path would eventually become known as the Old Military Road.

When it comes to dining, residents love the many restaurants in Federal Way. You can find cuisines from all over the world, like Chinese, Korean, and Italian. Try a buffet style restaurant, such as Kum Kang San Buffet, to try a variety of dishes. You can also enjoy a teppanyaki meal at Tokyo Japanese Steak House.

2. Outdoor Activities

Whether you’re on a family getaway or want to get some fresh air, Federal Way has a wealth of natural attractions and exciting recreations. From strolling through botanical gardens to exploring state-of-the-art aquatic centers, there’s something for every age and interest in this thriving city.

Soar to new heights at Catapult Adventure Park, test your acrobatic skills on the Leaping Leopard Giant Airbag or go head-to-head with a partner on the Rock Wall Jousting. Admire the pristine scenery at Dash Point State Park or explore the rich local history at the Historical Society of Federal Way. You can also find peace with a stroll through the PowellsWood Garden, Pacific Bonsai Museum or Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden.

3. Dining

Federal Way spends a lot of time under the radar, but its food scene is vibrant and wildly adventurous. It’s easy to get the best of local produce, baked goods, and handcrafted items at the Federal Way Farmers Market.

Afterward, savor a slice of pizza at Pop’s Pizza & Pasta, where you can order everything from taco pizza to classic cheese pizza. Or try East India Grill for Indian food like daal soup, paneer pakoras, saffron lamb, and chicken vindaloo.

4. Shopping

Federal Way offers an excellent variety of shopping opportunities. You can find everything from big box stores to a wide array of small local shops. The city is also home to an indoor mall and the largest water amusement park in the Pacific Northwest.

There are a number of affordable restaurants to choose from in Federal Way, including Lumpia World, pho fusion and Tokyo-ya Ramen. You can get cheap food delivery from these places or pick up an on-the-go meal from a quick service restaurant such as Burger King.

The thriving economy of Federal Way is supported by numerous local and multinational businesses, including Weyerhaeuser, DaVita Healthcare Partners, St. Francis Hospital, and Highline Community College. In addition, the city attracts many talented and recognizable athletes, such as MMA champion Benson Henderson and J.R. Celski, two-time Olympic-medal speed skater.

5. Arts & Culture

During the late 1800s, Federal Way was established as a logging settlement. Afterward, the city expanded into numerous neighborhoods and became a bedroom community for employees of companies such as Boeing and Weyerhaeuser.

The City of Federal Way’s Arts Commission is a nine member volunteer group that provides oversight to the city’s various arts programs. They advise and recommend to the City Council on all matters related to the arts.

Indulge in your creative side by attending a painting workshop or pottery class in Federal Way. These activities will help you de-stress from the daily rut and learn something new. Art fairs and festivals are also worth exploring in the area.

6. Culture & Entertainment

Federal Way is home to a variety of restaurants and entertainment options. The city is known for its Latin American cuisine, with local favorites including Mi Bella Honduras and Verrazano’s. In addition, the city offers many family-friendly activities, such as Secoma Lanes, a popular bowling center.

The Performing Arts and Events Center in downtown Federal Way is a cultural centerpiece of the city. Its design features expansive views of the natural environment, linking indoor and outdoor spaces while also connecting to a new Town Square across the street. The building’s location was key to achieving this goal, and its siting is evident throughout the facility.