TranslateOverview
University Place is a small incorporated city of roughly 33,000 people situated on the Puget Sound shoreline in Pierce County, Washington, directly west of Tacoma. It occupies a peninsula-like position between the Narrows waterway and Chambers Creek, giving much of the community access to sweeping views of the Olympic Mountains across the Sound on clear days.
Despite its modest size, University Place gained international attention when Chambers Bay Golf Course hosted the 2015 U.S. Open Championship, putting the city on the map for golf enthusiasts worldwide. Beyond that marquee attraction, the city is largely a well-kept residential community with parks, trails, and everyday amenities that appeal to visitors seeking a quieter alternative to staying in downtown Tacoma.
The city has no historic downtown core or concentrated tourist district. Instead, its appeal lies in outdoor recreation, proximity to Tacoma's cultural institutions, and the scenic Puget Sound environment. Travelers typically combine a visit here with broader explorations of the South Sound region.
Before You Go
Visas and Entry
Entry requirements depend on your nationality. For guidance, visit TravelerPulse's Visas section and check the official U.S. Customs and Border Protection website (cbp.gov) for current requirements.
Climate
University Place shares the Pacific Northwest marine climate. Summers (June–September) are mild and relatively dry, with average highs in the low-to-mid 70s°F (low 20s°C). Winters are cool and wet, with frequent overcast skies and rain but rarely heavy snowfall. Pack layers and a waterproof jacket regardless of season.
What to Bring
- Waterproof outerwear year-round
- Comfortable walking or hiking shoes for trail use
- Sunscreen for summer visits when UV levels can be deceptively high under partly cloudy skies
- A car or rideshare plan, as public transit options in University Place are limited
Local Context
University Place is a quiet suburban city. Most services, including a wider range of restaurants, hospitals, and cultural venues, are a short drive away in Tacoma.
Getting There
By Air
The nearest commercial airport is Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), commonly called Sea-Tac, located roughly 25–30 miles north of University Place depending on the route. Rental cars are available at the airport, and rideshare services operate from the ground transportation area. Travel time to University Place varies with traffic but is generally 30–50 minutes by car.
By Car
University Place is conveniently accessed from Interstate 5 via Tacoma, then west on State Route 16 or local roads. Having a personal vehicle or rental car is strongly recommended, as the city's layout is suburban and spread out.
By Bus
Pierce Transit operates bus service in the University Place and greater Tacoma area. Routes and schedules change; verify current options at piercetransit.org before your visit. Service frequency is lower than in urban centers, so plan accordingly.
By Train
Amtrak serves Tacoma's Freighthouse Square station, which is the closest rail stop. From there, a car or rideshare is needed to reach University Place.
Getting Around
A private vehicle is the most practical way to get around University Place. The city is laid out along arterial roads and residential streets without a walkable central hub. Rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft operate in the area, and availability is generally reasonable given proximity to Tacoma.
Cycling is feasible on some trails and quieter streets, particularly around Chambers Creek Regional Park, but road cycling on major arterials requires caution. Verify trail access and conditions locally before planning a cycling itinerary.
For visitors staying in Tacoma and making a day trip to University Place, the drive is typically under 15 minutes depending on starting point and traffic.
Things to See & Do
Chambers Bay Golf Course
Chambered into the hillside above Puget Sound, Chambers Bay is the signature attraction of University Place. The links-style course hosted the 2015 U.S. Open and offers dramatic views of the Sound and Olympic Mountains. Public tee times are available; book in advance, especially in summer. Verify current green fees and availability directly with the course at chambersbaygolf.com.
Chambers Creek Regional Park
Adjacent to the golf course, this Pierce County regional park encompasses trails, open meadows, a restored creek estuary, and shoreline access. A paved multi-use trail connects various sections of the park and is popular with walkers, joggers, and cyclists. The park is free to access; verify hours and any seasonal closures with Pierce County Parks.
Curran Apple Orchard Park
This small city park preserves a historic apple orchard and offers a pleasant, low-key green space. It reflects University Place's agricultural past and is a quiet spot for a walk. Admission is free.
Waterfront and Sound Views
Several points within and around the parks provide views across the Narrows toward Gig Harbor and the Kitsap Peninsula, with the Olympic Mountains as a backdrop on clear days. Early mornings in summer offer the clearest conditions.
Day Trips to Tacoma
The Museum of Glass, Tacoma Art Museum, Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, and the Washington State History Museum are all within a short drive and significantly expand the cultural offering for visitors based in University Place.
Food & Drink
University Place has a modest local dining scene concentrated primarily along Bridgeport Way W and 27th Street W. Options include casual American, pizza, Asian cuisine, and coffee shops suited to everyday dining rather than destination restaurants. For a broader culinary experience, Tacoma's growing restaurant scene—particularly along 6th Avenue and in the downtown core—is only a short drive away.
Coffee culture is strong in the Pacific Northwest, and University Place has several independent and chain coffee shops for the region's characteristically serious coffee habits. Verify current business hours locally, as smaller establishments may keep variable schedules.
Alcohol is sold in Washington state liquor stores and licensed establishments. The state controls liquor sales; grocery stores and convenience stores sell beer and wine but not spirits.
Practical Information
Emergency Services
For any emergency in the United States, dial 911. University Place contracts law enforcement services with the Pierce County Sheriff's Department. The nearest major hospital is in Tacoma; verify the closest emergency facility upon arrival.
Connectivity
Mobile coverage from major US carriers (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile) is reliable throughout University Place. Wi-Fi is available at many coffee shops and public facilities.
Money
ATMs are available at banks and grocery stores along the main commercial corridors. Credit and debit cards are accepted almost universally at businesses in the area.
Sales Tax
Washington State has no income tax but does levy sales tax. The combined state and local sales tax rate in University Place—verify the current rate locally or with the Washington Department of Revenue—applies to most retail purchases.
Tipping
Standard U.S. tipping conventions apply: 18–20% at sit-down restaurants, rounding up or $1–2 per drink at bars, and similar norms for other service industries.
Safety
University Place is generally a safe, quiet suburban community. Standard urban precautions apply: secure valuables in your vehicle, be aware of your surroundings, and lock accommodations properly.
Outdoor visitors should be aware of uneven trail surfaces, particularly at Chambers Creek Regional Park. Poison oak is present in some natural areas of the Pacific Northwest; learn to identify it before hiking off maintained paths. Weather can change quickly in any season, so carry appropriate layers.
For non-emergency police matters, contact the Pierce County Sheriff's Department. For emergencies, dial 911.
