Situated on an attractive campus in a metropolitan region, Western State Hospital is close to Tacoma and Seattle, with many educational and recreational activities available. Amenities such as shopping, dining, and medical facilities are easily accessible in cities and surrounding areas. The Canadian border and Vancouver, British Columbia, are within a three-hour drive and Portland, Oregon, is just over two hours away. The maritime climate is typically moderate.
Nearby recreational opportunities include skiing, boating, fishing, clamming, hiking, and mountain climbing. At over 14,000 feet, Mount Rainier is approximately 70 miles from Tacoma. Music, theater, and other arts activities are available, with opportunities for participation and attendance. Nearby institutions of higher education include the University of Washington, Seattle Pacific University, Pacific Lutheran University, Seattle University, University of Puget Sound, and several community colleges, including Pierce College, which is located adjacent to Western State Hospital.
