Things To Do
Gravity Coffee - Maple Valley
If you're looking for coffee that isn't Starbucks, this is our favorite local franchise. (Big Foot Java is another one, but their coffee is meh) So you can likely find a Gravity Coffee most anywhere. Our go to beverages: Iced Caramel latte, the caramel highlights the coffee flavor without becoming sweet. Vanilla or Spiced Chai, it has a very smooth flavor, great cold or hot, and is good with oat or almond milk.
Point Ruston
Point Ruston has been getting a face lift and is a walkable area with great food and beautiful views of the sound.
Pacific Bonsai Museum and Rhododendron Garden
The museum and gardens are located at the old Weyerhaeuser Headquarters. It's an incredible location, extremely peaceful, and just off of the freeway! There's free parking and a short walk to the gardens. There is handicap parking closer as well. They take card!
Maple Valley Farmer's Market
This is the Farmer's Market closest to us! It's open on Saturdays in the summer.
Thunder Dome Car Museum
We have so much fun visiting this car museum that's only 16 minutes from our home. They are avid supporters and donors to the Epilepsy Foundation.
Pita's Taqueria Authentic Mexican Food
If you're in Black Diamond, this is a great local restaurant. It's inside of the Eagle's Club and a hole in the wall, but the meat and hot sauces are incredible. Evan's go to are the burritos and Nya's go to is the tortas.
Stadium High School
If you're in the Tacoma area which is nearer to the venue, check out Stadium High School. This is where "10 Things I Hate About You" was filmed. Aside from the fact it was a film location, the school is architecturally beautiful and has a view of the sound.
Go Philly Cheesesteaks & Wings
Another "hole in the wall" place to eat. They have good cheesesteaks, and the best hush puppies we've ever had.
Kizuki Ramen & Izakaya
This is a ramen franchise and every location we've been to so far has been the same. This is the best ramen we've had and they all usually have cool architectural features and it's a higher end feel. Our go to: Garlic Tonkotsu