WHAT TO LOVE

There’s a lot to love about University Place, WA (known locally as “U.P.”). With its manicured neighborhoods, excellent schools, and stunning views of Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains, and Mount Rainier, it’s no surprise this peaceful, residential city continues to attract families, professionals, and retirees alike.

U.P. offers a balanced lifestyle: spacious parks, waterfront access, great shopping, and a true sense of community. You’ll find well-kept homes, a variety of walkable neighborhoods, and easy access to both Tacoma and Joint Base Lewis-McChord. It’s a place where people plant roots, raise families, and enjoy the best of suburban living in the Pacific Northwest.

LOCAL LIFESTYLE

Life in University Place is all about comfort, connection, and community. The vibe is calm but not sleepy. It’s an active, family-friendly city where residents enjoy everything from youth sports leagues to evening strolls along the waterfront.

Many neighborhoods are walkable, and new developments like the Village at Chambers Bay have added modern condominiums that blend seamlessly with more established residential areas. People here tend to take pride in their homes and in their city – gardens are well-kept, parks are clean, and community events are always well-attended.

With beautiful natural surroundings and a strong civic spirit, University Place offers a lifestyle that’s both relaxed and enriching.

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

University Place holds its own with a mix of beloved local eateries, coffee shops, and casual dining spots. Happy Duo Cafe is a great place to start your day, The Pine Cone offers up classic comfort food, and Beirut Bites serves vibrant Lebanese dishes. For something sweet, don’t miss Bliss Small Batch Creamery – started by two sisters committed to using only natural ingredients. Across the street from the square, Chambers Bay Distillery offers a tasting room with small bites and spirits.

Entertainment in U.P. leans toward community-oriented fun – outdoor concerts, holiday markets, and seasonal events at local parks. The laid-back atmosphere makes it a great place to unwind without the hustle of a busier city scene.

THINGS TO DO

Outdoor recreation is a major highlight of living in University Place. The Chambers Bay Golf Course (made famous by hosting the 2015 U.S. Open) is the city’s crown jewel. With a Scottish links-style layout and panoramic views of the Sound, it’s a bucket-list course for golfers. Non-golfers can enjoy the scenic Chambers Creek Trail that winds through the course and connects to Chambers Bay Regional Park.

Cirque Bridgeport Park has something for everyone with a playground, skate park, sports fields, and walking paths. The small but lovely Homestead Park is a peaceful spot to stroll or admire the rhododendrons.

Whether you're biking, golfing, jogging, or just enjoying a sunset over the water, U.P. makes it easy to stay active and outdoors.

SCHOOLS

One of University Place’s strongest selling points is its top-rated school system. The University Place School District is consistently ranked among the best in the state, known for academic excellence, arts programs, and athletic success. Families frequently move to U.P. specifically to access these schools, adding to the city’s family-oriented reputation.

WHY IT’S UNIQUE

What makes University Place unique is its rare blend of quiet suburban living with world-class views and amenities. It’s not just a neighborhood, it’s its own city – with thoughtful planning, high civic engagement, and a clear vision for quality of life.

University Place is the ideal mix of suburban serenity, scenic beauty, and strong community values. Whether you're raising a family, downsizing in retirement, or simply looking for a place to call home that offers room to breathe and space to grow, U.P. is hard to beat.