Marine Park Ruston Way
A scenic 2-mile waterfront stretch with parks, a pier, and a 7-mile paved path offering stunning Puget Sound views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Marine Park Ruston Way
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic 2-mile waterfront stretch with parks, a pier, and a 7-mile paved path offering stunning Puget Sound views.
"A wonderful place to relax and enjoy the waterfront view, walk the sidewalk as far as you want to walk it."
🚶♀️ Walk the Full 7 Miles
The paved path is about 7 miles round trip from Point Ruston to Chinese Reconciliation Park. Enjoy the flat, scenic route! :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Picnic & Relax
Bring a picnic or snacks to enjoy at a table or on a blanket. Enhances the beauty of your time here! :sandwich:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ruston Way Waterfront Path
A scenic 7-mile paved path offering breathtaking views of the Puget Sound and Mount Rainier. Perfect for walking, biking, or scooting.
Judge Jack Tanner Park (Les Davis Pier)
Beautifully maintained park with a fantastic pier for walks, fishing, and enjoying the serene waterfront. Features EV charging stations.
Dickman Mill Park
Explore this charming park along Ruston Way, offering lovely waterfront views and a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Waterfront Stroll
Park Hopping & Marine Life
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk the Full 7 Miles
The paved path is about 7 miles round trip from Point Ruston to Chinese Reconciliation Park. Enjoy the flat, scenic route! :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Picnic & Relax
Bring a picnic or snacks to enjoy at a table or on a blanket. Enhances the beauty of your time here! :sandwich:
🚗 Free Parking Available
Plenty of free parking along the entire stretch of Ruston Way. No need to worry about parking fees! :car:
🐙 Spot Marine Life
Keep an eye out for marine creatures, like baby octopuses, especially near the piers. :ocean:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk the Full 7 Miles
The paved path is about 7 miles round trip from Point Ruston to Chinese Reconciliation Park. Enjoy the flat, scenic route! :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Picnic & Relax
Bring a picnic or snacks to enjoy at a table or on a blanket. Enhances the beauty of your time here! :sandwich:
🚗 Free Parking Available
Plenty of free parking along the entire stretch of Ruston Way. No need to worry about parking fees! :car:
🐙 Spot Marine Life
Keep an eye out for marine creatures, like baby octopuses, especially near the piers. :ocean:
🔌 EV Charging Stations
Judge Jack Tanner Park offers convenient EV charging stations for electric vehicle users. :electric_plug:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning waterfront views, the well-maintained Les Davis Pier, and the convenience of free parking and nearby restaurants. The long, flat paved path is ideal for leisurely strolls and active pursuits. Some minor dislikes include occasional crowds during peak times.
"I recently visited Judge Jack Tanner Park at Les Davis Pier, and it was an incredible experience! The park is beautifully maintained and offers stunning views of the water. The pier itself is a fantastic spot for a peaceful walk or fishing, with plenty of space and well-constructed railings. The restrooms were clean and easily accessible, which is always a plus. Additionally, the park has convenient EV charging stations, making it easy to enjoy a day out without worrying about your car's battery. Overall, Judge Jack Tanner Park is a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a scenic and serene outdoor experience!"
Daveed Tuck
"A wonderful place to relax and enjoy the waterfront view, walk the sidewalk as far as you want to walk it. Bring some lunch to a picnic table or a blanket with snacks... it all enhances the beauty of time there!!!"
Betty Nichols
"..baby Octopus caught on the Pier at Judge Jack Tanner Park.."
Camisha
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Marine Park Ruston Way is easily accessible by car, with ample free parking available along the entire waterfront stretch. It's also a popular spot for cyclists and walkers.
While specific bus routes may vary, checking Pierce Transit schedules is recommended for public transport options to the Tacoma waterfront area.
Absolutely! Ruston Way is a fantastic destination for cyclists, with a dedicated paved path that's perfect for a leisurely ride.
Free parking is available along the entire length of Ruston Way, with several designated parking areas near the various parks and attractions.
Yes, the paved sidewalks and pathways along Ruston Way are generally flat and accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Marine Park Ruston Way and its associated parks is free. You can enjoy the waterfront and parks without any admission fees.
The parks along Ruston Way are generally open from dawn to dusk. Specific park facilities like restrooms may have their own hours.
There are no fees to walk on or fish from the Les Davis Pier at Judge Jack Tanner Park.
Picnic tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis. It's recommended to arrive early, especially on weekends, if you have a specific spot in mind.
The waterfront trail along Ruston Way is a public access area and does not have an entrance fee.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire waterfront offers stunning views, but the Les Davis Pier at Judge Jack Tanner Park, the views of Mount Rainier, and the various park landscapes are particularly photogenic.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photography. However, daytime offers clear views of the Sound and surrounding scenery.
Yes, if you're lucky enough to spot marine life like octopuses or seals, feel free to capture those moments!
Drone usage is typically regulated in public parks. It's best to check with the City of Tacoma Parks and Recreation for specific drone policies.
Landscape photography, sunset/sunrise shots, and casual snapshots of the waterfront and parks are very popular.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are many restaurants located along Ruston Way, offering a variety of dining options from casual to more upscale.
Absolutely! Ruston Way is a great place for a picnic. You can bring your own food and enjoy it at the picnic tables or on a blanket.
You'll find a range of cuisines, including seafood, American fare, and more, catering to different tastes.
Yes, several cafes and coffee shops are located along Ruston Way, perfect for grabbing a drink or a snack.
Many of the restaurants and picnic areas are family-friendly, making it a great spot for a meal with children.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Active Explorers & Fitness Enthusiasts
🎣 Anglers and Nature Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Ruston Way Waterfront Parks
Other notable parks along the route include Dickman Mill Park and Hamilton Park, each providing beautiful waterfront access and opportunities for relaxation. The entire stretch is connected by a paved, flat pathway that is ideal for walking, jogging, cycling, or even rollerblading. This continuous trail is approximately 7 miles round trip from Point Ruston to the Chinese Reconciliation Park, making it a substantial route for exercise enthusiasts.
Beyond the natural beauty, Ruston Way is dotted with numerous restaurants and eateries, offering a diverse culinary experience. Visitors can easily combine a scenic walk with a delicious meal, making it a perfect day-trip destination. The accessibility and variety of activities ensure that Ruston Way appeals to a wide range of visitors, from families to solo explorers.
Activities and Recreation on Ruston Way
For those interested in marine activities, Big Bus Paddle Sports operates from Cummings Park on Ruston Way, offering opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding. This allows visitors to experience the Puget Sound from a different perspective, enjoying the clear, calm waters and observing marine life.
The Les Davis Pier at Judge Jack Tanner Park is another focal point for recreation, particularly for fishing. It provides a stable and accessible platform for anglers to cast their lines and enjoy the coastal environment. The pier's well-constructed railings ensure safety for all users.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit