Point Ruston
Premier waterfront neighborhood in Tacoma, WA, offering stunning Puget Sound views, dining, shopping, and recreation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Perfect for waterfront activities
Point Ruston
Best Time
Perfect for waterfront activities
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Premier waterfront neighborhood in Tacoma, WA, offering stunning Puget Sound views, dining, shopping, and recreation.
"The jaw-dropping, perfectly framed view of Mount Rainier is unforgettable."
Free Parking Alert! 🚗
Enjoy hassle-free visits with free parking in all open stalls and the garage. No apps needed!
Bike the Bay! 🚲
Rent a bicycle and cruise along the waterfront for refreshing sea breezes and stunning views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mount Rainier Views
Commencement Bay Waterfront
Jaw-dropping, perfectly framed views of Mount Rainier rising majestically over the water. Unforgettable natural beauty.
Waterfront Promenade
Puget Sound Shoreline
A wide, beautifully maintained promenade perfect for strolling, biking, or running with scenic views of the bay.
Dune Peninsula Park
Adjacent to Point Ruston
Family-friendly fun with a water park and ample green space, offering a great spot for recreation and relaxation.
Historic Rust Mansion
Point Ruston Area
Discover the history of this iconic 11,000 sq ft mansion built for William Rust, founder of Ruston.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Waterfront Vibe
Parking Perks & Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Parking Alert! 🚗
Enjoy hassle-free visits with free parking in all open stalls and the garage. No apps needed!
Bike the Bay! 🚲
Rent a bicycle and cruise along the waterfront for refreshing sea breezes and stunning views. 
Orca Sightings Possible! 🐳
Keep an eye out for orcas in Commencement Bay; sightings have been reported, offering a unique wildlife experience. +1
Family Fun at Dune Park 🌊
Bring the kids for the water park and enjoy the green spaces at Dune Peninsula Park.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Parking Alert! 🚗
Enjoy hassle-free visits with free parking in all open stalls and the garage. No apps needed!
Bike the Bay! 🚲
Rent a bicycle and cruise along the waterfront for refreshing sea breezes and stunning views.
Orca Sightings Possible! 🐳
Keep an eye out for orcas in Commencement Bay; sightings have been reported, offering a unique wildlife experience. +1
Family Fun at Dune Park 🌊
Bring the kids for the water park and enjoy the green spaces at Dune Peninsula Park.
Capture Mt. Rainier Magic :camera:
On clear days, the view of Mount Rainier is world-class. Don't miss it!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Point Ruston's stunning waterfront, particularly the breathtaking views of Mount Rainier on clear days. The well-maintained promenade, family-friendly amenities like the water park, and the convenient free parking are frequently praised, making it a top public space in the region. Some may find it busy during peak times.
"This is hands-down one of the best public spaces in the region. We were completely blown away by the views from the Point Ruston waterfront on a clear summer day.
The promenade itself is fantastic – wide, beautifully maintained, and perfect for a casual stroll, a bike ride, or a scenic run. There are plenty of benches and green spaces to sit and relax.
But the real star of the show is the jaw-dropping, perfectly framed view of Mount Rainier. Seeing it rise so majestically over the water is an unforgettable experience. When "The Mountain is out," this view is truly world-class. It's an incredible blend of natural beauty, waterfront activity, and city life.
The area is surrounded by great shops and restaurants, making it a complete destination to spend an afternoon or evening. A true gem in Tacoma and a must-visit for both locals and tourists."
Yue & Alex (Mindful Coffee App)
"My family and I love coming here. We always say it’s our little Seattle but better. There’s so much to do. The little water park is so fun for the kids. There’s bikes to rent. Walk along the sound. You can see Mt Rainier."
Priscilla
"Very beauty spot. Ocean, views of Mt. Rainer, shops, coffee, restaurant, movies. Just overall nice spot to spend a day or two at."
Deborah “Zebbie” Wear
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Point Ruston is located in Tacoma, WA. You can drive south on I-5 from Seattle, taking exit 132 for WA-16 W towards Gig Harbor, then follow signs for Point Ruston. Public transportation options include Sound Transit buses and Amtrak trains to Tacoma, followed by a local bus or rideshare to Point Ruston.
Yes, parking is now free in all open stalls and the parking garage at Point Ruston, making it very convenient for visitors.
Point Ruston is accessible via walking and biking paths, especially if you are coming from nearby parks like Point Defiance. Renting bikes is also a popular activity once you arrive.
Many visitors enjoy strolling along the waterfront promenade, renting bikes to explore the shoreline, or visiting the adjacent Dune Peninsula Park.
The waterfront promenade is wide and well-maintained, generally making it accessible. Specific accessibility details for individual venues can be found on their respective websites.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Point Ruston itself is a public waterfront area and does not require tickets for entry or to walk the promenade. Individual shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues will have their own admission or purchase requirements.
The waterfront promenade and public spaces are generally accessible during daylight hours. Individual businesses within Point Ruston will have their own operating hours, which can vary. It's best to check the specific hours for shops or restaurants you plan to visit.
Dune Peninsula Park and other nearby parks like Point Defiance generally do not have entrance fees for general access.
While Point Ruston is a public space, some venues may offer private event rentals or specific tours. For historical insights, consider checking out local tour operators like Pretty Gritty Tours.
The water park at Dune Peninsula is typically a seasonal attraction and may have specific operating hours and potential fees. It's advisable to check local park information for the most current details.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Enjoy stunning views of Mount Rainier, stroll or bike the waterfront promenade, visit Dune Peninsula Park with its water features, explore shops and restaurants, and keep an eye out for marine life like orcas.
Absolutely! The waterfront, Mount Rainier views, and the general ambiance of Point Ruston offer fantastic photo opportunities. The promenade and surrounding natural beauty are very photogenic.
Yes, Point Ruston is very family-friendly. The water park at Dune Peninsula, open spaces for play, and the general safe environment make it a great spot for children.
You might be lucky enough to spot marine animals like orcas in Commencement Bay, especially during certain times of the year. +1
Point Ruston features a variety of boutique shops, offering a mix of retail experiences from clothing to unique local goods.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Point Ruston offers a range of dining options, from casual eateries to restaurants with waterfront views. You can find places for fresh seafood, American cuisine, and more.
Yes, there are coffee shops available at Point Ruston, perfect for grabbing a drink while enjoying the waterfront atmosphere.
Many visitors enjoy fresh seafood with a view at Point Ruston's restaurants, capitalizing on its prime waterfront location.
Yes, Point Ruston features a cinema, adding to its entertainment offerings for visitors.
While specific restaurant names can change, visitors often praise the variety and quality of dining experiences available, especially those offering views of the bay and Mount Rainier.
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfront promenade offers stunning views of Commencement Bay and Mount Rainier, making it ideal for photography. The area around Dune Peninsula Park also provides scenic backdrops.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for capturing the beauty of Point Ruston, especially for photographing Mount Rainier. Clear days are essential for optimal views.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations and park rules. It's recommended to check with Point Ruston management or local authorities regarding drone operation policies.
Yes, the historic Rust Mansion and the decommissioned ferry boat docked nearby offer unique historical photography subjects.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive waterfront and landscape views. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on Mount Rainier or any wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the park, the general atmosphere is welcoming and safe. There are plenty of open spaces for kids to run around, and the variety of shops and casual dining options means you can easily find something to please everyone. The ability to rent bikes also adds an element of fun adventure for the whole family.
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers & Explorers
Explore the unique shops, grab lunch at one of the many restaurants with bay views, or visit the historic Rust Mansion and the old ferry boat for a touch of local history. If you have kids, the Dune Peninsula Park with its water features is a must-visit. The free parking makes it an easy and accessible escape.
+1📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Beyond the mountain, the waterfront itself offers dynamic compositions with boats, the bay, and the modern architecture of Point Ruston. The historic ferry boat and the Rust Mansion provide unique subjects with a touch of local history. Consider visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic light.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Waterfront Experience
The views of Mount Rainier are consistently highlighted as a major draw. On clear days, the majestic mountain provides a breathtaking backdrop to the bay, an experience many describe as world-class and unforgettable. This iconic vista is a significant part of what makes Point Ruston a must-visit destination.
Beyond the promenade, Point Ruston offers a variety of recreational activities. Visitors can rent bicycles to cruise along the picturesque waterfront, enjoying the refreshing sea breeze. The adjacent Dune Peninsula Park is a popular spot for families, featuring a water park and open spaces for play, further enhancing the area's appeal for outdoor enthusiasts.
+2History and Heritage
Another unique historical element is the decommissioned ferry boat docked near Point Ruston. This vessel has a storied past, serving as a US Navy ferry in 1936, later as an Anderson Island ferry, before being purchased by Point Ruston. It now serves as a distinctive landmark, adding character and a touch of maritime history to the waterfront.
These historical remnants, from the grand mansion to the retired ferry, offer a glimpse into the evolution of the Point Ruston area, providing context to the modern, revitalized community that exists today. They contribute to the unique narrative of Tacoma's waterfront development.
Dining and Entertainment
Beyond dining, Point Ruston provides entertainment for all ages. A movie theater is located within the development, offering a convenient option for an evening out. For families, the water park at Dune Peninsula Park is a significant attraction during warmer months, providing fun and recreation. The overall atmosphere encourages leisurely exploration, with shops and public spaces designed for enjoyment.
The combination of diverse culinary experiences and entertainment venues makes Point Ruston a comprehensive destination. It's a place where you can spend an entire day, from enjoying a meal with a view to catching a film or letting the kids play at the park, all within a beautifully developed waterfront setting.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit