Things To Do
in Fife
Fife is a small, family-friendly city in Pierce County, just southeast of Tacoma along Puget Sound. It sits in the Puget Sound region at the I-5 corridor, offering easy access to both city amenities and outdoor scenery. The town blends residential neighborhoods with parks, a modest downtown, and quick drives to nearby cultural attractions.
With a mild, maritime climate and abundant greenery, Fife serves as a convenient base for exploring the broader Puget Sound area.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure at St. Andrews State Park, where you can enjoy serene beaches and nature trails. Take a leisurely walk along the sandy shores and soak in the early morning sunshine. Don't forget your camera, as the park is home to beautiful wildlife and stunning landscapes.
After a morning of exploration, have a picnic lunch amidst the lush greenery of the park. Spend your afternoon enjoying activities like kayaking or paddleboarding in the vibrant waters. Keep an eye out for dolphins that often grace the area with their presence.
As the sun sets, find a perfect spot on the beach to watch the sky get painted in shades of orange and pink. Consider dining at a nearby seafood restaurant to savor fresh local catches. Conclude your day with a relaxing stroll along the beach, listening to the soothing sounds of the waves.
Kick off your day at Gulf World Marine Park, where interactive animal experiences await. Attend a dolphin show and witness the incredible tricks and playful nature of these intelligent creatures. You'll have the opportunity to learn about marine conservation while enjoying breakfast at the park's café.
Interact with various animals, including sea turtles and exotic birds in the afternoon. Explore the educational exhibits, which provide fascinating insights into marine life and ecosystems. Grab a light lunch at one of the park's eateries, replenishing your energy for the rest of the day's adventures.
In the evening, take a short drive to the nearby scenic beach for a sunset view. Settle in for a beach bonfire, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories. Enjoy the refreshing ocean breeze as you reflect on the day's exciting encounters.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $3-5 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $120-190 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $4.00-5.50 |
| 🥛Milk (1 gallon) | $3-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to both city amenities and outdoor recreation
- Access to a diverse range of dining options and cultural activities in nearby Tacoma
- Weather can be rainy and variable, especially outside summer
- Nightlife within Fife itself is limited; requires travel to nearby cities for a broader scene
Places to Visit in Fife
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide harbor views, sailboats, and sunset backdrops with Mount Rainier visible on clear days.
A mix of forest trails, shoreline vistas, and gardens offering diverse landscape photography opportunities.
Industrial-chic waterfront with reflections of docks, boats, and city bridges—great for urban-meets-nature shots.
Overlooks of Puget Sound and the Tacoma waterfront; ideal for long-exposure sunset shots.
Spacious grassy areas, water features, and artful bridges perfect for wide-angle photography.
Food in Fife
Fife Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy, comforting chowder featuring locally sourced salmon; widely available at waterfront cafes and casual eateries in Tacoma.
Must-Try!
Crispy crab cakes with lemon aioli, a Northwest favorite found at coastal and harbor-area restaurants.
A dessert highlighting Northwest berries; common at farmers markets and neighborhood cafes in season.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market featuring fresh produce, seafood, baked goods, and prepared foods, often with local musicians and activities.
Nearby market offering regional produce, artisanal products, and street-food stalls—great for a midday snack.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a friendly hello; queue patiently in lines and respect personal space in public settings.
Punctuality is valued; give people their space in public and avoid overly loud conversations in quiet spaces.
Keep natural areas clean; dispose of trash properly; follow park rules and leash laws for pets.
Safety
Tipping in Fife
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a standard 15-20% tip for good service is customary. For larger groups or exceptional service, consider 20% or more. Tipping in cash or adding to a credit card charge both are common.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted. Cash is handy for small vendors, farmers markets, and casual spots. Contactless payment is common and convenient.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours and comfortable temps make waterfront strolls and beach photography easy. Expect occasional dry spells but stay prepared for marine layer mornings and occasional heat waves.
Mild to cool days with colorful foliage and winds off the Sound. Rain increases gradually; bring a light rain jacket for outdoor activities.
Typically wet and mild, with frequent showers and short days. Layered clothing and waterproof gear are essential for outdoor exploration.
Fresh greens and blooming flora; showers possible but generally mild. Great time for park hikes and garden photography.
Fife at Night
Hiking in Fife
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal forest and shoreline trails with vistas over Puget Sound.
Urban park with woodland trails and open spaces suitable for easy hikes.
Flat, scenic trails with water features and garden areas ideal for relaxed walks.
Airports
How to reach Fife by plane.
Major international hub located approximately 25-30 miles north of Fife; easy access via I-5 or public transit.
King County International Airport in Seattle area; suitable for regional flights and private aviation.
Public-use airport near Puyallup; convenient for short trips and general aviation.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Suburban neighborhoods with family-friendly services, schools, and parks.
Many residents commute to Tacoma, Seattle, and surrounding areas for work.
Close proximity to bases and veterans communities in the region.
A steady presence in local communities with an emphasis on peaceful neighborhoods and accessible services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local leagues and the Tacoma area host minor league baseball, with games often drawing families and fans to the stadiums.
Active youth and adult leagues across the region, with community clubs and fields around Tacoma and nearby suburbs.
Indoor and outdoor courts available in public parks and community centers; a common pastime in the area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Fife.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer veggie bowls, salads, and meat-free entrées. Look for Indian, Mediterranean, Italian, or farm-to-table menus, and don’t hesitate to ask for customizable options.