Wapato Lake Park - Tacoma Metro Parks

Wapato Park in the heart of south Tacoma is an urban retreat from the busy streets nearby. Wapato Lake is the largest lake in Tacoma and has a similar feel of Green Lake park in Seattle, just smaller, and you can not go in the water. The park has recently been changed from a rundown area to a signature park for the city. There is even a police station at the edge of the park. Visitors can enjoy display gardens, a paved walking trail around the lake, a children's play area and an impressive historic pergola. Do not feed the wildlife, there is a $532 penalty. The overpopulation of birds was part of the trouble with the park before the renovations. On nice days and weekends expect the park to be crowded. There is a new dog park and more trails being constructed at the north end.