Point Ruston — Hotel in Tacoma

Point Ruston is one of the newly developed sections of Point Defiance Park, a nuance that honestly was lost on me upon my first visit - and informed what happened at the end of my sojurn there. But more about that later.

Leading up to the circuitous route to Point Ruston (also, Point Dune, or, The Dune) is a concentrated commercial stretch that resembles something of a high-functioning Potemkin Village, with ersatz general stores, faux-rustic eateries, and modern apartment buildings whose facades recalled a movie set. Its denizens, visitors, and workers stood in for background players in an elaborate dance between vehicular and pedestrian traffic. Add a mad whirl of construction, and you're instantly in the clutches of a venture capitalist's fever dream.

Once one finally reaches the variously-named section of Point Defiance Park (which, by the way, is more commonly associated with its zoo), one discovers a fascinating network of trails, pedestrian bridges, and an improved shoreline that offers a captivating view of the Olympic Peninsula, its surrounding islands, and Mount Ranier. The odd, awkwardly constructed promontories bookending the pavilion aside (next to the yacht club - are they art pieces? A pile of manufactured rocks? What?), it's a fair stretch of land, ringed by native coastal grasses. Thoughtfully placed picnic tables face the water, adding to the pleasingly restful, if severely manicured, mise-en-scene.

Now, addressing the relative newness of this part of the park, my car battery died after I left my hazard lights on a bit too long while, well, illegally parked. I was working on a film set, and us filmmakers are outrageous pirates, frankly speaking. Anyway, a long day extended into a longer one waiting for the tow truck to show up, a mundane occurrence complicated by the park's closure at 9 PM; the subsequent locking of the gate at the entrance; and the inexplicable refusal of the tow truck operator to believe I was not at the aforementioned zoo. It's hard communicating with someone who does not wish to listen, and worse when someone who is expected to be familiar with the terrain, is not.

Anyway, following an initially salty encounter with the security guard, who is responsible for shutting a number of parks in the vicinity and shooing away lingering miscreants, he eventually connected with the truck driver, and I was promptly recharged and on my merry way.

So, the moral of the story is, when visiting picturesque Point Ruston-slash-Point Defiance, don't be too much of a pirate, or it's Davey Jones's Tow Truck Operator for you,...

I had the pleasure to visit Point Ruston recently. I am so impressed with all of the changes they have already made in the area and excited for the improvements set to be made in the near future. The Ruston Way Waterfront is already an enjoyable place to be, but the new Point Ruston area adds the charm I believe the strip needed. Right as I entered the Waterwalk Esplanade, the nearly 1 mile addition to the waterfront, I was in awe by the huge Giant Pacific Octopus tile mosaic. As I continued down the path I was pulled in to sit down at the trellis overlooking the water and Mt. Rainier. Further along the path, the quiet atmosphere allowed me to admire the number of splendors surrounding me. There are five other tile mosaics, artful anchor benches alongside the well maintained path, bright colors banners on the old-style lamp posts, and many more little treasures along the way. The natural splendor is in abundance as well; there were a number of boats on the water, both sail and motor boats, parasailers, and even several sea creatures. Along the walk I encountered longboarders, rollerbladers, runners, walkers, lovers strolling, kids, and residents of the local Copperstone Apartments. The atmosphere is really enjoyable as it is, but they also have huge plans for the future to include a 9-screen movieplex, boutiques, a 24 hour gym free for the residents to the apartment building, a Forza coffee shop, and much more. As for fitness opportunities, I look forward to the opening of the path that will lead all the way to Pt. Defiance which will extend the waterfront by many running or biking miles! No matter what you’re interested in, exercise or just relaxing and taking in the views, Point Ruston has...

Point Ruston, Tacoma, is one of the most beautiful places in Washington state.

Point Ruston is a little slice of paradise on the shores of Commencement Bay, with breathtaking views of Mount Rainier and Puget Sound. It's a wonderful blend of nature, art, and modernity, with something for everyone to enjoy.

One of the highlights of Point Ruston is the Grand Plaza, a massive public space that's perfect for strolling, picnicking, or just relaxing with friends and family. Here, you'll find stunning sculptures and fountains, along with plenty of trees, benches, and seating areas to enjoy.

Another must-see spot is the Waterwalk, a long pedestrian boardwalk that stretches along the waterfront and offers panoramic views of the city, the bay, and the mountains. It's an ideal spot for photography, jogging, or just taking in the scenery.

For anyone who loves shopping and dining, you'll find plenty of options at Point Ruston. This is a premier spot for dining and entertainment, with over a dozen restaurants and cafes, along with boutique shops and a state-of-the-art movie theater.

And if you're up for some outdoor adventures, don't miss the Point Defiance Park, which is just a few miles away. Here, you'll find a world-class zoo, a beautiful rose garden, hiking trails, and more.

In conclusion, if you're planning a trip to Tacoma, or even if you live here, Point Ruston is an absolute must-visit destination. It's a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Pacific Northwest.

Shout out to auntie Lydia Aranez Durias & uncle Joel M Durias for bringing us to this...