Great Northwest

There’s nothing quite like the Pacific Northwest. It is a special place to live and learn – and PLU is committed to making sure that you will get to experience all of it. Through PLU Outdoor Rec you can go on adventures around the Pacific Northwest, from exploring the rugged Olympic National Park coastline to climbing Oregon’s Smith Rock. During your time at PLU, you’ll be sure to go on plenty of independent journeys and spur-of-the-moment group outings – the Pacific Northwest is made for it.

In PLU’s Parkland neighborhood, you’ll hardly have to step foot off campus to eat at some of Tacoma’s best restaurants, including great Italian food at Marzano, or grab a quick bite at Farrelli's Wood Fired Gourmet Pizza or Pita Pit. Also on Garfield Street, walk with your friends to visit the university’s bookstore, Garfield Book Company at PLU or get a jolt at one of several neighborhood coffee sellers before you hit the books.

PLU is also just minutes away from downtown Tacoma and the world famous Museum of Glass, the TacomaArt Museum and the Washington State History Museum. The short drive to Seattle means you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy big-city entertainment like the Experience Music Project or major league ballgames at beautiful Safeco Field. And given that the Seattle-Tacoma area is situated on the vibrant and culturally diverse Pacific Rim, there is no shortage of opportunities – from tracking down Asian cuisine and cultural delights to starting an internship at a global trading company. It’s all here for you.