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Fort Lewis

Fort Lewis, Washington, United States

Fort Lewis, located in Washington state, is a historic military base that offers a unique blend of history, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences for visitors. Officially known as Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM), …

#Military base#Army installation#Training center#Pacific Northwest#Joint Base Lewis-McChord

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Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Fort Lewis.

Tours

Historic Fort Lewis Museum

Explore the rich history of Fort Lewis through exhibits and artifacts showcasing various military epochs.

Shopping

Lakewood Shopping Center

Enjoy a diverse shopping experience with a variety of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment facilities.

Outdoor

Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge

Explore the beautiful habitats and wildlife of Nisqually through trails and observation points perfect for nature lovers.

Pacific Cascade Range Ski

Experience thrilling skiing adventures amid the striking landscapes of the Pacific Cascade Range, suitable for all levels.

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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Fort Lewis.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

Not Available

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Fort Lewis

Jan

7°1°

Feb

9°1°

Mar

12°2°

Apr

15°4°

May

18°7°

Jun

21°10°

Jul

25°12°

Aug

25°12°

Sep

22°10°

Oct

15°6°

Nov

10°3°

Dec

7°1°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Fort Lewis.

What people love

Fort Lewis, now known as Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM), is a military installation located in Washington state. Traveling to Fort Lewis/JBLM can offer several benefits:

Historical Significance: Fort Lewis has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1917. Visitors can explore the historic buildings, monuments, and museums on base to learn about the military's contributions to the region and the country.
Outdoor Recreation: The base is nestled in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, offering opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and boating. The nearby Mount Rainier National Park is also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Military Appreciation: Visiting Fort Lewis provides a chance to show support and appreciation for the men and women serving in the military. You may have the opportunity to witness military training exercises, ceremonies, and events that offer a glimpse into military life.
Community Engagement: Fort Lewis/JBLM is home to a diverse community of military personnel, their families, and civilian employees. Traveling to the base can provide a chance to interact with this community, participate in events, and gain a better understanding of military life.
Convenient Location: Fort Lewis/JBLM is located in close proximity to major cities like Tacoma and Seattle, offering easy access to urban amenities, cultural attractions, and entertainment options while still enjoying the tranquility of the base's surroundings.

Overall, traveling to Fort Lewis/JBLM can be a unique and enriching experience, offering a mix of history, outdoor adventure, military appreciation, and community engagement.

What to know

When considering traveling to Fort Lewis, now part of Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) in Washington State, there are a few potential cons that one might consider:

Weather: The Pacific Northwest is known for its rainy and overcast weather, particularly in the fall, winter, and spring. This can be a downside for those who prefer sunny and dry conditions.
Traffic: The area around JBLM, particularly on Interstate 5, can experience significant traffic congestion. This is a common issue in the region, especially during rush hours, which could affect travel plans and commuting times.
Access and Security: As a military installation, access to Fort Lewis and JBLM is restricted. Visitors typically need to go through security checks and may require a sponsor or special permission to enter certain areas, which can be inconvenient for casual visitors.
Limited Tourist Attractions: While the surrounding areas offer natural beauty and outdoor activities, the base itself is not a tourist destination. People seeking cultural or entertainment options might find limited offerings directly on the base.
Cost of Living and Accommodation: The cost of living in the Tacoma-Seattle area can be relatively high, which might affect accommodation prices for visitors. Finding affordable lodging near the base may be challenging, especially during peak times.
Noise and Military Operations: Being a military base, there can be noise from training exercises, aircraft, and other military operations, which might be disruptive or bothersome to some visitors.

These factors should be considered when planning a trip to Fort Lewis or JBLM. However, many of these cons could be outweighed by the natural beauty and outdoor activities available in the surrounding region.

Fort Lewis, located near Tacoma, Washington, has a rich history as a significant military installation. It is now part of Joint Base Lewis-McChord, a joint military facility with McChord Air Force Base. The address is Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA 98433, United States.

Early History:

Establishment: Fort Lewis was established in 1917 as Camp Lewis, named after Meriwether Lewis of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The land, totaling approximately 70,000 acres, was donated by local citizens who saw the economic and strategic benefits of a military base in the region.
World War I: During WWI, Camp Lewis served as a mobilization and training center. It was one of the largest training camps in the U.S. at the time.

Interwar Period:

1927: The site was renamed Fort Lewis to reflect its permanent status. During this period, the fort underwent significant development and expansion.
Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC): In the 1930s, the CCC helped with construction projects, including roads and buildings, enhancing the infrastructure of the fort.

World War II:

Role in WWII: Fort Lewis was a major training and deployment center during the war. It was critical in preparing soldiers for battle in the Pacific Theater.
Landmarks: The fort saw the construction of many temporary structures to accommodate the influx of troops, many of which became iconic landmarks over time.

Post-War Era:

Cold War: Fort Lewis continued to serve as a key military installation during the Cold War, adapting to the changing needs of the U.S. Army.
Korean and Vietnam Wars: Soldiers from Fort Lewis were deployed to both conflicts, and the base played a crucial role in logistics and training.

Modern Era:

1990s: Fort Lewis continued to modernize, with updated facilities and infrastructure to support new technologies and training methods.
2000s: It became an important center for the Stryker brigade combat teams, emphasizing rapid deployment capabilities.

Joint Base Lewis-McChord:

2010: Fort Lewis merged with McChord Air Force Base to form Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM), as part of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process. This merger created a more efficient and integrated military installation.

Significant Figures:

General Lesley J. McNair: He played a significant role in the training methods used at Fort Lewis during WWII.
General Walter Krueger: Commanded the 2nd Infantry Division which was stationed at Fort Lewis before being deployed to the Pacific Theater.

Important Landmarks:

Memorial Park: Dedicated to soldiers who have served at Fort Lewis, it is a place of reflection and remembrance.
Fort Lewis Museum: Known today as the Lewis Army Museum, it is the oldest Army museum on the West Coast and offers exhibits on the history of the fort and the region.

Fort Lewis has evolved significantly over the decades, maintaining its importance as a key military installation and adapting to the needs of the U.S. Army. Its strategic location and comprehensive facilities make it a vital component of the nation's defense infrastructure.