If you live in the South Sound region, you’ve certainly heard of Chambers Bay. It is on the tips of everyone’s tongues this week, as the golf course is hosting the U.S. Open golf tournament.

But Chambers Bay regional park is more than just a fancy golf course, it is a beloved park to many in University Place and the surrounding communities, including Veronica and I. It was one of the major selling points for why we bought our house nearby.

The park offers a 3.25-mile paved loop trail, featuring a large elevation change (315 feet) to help get the heart-rate going. It has one of the best playgrounds we’ve ever seen in a park. It also has a fenced in dog park, and huge grassy fields to have a picnic, play frisbee, catch or fly a kite.

The upper reaches of the park near Grandview Avenue, also afford amazing views of the Puget Sound, Fox Island and the Olympic Mountains. It is a relaxing place to watch a sunset. We’ve been told you can catch sightings of Orcas from the beach.

So, as you no doubt will see Chambers Bay plastered on your television and in your newspapers (buy a Tacoma News Tribune or an Olympian to help me keep my job!) this week, just remember it is more than just a golf course – it is also a great place for your entire family to play.

– Craig Craker

If you go
Location: Chambers Bay regional park, University Place off of Grandview Avenue.
When: Anytime of year.
What: A park featuring beach access, dog park, world renowned golf course, and a 3.25 mile paved loop trail featuring a 350 foot hill.
Fees: None.
Kid-friendly: Absolutely (including the Playground at the Sound, one of the best in the area).