What to see, do, and eat near the new 1 Line stations in South King County

With the 1 Line now serving Kent Des Moines, Star Lake, and Federal Way Downtown, it’s easier than ever to explore South King County without a car. 

Whether you’re heading to class, grabbing lunch, or checking out a new neighborhood, here are walkable highlights within one mile of each new station — plus transit connections to help you go even farther.

Kent Des Moines Station

Highline College
2400 S 240th St, Des Moines, WA 98198
Hours vary by building
Distance: ~0.1–0.3 mile
A short walk from the station, Highline’s campus offers green spaces, artwork, and pathways perfect for a midday break.

Nearby restaurants and cafés
All locations are within one mile of the station along Pacific Highway:

• Just Poke — 23609 Pacific Hwy S
  11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Distance: ~0.5 mile

• J J’s Bar & Grill — 23826 Pacific Hwy S
  11 a.m. to midnight; Distance: ~0.4 mile

• Indian Bistro — 23223 Pacific Hwy S
  11 a.m. to 2 a.m.; Distance: ~0.6 mile

• Dick’s Drive-In — 24220 Pacific Hwy S
  10:30 a.m. to 2 a.m.; Distance: ~0.6 mile

Transit connection

King County Metro Route 165
Connects the station to the Des Moines Marina District, downtown Des Moines, and Burien. Ride west toward the waterfront for dining, parks, and marina views.

Star Lake Station

The immediate area around Star Lake Station is primarily residential, with small neighborhood eateries, convenience stores, and local cafés along Pacific Highway South. It’s a quiet, walkable area ideal for everyday errands and easy connections to the rest of the 1 Line.

Federal Way Downtown Station

Restaurants and shopping

• Bibim Express — 2020 S 320th St Ste D
  10:30 a.m. to8 p.m.; Distance: ~0.2 mile

• Seoul Hot Dog — 2016 S 320th St Ste A
  10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Distance: ~0.2 mile

• Honey Bear Vietnamese Sandwich — 1640 S 318th Pl
  11 a.m. t0 7 p.m. (closes at 3 p.m. on Sundays); Distance: ~0.6 mile

• Ezell’s Famous Chicken — 2020 S 320th St Ste M
  10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Distance: ~0.2 mile

• Pac Island Grill — 2012 S 320th St
  11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. (closed Mondays); Distance: ~0.3 mile

• El Rinconsito — 2002 S 320th St and 25914 Pacific Hwy S
  10 a.m. to midnight (open until 3 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays); Distance: ~0.2 mile

• Ivar’s Seafood Bar — 2004 S 320th St
  11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Distance: ~0.2 mile

• The Commons at Federal Way — 1928 S Commons
  10 a.m. to 7 p.m. (11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays); Distance ~0.3 mile

• TESO Life — 2015 Pacific Hwy S 
  11 a.m. to 7 p.m. (closes at 7 p.m. on Thursdays); Distance ~0.6 mile

• Island Pacific Seafood Market — 31811 Pacific Hwy S Ste A
  8 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Distance ~0.7 mile

Attractions and parks

• Federal Way Performing Arts and Events Center (PAEC)
  31510 Pete von Reichbauer Way S
  Hours vary by event
  Distance: ~0.3 mile
  One of the most accessible destinations from the station, hosting concerts, theater, and community events.

• Town Square Park
  31600 Pete von Reichbauer Way S
  Distance: ~0.3 mile
  A central gathering space with open lawns, a splash pad, art, and seasonal activities.

• Steel Lake Park
  2410 S 312th St
  Distance: ~0.9 mile
  A large lakeside park with a beach, picnic areas, and sports fields.

Transit connection

Pierce Transit Route 501
Provides access to the Northeast Tacoma area and stops a short walk from:

• Pacific Bonsai Museum — 2515 S 336th St
  Tuesday–Sunday 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; closed Monday
  Distance from closest 501 stop: ~0.7 mile

Plan your trip now!

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