University location

Saint Martin's University is in Lacey, Washington, a city of 35,870 people, adjacent to Olympia, the state capital. The population of the Greater Olympia Area - Lacey, Olympia and Tumwater - is over 100,000.  Located near the waters of southern Puget Sound, Saint Martin's is less than an hour from Seattle, 30 minutes from Tacoma and two hours from Portland, Oregon. It is conveniently near Interstate-5 and major shopping areas.

The physical beauty of the 380-acre Saint Martin's campus reflects the rich intellectual and spiritual nature of its presence in the Pacific Northwest. The campus' wooded areas are threaded with pleasant walking trails. Many species of wildlife roam or fly over its undeveloped acres and in the meadows near the main University buildings.

Because of its location near metropolitan areas, Saint Martin's and the Greater Olympia Area attract nationally recognized entertainers, artists and musicians, providing cultural opportunities that complement the University's educational experience. Students also can take advantage of a host of events in nearby cities, ranging from top-flight art shows, concerts and theater to professional sports.

The University's next-door proximity to Olympia, the state capital, gives students opportunities to watch and sometimes take part in government in action. Valuable student internships and work experiences are frequently obtained through positions in government offices and agencies.

The South Sound area is naturally wonderful. Swimming and other water activities are as close as five minutes from campus on a wealth of nearby lakes, streams and ocean inlets.  Pacific Ocean beaches, just 50 miles west, offer opportunities for clamming, kiting, deep-sea fishing and sailing. Less than an hour away, hikers, skiers, backpackers, birders and other outdoor enthusiasts can pursue their favorite pastimes in the mountains or enjoy such spectacular Northwest attractions as Mount Rainier National Park, Mount St. Helens, the Olympic peninsula and the San Juan Islands.