Tacoma

Tacoma

Tacoma is an historic port city located half an hour south of Seattle on Commencement Bay.  Although still in a transitional phase, the revitalized downtown area is home to some of Washington State’s best museums, theatres and architecture.

History of Tacoma

Tacoma was selected as the Western Terminus of the Northern Pacific Railroad in the late 19th century.  After a period of turbulence and re-organization, the Northern Pacific Railroad eventually prospered and served as the primary railroad link to the Eastern United States.  The city thrived during this era, as evidenced by the number of impressive buildings and theatres that still stand today. 

However, by the 1950’s Tacoma’s downtown core was in decline.  Yet a dramatic revitalization effort has gained momentum since the early 90’s, clearly evident in the world-class museums and galleries, and condo developments along the waterfront.  Old warehouses and factories have been transformed to loft apartments, commanding spectacular views over the Bay.

Tacoma is a fascinating city that's transforming at a rapid pace, yet it’s most powerful asset is the fact that its historic downtown core remains intact.  When standing in the middle of downtown and looking up at the ornate building facades, you can almost imagine what life was like in this port city over 100 years ago.

1.  Tacoma Museums 

Pacific Avenue along the waterfront is home to three celebrated Tacoma Museums.  All museums are within easy walking distance of each other. 

• Tacoma Art Museum:  The $22 million Tacoma Art Museum was completed in 2003.  The museum’s permanent collection includes Northwest Art, 19^th Century European Paintings and Sculpture, Japanese Woodblock Prints, and Glass Art.  [1701 Pacific Avenue].
• WA History Museum:  Gain a deeper appreciation for the events and people that have shaped Washington State’s history.  Your kids will love the interactive exhibits; including a working replica of WA’s Railroads.  [1911 Pacific Avenue]
• Tacoma Glass Museum:  The space-age silver dome of the Museum of Glass is an unmistakable part of Tacoma’s skyline.   This silver dome houses a theater and “Hot Shop” where visitors can watch talented glass blowers at work.  Another highlight is the “Education Studio” each month where a child's drawing is selected to be brought to life as a piece of Glass Art.  Some of these creations are truly remarkable.  Visitors are also encouraged to explore some exquisite Glass Sculptures outside.  The stunning “Chihuly Glass Pedestrian Bridge” demonstrates how an ordinary streetscape be transformed into something magnificent.  [1801 Dock Street]

Tip:  The Tacoma Union Station is a magnificent building on Pacific Avenue, across the pedestrian walkway from the Museum of Glass.  Don't forget to take some photos here.

Restaurant/cafés at the museums:

• Tacoma Art Museum - Café
• Museum of Glass - Cafe
• Woody’s on the Water (adjacent to the Museum of Glass)

2.  Tacoma Theater District

The heart of the Theater District is at Pantages Theater on 9^th and Broadway.  There are 3 Theaters managed by the Broadway Center for Performing Arts, all within a block of each other.  Check performance schedules here. 

1. Pantages Theater:  Completed in 1918 as part of a vaudeville chain of theaters founded by Greek immigrant Alexander Pantages 
2. Rialto Theater:  Beaux-arts Style Theater opened in 1918 as a movie house [301 South 9th Street]
3. Theater on the Square:  Modern performance space built in 1993.  Overlooks a lovely square with a mural of a classic temple.

The only restaurant in the immediate area is Ravenous Tacoma, just across the road from the magnificent Pantages Theater.

3.  Tacoma Antique district & Historic Walk

9th and Broadway is also the starting point for the Antique District.   If you continue walking north along Broadway, you will discover a cluster of interesting antique and memorabilia shops.  This stretch also provides a great vantage point for some of Tacoma's most memorable historic buildings.  These include:

• Hotel Bostwick:  Narrow hotel built on a triangular block directly across the road from Pantages Theater. Currently houses a Tully's Coffee.  Built by Tacoma's first doctor, and completed in 1889  [9th & Broadway]
• Old City Hall:  Italian Renaissance style red brick building with a clock-tower.  Completed in 1893   [625 South Commerce Street]
• Northern Pacific Building:  Original headquarters for the Northern Pacific Railroad, built in italiante style with round tower.  Completed in 1888   [621 Pacific Avenue]
• Elks Lodge & Spanish Steps:  Magnificent white, ornate facade with 64 Spanish Steps modelled after the Scala di Spagna of Rome.  Opened in 1916  [565 South Broadway].
• Stadium High School:  Historic landmark completed in 1909  [111 North E Street] 

4.  Tacoma Zoo - Point Defiance

A short distance from Tacoma WA, the zoo at Point Defiance Park is a “must-see”. The first thing that strikes you about this zoo is its wonderful vantage point overlooking the water and Mount Rainier.  The zoo is spacious and well planned, with an array of fascinating animals like Polar Bears, Clouded Leopards, Malayan Tapir's and Sumatran Tigers.  The shark tank is very impressive and a little scary!  Some fun activities for the kids include the Carousel and Camel rides. 

When visiting Point Defiance Park, don't miss the "Fort Nisqually Living History Museum" with historic re-enactments.  Your kids will find it difficult to resist the "TNT Family Go-karts"  just near the entrance to the park.  In summer, the lovely Owen Beach is also definitely worth a visit.

Hotel Murano

Stay at a chic downtown hotel, Hotel Murano or the waterfront Silver Cloud Inn. Find a good selection of B&B's in the table below.

Tacoma Restaurants

The highest concentration of restaurants is on Pacific Avenue near the museum district.  Options include:

• Indochine [1924 Pacific Avenue]
• The Harmon  [1938 Pacific Avenue]
• El Gaucho Tacoma  [2119 Pacific Avenue]
• Melting Pot Tacoma  [2121 Pacific Avenue]
• Matador Tacoma [721 Pacific Avenue]
• Pacific Grill [1502 Pacific Avenue]

Washington Guide:  If you have more time, visit nearby Gig Harbor and Olympia – State Capital.  WA Map is below.