Tacoma...REVEALED!

Tacoma Washington, located just a few miles south of Seattle is a world of recreation, culture and historical learning opportunities. Back in 1865 was the beginnings of this great city. It was the western terminus of the Northern Pacific Railway, called "The City of Destiny". It still thrives in that "old town" atmosphere where it all began.

Take a visit to the old brick Spar Tavern (2121 N. 30th Street, 253-627-8215). This was the hang out for the old time sailing crews. Not far is Tacoma's first place of worship, St. Peter's Church (2910 N. Starr Street, 253-272-4406). Then meander over to Stadium High School (111 N. E Street). This building was built in 1898 and designed as a French style chateau hotel.

Right next door to the Washington State History Museum (1911 Pacific Ave, 253-272-3500) is the massive Union Station. This is a fabulous setting and definitely worth your while to stroll through. It's structure is magnificent in its Romanesque-styled architecture. The same architects that designed Union Station also designed New York's Central Station. The Union Station is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The building is also available for rent. We attended a wedding reception at the station and found it impeccable.

Museums

Tacoma Art Museum (1123 Pacific Ave, 253-272-4258) features some notable changing exhibits and some permanent exhibitions from the 19th and 20th centuries.

Children's Museum (936 Broadway, 253-627-6031) is a plea of fun and learning activities.

Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum (407 South G Street, 253-383-2575) has a unique collection. You'll see manuscripts from Beethoven, Einstein and many others.

Washington State History Museum (1911 Pacific Ave., 888-238-4373), you'll need some time here as you navigate through the past bringing history alive.

Chihuly at Union Station (South 17th St. and Pacific Ave. 253-572-9310) brings glass into spectacular pieces of art work. Call and arrange for a tour through the furnace area. This is fabulous to watch the glass work.

Highlights

Tacoma Dome (2727 East D Street, 253-572-2663) hosts a series of events. It's known for being the world's largest wooden-doomed structure. It's small compared to some of the sporting domes in major cities, but it shares its elegance.

Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium (5400 North Pearl Street, 253-591-5337) was built in 1905. This a must visit for the family. With over 29 acres, over-looking Puget Sound, with more that 5,000 animals, the kids go wild. The aquarium is a favorite. You'll almost dive right in with the fish...it's truly an amazing site.

Point Defiance Park, if you made it to the Zoo you're in the park. This is a spectacular park situated on 700 acres of forest lands, sweeping views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. Visit both the Park and the Zoo.

Performing Arts

Pantages Theater (901 Broadway, 253-591-5894) seats 1,182, built in 1918 with Greco-Roman grandeur.

Rialto Theater (310 9th St., 253-591-5890) was also built in 1918.

Theater on the Square (915 Broadway, 253-272-2145) built in 1993 has added to the Tacoma performing arts.

Do you have any information about Tacoma Washington? Send it to us and we'll publish it.

Visit Tacoma anytime,

Craig Dahl
Senior Editor

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