Skip to main content
Aerial view of Browns Point
Content current as of 04/15/25

Learn About Tacoma

Tacoma is a vibrant city known for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty. Nestled along the picturesque shores of Commencement Bay and framed by the majestic Mount Rainier, Tacoma is a city that boasts a unique blend of urban sophistication and outdoor adventure. A hub of economic activity, Tacoma benefits from its strategic location as a key transportation and logistics center, making it an attractive spot for businesses. The city’s economy is robust with key sectors including healthcare, technology, and manufacturing.

City of Your Destiny

The City of Tacoma, The City of Destiny

Tacoma is home to a diverse population of approximately 221,000 that enriches the city’s cultural tapestry. Celebrate art and creativity at institutions like the Museum of Glass, which showcases the city’s renowned glass art scene, and the LeMay – America’s Car Museum, which highlights the country’s automotive history. The historic Pantages Theater hosts a variety of performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, and dance, ensuring there’s something for everyone. The city’s commitment to community and inclusiveness is evident in its many festivals, such as the Tacoma Film Festival and the Art on the Ave, which draw residents and visitors alike to celebrate local talent and creativity.

Education is a cornerstone of the Tacoma community, with a robust public school system and proximity to higher education institutions, including the University of Washington Tacoma and University of Puget Sound. The city’s commitment to innovation and learning makes Tacoma an ideal place for families and individuals seeking personal and professional growth.

The city’s extensive parks and outdoor spaces, including Point Defiance Park and the Tacoma Nature Center, provide residents with ample opportunities for recreation and relaxation. The scenic waterfront has been thoughtfully developed into a vibrant area for walking, dining, and enjoying the stunning views of the Puget Sound.

Explore the City

In Tacoma, there’s something for every palate, every sensibility. The emerging food and nightlife scene along Pacific Avenue, 6th Avenue, and in the Hilltop neighborhood is something to marvel at, and journalists across the country have taken notice. We can’t say we’re surprised. We feel Tacoma’s worth the trip. Come and visit. Get started by visiting the following sites:

The City of Tacoma provides links to external websites in this section as a resource for your convenience. They are not intended to endorse or promote any establishment, event, or organization.

Tacoma is home to a variety of outstanding public and private schools, ensuring that every student has the chance to thrive academically and socially. The Tacoma Public Schools system is committed to excellence and equity, offering a range of programs and resources to support student achievement and well-being.

At the higher education level, students can pursue their goals at renowned institutions such as:

For more information about school enrollment, academic programs, and district initiatives, visit our partner, Tacoma Public Schools, and discover the rich educational landscape our city has to offer.

If you are looking for a great place to find locally grown and organic produce, fresh flowers, specialty foods, and hand-crafted items, then make plans to visit one of the farmers’ markets in Tacoma. The farmers’ markets operate during different times of the year and vendors and goods vary seasonally from market to market.

For more information, visit the Tacoma Farmers Market website or the Proctor Farmers’ Market website.

The City of Tacoma provides links to external websites in this section as a resource for your convenience. They are not intended to endorse or promote any establishment, event, or organization.

Market NameLocationHoursDays OpenMonths Open
Broadway Market9th and Broadway
Tacoma, WA 98402		10 a.m. - 2 p.m. ThursdaysMay - October
Proctor Farmers MarketN. 27th and Proctor Street
Tacoma, WA 98407		9 a.m. - 2 p.m.SaturdaysRegular Season: March/April - December

With its cool, mild climate, golfers can hit balls all year round in the Pacific Northwest. Locals, and visitors from all over the world, enjoy playing golf in Tacoma and its surrounding areas. Although the Tacoma area is best known for the Chambers Bay Golf Course, site of the 2015 U.S Open Championship, there are several other quality courses nearby as well.

The City of Tacoma boasts a rich and diverse history that reflects its transformation from a vibrant Native American settlement to a bustling urban center. Established in the 19th century, Tacoma emerged as a key hub for transportation, trade, and industry, playing a pivotal role in the development of the Pacific Northwest. The city’s unique blend of historic architecture, cultural heritage, and community initiatives continues to shape its identity today. To explore Tacoma’s historical milestones and learn about efforts to preserve its heritage, visit our Historic Preservation page to learn more.

Housed in Tacoma’s Museum District are six world-class museums all within walking distance from each other. In the District, art aficionados can explore exhibits ranging from an impressive collection of Dale Chihuly glasswork and classic automobiles to historical masterpieces and hands-on educational programs.

This section is your guide to exploring the vibrant green spaces and recreational opportunities that our community has to offer. Whether you’re seeking adventure in our beautiful parks, engaging activities for the whole family, or serene spots for relaxation and reflection.

Visit our partner, Parks Tacoma.

Get on your bike or take a hike and explore the beauty of our city. Tacoma has a variety of biking and hiking trails, whether you are a novice or just looking to take a leisurely tour of the city. Here are some links to help you find the perfect trail in Tacoma and surrounding areas.

A three-theater complex in excess of 210,000 square feet, the Pantages, Rialto, and Theater on the Square are owned by the City and managed by Tacoma City Theaters (ASM Global).

The Rialto is on the federal, state, and City historic registers at the highest ranked level of importance, and, together, the Pantages, Rialto and Theater on the Square serve approximately 250,000 annual visitors.

Visit Tacoma Venues & Events to get the inside scoop on upcoming shows and performances.

Tacoma has a unique mix of affordable retail and eclectic, locally owned boutiques throughout the city that invites you to discover your next great find.

The City of Tacoma provides links to external websites in this section as a resource for your convenience. They are not intended to endorse or promote any establishment, event, or organization.

Tacoma is known for its world-renowned glass art; Tacoma’s vibrant urban core is alive with culture. Find yourself surrounded by creativity and city sophistication when you eat, shop, and stroll Tacoma’s downtown. The friendly city inspires many to celebrate the melding of old and new. See historic architecture amidst urban design.

The City’s many districts abound with culture. Stroll the museum district where you can explore art, glass, and history. Wander amongst the eclectic mix of upbeat restaurants and music venues on Sixth Avenue. Shop the unique boutiques in the historic Proctor and Stadium districts, which bustle with foot traffic. Rooted in the arts, Tacoma is the place to be. Visit the Tacoma-Pierce County Tourism Authority website to learn more.

Once you’re in the Puget Sound area, there are a number of ways to get to and around Tacoma and its neighboring cities. Visit our partner agencies below.