Neighborhood Business Districts
We are dedicated to supporting the growth and vitality of our neighborhoods. With a focus on retail recruitment and mixed-use development, our team provides technical assistance to business districts and targeted retail areas.
We offer consultations to help businesses and property owners organize and enhance their neighborhoods, guiding them through city services and recognizing Neighborhood Business Districts. Together, we aim to cultivate thriving community hubs where businesses and communities can thrive
Tacoma is home to 15 Neighborhood Business Districts, each with their own unique characteristics.
Explore Tacoma's Historic Neighborhood Business Districts
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Nestled between Sprague and Alder on 6th Avenue, this district offers a diverse mix of businesses. From cozy cafes, nostalgic record stores, a lumber yard, and tattoo parlors, there’s something for everyone. As evening falls, The Ave comes alive with local clubs and a variety of dining options. Whether it’s day or night, it’s a neighborhood worth exploring.
Learn more about the key demographics of the 6th Ave Business District.
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Step into the Dome District, where a diverse mix of commercial buildings and major transit centers create an urban oasis in the heart of Tacoma. Here, you can lose yourself in a bookshop, explore antique treasures, and uncover so much more. With iconic landmarks like the Tacoma Dome and the LeMay Car Museum, as well as the bustling hub of Freighthouse Square, there’s always something exciting to discover.
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Situated at the corner of South 84th and Park Streets, Fern Hill holds the distinction of being one of Tacoma’s oldest neighborhoods, boasting the city’s very first trolley line. This charming district radiates a timeless appeal, offering delightful historic walking tours, eclectic retail spots, and an abundance of genuine charm. Savor the simple pleasures of Tacoma’s rich history in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
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A business district where the view is as inviting as the neighborhood itself, Hilltop is a bustling hub where convenience meets character. Need a last-minute gift or a quick bite to eat? Hilltop has you covered with its eclectic mix of shops and eateries. From savory barbecue to steaming bowls of noodle soup, there’s something to satisfy every craving.
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Centered at South 38th Street and Yakima Avenue, the Lincoln District offers a delightful mix of family-owned businesses and international charm. Experience the TET Vietnamese New Year Festival, sample diverse cuisine, and browse unique gifts. With Lincoln Park and historic Lincoln High School nearby, it’s a welcoming neighborhood with a rich heritage.
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Perched above the Dome on McKinley Avenue, the McKinley Hill Business District is a hidden gem boasting quaint shops, historic landmarks, and the lively McKinley Street Festival. Offering some of the most breathtaking views of Commencement Bay, this area is steeped in community pride and heritage. As one of Tacoma’s oldest neighborhoods, the bond runs deep here, where every corner holds a piece of Tacoma’s rich history and spirit.
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Along Center Street, Oakland Madrona stays true to its roots as a lumber mill as a convenient destination for home improvement needs. From big-box retailers to cozy family-owned shops, the area offers a diverse range of options. Need a chiropractic adjustment? Want to pamper your pooch at the local dog boutique? Or maybe surprise Mom with flowers from Grassi’s Florists? Oakland Madrona has you covered. Explore the neighborhood’s relaxed vibe and find everything you need in one convenient spot.
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Old Town, hailed as the birthplace of Tacoma, exudes historic charm and offers panoramic views of Commencement Bay. Meander through its timeless streets, where local artisans showcase flowers, jewelry, and unique gifts. Indulge in a variety of dining experiences, from the iconic ambiance of Tacoma’s oldest saloon, The Spar, to waterfront seafood delights. Explore Old Town and immerse yourself in its rich history and vibrant present, where every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered.
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Located in a culturally diverse neighborhood, the Pacific Avenue Business District boasts a vibrant atmosphere. Colorful buildings house a variety of businesses, offering convenience and diversity to residents and visitors alike. Don’t miss the annual festival, held every 2nd Sunday in June, where attendees can celebrate local artists, indulge in culinary delights, admire classic cars, and foster community connections in a lively atmosphere. Experience the dynamic spirit of the Pacific Avenue Business District firsthand.
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Discover Portland Avenue’s burgeoning neighborhood business district, extending from Interstate 5 to East 44th Street. Thanks to partnerships with the Puyallup Tribe, Native American art enriches both the district and the Portland Avenue Community Center. Nearby, Portland Avenue Park offers ample green space and recreational activities for Tacoma residents. Come explore this vibrant area where culture, community, and outdoor fun come together.
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Located at the bustling intersection of North 26th and Proctor Streets, Tacoma’s North End neighborhood revolves around the vibrant heart of Proctor. Esteemed as one of the city’s oldest business districts, Proctor is celebrated for its warm ambiance, diverse retail landscape, and delectable dining offerings. From renowned grocers to locally cherished shops and eateries, there’s something to delight every visitor. Be sure to explore the Proctor Farmers’ Market, a cherished Saturday morning tradition from March through November, showcasing the finest in local produce and artisanal goods. Experience the inviting charm and community camaraderie of Proctor for yourself.
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Right at the gateway to Point Defiance Park, the Ruston Point Defiance business district is a unique gem straddling two municipalities: Tacoma and Ruston. Stretching along North Pearl Street, it offers a cozy atmosphere that seamlessly blends into the surrounding neighborhoods. Whether you’re exploring Tacoma or Ruston, you’ll find plenty to enjoy on both sides of the street.
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South Tacoma has a rich history and a bustling shopping scene that’s been a cornerstone of Tacoma for generations. From printing services to dance lessons, you’ll discover a treasure trove of offerings along South Tacoma Way from South 47th to South 57th streets. Don’t miss the excitement of the renowned auto row and specialty automotive shops that make this district a regional favorite. Get revved up and join in the celebration of classic cars at the annual South Tacoma Classic Car Show in August.
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Located just north of downtown, the Stadium District is located on the edge of the historic North End neighborhood. It is home to the incredible architecture of Stadium High School and the beauty of Wright Park and the Seymour Botanical Conservatory. Ranko’s Pharmacy, Ball Automotive, and Stadium Thriftway are longtime neighborhood businesses that have been serving customers with quality service for decades.
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As the western gateway to Tacoma, Tacoma Narrows welcomes you with awe-inspiring views of the Narrows passage. Here, convenience meets beauty—start your day with a drive-through mocha and end it with a wine tasting before catching a captivating play at the Tacoma Musical Playhouse. Enjoy the scenic charm and vibrant experiences that Tacoma Narrows has to offer.
Learn more about the demographics of the Tacoma Narrows Business District.