Major Landmarks of Tacoma, WA

Tacoma, Washington, is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, with a diverse array of landmarks that reflect its unique character and heritage. From architectural marvels to natural wonders, Tacoma’s landmarks offer a glimpse into the city’s past while also serving as vibrant centers of community life today. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the major landmarks of Tacoma, exploring their history, significance, and what they offer to residents and visitors alike.

Historical Landmarks

Union Station

Overview and History

Union Station is one of Tacoma’s most iconic buildings and a testament to the city’s early 20th-century growth and development. Completed in 1911, the station was designed by the architectural firm Reed and Stem, which also co-designed New York City’s Grand Central Terminal. The Beaux-Arts style building features a grand rotunda, intricate brickwork, and a distinctive copper dome that makes it a standout in the city’s skyline.

Originally built as a hub for the Northern Pacific Railway, Union Station played a crucial role in Tacoma’s development as a major port and transportation center in the Pacific Northwest. The station was a gateway for goods and passengers traveling between the East Coast and the burgeoning West, solidifying Tacoma’s status as a key economic player in the region.

Restoration and Current Use

After the decline of passenger rail service in the mid-20th century, Union Station fell into disrepair. However, the building was saved from demolition through a community-driven restoration effort in the 1980s. Today, Union Station serves as a federal courthouse, and its rotunda is frequently used for public events, art exhibitions, and private functions. The building is also home to several stunning works of glass art by renowned artist Dale Chihuly, further cementing its status as a cultural landmark in Tacoma.

The Tacoma Hotel Site

Historical Significance

The Tacoma Hotel was once one of the most luxurious hotels in the Pacific Northwest, symbolizing Tacoma’s aspirations as a premier destination for business and leisure travelers. Designed by the prominent architect Stanford White and completed in 1884, the hotel was known for its opulent interiors, including lavish ballrooms, grand staircases, and finely appointed guest rooms.

The hotel played host to numerous dignitaries, celebrities, and business leaders during its heyday, contributing to Tacoma’s reputation as a vibrant and cosmopolitan city. Unfortunately, the Tacoma Hotel was destroyed by fire in 1935, and today, only a small marker commemorates the site where the grand building once stood.

Commemorative Plaque and Memorial

While the original building no longer exists, the site of the Tacoma Hotel is marked by a commemorative plaque that provides visitors with information about the hotel’s history and significance. The plaque is located near the entrance to the current Union Station complex, serving as a reminder of Tacoma’s rich architectural and cultural heritage.

Thea Foss Waterway

Early Development and Industrial History

The Thea Foss Waterway is a historically significant area that played a central role in Tacoma’s industrial growth during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Named after Thea Foss, a pioneering businesswoman who founded the Foss Maritime Company in 1889, the waterway was once lined with factories, warehouses, and shipyards that contributed to Tacoma’s economic development.

The Foss family’s tugboat business grew into a major maritime operation, and the waterway became synonymous with Tacoma’s industrial prowess. However, by the mid-20th century, the area had become heavily polluted due to decades of industrial activity, leading to a decline in its use and significance.

Modern Redevelopment and Revitalization

In recent decades, the Thea Foss Waterway has undergone significant revitalization efforts, transforming it from a polluted industrial zone into a vibrant waterfront district. The area now features a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, including parks, marinas, and cultural institutions.

Key landmarks along the waterway include the Museum of Glass, the Foss Waterway Seaport, and the Thea’s Landing residential development. These attractions have made the waterway a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering a blend of history, art, and outdoor recreation.

Cultural Landmarks

Museum of Glass

Architectural Marvel

The Museum of Glass is one of Tacoma’s premier cultural institutions, dedicated to the exploration and celebration of glass as an artistic medium. Opened in 2002, the museum is housed in a striking modern building designed by Canadian architect Arthur Erickson. The museum’s most distinctive feature is its 90-foot-tall cone-shaped Hot Shop, where visitors can watch live glassblowing demonstrations by artists from around the world.

Exhibitions and Collections

The Museum of Glass features a diverse array of exhibitions showcasing contemporary glass art, including works by internationally renowned artists as well as emerging talents. The museum’s permanent collection includes pieces by Dale Chihuly, William Morris, and Lino Tagliapietra, among others.

In addition to its exhibitions, the Museum of Glass offers educational programs, workshops, and special events that engage the community and promote the appreciation of glass art. The museum’s location on the Thea Foss Waterway also provides stunning views of the water and the surrounding cityscape.

Washington State History Museum

Overview and Mission

The Washington State History Museum is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history of Washington State and the Pacific Northwest. Located in downtown Tacoma, the museum is housed in a modern building that reflects the region’s industrial heritage, with its use of brick, steel, and glass.

The museum’s mission is to inspire curiosity and promote an understanding of the region’s history through interactive exhibits, educational programs, and research opportunities. The museum’s collections span a wide range of topics, including indigenous cultures, European exploration, pioneer life, and the growth of cities like Tacoma.

Permanent Exhibits

The Washington State History Museum’s permanent exhibits offer visitors a comprehensive look at the state’s history from its earliest inhabitants to the present day. Notable exhibits include:

• Great Hall of Washington History: A detailed exploration of the state’s history, featuring artifacts, multimedia displays, and interactive elements that bring the past to life.
• Tacoma at the Turn of the Century: A recreation of a typical Tacoma street from the early 1900s, complete with period storefronts, vehicles, and everyday objects.
• Pacific Northwest Native Cultures: An exhibit dedicated to the indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest, showcasing their art, tools, and traditions.

The museum also hosts temporary exhibits that explore specific aspects of Washington’s history, as well as special events, lectures, and workshops.

LeMay – America’s Car Museum

A Tribute to Automotive History

LeMay – America’s Car Museum is one of the largest automotive museums in the world, located near the Tacoma Dome. The museum celebrates America’s love affair with the automobile, featuring a vast collection of classic, vintage, and modern cars, as well as motorcycles and other vehicles.

The museum was founded in honor of Harold LeMay, a local businessman and car enthusiast who amassed one of the world’s largest private car collections. Today, the museum showcases over 300 vehicles from LeMay’s collection, as well as vehicles on loan from other collectors and institutions.

Exhibits and Events

LeMay – America’s Car Museum offers a variety of exhibits that explore the history of the automobile, its impact on American culture, and its role in shaping the modern world. Key exhibits include:

• Route 66 Gallery: A tribute to the iconic American highway, featuring classic cars, vintage signage, and memorabilia from the heyday of road travel.
• Classics and Chrome: A rotating exhibit that highlights some of the most beautiful and rare cars in the museum’s collection, from early 20th-century models to modern supercars.
• Racing Legends: An exhibit dedicated to the history of motorsports, featuring famous race cars, trophies, and memorabilia from iconic events like the Indianapolis 500.

In addition to its exhibits, the museum hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including car shows, lectures, and educational programs for all ages.

Natural Landmarks

Point Defiance Park

Overview and Natural Beauty

Point Defiance Park is Tacoma’s largest and most beloved natural landmark, offering over 700 acres of forest, gardens, and shoreline to explore. Located on a peninsula jutting into Puget Sound, the park provides stunning views of the water, Mount Rainier, and the surrounding landscape.

The park’s diverse ecosystems include old-growth forests, saltwater beaches, and tidal flats, making it a haven for wildlife and a popular destination for outdoor recreation. Visitors can hike on miles of trails, fish from the pier, or simply relax and enjoy the natural beauty.

Key Attractions

Point Defiance Park is home to several popular attractions that draw visitors year-round. These include:

• Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium: A world-class facility that combines a traditional zoo with a modern aquarium, featuring animals from the Pacific Northwest and around the world.
• Rose Garden: A beautifully maintained garden with over 1,500 rose bushes, showcasing a variety of species and colors.
• Fort Nisqually Living History Museum: A reconstructed 19th-century trading post that offers a glimpse into the life of early settlers and fur traders in the region.

The park also hosts a variety of events and festivals, including the annual Zoolights holiday display and the Point Defiance Flower and Garden Festival.

Ruston Way Waterfront

Scenic Waterfront

The Ruston Way Waterfront is a scenic stretch of shoreline along Commencement Bay that offers breathtaking views, recreational opportunities, and dining options. The waterfront is lined with parks, walking and biking paths, and public art installations, making it a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike.

The area was once an industrial zone, home to shipyards and factories, but has since been transformed into a vibrant public space. Today, Ruston Way is a prime example of Tacoma’s efforts to reclaim and revitalize its waterfront areas.

Parks and Recreation

Several parks along Ruston Way provide access to the water and opportunities for outdoor activities. Notable parks include:

• Jack Hyde Park: A small park with picnic areas, a fishing pier, and views of the bay.
• Cummings Park: A popular spot for kayaking and paddleboarding, with a sandy beach and boat launch.
• Old Town Dock: A historic dock that has been restored and reopened to the public, offering fishing, crabbing, and scenic views.

In addition to its parks, Ruston Way is home to several waterfront restaurants and cafes, where visitors can enjoy a meal with a view.

Wright Park

Urban Oasis

Wright Park is a 27-acre urban park located in the heart of Tacoma’s Stadium District. The park was established in 1886 and is named after Charles B. Wright, a prominent Tacoma businessman and philanthropist who donated the land.

Wright Park is a true urban oasis, offering lush lawns, towering trees, and beautifully landscaped gardens. The park’s design reflects the Victorian-era style of public parks, with meandering pathways, fountains, and statues.

Key Features

Wright Park is home to several notable features, including:

• Seymour Conservatory: A historic glass conservatory that houses a collection of exotic plants and seasonal floral displays.
• W.W. Seymour Botanical Conservatory: A Victorian-style conservatory that hosts various plant species and serves as a venue for horticultural education and events.
• Playgrounds and Sports Facilities: The park offers several playgrounds, tennis courts, and sports fields, making it a popular spot for families and athletes.

Wright Park also hosts a variety of community events, including outdoor concerts, movie nights, and cultural festivals.

Architectural Landmarks

Stadium High School

History and Architecture

Stadium High School is one of Tacoma’s most distinctive buildings, known for its dramatic Gothic architecture and stunning location overlooking Commencement Bay. Originally built as a luxury hotel in the late 19th century, the building was converted into a high school after the hotel project was abandoned.

Designed by architect E.E. Roberts, Stadium High School features towering spires, ornate stonework, and a grand staircase that leads down to the school’s athletic field, known as Stadium Bowl. The building’s design is reminiscent of a European castle, making it one of the most photographed landmarks in Tacoma.

Cultural Significance

Stadium High School is not only an architectural gem but also a cultural landmark in Tacoma. The school has appeared in several films, most notably the 1999 teen romantic comedy 10 Things I Hate About You, which was filmed on location.

The school’s historic significance and unique design have earned it a place on the National Register of Historic Places, and it continues to serve as a functioning high school with a strong academic and athletic tradition.

Old City Hall

A Symbol of Civic Pride

Old City Hall is a historic building located in downtown Tacoma that once served as the center of city government. Built in 1893, the building was designed by architect E.A. Hatherton in the Italian Renaissance style, with a distinctive clock tower that has become one of Tacoma’s most recognizable landmarks.

Old City Hall was the seat of Tacoma’s government for many years, housing the mayor’s office, city council chambers, and various municipal departments. The building’s grand architecture and central location made it a symbol of Tacoma’s civic pride and aspirations.

Preservation and Future Plans

In recent years, Old City Hall has faced challenges related to its aging structure and the cost of maintenance. However, efforts are underway to preserve and restore the building for future use. Plans include transforming Old City Hall into a mixed-use facility with office space, retail shops, and cultural venues, while retaining its historic character and significance.

Pantages Theater

A Historic Performance Venue

The Pantages Theater is a historic performing arts venue located in Tacoma’s Theater District. Opened in 1918, the theater was designed by renowned architect B. Marcus Priteca and is named after Alexander Pantages, a Greek-American vaudeville impresario who played a significant role in the development of early 20th-century theater in the United States.

The Pantages Theater is an architectural masterpiece, featuring a grand neoclassical design with ornate plasterwork, a crystal chandelier, and a beautifully painted ceiling. The theater was originally built to host vaudeville performances but later transitioned to a movie palace and eventually a venue for live theater, concerts, and other cultural events.

Cultural Hub

Today, the Pantages Theater is one of the key cultural hubs in Tacoma, hosting a wide range of performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, dance performances, and lectures. The theater is part of the Broadway Center for the Performing Arts, which also manages the nearby Rialto Theater and Theater on the Square.

The Pantages Theater has been meticulously restored to its original grandeur, ensuring that it remains a vibrant part of Tacoma’s cultural life for generations to come.

Educational and Scientific Landmarks

University of Puget Sound

A Historic Liberal Arts College

The University of Puget Sound is a private liberal arts college located in the North End of Tacoma. Founded in 1888, the university is known for its beautiful campus, rigorous academic programs, and strong commitment to sustainability.

The campus features a mix of historic and modern buildings, including Jones Hall, the university’s original building, which has been carefully preserved and restored. The campus’s architecture reflects a blend of collegiate Gothic and modern styles, creating a serene and inspiring environment for students and faculty.

Contributions to the Community

The University of Puget Sound is a major educational and cultural institution in Tacoma, offering a wide range of academic programs, public lectures, concerts, and art exhibitions. The university is also a leader in environmental sustainability, with numerous initiatives aimed at reducing its carbon footprint and promoting sustainable practices.

The university’s connection to the community is strengthened through its various outreach programs, internships, and partnerships with local organizations, making it a vital part of Tacoma’s intellectual and cultural landscape.

Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium

A Unique Blend of Zoo and Aquarium

Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is a unique institution that combines the features of a traditional zoo with those of an aquarium. Located within Point Defiance Park, the zoo and aquarium cover 29 acres and are home to a wide variety of animals from the Pacific Northwest and around the world.

The zoo was founded in 1905 and has since grown to become one of the most popular attractions in Tacoma. It features several themed exhibits, including the Asian Forest Sanctuary, Arctic Tundra, and Pacific Seas Aquarium, each offering visitors an immersive experience and a chance to learn about different ecosystems and the animals that inhabit them.

Conservation and Education

Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is committed to wildlife conservation and environmental education. The institution participates in several breeding and conservation programs for endangered species and offers a range of educational programs for visitors of all ages.

The zoo and aquarium also host special events throughout the year, including summer camps, overnight adventures, and themed days that highlight specific animals or environmental issues.

Conclusion

The major landmarks of Tacoma, WA, are a testament to the city’s rich history, cultural diversity, and natural beauty. From historic buildings that tell the story of Tacoma’s past to modern cultural institutions that celebrate its artistic and intellectual achievements, these landmarks are integral to the city’s identity and vitality. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, exploring Tacoma’s landmarks offers a unique insight into what makes this city a vibrant and dynamic place to live and visit.