Nestled on Washington State's Puget Sound sits the city of Tacoma. Though it may only have a population of 200,000, small compared to most American cities, Tacoma has much more to offer guests and residents than the average Ontario lawyer may expect. From a sunny day on the Sound to a walk through Wright Park, there's so much to see and do in beautiful Tacoma.
Formed in the shadow of Mount Rainier, once called Mount Tacoma, the city was formed as the terminus form the Transcontinental Railroad. Through the years, Tacoma has seen it's share of ups and downs, having a particularly rough time during the mid 20th century. Today, thanks in large part to a revitalization of the downtown core that would make any architect Canada proud, the city has once again risen to prominence as one of the most livable cities in the U.S.
The rebirth of downtown started back in 1990 when the University of Washington opened a branch in Tacoma, bringing much needed revenue and youth to the city. The same year, the city undertook a restoration of Union Station. Originally founded in 1911 as the Terminus of the Northern Pacific Railway, the Station now stands stronger than a Toronto gym instructor as the heart of the city's revitalization. One of Tacoma's other historic buildings is the Pantages Theatre which, along with several other cinemas and theatres managed by the Broadway Center for the Performing Arts, make up the fabulous Theatre District.
Visitors to Tacoma should set a day aside to visit the city's Cultural District. Along with the Washington State History Museum and it's collection of regional artifacts, the newly formed Tacoma Art Museum is a great attraction for art and cultural enthusiasts alike. The Museum of Glass is a must for any visitors and easy to find, as the hot shop's steel cone is one of the city's most recognizable landmarks. Showing breathtaking glassworks from around the world, the designs at the museum will blow the minds of the smartest SR & ED developer.
Nature lovers will want to put their search for horse fencing supplies on hold and take full advantage of the variety of scenic parks and beaches around Tacoma. Scuba divers can head to Titlow Beach for a day under the waves while those who prefer the trees can check out Wapato Park and its many walking trails. For a great day out with the family, head down to Point Defiance Park and check out the Park Zoo and its wide variety of wildlife. For a relaxing day in the sun, hit up Owens Beach and spend the day in and around the water. There's much more to see and do in Tacoma, so head down and see it for yourself. |