Voted one of America's 30 most livable cities in 2004, Tacoma is located on the shores of Commencement Bay, 36 miles South of Seattle. Nicknamed "The City of Destiny," Tacoma has grown steadily in recent years, following a revitalization of its historic downtown, and the establishment of a thriving Cultural District, with a number of museums, galleries, and live music venues. Tacoma's growing arts scene offers an interesting contrast to the blue collar industrial economy of shipping and paper manufacturing which traditionally shaped the city.
The seat of Pierce County, Tacoma was first settled by Americans in the 1850s as the site of a sawmill, and was later selected as the western terminus of the Northern Pacific Railroad. Its rail heritage is apparent today in the form of an extensive commuter rail and light rail public transport system. Today, Tacoma is a vital stop along the Interstate 5 Highway, running from Seattle to Los Angeles, and the third largest city in Washington State.
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Tacoma is renowned for its natural beauty, and features stunning Mount Rainier as its backdrop, which is also the source of its city name - "Tacoma" is derived from the indigenous "tacobet," meaning "mother of waters." Tacoma's lush rain coast setting also features well-known nature spots like Commencement Bay, Browns Point, Vashon Island, Gig Harbor, and The Narrows, making it easy to find a Tacoma home with a view. Within the city, residents enjoy one of the largest urban parks in the nation, Point Defiance Park, which includes a number of attractions along a scenic five mile drive. Other popular recreation spots in Tacoma include Wapato Park in the city's south end, Titlow Beach, a popular scuba diving area, and Wright Park, an English-style green belt dating back to the 1880s.
The Old Town district's tree lined streets and established neighborhoods appeal to those who prefer just a little more space, but still want to live right in the middle of the action. Old Town Real Estate is primarily made up of beautiful turn of the century Victorian homes. Investors have been busily rehabbing homes in this area for the last decade, and their hard work has brought Old Town back to its original glory. Views of the Puget Sound, Commencement Bay and the Olympics are common from many of these Victorians.
With a strong public infrastructure, growing local economy, and unbeatable natural beauty, Tacoma real estate has become one of the hottest housing markets in the Northwest. Contact a top Tacoma real estate agent for more information on Tacoma, Washington real estate, or to set up a home showing today!