5 Fun Facts About Tacoma: How Well Do You Know Your City?

Tacoma is a bustling port city situated along the Puget Sound. From Tacoma’s historic neighborhoods to its thriving arts scene, Tacoma is a city with a unique personality and charm that sets it apart from other cities in the Pacific Northwest. If you’ve just moved to the area and want to get to know your new city a bit better, you’ve come to the right place – here are a few fun facts about Tacoma, WA.

1. Tacoma is home to one of the largest ports in the U.S.

While it’s no secret that Tacoma is a prominent port city in the PNW, it may surprise you how large it actually is. Covering more than 2,400 acres, the Port of Tacoma has the Port of Seattle beat, which covers over 500 acres. 

2. The city is well-known for its world-renowned glass art

There are two museums dedicated to glass art here, the Museum of Glass and the Tacoma Art Museum which has a large collection of glass art that is continuously growing. You’ll also find the Chihuly Bridge of Glass that connects the two museums and features over 2,000 pieces within three installations. 

3. Tacoma means “Mother of the Waters”

This is a very fitting name for a city that’s located along the Puget Sound.

4. Union Station was designed by the same architectural firm as New York’s Grand Central Station

Both Grand Central Station, also called Grand Central Terminal, and Union Station here in Tacoma, WA were designed by Reed & Stem around the same time. Union Station opened in 1911 and Grand Central Station opened in 1913.

5. Stadium High School was intended to be a luxury hotel

Stadium High School is a local landmark that overlooks the stunning waterfront. It’s most famously known for its appearance in the film 10 Things I Hate About You.