Tacoma Live Cam

Ideally located along the saltwater banks of Puget Sound

Live Webcam Narrows Marina, Tacoma, Washington - United States

History

Tacoma is a city located in the state of Washington, in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. The area that is now Tacoma was originally inhabited by several Native American tribes, including the Puyallup, Nisqually, and Squaxin Island tribes.

In 1852, a trading post was established in the area by a man named Job Carr, and other settlers soon followed. The town of Tacoma was officially incorporated in 1875, and by the late 1800s, it had become a major center for the lumber industry, with several sawmills and shipping ports located in the area.

In the early 1900s, Tacoma experienced a period of rapid growth and development, with the construction of several major buildings and infrastructure projects, including the Tacoma Dome, the Murray Morgan Bridge, and the Tacoma Narrows Bridge. However, the city also faced significant challenges during this time, including labor unrest, racial tensions, and environmental issues related to the local pulp and paper mills.

Today, Tacoma is a thriving city with a diverse economy, including major industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and technology. The city is also known for its cultural attractions, such as the Museum of Glass and the Tacoma Art Museum, as well as its natural beauty, with several parks and beaches located within its boundaries.

Top Tourist Attractions

  • Point Defiance Park: This 700-acre park is home to a zoo and aquarium, botanical gardens, a beach, hiking trails, and stunning views of Puget Sound.
  • Museum of Glass: This museum showcases the art and history of glassmaking, with a collection of contemporary glass art, live glassblowing demonstrations, and a glass bridge that spans the Thea Foss Waterway.
  • Tacoma Art Museum: This museum features a collection of more than 5,000 works of art, with a focus on Northwest artists and Native American art.
  • Tacoma Narrows Bridge: This iconic suspension bridge spans the Tacoma Narrows and offers breathtaking views of the Puget Sound and surrounding mountains.
  • LeMay - America's Car Museum: This museum is home to over 300 vintage and classic cars, as well as exhibits on the history of automobiles and their impact on American culture.
  • Foss Waterway Seaport: This maritime museum celebrates the history and culture of the Puget Sound, with exhibits on fishing, shipping, and boatbuilding.
  • Washington State History Museum: This museum explores the history of Washington State, with exhibits on Native American culture, early explorers and settlers, and the state's role in the aerospace industry.
  • Ruston Way: This scenic waterfront promenade features stunning views of Commencement Bay, as well as parks, beaches, and restaurants.
  • Fort Nisqually Living History Museum: This reconstructed 19th-century fort offers a glimpse into life in the Pacific Northwest during the fur trade era.
  • Chihuly Bridge of Glass: This pedestrian bridge features a stunning display of glass sculptures by renowned artist Dale Chihuly, with views of the Museum of Glass and the Thea Foss Waterway.

Climate

Tacoma has a marine west coast climate, also known as an oceanic climate, with mild, wet winters and cool, dry summers. The average temperature in Tacoma ranges from around 40°F (4°C) in the winter months to around 70°F (21°C) in the summer months.

The city receives abundant rainfall throughout the year, with an average of around 40 inches (1016 mm) annually. The wettest months are typically November through January, while the driest months are July and August.

Due to its proximity to the water, Tacoma experiences relatively mild temperatures year-round, with fewer extreme weather events than many other parts of the country. However, occasional winter storms can bring snow and ice to the area, and strong winds can occur during the fall and winter months.

Geography

Tacoma is located in the state of Washington in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. The city is situated on the shores of Commencement Bay, which is an arm of Puget Sound. The city covers an area of around 62 square miles (160 square kilometers), with a population of over 200,000 people.

Tacoma is located approximately 30 miles (48 kilometers) south of Seattle, and is part of the greater Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue metropolitan area. The city is surrounded by several other municipalities, including Lakewood to the south, Puyallup to the east, and Federal Way to the north.

The terrain in and around Tacoma is characterized by a mix of hills, valleys, and waterways. The highest point in the city is McKinley Hill, which rises to an elevation of around 530 feet (162 meters) above sea level. Other notable landmarks in the area include Mount Rainier, which is located around 40 miles (64 kilometers) southeast of the city, and the Tacoma Dome, a large indoor arena located in the heart of downtown Tacoma.