Stadium District

Home to landmark buildings, longstanding restaurants, and plenty of historic homes, the Stadium District pays homage to Tacoma's rich history while making room for its bright future. Nestled between Downtown Tacoma and the North End, this neighborhood offers proximity to much of the city. "This neighborhood is truly walkable," says realtor Pamela Davison with Redfin Real Estate, "You won't even need a car, as the Stadium District is close to Tacoma's public transportation."

Walkability is crucial for many home buyers who move to the Stadium District. The sidewalk-paved streets are lined with oak, walnut and maple trees, making autumn walks full of beautiful colors. In addition, most homes in the area have manicured lawns lined with rhododendron and hydrangea, maintaining the neighborhood's beauty. Adjacent to the historic Yakima Hill community, homes range in style, reflecting the district’s historic presence. You'll find cozy cottages drawing from Craftsman and Tudor Styles alongside Queen Anne, Colonial, Cape Cod and Victorian estates.

There are also condos in the Stadium District, with many offering views of Commencement Bay. Condos offer luxury amenities like chef's kitchens with quartz countertops and large living rooms with fireplaces. Homes in the Stadium District vary, with condos costing $300,000 and estates averaging $1 million to $ 4 million.

One of the neighborhood's landmark buildings is Stadium High School, located close to the waterfront. Built to resemble a French country estate, this high school serves many of the area's students and was a filming location for the movie 10 Things I Hate About You. The school is also known for its bowl-shaped stadium overlooking the bay, where Stadium High's noteworthy football and track programs hold their games. Rated above average for test scores and college readiness by Great Schools, students here can prepare for college with the school’s Advanced Placement and Dual Enrollment programs. Students also attend schools such as Hilltop Heritage Middle School, which partners with Club Beyond to offer nearly a dozen extra-curricular clubs. McCarver Elementary School serves Kindergarten through fifth grade, supporting students with free 24/7 online tutoring.

There are plenty of places to get out and enjoy the outdoors in the Stadium District, such as Garfield Park. Here, you'll find a children's play area, a grassy lawn for soccer and Garfield Gulch. This large nature preserve has trails under canopies of evergreen trees, making it feel like you're on a weekend hiking trip, not in the middle of your neighborhood. When you're looking for waterfront relaxation, check out Thea's Park. This casual park on Commencement Bay is perfect for dog walking and people-watching while you enjoy the sunset.

Another huge draw to the community is Wright Park. This public green space encompasses an arboretum where you can walk or hike through mossy woodland. There's also an athletic area, a kids' play area and a spray park where kids can cool off during the warmer months. Wright Park is also home to a beautiful Victorian-style greenhouse. Spend a rainy afternoon in the warm greenhouse while you stroll through the exotic plant exhibits.

In the Stadium District, several shops and restaurants have served the neighborhood for decades. Ranko's Pharmacy is one of these longstanding places, offering pharmacy and postal services for 85 years. The colorful exterior and large sign will take you back in time as you step through the pharmacy's doors. You can also get a retro feel at Parkway Tavern, a neighborhood watering hole that opened its doors in 1935. Parkway Tavern has been an almost-century-old favorite for drinks and pub grub with its bright neon sign and its wood-paneled walls with wooden draft taps.

Frisko Freeze is another retro landmark in the neighborhood. In business since 1950, this throwback joint has been dishing up burgers, fries and malts from its drive thru. If you need a morning pick-me-up, visit another fun neighborhood hangout, Cosmonaut Coffee. Start your day at the colorful, quirky coffee shop with a handmade espresso drink and local pastry.

Stadium District also overlaps Downtown Tacoma's Theater District, including Tacoma Little Theater. Started in 1918, this community theater regularly puts on plays and musicals throughout the year. It also offers classes where you can make your stage dreams come true. Nearby, Tacoma Comedy Club is a 21+ venue where you can laugh all night at the big name and local acts. The Club also offers trivia, boozy brunches and other community events.

With its historic homes, gorgeous green spaces, local landmarks and proximity to nearly everything Tacoma offers, the Stadium District remains one of Tacoma's favorite neighborhoods.

Written By

Micaela Green

Photography Contributed By

Adam Michaud

Video By

Adam Barkley