Browns Point Lighthouse Park

On a picturesque point washed by the waters of Puget Sound lies Browns Point Lighthouse Park — a unique place where maritime history meets natural serenity. This public park of about 7 acres (3 hectares) is located in the city of Tacoma and is one of the gems of Washington state in the USA.

The main highlight of the park is the active Browns Point Light, built in 1933. Its white concrete tower, designed in an elegant Art Deco style, still helps vessels navigate the entrance to Commencement Bay. In addition to the lighthouse itself, a whole complex of historic buildings has been preserved here: the keeper's cottage, an oil house, and an old boathouse, which now houses a museum.

The park is listed on the US National Register of Historic Places and offers guests not only educational walks but also magnificent panoramic views of the water and the distant city skyline. It is an ideal space for those seeking inspiration in maritime romance and early 20th-century architecture.

To check for information regarding events and museum operations, you can use the official contact details of the managing organization.

Everyone will find something to enjoy in the park: from peaceful walks to exploring rare historical artifacts. The main draw for visitors is, of course, the lighthouse itself and the adjacent beach. During the warmer months, you can often see people practicing outdoor yoga on the well-kept lawns or enjoying cozy picnics with a view of the passing ships.

Be sure to stop by the boathouse, which the historical society has transformed into a museum. Its crown jewel is a handcrafted, detailed replica of an early 20th-century Coast Guard surfboat. Inside the museum, you can immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the first keepers' lives and learn how maritime safety was ensured in these foggy waters over a hundred years ago.

Nature lovers should visit the gardens surrounding the keeper's cottage. They were established at the beginning of the last century by Annie Brown, the wife of the first keeper, and still retain their charm. Additionally, the park is an excellent spot for birdwatching and capturing panoramic sunset photos of the bay as Tacoma's lights begin to reflect in the water.

The easiest way to reach this scenic corner on the outskirts of Tacoma is by car. The drive from the city center takes about 15–20 minutes. You should follow WA-509 S or SR-167 S to the intersection with Dash Point Rd, and then turn onto NE Tulalip St. Free parking is available for visitors on the park grounds.

If you prefer public transportation, you can use Pierce Transit buses. Routes #57 and #100 will take you to a stop near Dash Point, from which the lighthouse is a 10–15 minute walk. This is a great opportunity to stroll through a quiet residential neighborhood and enjoy the sea air.

For outdoor enthusiasts, scenic bicycle paths lead to the park, stretching along Puget Sound. During the summer season, it is also worth checking for water taxis or pleasure boats that occasionally run from downtown Tacoma towards the point.

The history of this site began in 1887, when a simple lantern on a 12-foot post was installed on Browns Point, which was then part of a reservation. It was vital for marking a dangerous sandbar for ships entering Commencement Bay. In 1901, the US government purchased the land, and just two years later, a wooden tower with a fog bell was erected.

The most vibrant period in the park's history is associated with keeper Oscar Brown and his wife Annie. Legend has it that when they arrived at their post on the tender Heather, their cow and horse had to be lowered into the water in special slings, and the animals swam to shore. The Brown family turned the rugged lighthouse station into a true cultural hub: Oscar gave piano lessons, while Annie planted magnificent gardens that still delight visitors today.

The current Art Deco style lighthouse building was completed in 1933. This concrete beauty, standing nearly 12 meters tall, was designed by US Army engineers. Interestingly, the old wooden structure was demolished, and the new lighthouse was dedicated to the memory of Captain George Vancouver, who explored these waters back in 1792.

In 1963, the lighthouse was fully automated, and the constant presence of keepers was no longer required. Since 1964, the territory has been managed by Metro Parks Tacoma. Today, the historic buildings, including the keeper's cottage and the boathouse, have been carefully restored and are recognized as national heritage sites.

To take a leisurely stroll through the grounds, admire the lighthouse's architecture, and enjoy the bay views, 1 to 1.5 hours is sufficient for most visitors. This is plenty of time for a series of beautiful photos and a short walk along the beach.

If you plan to visit the boathouse museum, look inside the keeper's cottage during a tour, or have a family picnic on the grass, you should allow about 3 hours for your visit. The park's atmosphere encourages long contemplation, so many people come here for half a day to wait for the sunset.

For those who are short on time and simply want to capture some striking shots of the lighthouse against the water, 30–40 minutes of active exploration will be enough.

Browns Point Lighthouse Park is open to the public daily, making it accessible for both early morning walks and evening sunset viewing. Official grounds hours are:

• Monday – Sunday: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

Please note that access inside the historic buildings and the boathouse museum is limited and typically only possible during special tours conducted by the Historical Society during the summer season. It is recommended to check the museum schedule on-site or on the official website before your visit.

Exploring the area around Browns Point can significantly enrich your trip. The Puget Sound region is famous for its maritime landscapes and historical landmarks, many of which are just a few minutes' drive from the lighthouse.

Below are interesting nearby sites to include in your itinerary: