Thea's Park

If you are looking for a quiet spot with scenic views, look no further than Thea's Park — a gem on the waterfront of Tacoma. This cozy public space, covering about 1.9 hectares, is located right on the shores of Commencement Bay. The park is a shining example of how the USA transforms industrial zones into magnificent recreational areas for residents and tourists.

The park is famous for its panoramic views: from here, you can admire the majestic Mount Rainier, the Olympic Mountains, and the shimmering waters of Puget Sound. It was named in honor of Thea Brown, a local philanthropist whose contribution to the creation of this green oasis is hard to overstate.

Here, well-kept lawns and vibrant flower beds harmonize with elements of Chinese culture, reflecting the city's multifaceted history. The peaceful atmosphere, complemented by the sound of the water and elegant sculptures, makes Thea's Park an ideal place for those who appreciate aesthetics and tranquility.

For planning your visit to Thea's Park, it's helpful to have current contact information on hand. Below are the key details to help you find your way and contact the Metro Parks Tacoma administration if needed.

At Thea's Park, everyone will find something to enjoy. Fans of relaxing leisure can enjoy walking along the well-maintained paths or arranging a cozy picnic on the soft green lawns. This spot is considered one of the best in the city for watching sunsets, when the sun's rays beautifully illuminate the bay and the silhouettes of the mountains.

Special attention should be paid to exploring the grounds: you can see elements of a Chinese garden, including elegant arches and water cascades that add an exotic flair to the park. Benches and interactive sculptures are placed throughout the area, serving as great backdrops for photos and telling the story of Tacoma.

For active visitors, the park offers space for yoga or meditation by the fountains. During the summer months, free concerts and open-air cultural events are often held here. Additionally, the proximity to the water allows for birdwatching and observing ship traffic in the bay, making a visit to the park engaging even for a short break during a city walk.

Getting to Thea's Park, located at 535 Dock St, is straightforward. If you are traveling by car, take I-5 to the City Center exit and then head toward Dock Street. There are parking spaces near the park, and the terms of use (paid or free) depend on the time of your visit.

For those who prefer public transportation, the Pierce Transit bus network (routes #1, 3, and 57) is a good option. You will need to get off at the stop near the Convention Center, from where the park entrance is a 5–10 minute walk. If you are already downtown, a stroll from iconic spots like the Museum of Glass will take about 10–15 minutes.

Tourists arriving from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (Sea-Tac) can use taxi or Uber services. The trip takes about 45 minutes and costs approximately 50–70 USD. The waterfront is also equipped with convenient paths, making the location easily accessible for cycling enthusiasts.

The history of Thea's Park is closely linked to an initiative to transform the city's image. The park was officially opened in 1995 and named after Thea Brown — a prominent Tacoma resident and philanthropist who actively campaigned for the preservation of green zones and the development of public spaces.

The idea for this site emerged in the 1980s as part of a large-scale effort to revitalize the waterfront. Thanks to Brown's efforts, a derelict industrial area was transformed into an attractive recreational space. The park reflects Tacoma's history as a port city on Puget Sound, recalling the times when the development of the railroad brought economic prosperity to the region.

The elements of the Chinese garden integrated into the landscape are particularly significant. They serve as a tribute to the city's Chinese community, which made an enormous contribution to its development at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, the park symbolizes cultural diversity and the successful transformation of an industrial center into a modern tourist hub.

The development of the area continued into the 2000s, with new sculptures added and infrastructure improved. This highlights the city's commitment to maintaining a balance between historical heritage and comfort for future generations.

Typically, 1–2 hours is enough for a full experience at Thea's Park. This allows enough time for a leisurely stroll along the paths, viewing the art installations, and taking a few memorable photos against the backdrop of the bay.

If you plan to have a picnic on the lawn, practice yoga, or simply sit by the water with a book for a while, you should budget up to 3 hours. A visit here is also easily combined with a longer excursion along the entire Tacoma waterfront.

Thea's Park is open to visitors daily from 06:30 AM to 06:00 PM. The schedule remains the same throughout the week, including weekends and holidays, allowing you to plan your visit for either the early morning or the pre-sunset hours.

Please note that operating hours may change depending on the season or local events. Before visiting, it is recommended to check the current information on the park's official website.

Exploring the area around Thea's Park can significantly enrich your travel experience. Its location in the historical waterfront district allows for easy access to other iconic city landmarks, each with its own unique story.