Stadium High School is the most iconic feature of the Tacoma Stadium District. Small in size, but big on character, this part of town is sandwiched between downtown and a beautiful residential area called North Slope.
Overview:
Tacoma Stadium District is highlighted by one spectacular high school, a very cool church, and several restaurants. This is not really the place to go to spend the day, but if you live nearby, Stadium can be a good spot for lunch, dinner, a drink, or to pick up a few groceries.
Stadium High School is what this district is named after and whether you live nearby or not, this landmark is worth a look. Originally built in 1891, Stadium High was originally intended to be a hotel—hence its absolutely fabulous location overlooking the Puget Sound. It’s not usually possible to go inside the school as it is a public school, but checking out its French chateau style and taking a peek into the iconic Stadium Bowl (the school’s stadium) are always possible. The school was featured in the movie Ten Things I Hate About You.
Boundaries:
Tacoma Stadium District is located between North 4th and South 4th Streets and also between Stadium Way to North J Street.
Transportation:
Pierce Transit bus routes: 11, 13, 16
Apartments and Real Estate:
A number of very reasonably priced apartments are available in the Stadium District. Generally, expect smaller square footage than you’d find in a complex as apartments here are in older buildings. Some are renovated and very attractive, as well as quite pricey for their size. Finding a one-bedroom or studio for about $500 is also quite possible.
Real estate in the Stadium District is not quite as reasonable, but the homes that are here are generally upscale. A few condo buildings are located on Stadium Way and sell into the millions for their impressive views.
Restaurants:
There are a number of options for Stadium District restaurants, as well as a few tea houses and a Tully’s coffee shop. For more options, head toward downtown Tacoma, 6th Avenue, or Proctor—all within a mile or two.
Frisko Freeze: A landmark restaurant in Tacoma. There is no sit-down dining room here, but you will find some of the most popular burgers and fries in town. 1201 Division Avenue.
Doyles Public House: An Irish pub with sandwiches, salads, and 12 beers on tap. 208 St Helens Avenue.
Harvester: Down-home food in a casual atmosphere. 29 Tacoma Avenue N.
Hob Nob: One of the best places to get breakfast in Tacoma and also good for other meals throughout the day. 716 6th Avenue.
Parkway Tavern: Has an outdoor seating area great in the summer as well as an impressive selection of beers on tap. 313 N I Street.
The Hub: Perfect as a hang out or a casual evening out with a nice selection of food and beer. 203 Tacoma Avenue S.
Infinite Soups: With a mind-boggling range of soups that change every day, including vegetarian options, Infinite Soups is one of the most unique restaurants in the area and in Tacoma. 445 Tacoma Avenue S.
Attractions and Things to Do:
Major landmarks include noticeable buildings Stadium High School and First Presbyterian Church. It’s easy to work viewing these into your exploration of this area. The best attractions here are the restaurants and many small businesses and stores.
Ranko’s Drugstore has been in this location since the 1930s and frequently makes the list of Tacoma’s best gift stores and pharmacies. It’s hard to beat the homey charm and awesome customer service here. Other cool gift stores like Calla Lilly are also worth checking out.
A unique attraction in Tacoma overall is located next to Wright Park—the Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum, which is part of the largest private document library system in the world. Check out traveling document exhibits as well as permanent holdings, always for free.
There are a number of spas and salons here, too, and King’s Books—one of the best private bookstores in Tacoma.
Events:
Stadium District events are held periodically throughout the year. The annual Dickens Festival is a charming thing to do during the holiday season, complete with horse and carriage rides. For Halloween, Street of Treats opens up the area businesses to trick or treaters. The Art and Wine Walk, also usually in October, is a fun event for wine lovers. Many businesses offer different types of wines and snacks for one upfront fee. All events here are mostly outdoors so be prepared if the weather is rainy.