Fireman's Park

A Glimpse into History

The ground where Fireman's Park now stands at the intersection of South 9th Street and A Street in downtown Tacoma was once home to Engine House #6, which operated from 1890 until its demolition in 1974, when the area was transformed into the park we know today. Small as it is, this urban green space carries a rich backstory.

What You'll Find

The park once showcased a historic totem pole that caught many a visitor's eye. In a thoughtful move reflecting cultural sensitivity, this focal point was later removed during restoration work out of respect for the Puyallup Tribe, acknowledging the sacred significance of totem poles in Native American traditions.

The Murray Morgan Bridge frames a view of Mount Rainier rising in the distance

Photo: SounderBruce (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Impressive Views

Perched on a bluff overlooking Commencement Bay, this little park offers excellent scenery. You can enjoy sweeping 180-degree panoramas of the busy Port of Tacoma and the Thea Foss Waterway stretching below. On those gloriously clear Pacific Northwest days, Mount Rainier makes a majestic appearance in the distance. Don't forget to take in the Cascade Mountains and the historic Murray Morgan Memorial Bridge while you're soaking up the view.

Looking north over the Thea Foss Waterway from the park's elevated position

Photo: SounderBruce (CC BY-SA 2.0)

A Downtown Oasis

What Fireman's Park lacks in size, it makes up for in tranquility. This pocket of calm in the heart of Tacoma offers a perfect spot to pause, breathe, and appreciate the surroundings away from the urban hustle. Its central location makes it an easy stop while exploring downtown.

The grassy areas provide space for kids to stretch their legs, making it a nice family-friendly pitstop. And if you can time your visit for sunset, you're in for a special treat - the fading light dancing across the water creates a peaceful end to any day in Tacoma.