Garfield Park

Park Overview

Found in Tacoma's North End neighborhood, Garfield Park is a charming 5-acre community space with a bit of history behind it. Dating back to the early 20th century (with the first pieces of land acquired in 1912 and more added through 1927), this cozy park has become a treasured hangout for locals seeking a peaceful escape from city life. It's tucked away in a residential area, offering a quiet retreat from busier parts of the city.

Amenities and Features

The park offers a nice blend of open green spaces and recreational spots to keep you active. If you're looking to get your steps in, there's an outer track measuring 1,391.7 feet (just over a quarter mile or 424 meters) - excellent for a casual stroll or your morning jog routine.

For sports lovers, the main field area houses a baseball field and soccer goals, while a basketball hoop stands ready for anyone wanting to practice their jump shot or play a quick pickup game.

Playground

Kids haven't been forgotten here! The park features a modest but well-kept playground with clean, safe equipment that's particularly great for the younger crowd. If you have toddlers or elementary-aged children, this spot makes for an ideal mid-day adventure without overwhelming them with too much stimulation.

Natural Areas

One of the park's special features is Garfield Gulch, a more natural, wooded section that offers a refreshing contrast to the manicured lawns. A pleasant walking trail winds down into the gulch, giving you a mini nature retreat without having to leave the city. It's this mix of landscaped park areas and wilder spaces that gives Garfield Park its unique character despite its relatively small urban footprint.

Dog-Friendly

While you'll certainly spot plenty of local dog owners out walking their furry friends here, note that this isn't an off-leash dog park. Your four-legged companions need to stay on leash throughout your visit - it's both a city regulation and a courtesy that helps maintain the field's quality and ensures everyone feels safe. The large grassy area makes for a pleasant dog-walking experience, just remember to bring that leash!

Park Management

In an interesting community partnership, Annie Wright School nearby helps with park upkeep - handling everything from picking up litter to mowing the lawn and maintaining the courts. In return, the school gets first dibs on using the field for PE classes and sports activities. It's a practical arrangement that benefits both the park and local students.

Visitor Information

A couple of practical things to know before you visit: there aren't any public restrooms here, and you won't find a dedicated parking lot. You'll need to find street parking in the surrounding neighborhood, which is usually not too difficult. The park's somewhat hidden location in a residential pocket of Tacoma makes it ideal for those quiet moments - no matter if you're looking to read a book under a tree or simply enjoy some peaceful outdoor time away from the hustle and bustle.