Wright Park

A Walk Through History

Charles B. Wright and the Tacoma Land Company donated about 20 acres to the city back in 1886, and that generous gift became the foundation for what is now one of Tacoma's most cherished public spaces. Today, Wright Park spans 27 acres of urban greenspace with a story stretching nearly 140 years.

Nature's Living Museum

If you're a tree enthusiast (or even if you're not), you'll appreciate that this isn't just any park - it's a legitimate arboretum housing over 600 trees across roughly 145 different species. Many of these gentle giants have been standing watch for more than a century, representing diverse origins from North America to Europe, Asia, and South America.

As you wander the grounds, you'll notice identification plaques on many trees, revealing their species and planting dates - some going all the way back to 1895. Keep an eye out for the designated "champion" trees, which hold the distinction of being the largest of their kind.

The pond is located in the park's northwest section

Photo: Jennifer B (CC BY 2.0)

What You'll Find

At the heart of Wright Park sits a picturesque pond with a bridge and fountain, often home to ducks and the occasional sunbathing turtle. For families, there's a modern playground and a sprayground water feature that becomes a magnet for kids during those warm summer months.

Active types can make use of the basketball courts and horseshoe pits, while those seeking relaxation will find plenty of picnic areas scattered throughout - choose between sun-drenched spots or shady retreats beneath the canopy.

Don't miss the W.W. Seymour Botanical Conservatory, a Victorian-style glass structure built in 1908 and designed by architect Isaac J. Knapp - the name comes from donor William W. Seymour. Its most striking feature is a twelve-sided central dome, and the structure as a whole contains approximately 3,500 panes of glass. Step inside this tropical haven to discover exotic plants, including a remarkable lemon tree and various orchids that sometimes fill the air with subtle, sweet scents. Scattered among the displays are six sculptures by former conservator Clarence Deming, drawing on African, Maori, and Aztec traditions - easy to overlook at first, but worth pausing over as you move through.

Lush spring greenery on the park grounds

Photo: Jennifer B (CC BY 2.0)

Touches of the Past

The park holds meaningful connections to Tacoma's history. Among its historic trees stands a red oak planted in 1903 to commemorate President Theodore Roosevelt's visit to the city. History buffs might also appreciate Acicate (Spanish for "spur"), a cannon from the Spanish-American War that remains on display.

Wright Park also has a modest but interesting collection of outdoor artwork spread across the grounds. Among the pieces you might come across are a bust of Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen, two Greek maiden sculptures that locals have long nicknamed 'Annie' and 'Fannie', a work called 'Fisherman's Daughter', a piece titled 'Trilogy', and a pair of lions. They're not always prominently marked, so part of the fun is simply stumbling upon them as you explore.

W.W. Seymour Botanical Conservatory seen from the garden path

Photo: Ben Brooks (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Your Experience Here

Paved and gravel paths meander within the grounds, offering a peaceful retreat from urban life. The blend of century-old trees and open meadows creates a tranquil setting where you can often spot squirrels scampering about and various birds flitting from branch to branch.

Whether you're looking for a morning exercise route, a picnic spot, a photography location (particularly worth visiting during fall's color changes), or simply a quiet bench to gather your thoughts, Wright Park has plenty to offer. Its central location makes it easily accessible, but be aware that parking can be limited during peak times.