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Home >  United States  >  Washington  >  Tacoma  >  

Old Town Dock

Old Town Dock

United States, Washington, Tacoma 

Sandee

Old Town Dock

United States, Washington, Tacoma 

61.216

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Old Town Dock in Tacoma, Washington, is a historic waterfront area that has evolved significantly over the past century. Initially a forested shoreline, it transformed into a bustling industrial hub and is now a popular recreational space. The dock, originally built in 1873 by Morton Matthew McCarver, was a key stop for the mosquito fleet and housed several shops and a jail. Today, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views from new benches and improved lighting. The area is renowned for its seafood restaurants, reflecting the legacy of a thriving fishing community that once called Old Town home.

The Ruston Way waterfront, where Old Town Dock is located, offers a blend of history and modern amenities. It's a place where you can appreciate the past while enjoying contemporary dining and recreational activities.

The dock's proximity to Commencement Bay provides stunning views, making it a perfect spot for both locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Near Old Town Dock, there are several excellent dining options. Duke's Seafood Tacoma offers a casual setting with market-fresh seafood and cocktails. Another popular choice is Harbor Lights, known for its Northwest seafood dishes in a waterfront setting. For a more casual experience, Katie Downs Waterfront Tavern serves pizza, burgers, and seafood with sweeping ocean views. Additionally, RAM Restaurant & Brewery provides a family-friendly atmosphere with craft beers and American grub.

These restaurants offer a variety of cuisines and atmospheres, ensuring there's something for everyone near Old Town Dock.

For accommodations near Old Town Dock, the Silver Cloud Hotel - Tacoma Waterfront is a top choice. It offers airy rooms with water views, free Wi-Fi, and a complimentary breakfast. Another option is the Marriott Tacoma Downtown, featuring a polished design with a rooftop pool. For a more relaxed stay, McMenamins Elks Temple provides a unique experience with dining and a brewery on site.

These hotels cater to different preferences, from waterfront views to downtown convenience.

Old Town Dock offers several amenities for visitors. The area includes new benches and improved lighting, enhancing the overall experience. For those arriving by water, there are two slips available. However, specific amenities like restrooms or showers are not detailed in the current information. Nearby, there are plenty of dining options and shops that can provide additional services.

The dock itself is well-suited for leisurely activities, with its scenic views and proximity to other waterfront attractions.

Old Town Dock is perfect for leisure activities like kayaking or paddleboarding, thanks to its launch platforms. Visitors can also enjoy walking along the waterfront and taking in the views of Commencement Bay. The area is rich in history, making it a great spot for those interested in exploring Tacoma's maritime past.

Nearby, there are opportunities for fishing and boating, adding to the variety of activities available.

Old Town Dock provides some accessibility features, including improved lighting and new benches. However, specific details about ramps or wheelchair accessibility at the dock itself are not provided. Nearby restaurants and attractions often offer wheelchair-accessible entrances and restrooms, ensuring that visitors with disabilities can enjoy the area.

For precise information on accessibility features at the dock, it may be best to contact local authorities or visit in person.

Parking near Old Town Dock is generally accessible, with both free and paid options available in the surrounding area. However, specific details about parking capacity or fees at the dock itself are not provided. Visitors often find parking in nearby lots or on the street, which is usually plentiful.

The proximity of parking to the dock makes it convenient for visitors to access the area without much hassle.

Old Town Dock has a rich history, dating back to its construction in 1873 by Morton Matthew McCarver. It was a major stop for the mosquito fleet and played a significant role in Tacoma's fishing industry. The area is also known for its connection to Croatian immigrants who settled there and contributed to the local fishing community.

The dock has been rebuilt multiple times due to damage from natural elements, with the most recent renovation adding modern features like steel pilings.

Old Town Dock is surrounded by several attractions. The nearby Job Carr Cabin Museum offers insights into Tacoma's early history. Additionally, the waterfront area is close to other scenic spots like Point Defiance Park and the Tacoma Narrows. The dock itself is a notable attraction, with its historical significance and beautiful views.

Visitors can also explore the nearby shops and restaurants along Ruston Way, enhancing their overall experience.

Basic Details

INRestroom Available

INBrown

IN2198-2192 Ruston Way, Tacoma, WA 98402, USA

Know Before You Go

Amenities

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesATM

  • Barbecue

  • Boat Ramp

  • Dogs

  • Entry Fee

  • Fire Pits

  • Hidden

  • Lifeguard

  • Marine Life

  • Pier

  • Playground

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesRestrooms

  • Shops

  • Showers

  • WiFi

  • Picnic Table

  • Activities

  • Bike Paths

  • Camping

  • Clubs Party Scene

  • Fishing

  • Hiking

  • Nude

  • Paddle boarding

  • Scuba Diving

  • Snorkeling

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesSurfing

  • Tours

  • Volleyball

  • Cave

  • Rentals

  • ATV

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesBikes

  • Boat

  • Fishing Boats

  • Jet Skiing

  • Kayaking Canoeing

  • Chair Rentals

  • Sailing

  • Speed Boats

  • Umbrella Rental

  • Waterskiing

  • Windsurfing

  • Yachts

  • Food

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesBars

  • Food Snacks

  • Local Beach Vendor

  • Lounge

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesRestaurants

  • Access

  • Bike Racks

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesCar Access

  • Disabled Access

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesFoot Access

  • Parking - Free

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesParking - Paid

  • Parking - RV Parking

  • Parking - Street

  • Public Bus Stop

  • Stairs to Beach

  • Boat Access

  • Features

  • Blue Flag

  • Jellyfish

  • Pebbles

  • Riptide

  • Rocky

  • Sharks

  • LGBTQ+

  • Old Town Dock - Beach Map

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Surf through our FAQs to help you find your perfect beach!

    Does Old Town Dock have parking? If so, is it free or paid?

    No, this Beach does not have dedicated parking but has street parking near the entrance.

    Does Old Town Dock have lifeguards?

    No, this Beach does not have lifeguards monitoring the beach - please be careful when swimming on this beach.

    Is Old Town Dock a family-friendly beach?

    No, this Beach is not family-friendly and does not have restrooms, lifeguards, and nearby food.

    Is Old Town Dock good for swimming?

    Yes, this Beach boasts excellent swimming conditions, attracting swimmers of all skill levels with its gentle waves and clear waters.

    Does Old Town Dock have restrooms?

    Yes, Restrooms are conveniently available on or adjacent to the beach at this Beach.

    Is Old Town Dock a nude beach?

    No, this Beach maintains a family-friendly atmosphere and does not allow nude bathing.

    Is there food near Old Town Dock?

    Yes, this Beach has multiple restaurant options near or on the beach.

    What are the activities at Old Town Dock?

    Yes, this Beach is a good place to Surfing

    Does Old Town Dock have accommodations for people with disabilities?

    No, this Beach does not have accommodations for people with disabilities.

    Is Old Town Dock a dog-friendly beach?

    Yes, bring your dog with you to this Beach!

    Is Old Town Dock good for surfing?

    Yes, surfing is an activity that is frequently enjoyed at this Beach.

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