Tacoma : Washington

Tacoma is situated on Commencement Bay, an inlet of Puget Sound at the foot of Mt. Rainier in the Puyallup River valley. It is bordered by mountains. Tacoma derives its name from the Native American word "Tahoma," meaning "Mother of the Waters," referring to the shadow of Mt. Rainier that looms over the city. You can view the exquisite Cascade Range and Olympic Mountains from Tacoma. Its deep water habor has played a crucial role in Tacoma’s economy.  In 2004 Partners for Livable Communities named the Tacoma and Pierce County area one of "America's Most Livable Communities."

The climate is quite mild throughout the year with a summer high of 65.4° F and a January high of 40.8° F.

Area: 50 square miles (2000)

Elevation: 380 feet above sea level

Latitude: 47.24 N

Longitude: 122.46 W

Average Annual Precipitation: 39.2 inches

Population: 195,898 as on 2005

Attractions

    * Point Defiance Park
    * Narrows Bridge
    * Wright Park
    * Mt. Rainier National Park
    * Kopachuck State Park
    * Penrose Point State Park

Festivals

    * Home and Garden Show
    * Palmer/Wirfs Antique Show
    * the Northwest Bridal Expo
    * Annual Daffodil Festival
    * Wintergrass Bluegrass Festival
    * Spring Barrel Wine Tasting Tour
    * Western Washington Fair
    * Oktoberfest
    * Puyallup Canine Fest
    * Downtown Tacoma Tree Lighting Ceremony