Steilacoom, WA
Steilacoom, Washington
Incorporated back in 1854, Steilacoom is the first official city in what is now Washington state. The city has multiple buildings that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This includes the oldest Catholic Church in the state, the first school in Pierce County, and the very first public library in Washington.
There are over 6,000 people living in Steilacoom, and about 3,000 households. The public schools in the city are operated by the Steilacoom Historical School District which was established the same year the city was incorporated. The schools district consists of 1 high school, 1 middle school, and 4 elementary schools.
Steilacoom has also become a community for soldiers that are stationed at Joint Base Lewis-McChord. Some of the people stationed here also attend the Pierce College campus on the base. Military veterans take up about 15% of the population.
Sunnyside Beach Park
This beachfront park is one of only two parks in the city that has access to the bay with over 1,400 feet of shoreline. There are spectacular views of the Puget Sound and the Tacoma Narrows Bridge from this location. There are benches and picnic tables scattered throughout the park, as well as BBQ grills, children’s playgrounds, and public restrooms.
This park is also a great beginner site for scuba divers to practice due to the lack of protruding objects and the easy entry to the water. There are gorgeous trails spread around the park, a volleyball court, and a food vendor open during the summers; the Sugar Shack sells cold treats, drinks and snacks during the weekends.
Steilacoom Historical Museum
The Steilacoom Historical Museum Association has worked very hard over the last 40 years to help preserve the history and culture of the town of Steilacoom. It was incorporated in 1970 and many popular events are hosted here such as the Salmon Bake which first began in 1971, and the Apple Squeeze which has been around since 1973. Other events that have been added since include Steilacoom Dines Out, Christmas at the Orr Home, Magical Night at the Wagon Shop, the Fourth of July Ice Cream Social, Silent Movie Night, and the Chili Cook-off.
Topside Bar & Grill
Topside Bar & Grill is a family-owned restaurant located in the heart of the town. They offer an appetizing menu that features delicious burgers, seafood, steaks, and more. There is a cozy dining room, a full bar with a large selection of craft beers, and a huge patio with amazing views of the Sound. Banquet rooms are available to rent for private parties and events. Topside also provides its early-rising patrons with warm beverages and fresh baked goods from the Coffee Cabin which is open every day until 11:00 a.m.
Farrell's Marsh Wildlife Area
This heavily wooded park is a popular destination for school field trips, boy and girl scouts, walkers, joggers, and bicyclists. The land has about 3,500 feet of fresh-water shoreline, as well as walking trails and a log foot bridge. You are likely to see several different bird species that call the marsh their home such as blue herons and kingfishers. Residents of Steilacoom regularly visit the area for the annual blackberry harvest.
