Arts and Culture

There’s a reason why Tacoma ranks as one of the most artistic cities in America. Initiatives like ArtFull Tacoma have stepped up the region’s investment in burgeoning art institutions and projects. These investments add to the rich history of art in Tacoma-Pierce County. Tacoma Arts Commission is one of the oldest art commissions in Washington State, and currently supports underrepresented communities to grow the reach and diversity of local arts. Other organizations like Spaceworks Tacoma, the Arts & Culture Coalition of Pierce County, Tacoma Creates and the statewide ArtsFund provide a firm foundation for our region’s artistic talent to thrive.

From modern art and exquisite glass to automobiles and maritime history, Tacoma-Pierce County’s museums offer a window into countless worlds. Looking to peruse some of the finest collections of art in Washington State? Check out Tacoma Art Museum, Museum of Glass and Chihuly Bridge of Glass. Aiming for a unique experience that can keep the whole family occupied? Tacoma-Pierce County is home to Lemay – America’s Car Museum, Shanaman Sports Museum, Children’s Museum of Tacoma, Hands On Children’s Museum, Pioneer Farm Museum and Lemay Collections at Marymount. In the mood to soak up some local history? Washington State History Museum, DuPont Historical Museum, Lakewood History Museum and Fort Nisqually Living History Museum have you covered.

The performing arts are alive and well in Tacoma-Pierce County, anchored by Tacoma’s world-class theater district. As one of the largest performing arts complexes in the Pacific Northwest, Tacoma Arts Live presents year-round entertainment at three theaters: Pantages, Rialto and Theatre on the Square. Other top-notch venues and organizations include Tacoma Dome, Dance Theater Northwest, Lakewood Playhouse, Northwest Sinfonietta, Tacoma City Ballet, Tacoma Concert Band, Tacoma Little Theater, Tacoma Musical Playhouse, Tacoma Opera, Tacoma Philharmonic, Symphony Tacoma, the Grand Cinema and Theater Puget Sound. Ballets, symphonies, musicals, live comedy, concert bands, popular music – you name it; there’s a show to catch no matter where you go in Tacoma-Pierce County.