North Slope Historic District
A picturesque North Tacoma neighborhood renowned for its stunning Victorian and Craftsman historic homes, offering charming streets and a strong sense...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Pleasant weather for walking
North Slope Historic District
Best Time
Pleasant weather for walking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque North Tacoma neighborhood renowned for its stunning Victorian and Craftsman historic homes, offering charming streets and a strong sense of community.
"A lovely and vibrant neighborhood with beautiful homes and a great sense of community."
Respect Private Property
Most homes are privately owned. Admire the architecture from the street and be mindful of residents' privacy. :housewithgarden:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The neighborhood has some hills, so comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Victorian & Craftsman Architecture
Throughout the district
Marvel at beautifully preserved Victorian, Tudor, and Craftsman homes, showcasing intricate details and timeless elegance.
Streetscape Strolls
Residential streets
Wander tree-lined streets and discover hidden architectural gems, many with stunning views of Commencement Bay.
Local Parks & Green Spaces
Various pocket parks
Enjoy small, charming neighborhood parks offering playgrounds and green spaces for a relaxing break.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Historic Charm
Navigating the Neighborhood
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Respect Private Property
Most homes are privately owned. Admire the architecture from the street and be mindful of residents' privacy. :housewithgarden:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The neighborhood has some hills, so comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
Look for Architectural Details
Keep an eye out for unique features like original woodwork, stained glass, and ornate porches. :magnifyingglasstilted_right:
Capture the Views
Some intersections offer beautiful glimpses of Commencement Bay. Don't forget your camera! :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Respect Private Property
Most homes are privately owned. Admire the architecture from the street and be mindful of residents' privacy. :housewithgarden:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The neighborhood has some hills, so comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
Look for Architectural Details
Keep an eye out for unique features like original woodwork, stained glass, and ornate porches. :magnifyingglasstilted_right:
Capture the Views
Some intersections offer beautiful glimpses of Commencement Bay. Don't forget your camera! :camerawithflash:
Check for Open Houses
If you're interested in historic homes, keep an eye out for open house events in the district. :real_estate:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the North Slope Historic District for its stunning and well-preserved Victorian and Craftsman architecture, describing it as a beautiful and charming neighborhood. The quiet streets and pleasant atmosphere are highlighted as major draws, making it ideal for leisurely walks and architectural appreciation. While generally loved, some note the investment required for homes and occasional street noise.
"This tiny park is tucked away behind a stand of trees, blocking much of the view of the street. Believe it or not, this is a benefit. Occupying a single lot, the park has just enough space for a small playground and a back yard sized plot of grass for picnics. Behind the trees, you feel transported to a different place. Like a secret garden, it hides its magic from the common world, waiting for the explorers to discover it. There is a sense of wonder here; whether it's light filtered through leaves speckling the walkway, or the way that neighbors leave children's toys for the neighborhood kids to share and enjoy. I live in an apartment. I often regret that I don't have a back yard for my kids to play in. This is that back yard. It's more than just a charming little park. This is our park. A back yard we all share."
Seth Triberry
"Great little neighborhood park. Brought my 7 yo niece there and she ran around and had a blast. Very 'subtropical' plant theme that made the experience a bit more special, my niece and I played 'Jurassic Park' and pretended there were T-Rex and Raptors lurking amongst the Fan Palms and Live Oaks in the landscape. Great times and I hope the parks dept. is able to keep it looking all fun and jungly."
paul wall
"A lovely and vibrant neighborhood. If I had known Tacoma a bit better, I would have tried harder to purchase a home in this area. You'll pay 500k and up for the pleasure but it's very fun, clean, and you don't have the vagrancy here that is allowed elsewhere in Tacoma."
Neomi Costilla
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The North Slope Historic District is located in North Tacoma. You can reach it by car via I-5 North or South, taking the City Center exit and following signs for North Tacoma. Public transportation options include local bus routes that serve the area. Parking can be found on residential streets, but be mindful of any posted restrictions.
Yes, the district is very walkable, and exploring on foot is the best way to appreciate the historic homes. However, be prepared for some inclines as the neighborhood has rolling hills.
The most rewarding way to see the historic homes is by taking a leisurely stroll through the neighborhood's tree-lined streets. Many homes are privately owned, so admiring them from the sidewalk is encouraged.
While specific guided tours for the North Slope Historic District might not be readily available, local tour companies like Pretty Gritty Tours sometimes offer historical walking tours of Tacoma that may include this area. It's worth checking their schedule.
Biking is a great way to cover more ground and enjoy the scenery. The streets are generally bike-friendly, but be aware of the hills and traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the North Slope Historic District is a residential neighborhood and is free to visit. You can explore the streets and admire the architecture at your leisure.
The small pocket parks within the North Slope Historic District are public and do not have entrance fees. They are great spots for a short break.
As it's a residential area, there are no set hours. However, daytime hours are generally best for appreciating the architecture and for safety.
Most homes in the North Slope Historic District are private residences. While you can admire them from the outside, interior tours are typically only available during scheduled open house events, which are rare. 
There isn't a dedicated visitor center specifically for the North Slope Historic District. Information about Tacoma's historic neighborhoods can often be found through the city's historical society or tourism websites.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire district is a photographer's dream, with stunning Victorian and Craftsman homes around every corner. Look for unique architectural details, charming streetscapes, and occasional views of Commencement Bay.
Generally, photography from public streets is permitted. However, be respectful of private property and avoid intrusive photography of residents or their homes.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer beautiful, soft light that enhances the architectural details. Midday can be harsh, but still offers good opportunities.
Interior photography is typically only allowed if you are attending an official open house event for a home that is for sale. Otherwise, it's considered private property.
Yes, the district is known for its well-preserved Victorian, Tudor, and Craftsman homes. Keep an eye out for features like wraparound porches, intricate woodwork, and distinctive rooflines.
🎫 🌳 Parks & Recreation
Yes, the North Slope Historic District features several small, charming pocket parks. These parks often include playgrounds and grassy areas, providing pleasant spots for relaxation.
These parks are ideal for a short break, letting children play on the playground, or enjoying a picnic. Some have a unique 'subtropical' plant theme, adding to the experience.
Reviews suggest the parks are generally well-maintained and offer a sense of community, with neighbors sometimes leaving toys for others to share.
Absolutely! The grassy areas in the pocket parks are perfect for a casual picnic. It's a great way to enjoy the neighborhood atmosphere.
While the North Slope Historic District itself focuses on smaller parks, Point Defiance Park, a large urban park with extensive trails, a zoo, and gardens, is a short drive away and offers more extensive recreational opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For more extensive family recreation, the nearby Point Defiance Park is a fantastic option, offering a zoo, aquarium, extensive trails, and beautiful gardens.
🏡 Architecture Enthusiasts
+3 Take your time to wander the streets, paying close attention to the unique facades, decorative trim, and period landscaping that define these magnificent residences. Many of these homes have been lovingly preserved or restored, offering a glimpse into Tacoma's prosperous past. Look for original features like stained-glass windows, ornate woodwork, and classic porches. The sheer concentration of well-maintained historic properties makes the North Slope a living museum of architectural styles, providing endless opportunities for photography and appreciation.
+1🚶♀️ Walkers & Explorers
Be prepared for some gentle inclines, as the area has a rolling topography, making comfortable footwear essential. As you wander, keep an eye out for charming pocket parks that offer a peaceful respite and a chance to relax.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Styles of the North Slope
+3Many of these historic homes have been meticulously maintained or thoughtfully remodeled, preserving their original charm while incorporating modern amenities. The district's designation as a historic area helps ensure that new construction and renovations adhere to specific guidelines, maintaining the neighborhood's cohesive aesthetic. This commitment to preservation is evident in the details, from original woodwork and stained-glass windows to period-appropriate landscaping.
+1Exploring the North Slope is like stepping back in time. The sheer density and variety of well-preserved historic homes make it a fascinating area for anyone interested in architecture, history, or simply beautiful urban design. It’s a testament to Tacoma’s rich past and the community’s dedication to preserving its heritage.
+1Living in the North Slope: A Resident's Perspective
However, living in a historic district also comes with its considerations. Some residents mention that homes in this desirable area can be quite an investment, with prices often starting at $500,000 and going up.
For those considering a move to the North Slope, it's important to be aware of the commitment to maintaining historic properties. This can involve specific building codes and a dedication to preserving original features. However, the reward is living in a truly special and picturesque part of Tacoma, offering a distinct sense of place and history.
+1
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