"The Foss Waterway Seaport is Tacoma’s maritime museum and heritage center, celebrating the city’s shipbuilding roots and vibrant marine culture. "

Recommended For

  • Maritime Enthusiasts: Explore classic canoes, vintage vessels, and the evolution of shipbuilding in Tacoma.
  • Families: Enjoy interactive exhibits, a kids’ craft area, and live boatbuilding demonstrations.
  • History Buffs: Learn about Tacoma’s early commerce and industrial past through authentic artifacts and displays.
  • Curious Visitors: Chat with volunteer boat builders or admire creative marine debris sculptures.

Highlights

  • Historic Setting: Housed in a century-old wheat warehouse once connected by rail and sea.
  • Wooden Boat Shop: Watch skilled volunteers craft boats using traditional methods and tools.
  • Willits Canoes: See rare hand-crafted wooden canoes built by the Willits Brothers from 1908–1967.
  • Eclectic Exhibits: From vintage fishing lures and scuba gear to marine debris sculptures and Tacoma-built commercial vessel models.

Trail Overview

  • Location: Dock Street on the Foss Waterway in downtown Tacoma, with waterfront views and easy parking.
  • Interactive Features: Craft activities for kids, hands-on maritime tools, and docent-led storytelling.
  • Hours: Vary seasonally—check the museum’s website before visiting.
  • Community Focus: Hosts events, school programs, and outreach tied to Puget Sound maritime heritage.

Visitor Tips

  • Don’t miss the boat shop—watch artisans at work and ask them about their process.
  • Bring kids to the craft area for hands-on fun while you explore the historic exhibits.
  • Combine with a walk along the Foss Waterway for a relaxing waterfront afternoon.
  • Check for rotating exhibits and events like visiting tall ships or maritime festivals.

Local Vibe

Foss Waterway Seaport blends Tacoma’s industrial grit with maritime nostalgia. The museum’s warm wood beams, friendly docents, and boat-scented air create a space that feels lived-in and loved. It’s as much about community and craftsmanship as it is about history—inviting visitors to connect not just with Tacoma’s past, but with the enduring rhythm of life on the water.

Location

Address: 705 Dock Street, Tacoma, WA 98402
Phone: (253) 272-3023
Website: fosswaterwayseaport.org

Map:

Plan Your Trip