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Foss Waterway Seaport: Tacoma's Maritime Gem

Explore Tacoma's maritime history at Foss Waterway Seaport: exhibits, boat shop, and waterfront views await!

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The Foss Waterway Seaport in Tacoma, Washington, is a maritime museum and heritage center residing in the historic Balfour Dock Building [2, 6]. Explore exhibits, a boat shop, and docks showcasing the region's rich maritime past and present [2, 3].

A brief summary to Foss Waterway Seaport

  • Thursday 10 am-4 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Check the Foss Waterway Seaport's website for upcoming events, workshops, and special exhibits.
  • Enjoy free moorage for up to four hours at the Seaport's public docks if arriving by boat [8].
  • Combine your visit with a walk along the Thea Foss Waterway and explore nearby Thea Foss Park [5].
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From downtown Tacoma, head east towards the waterfront. Follow signs for the Thea Foss Waterway. The Foss Waterway Seaport is located on Dock Street, next to the Rock the Dock Pub & Grill [9]. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes from the Tacoma Art Museum.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines serve the area near Foss Waterway Seaport [12]. Check Pierce Transit for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. From the Tacoma Dome Station, several bus routes will take you closer to the Seaport. Expect to walk approximately 5-10 minutes from the bus stop to the Seaport. A single bus fare is typically $2.00.

  • Parking

    Paid parking is available in the Republic Parking lot located at 635 Dock St, between the Foss Waterway Seaport and the Rock the Dock Pub & Grill [9, 15]. Street parking is also available, but may be limited [9, 15]. Expect to pay around $10-$15 for a few hours of parking in the lot.

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Discover more about Foss Waterway Seaport

The Foss Waterway Seaport is more than just a museum; it's a vibrant center that celebrates Tacoma's rich maritime heritage [2, 7]. Located on the Thea Foss Waterway, the Seaport resides in the Balfour Dock Building, the last remaining section of what was once the world's longest wheat warehouse [2, 11]. Built in 1900 by the Northern Pacific Railroad, the building itself is a historic artifact, showcasing bridge-building techniques of the era [2, 6, 11]. Inside, you'll discover a collection of maritime exhibits, including historic wooden boats, artifacts from the Mosquito Fleet era, and exhibits on fishing and diving [4, 17, 18]. The Heritage Boat Shop offers a glimpse into boat restoration, while the working docks provide access to the waterway [2, 3]. The Seaport also hosts educational programs and events, making it a destination for families, students, and maritime enthusiasts [3, 7, 17]. The Seaport's mission is to preserve and share Tacoma's maritime stories, connecting its past, present, and future [2, 7]. With hands-on displays, a focus on education, and a stunning waterfront location, the Foss Waterway Seaport offers a unique and engaging experience for all [2, 3, 8].

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