Photo:
The playground reopened in December 2025 after extensive repair work. Photo: courtesy Parks Tacoma
Wright Park, often called Tacoma’s Central Park, has a long history. The park’s namesake, Charles B. Wright, was the President of the Tacoma Land Company, which, under his leadership, donated 20 acres of land to the City of Tacoma to become a park in 1886. Over the years, the park has grown to 27 acres with many amenities enjoyed by Tacoma residents for over 100 years. There are so many things to see and do at Wright Park that you can easily spend the whole day here.
First stop: The upgraded playground
The beautiful playground and sprayground at Wright Park in Tacoma were built in 2011. The community initiative with funding from the Tacoma Parks Foundation honors the memory of Zina Linnik, who was tragically killed in 2007.
The playground closed in February 2025 due to safety concerns and reopened in December 2025 after extensive repairs. Wooden support posts were replaced with recycled plastic posts, and a new swing set, pulley rope, bubble window and climbing structure were added.
“This playground is very popular with families, and we’re grateful it is once again a place where children can laugh and play,” said Park Board president Matt Mauer. “None of this would be possible without the Tacoma Parks Foundation, which created and funded this community asset and planned for its longtime care.”
The play area features a variety of elements that make it accessible to most children. Restrooms and a water fountain are nearby. Parents and caregivers will love all the seating and picnic tables in view of the playground.
The playground includes:
- Rubberized and wood fiber surface
- Swings, including one high-back swing
- An equal number of ground and elevated elements
- Adaptive play elements for ramp, spin and seat transfers
- Sensory play, including a spin web and instruments
- Play tables under the play structure
Tip for families: Purchase a horseshoe set to use the horseshoe pits located by the playground. Use the included stakes to set up a smaller course for younger children.
Walk the trails of the Wright Park Arboretum
Wright Park Arboretum has a collection of over 600 trees, many of which are more than 100 years old. The collection includes native trees and exotic trees imported from around the world. There are more than 145 plant species in the park.
For a fun activity or a great homeschooling opportunity, download and print the Wright Park Arboretum Champion Tree Tour. Champion trees are the largest of their species and Wright Park has 18 trees recognized as Washington state champion trees. The tour brochure lists all the champion trees with photos of the trees and their leaves. Children can learn about the trees and try to identify them by their leaves. Around 450 trees in the park are tagged with plaques containing a variety of information, including the type of tree and the year it was planted.
The trails in the park are easily navigable with strollers, and many are also accessible. All the trees on the tour are along accessible paths. The full loop path around the park is 0.9 miles.
Don’t miss the W.W. Seymour Conservatory
The W.W. Seymour Conservatory is a Tacoma treasure that opened in 1908 and is on the National Register of Historic Places. It is named for W.W. Seymour, president of the Board of Park Commissioners at the time, whose generous gift made the conservatory possible. Early visitors were drawn to the exotic tropical plants, including orchids and citrus trees. Today, families enjoy a visit to experience a warm, humid climate with a variety of interesting plants such as ferns, palms, figs and floral displays that change throughout the year.
Plan to visit the conservatory for Story Hour, which takes place one Thursday a month from 11 a.m. to noon. The event is free, and no reservations are required. Each month has a different theme, and children will learn about plants and the environment. In addition to stories, the program offers crafts and science projects.
Keep the fun going with a scavenger hunt for art
There are eight pieces of art and artifacts throughout the park. Each is marked with a large letter A on the park map, or on interpretive signs throughout the park. Tailor the activity according to your child’s age and ability. Older children can take the map, find the objects and take a photo of each one. Younger children can enjoy the stroll with their parents and, with prompts, can find the artwork.
Refuel at a nearby restaurant
The Hob Nob Restaurant on Sixth Avenue is right across the street from the park. Ask for a window seat with a view of Wright Park. There is a kids menu, but adult meals are so large that you can easily share. Weekends are very busy with lines out the door, so visit on a weekday for a better experience with children.
A Tacoma icon, Frisko Freeze is a short drive on Division Avenue from Wright Park. Open for over 75 years, it has vintage vibes galore. Stop on your way in to pick up burgers for a picnic in the park. On your way home, it is a nice stop for a swirl ice cream cone, a shake or a Frisko Slushee.
Add on a tour of the city on Tacoma’s light rail
For a fun, inexpensive tour of the city, take a ride on the T Line. The Stadium District station is across Division Avenue from Wright Park by the Dancing Girl Statues. Cross the street and head one block up on North First Street. Enjoy views of downtown, historic buildings, Puget Sound and the Port of Tacoma. Trains run approximately every 20 minutes; check the schedule for details.
If you go to Wright Park …Location: Wright Park is located at 501 South I St. in Tacoma. Park hours: The park is open daily, from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. The conservatory is open Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Parking: Street parking is available around the park’s perimeter and in front of the W.W. Seymour Conservatory. Additional information: Restrooms are located near the playground and splashground. |
