Living in Pierce County

from New Neighbors Guide Pierce Winter and Spring

Northwest Winter Safety Tips for Seniors

LIVING IN

PIERCE COUNTYBY KELLY LENIHAN

Vibrant and diverse, Pierce County is made up of over 20 cities, including urban Tacoma, charming Gig Harbor and home of the Washington State Fair, Puyallup. The County is composed of historic structures and buildings, breathtaking waterfront views, lush rural land, quaint and welcoming suburbs, an ever-industrious energy, and is the neighbor to magnificent Mount Rainier. There is so much to explore and safely engage in, even during this time of social distancing.

HEALTH & WELLNESS Nonprofits MultiCare and CHI Franciscan offer pristine services, top-rated physicians, and have several locations in order to be easily accessible to patients. Try local yoga studios, gym facilities, therapy offices and more. Everything you need to keep happy and healthy is nearby. Be sure to check business hours and number of participants that are allowed in the facility. ARTS & CULTURE Our County is alive with creativity and innovation. Immerse yourself at art museums such as the Tacoma Art Museum, the Museum of Glass, and Asia Pacific Cultural Center during their new business hours. Support local artisans and makers by visiting small-town art galleries, downtown boutiques, and local breweries. Dine happily at renowned restaurants and cafes, being sure to follow Pierce County safety regulations.

GET SOME FRESH AIR There are many opportunities to get outside and play in Pierce County’s varied terrain. There are over 5,271 acres of available recreation - trails, golf courses, beaches, skateboard pavilions, parks and more. Remember, Mount Rainier National Park is close by. Be sure to check restrictions and regulations before venturing out and stay home if you are feeling under the weather. HISTORY The County celebrates so much of its past by maintaining historic buildings and sites and by offering numerous museums relative to each area. Many historic museums have now re-opened to the public. The Fort Nisqually Living History Museum, operated by Metro Parks Tacoma, provides visitors with a look at one of the original settlements on Puget Sound.

Multiple Campuses in Pierce County

Experience the rich history of the greater Gig Harbor communities at the Harbor History Museum. With more than 7,500 square feet of exhibit space featuring unique artifacts, video kiosks, hands-on exhibits and a restored 1893 schoolhouse, we bring history to life. Thanks to a grant from the city of Gig Harbor, admission is complementary through 2020. Make sure to visit our Maritime Gallery featuring the 65-foot purse seiner, Shenandoah. Built in 1925 by the Skansie Shipbuilding Company, she is being artfully restored to support future environmental education programming.