Tacoma, oh Tacoma! A city that exudes creativity and eclecticism at every street corner.

A place where grit meets beauty and innovation is celebrated. If you want to truly experience the heartbeat of this beautiful port city, leave no stone unturned as you explore these hidden gems.

First stop Hilltop (98002) The neighborhood that has long been known for its rough edges but also harbors a strong sense of community pride. You can find murals around every block, telling stories of the residents experiences both good and bad. Dont forget to check out The K, real name Krain Corner Inn (2532724177), an old tavern with a history dating back to Prohibition Days when it was a speakeasy.

Next up on our list is Freighthouse Square (98405) which may look like your average mall from afar, but upon closer inspection reveals itself as one of the most unique places in town. It once served as a railway depot but now houses independent shops such as Comic Book Shop (2534729877) and The Hive Studios & Gallery (2536279759). As if that wasnt enough to tickle your fancy, theres even an indoor skate park!

If youre looking for some peace and quiet with just natures sounds surrounding you head over to Point Defiance Park(1495 N Schuster Pkwy,) With 760 acres including gardens,a beach ,a zoo/aquarium., trails in ancient forest.Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium Twitter: @PtDefianceZoo

For all those culture vultures among us who crave art worth staring at for hours on end,Tacoma Art Museum(TAM )(1701 Pacific Ave,) should be next on your mustdo list.The museums greatest strength lies in contemporary Northwest art so make sure not skip pieces by Dale Chihuly or Ginny Ruffner. The interior of the museum is a piece of art in itself as it was designed by Antoine Predock an internationally acclaimed architect.

Finally, for those who love all things eerie and creepy, take a stroll through Old Town (98407). Once known for its brothels and tough bar scene,it now offers some fantastic antique shops such as Old House Mercantile(2532740405) where you can find vintage map,military badges,and other toys.Theres enough history in these streets to send shivers down your spine but also walk along Ruston Way Waterfront (3417 N. Carr St.) which has amazing public art, beautiful views of Commencement Bay,Tacoma ferries,and conch fritters at Dukes Seafood & Chowder (@DukesChowder).

Tacoma may be one city but it harbors many unique places that reveal its creative,eccentric, gritty but nonetheless beautiful heart. So come along on this journey with us and make sure to savor every moment!

Websites/Twitter

The K kraincornerinn.com,@kraincornerinn

Comic Book Shop tacomacomics.com,@tacomacomicshop

The Hive Studios & Gallery hivegallerytacoma.weebly.com ,@hivegalleryart

Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium 404TACOMAZOO,(253) 5915337 Twitter: @PtDefianceZoo

Old House Mercantile oldhousemercantile.com,@oldhousemercnty

Dukes Seafood & Chowder : duk