Tumwater WA, United States
- 19,190 people
- 18 places to visit
- 47.0073, -122.9093
Places to Visit (18)
Tumwater, Washington, is a city located in Thurston County, just south of the state capital, Olympia. Known for its rich history and vibrant community, Tumwater has a population of approximately 23,000 residents as of the 2020 Census. The city sits at the convergence of the Deschutes River and Budd Inlet, providing scenic waterfront views and abundant recreational opportunities. Originally inhabited by the Squaxin Island Tribe, the area was first settled by European Americans in the mid-1800s, and it played a significant role in the development of the state due to its early industries, particularly in brewing and lumber. Tumwater is historically recognized as the site of the first American brewery in the state, established by Leopold Schmidt in 1896, which reflects the city’s longstanding connection to the brewing industry.
Today, Tumwater is known for its diverse amenities, including parks, trails, and community events that foster a strong sense of neighborhood and engagement among residents. The city boasts several parks and greenspaces, such as Deschutes River State Park and Tumwater Falls Park, which offer walking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the waterfalls on the Deschutes River. In addition to its natural attractions, Tumwater hosts an array of annual events, like the Tumwater Artesian Festival, which celebrates the city's heritage through music, arts, and local craft vendors. The city also values education, with an emphasis on quality schooling and accessible higher education institutions, including its proximity to The Evergreen State College. Tumwater's economy has diversified over the years, incorporating retail, health services, and various professional industries, contributing to a stable economic base while preserving its historical charm and cultural identity.
Facts about Tumwater
- Tumwater is home to the Tumwater Falls Park, which features the Tumwater Falls on the Deschutes River, historically significant for being the site of the first European settlement in the area in 1846.
- The city has roots in the brewing industry, being the location of the Olympia Brewing Company founded in 1896, which played a significant role in the region’s economy and culture until its closure in 2003.
- Tumwater is known for its historic districts, including the Old Tumwater Historic District, which features well-preserved buildings that showcase late 19th and early 20th-century architecture.
- The city is the birthplace of Washington state's first governor, Isaac Stevens, and is closely tied to the history of the Washington Territory and the establishment of early government in the Pacific Northwest.
- Tumwater hosts the 'Tumwater Artesian Brewfest' annually, celebrating the region’s brewing culture and the craft beer movement, distinguishing it from many other towns that do not emphasize local brewing traditions.
- The city is part of the Olympia metropolitan area, but it has maintained a distinct identity and is recognized for its scenic parks, including the 459-acre Heritage Park which offers views of the Olympic Mountains.
- Tumwater is home to the historic Schmidt House, a 30-room mansion built in 1904, which is open for public tours and reflects the city's early 20th-century prosperity.
- The 'Tumwater Historical Society' works to preserve the rich history of the area, providing educational resources and maintaining various historical artifacts unique to Tumwater.
- Tumwater is one of the few cities in Washington that has its roots in both Native American history and European colonization, with the site being significant to the Tumwater’s original inhabitants, the Squaxin Island Tribe.
- The city celebrates its annual 'Tumwater Independence Day Celebration,' which includes fireworks, parades, and community gatherings, fostering a strong sense of community pride and local heritage.