Located at the foot of Mount Rainier and along the shores of Commencement Bay in Washington state, Tacoma is recognized as a livable and progressive international city. With a population of more than 199,600 residents, the city that incorporated in 1884 has grown from its historical roots as a home of sawmills and a bustling port that exported goods around the world to a center for international exports, the arts and healthy, affordable living. Tacoma is a unique contemporary city that values its history and has a strong historic preservation program. Public Art in Tacoma includes the renowned Chihuly Bridge of Glass with smaller stellar works attracting visitors to all neighborhoods in our City. The performing arts are alive and well in Tacoma. The City is home to classical music groups, theatre, an opera company and the Broadway Center for the Performing Arts presents nationally recognized artists throughout the year. Tacoma is a place of creative synergy and we welcome you to explore our dynamic city.