Steilacoom

At first glance, Steilacoom may appear to be a sleepy shoreline town along the Puget Sound, but this small town plays a large role in the state's history as the first incorporated town. Named after pink flowers that can be found along the hillside areas of town by the indigenous tribe that initially lived in the area, Steilacoom's storied history dates back way before it was incorporated in 1854, and that history is still proudly displayed. "Steilacoom is the oldest town in Washington and has historical value. It's a small town with the charm of farmers markets and many different festivals," says Mandy Afrassiabi, a broker with Windermere Real Estate. "It's great for people who want a quaint town that's very friendly." With a good mix of residential areas and a downtown commercial district, this historic town has plenty to discover.

Towering fir and pine trees give the town a lush forest landscape, though as you go uphill through some of the community's streets, a vast panoramic view of the sound awaits you. Midcentury ranch-style homes throughout the area can cost anywhere from $400,000 to $550,000 and often sit on large lots that offer plenty of yard space. There's plenty of new growth throughout this historic town, including eye-catching modern new builds and custom homes with two or three-car garages and plenty of windows to let in natural sunlight. Many homes have Craftsman features, such as spacious front porches perfect for hosting friends and family. Historical Victorian houses, with decorative trim and roomy patios, are also found in the area. These homes often cost around $800,000 and can be found in the million-dollar range. Future buyers also have the opportunity to build their dream homes, as several lots are available for purchase, many of which offer scenic waterfront views.

There's plenty to do around town, from museums that spotlight the town's history to local eateries and shops. You can start your morning with a scone and piping hot cup of coffee from Topside Coffee Cabin, or if you're there around lunchtime, you can get fish and chips or a hearty burger on the bottom floor at Topside's Bar and Grill. During the summertime, you can buy fresh produce and fruits from local vendors at the Steilacoom Farmer's Market each Wednesday. Steilacoom Pub & Grill is the local spot for a good drink and pub grub, and if you're there on the weekends, make sure to sing your favorite song during karaoke.

If you want to get out for some fresh air, head to Farrell's Marsh Wildlife Area. This heavily wooded park has several trails and 3,500 feet of freshwater shoreline. The area is home to many varieties of birds, including blue herons and kingfishers. For a quiet beach getaway, take a short drive up Chambers Creek Road to Sunnyside Beach Park, an expansive outdoor space with 1,400 feet of shoreline along the sound. The park features several barbecue grills and picnic tables for a weekend get-together. The playground and sand volleyball courts make it a popular place for residents to spend time.

Students might attend Cherrydale Elementary School, Pioneer Middle School and Steilacoom High School. Steilacoom High is rated an A- overall on Niche and is consistently named one of the best high schools by US News & World Report. The school offers Career and Technical Education courses in culinary arts, business, digital media and environmental science. Students can participate in several clubs and organizations, such as Army JROTC, a video game club and an environmental stewardship club.

You'll have to drive a little ways away to get to any major highways, but little through traffic adds to the serene and small-town vibe that attracts residents to Steilacoom. Though the town's history is heralded and celebrated, with all of the natural amenities and local shops and eateries around, there's plenty in the present to be proud of, too.

Written By

Robert Breckenridge

Photography Contributed By

Ling Ge

Video By

Timothy Cerva