Tacoma sits on the southern shores of Puget Sound just south of Seattle, Wash. Tacoma is an urban suburb, smaller than a large city but still with a metropolitan vibe. The downtown area is one of the most active night life regions of Tacoma. All of the lounges here are within walking distance of each other as well as the popular Sixth Avenue venues. The sound's waters penetrate through the downtown area reminding guests and residents that it is a coastal town. The Cascade mountains rise to the east, refreshing the memory that your are still in the Pacific Northwest.
Downtown Tacoma boasts everything from Drum and Bass DJ’s to Irish Jam Sessions. For rock fans, Hell's Kitchen on Pacific Avenue has been routinely hosting bands since 2002 in its grungy pirate ship atmosphere. Tempest Lounge off of 9th and Martin Luther King Jr. Way is a low light, sensual escape. Tempest serves food and cocktails and features shows like Rare Groove where DJs play a mix of soul, funk and jazz. Drum and Bass Electro Dub Step is featured the following night. Paddy Coyne’s is an Irish Pub located in the historic Olympus Hotel in downtown Tacoma. Paddy Coyne’s features a Celtic Jam Session on the first and third Wednesdays of the month.
Sixth Avenue between Trafton Street and Junett Street is an active night life district featuring a gathering of lounges and pubs. The Sax Bar features live music throughout the month. They serve food and drinks is an upbeat, romantic atmosphere. Chop Stix is a lively dueling piano bar on the corner of Sixth and Oakes. The bar has 10 professional players who give a live show any night of the week. Just down the street is Masa, a Mexican style lounge. Hot salsa, Mexican, reggae and Latin music is featured at Masa throughout any given week along with their Latin menu and cocktail bar.
The New Frontier Lounge in southern downtown Tacoma serves up spirits, wine and food in an Old West-style atmosphere. Tuesdays at New Frontier are Open Mic nights; they also have annual rock and roll bingo as well as dance party nights. Station 56 in southern Tacoma is a popular music venue. This double floor, two bar lounge features a stage equipped enough to accommodate large shows. From Chip N’ Dales, School of Rock and Rap Battles to Open Jam Nights every Wednesday, the music lover will not be disappointed with Tacoma’s Station 56.
Oscars Restaurant Tacoma in Lakewood, south of the downtown region, has an extensive food menu. The food is local and prepared fresh. The atmosphere is refreshing and relaxing. Ron Mills is Oscar’s resident pianist who performs a mixture of jazz and old pop classics every week.
