Introduction to Puyallup, Washington
Puyallup, Washington, in Pierce county, is 8 miles SE of Tacoma, Washington (center to center) and 29 miles S of Seattle, Washington. The city is in the Tacoma area.
Puyallup History
In the 1830s and 1840s, the area now known as Puyallup was occupied by Native Americans. European settlers first arrived here in the 1850s. Ezra Meeker platted the town site in 1877. The community was named after the river valley, which in turn was named after the local Puyallup Indians tribes. "Puyallup" means "the generous people." Puyallup had become a major hop growing region by the 1880s. It was incorporated as a town in 1890. The Fairgrounds served as home to over 7,000 Japanese residents during World War II.
Puyallup and nearby Attractions
- Meeker Mansion
- Washington State History Museum
- Western Washington State Fair Grounds
- Bradley Lake
- Grayland Park
- Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden
Things To Do In Puyallup
Meeker Mansion, which is run by the Ezra Meeker Historical Society, concentrates on regional history. Those interested in learning about the local history and culture can visit Fort Nisqually Historic Site, Washington State History Museum, Museum of Glass, Children's Museum of Tacoma, and Tacoma Art Museum. Other interesting places to visit are the Western Washington State Fair Grounds, Linden Country Club, Willows Center, and East Meridian Square. The Meridian Place Shopping Center, Village Fair Shopping Center, South Hill Mall, and Hi-Ho One-Stop Shopping Center provide some amazing entertainment facilities for visitors. In addition, the city hosts annual celebrations including the Daffodil Festival Grand Floral Parade, Meeker Days, Oktoberfest Northwest, Puyallup Fair, Scandinavian Heritage Festival, and the Spring Fair.
Puyallup Transportation
Air transportation facilities are provided by the McChord AFB Airport.
Puyallup Higher Education
Residents of Puyallup can enroll at Bates Technical College, University of Puget Sound, and Pacific Lutheran University.