Introduction to Tumwater, Washington
Tumwater, Washington is 21 miles SW of Lakewood, Washington (center to center) and 49 miles SW of Seattle, Washington. It is in Thurston county. The city is part of the Olympia metro area.
Tumwater History
Tumwater is the oldest American settlement in Puget Sound. Its original name was Bush Prairie. It was named after the earliest settler and founder, George Washington Bush, who had been a slave and later became a cattle rancher. The name Tumwater was taken from the Chinook phrase "tumtum chuck" which meant "waterfall." The area was incorporated in November 1875.
Tumwater and nearby Attractions
- Barnes Lake
- Deschutes River
- Olympic Flight Museum
- The Crosby House
- The Henderson House
- Old Town Center
Things To Do In Tumwater
The picturesque parks of the city are excellent places to relax or spend time with family and friends. They have shelters and picnic areas, basketball and volleyball courts, and fields for playing baseball, softball, and soccer. There are special play areas for small children as well. The city also has a few historic sites and museums that provide insight into the history of the area.
Tumwater Transportation
Olympia Airport is nearby.
Tumwater Higher Education
Evergreen State College, South Puget Sound Community College, and Pierce College offer courses for higher studies.
