Sometimes you have to blog about things other than the real estate market in Tacoma. I like to try to mention businesses in the area that I like. It is important to support local
A Great Cup of Joe
First is Valhalla Coffee on 6th Avenue. I have walked past it countless times on my way to one of the national coffee chains for an Americano. One day I stopped in to introduce myself and asked if they also sold drinks. They do. Byron proceeded to pull the darkest, richest espresso shot I ever recall enjoying. I buy beans from them as well. Often the beans I get were roasted that same day. I am told the beans I buy at national coffee chains may have been roasted in a previous year! Fresh is good. Local is great! Give Valhalla a try. They are on 6th Ave in Tacoma, just west of Proctor.
Local Bookstore
King’s Books is Tacoma’s largest independent bookstore, a community hub nestled in the historic Stadium District since 2000, offering 4,500 square feet and around 100,000 books—mostly used, with a smart selection of new titles too. Owned by sweet pea Flaherty, the shop is more than just a place to buy books; it’s a gathering place for book clubs, author events, poetry readings, and grassroots community meetings, all set in a charming, century-old building that’s home to two beloved shop cats. Supporting King’s Books means supporting a vibrant, locally owned institution that champions Tacoma’s unique culture, diversity, and love of literature.
Creative Play / Salvage
Tinkertopia is Tacoma’s creative reuse center, transforming donated and salvaged materials from local businesses into a wonderland of affordable art supplies and hands-on inspiration for makers of all ages. Founded by artists passionate about upcycling and community, Tinkertopia offers a retail shop packed with everything from haunted piano keys to handmade sketchbooks, as well as a vibrant “Tinkerspace” where kids, teens, and adults can dive into open-ended crafting, STEAM projects, and the ancient art of “junk modeling”. Supporting Tinkertopia means championing creativity, sustainability, and the joy of turning Tacoma’s cast-offs into imaginative treasures.
I hope you will support local business in Tacoma like these and keep dollars circulating within our local economy. Perhaps those same business owners may one day support your business!
