Old City Hall

Old City Hall is a government building with Italian Villa design in downtown Tacoma, featuring a ten-story clock tower, yellow Roman brick facade, and located at the intersection of Pacific Avenue and South 7th Street. The structure is currently being transformed into residential and commercial spaces through an adaptive reuse project.

The structure was built in 1893 as the city's administrative center and served this role until 1959. During its time as city hall, it also housed the municipal library and a jail.

The clock tower bells came from a renowned foundry and were given as a gift to the city. These bronze bells continue to shape the soundscape of downtown and remind visitors of the building's role in Tacoma's civic life.

The building is currently undergoing renovation and may not be fully accessible to visitors. Check ahead about current access options or plan your visit after the project is completed.

The clock mechanism in the tower features a twelve-foot pendulum suspended by a single wire, creating an unusual engineering solution. The basement jail space is being transformed into an entertainment venue during the renovation.

Location: Tacoma

GPS coordinates: 47.25750,-122.43861

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:27