Pacific, WA

County: King

History

Pacific, Washington

Pacific, Washington is a small city located in King County, in the state of Washington, United States. The city has a population of around 7,100 people and covers an area of approximately 2.3 square miles.

The history of Pacific dates back to the mid-1800s when the area was primarily used for logging. The first settlers in the region were primarily loggers and lumber workers who were attracted to the area due to its rich timber resources. The city was initially known as Franklin due to its location on the banks of the White River.

In 1883, the Northern Pacific Railway completed construction of a railroad line through the area, which brought new opportunities for trade and commerce. The railway company decided to establish a shop and roundhouse for maintenance of their locomotives in the region. This development led to the growth of the town as more people moved to the area to work for the railroad.

Due to its location along the railroad, Franklin became an important transportation hub, with many businesses and services opening up to cater to the needs of railroad workers and travelers. In 1909, the town was officially incorporated and changed its name to Pacific in reference to the nearby Pacific Ocean and the railroad company.

Throughout the 20th century, Pacific continued to develop and thrive as a transportation and industrial center. The city was home to numerous manufacturing plants and industries that benefited from its strategic location and access to rail lines. The community also grew steadily as more people settled down in the area.

However, as the railroad industry declined in the latter part of the century, Pacific faced economic challenges. Many businesses closed down, and the city struggled to revitalize its economy. Despite these difficulties, Pacific has managed to maintain its small-town charm and sense of community.

Today, Pacific is primarily a residential suburb with a mix of housing, commercial areas, and industrial zones. The city's economy is more diverse, with various businesses and services catering to the needs of its residents. Pacific continues to work on revitalization efforts and community development projects to improve the quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Pacific, Washington, has a rich history rooted in the timber and railroad industries. From its humble beginnings as a logging town, Pacific grew with the establishment of the railroad and became an important transportation hub. While facing economic challenges, the city has evolved into a residential community with a unique character.

Attractions

Wild Waves Theme & Water Park

Wild Waves Theme & Water Park

A popular amusement park with thrilling rides and a water park.

Dash Point State Park

A beautiful park with forests, beach access, and hiking trails.

White River Valley Museum

A local history museum that showcases the heritage of the region.

Clark's Creek Park & Trail

A scenic park with walking trails, picnic areas, and a creek.

Puyallup Riverwalk Trail

A paved trail along the Puyallup River, perfect for walking, biking, and enjoying the waterfront views.

Auburn Golf Course

A well-maintained golf course offering challenging holes and beautiful landscape.

Heron Ridge Park

A neighborhood park with play structures, picnic areas, and a walking path.

Meeker Mansion

A historic house museum that offers guided tours and events.

Lake Meridian Park

A picturesque lakeside park with a swimming beach, playgrounds, and picnic areas.

Pacific City Park

A community park with sports fields, playgrounds, and walking paths.

Climate

Pacific, WA has a marine west coast climate, which is characterized by mild, wet winters and cool, dry summers. The city experiences a moderate amount of rainfall throughout the year, with the highest precipitation occurring during the winter months.

Winters in Pacific are relatively mild compared to other areas of the country, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to low 40s Fahrenheit (1-5 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is infrequent but possible, and temperatures rarely drop below freezing.

Summers in Pacific are typically cool, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit (17-23 degrees Celsius). The area experiences relatively low humidity during this time, which contributes to the dryness of the season.

Due to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, Pacific, WA is influenced by oceanic air masses, which help moderate the temperature extremes. The nearby Cascade Range also plays a role in the climate, shielding the city from extreme weather patterns.

Overall, the climate of Pacific, WA is generally mild and temperate, with cool summers and mild winters, making it a pleasant place to live or visit.

Neighborhoods

Pacific, Washington is a small city located in King and Pierce Counties. Although it is a relatively small place, it is home to several distinct neighborhoods that offer unique characteristics and amenities. Here are some of the different neighborhoods of Pacific, WA:

Downtown Pacific

This is the heart of the city and offers a mix of commercial and residential properties. It is characterized by a historic downtown area with shops, restaurants, and services. Downtown also hosts events throughout the year, creating a lively atmosphere.

Hylebos Creek

Located in the northern part of Pacific, this neighborhood is known for its natural beauty and proximity to Hylebos Creek. It offers outdoor recreational opportunities, including walking trails and parks.

Algona-Pacific

This area is shared between the neighboring cities of Algona and Pacific. It is primarily a residential neighborhood with a mix of single-family homes, apartments, and townhouses. Algona-Pacific also includes amenities such as schools, parks, and small commercial areas.

Lea Hill

While technically not within Pacific city limits, Lea Hill is an adjacent neighborhood located in Auburn, Washington. It is a residential area known for its suburban charm and family-friendly environment. Lea Hill offers a mix of housing options, including single-family homes and townhouses.

Jovita

Another neighboring community that shares its border with Pacific, Jovita is primarily a residential neighborhood as well. It features a blend of suburban homes, townhouses, and apartments. The area also includes parks, schools, and local businesses.

Overall, Pacific, WA provides a range of neighborhoods that cater to different lifestyles and preferences. Whether you are looking for small-town charm, natural surroundings, or a suburban environment, there is something for everyone in Pacific.

Nearby Cities