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Urban Spelunker: North Proctor District in Tacoma

Sleepy area but worth exploring

Black Door Wine Company. Photos by Jackie Fender

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Just a hop away from Tacoma's Ruston Way and downtown areas lies the Proctor District. Within this charming walkable district, the "heart" surrounds North 26th with retail shops, eateries and more lined up nicely in a row. Once you hit North 30th, though it appears a little sleepy and more residential, there are some lovely spots within worth spelunking, and there is plenty to see. Today we visit the North Proctor "district."

[Come Wine With Me]
No, you're not mistaken. There is a big sign that reads "WINE" curbside, pointing toward the house with the black door. Yes, there is indeed wine inside. Owners of the Black Door Wine Company Victoria Johnson and David Lower have concocted a lovely retail wine shop featuring a wide variety of varietals for all those who love the fermented grape. Both are customer-focused and loaded with wine knowledge for the novice or connoisseur. Each third Thursday from 5 to 7 p.m. enjoy focused wine tasting varieties in a warm, modern ambiance. Noon to 7 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, 3906 N. 34th St., Tacoma, 206.359.0466

[Where Everybody Knows Your Name]
What's a neighborhood without your friendly neighborhood bar? Terry's Office Tavern is the type of establishment bustling with hardcore regulars who enjoy brews and bites paired with a casual, no-fuss environment and service provided by someone who will take the time to fill your pint before you have to ask. Only beer and wine is on the booze list (for those unaware, this is the meaning of tavern), while the menu consists largely of sammies, burgers and appetizers. 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. Friday and Saturday, noon to 11 p.m. Sunday, 3410 N. Proctor St., Tacoma, 253.752.6262

[Green Thumbs]
Gardensphere is like a toy store for green thumbs. Specializing in indoor and outdoor plants, organic plant supplies and accessories to beautify your living green and blossoming babies, Gardensphere is an Eden for all that has to do with gardening. It even has chicks on site. On top of a diverse inventory, staff is knowledgeable and ridiculously friendly. 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, 3310 N. Proctor St., Tacoma, 253.761.7936

[Park Play]
Puget Park is a lovely city park destination featuring a corner lot of typical park play for the minis with a playground, swings and ample turf to roll, sit and read or picnic. For those looking for a little timeout without having to go too far, pedestrians can enjoy Puget Park's trail into serene, forested areas that lead to the Puget Gulch and Ruston Waterfront.

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