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Urban Spelunker: Hilltop Tacoma

Hilltop also has a lot of heart, bustling with activity

Peoples Park is home to festivals and just hanging out.

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On the crest that leads to downtown Tacoma, there is an appropriately named little neck of the woods known as Hilltop. Sometimes referred to as Hilltopia, Hilltop has had a lot of history behind it. And though it may have a little grime under its historic nails, Hilltop also has a lot of heart, is bustling with activity at any given time of day and seems to be ever-flourishing into a destination hot spot.

Here are just a few reasons to explore the Hilltop District.

[Pocket Park]

Nestled in the heart of Hilltop is Peoples Park. This little pocket of park space is centrally located near shopping and eateries, so it's easy to snag a bite to nibble in the grass while the kiddies play on the big toy, or is a good go-to for some people watching. Peoples Park also hosts many outdoor events and gatherings throughout the year, including the popular Hip-Hop on the Park. 900 Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Tacoma. Open 30 minutes before dawn until 30 minutes before dusk

[Pawn Pros]

This isn't reality TV-style pawn shopping, but Hill-Top Loans has been in business for an impressive stint of more than 30 years (making it nearly as old as yours truly, which is likely why Hill-Top Loans is a major landmark in my eyes when cruising through the business district). Inside you'll find loads of jewelry, high-tech gadgets, instruments and all that jazz. 1101 S. 11th St., Tacoma, 253.627.1044. Open Mondays to Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Closed Sundays.

[Dapper Duds]

If you're looking for reasonably priced threads in Hilltop, Mr. Mac LTD is the place to be. Within you'll find outfits for all occasions and the accessories to match, from khaki shorts to fedoras that match just about any duds you wear. Furthermore, the staff is stellar, friendly and eager to help you find what you're looking for. 1124 Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Tacoma, 253.383.2737.

[BBQ Biters]

Though the joint is hole-in-the-wall in size, it's easy to spot and smell Bob's Bar-B-Q Pit if you just follow your nose to the smoker that is often found right outside its doors. This here is true Texas-style BBQ, and these recipes have been handed down through several generations of Texas transplants in the Little family (thanks to JBLM!), who have been bringing their wood-smoked deliciousness and homestyle sides to Tacoma since the 40s. 911 S. 11th St., Tacoma, 253.627.4899. Open Mondays to Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Closed Sundays

[Brews and Bikes]

Broken Spoke is a newer little joint in the Hilltop District but boasts a nifty matrimony of bike shop and bar. Though the nibble menu is sparse, the hops menu is pretty impressive with loads of classic domestics and adventurous craft brews. Servers are always knowledgeable and friendly to boot. If you stick around, you may even witness owner Ben Davis working on a custom bicycle toward the rear of the house. Nifty. 1014 South Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Tacoma. Open daily, 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Fill Yer Bellies: Le-Le Restaurant, Peterson Bros 1111, Quickie Too A Vegan Café, 1022 South

Coming Soon: Hilltop Kitchen

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