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Urban Spelunker: Northeast Tacoma

Spectacular views and tasty food

Brown's Point Lighthouse. Photo credit: Jackie Fender

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If you follow the winding roads through Tacoma's industrial district, eventually you'll discover Northeast Tacoma - perhaps the most removed of neighborhoods when it comes to Tacoma's districts. Bordering Federal Way, Fife Heights and Tacoma's downtown, Northeast Tacoma is a fabulous residential area and a stone's throw and short commute to work or play. And though this area is primarily home to the more affluent citizens of Tacoma with massive, gorgeous homes and spectacular views, there are a few finds that any true Urban Spelunker must pay a visit to. Here are a few:

[Lighthouse Lovers]
Brown's Point Lighthouse Park is a lovely seaside park area with plenty of space for picnics, park play with the kiddos or pups and a rocky beach area. Naturally, there is a simple, small lighthouse on site that you can take a tour on Saturdays. Open 30 minutes before sunrise and 30 minutes after sunset, 201 Tulalip St. NE, Tacoma

[Fine Diners]
Though there are not many dining options in Northeast Tacoma, The Cliff House is worth the winding, secluded drive. Boasting sweeping views of Commencement Bay, Mount Rainier and a classy romantic ambiance, The Cliff House has been a prime destination for date night, wedding receptions or those who have a flair for the finer things in life since 1925. The Cliff House defines the phrase "Tacoma landmark" and has stood the test of time. Open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays; 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays. 6300 Marine View Dr., Tacoma, 253.927.0400

[The Light Keepers]
Onsite at Brown's Point Lighthouse Park is The Keeper's Cottage Museum. Though the cottage is open for tours Saturdays from 1 to 4 p.m., the most interesting aspect is that it is also available for weeklong rentals. During your stay, you'll learn all about the locale's history and will be able to conduct tours of the premises yourself. When not working away, you can awake to the sounds of the waves, enjoy the park and revel in the majestic sunsets. Open 1-4 p.m. Saturdays. 201 Tulalip St. NE, Tacoma, 253.927.2536

[Golfing Gurus]
A driving range, 18 holes, lessons and all that jazz can be found at North Shore Golf Course. This public course is affordable and was once voted one of America's Best Golf Shops. If you're hankering for a nibble to fuel your golf fun, onsite restaurant On the Greens has a great selection of traditional favorites from breakfast to dinner. 4101 North Shore Blvd., Tacoma, 253.927.1375

[DATE NIGHT]
The Lobster Shop at Dash Point opened in June 1977, paving the way for prom dates, couples and intimate diners to enjoy Northwest flavors and seafood by a professional staff in a quiet, low lighting, double-tired restaurant with a view of the water. 4:30-9 p.m. daily, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday breakfast, 6912 Soundview Dr. NE, Tacoma, 253.927.1513

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