What is "The Wedge" in Tacoma?
What if you lived in a neighborhood shaped like a slice of pizza? If we're speaking of Tacoma's Wedge neighborhood, you'd probably like it a lot! The Wedge has a lot to offer in terms of charm and convenience. So just what is The Wedge in Tacoma and what is it like?
The Wedge is a triangle formed by Division Ave and 6th Ave where they spit at Sprague, and Martin Luther King Jr on the east, although after M St it is mostly medical buildings to the east.
Tacoma's early city planners wanted neat gridlines for street layout here, but our waterfront shape is informed by nature and doesn't conform to North South East West. Their solution was to have a couple of areas shaped like shims or wedges to make the adjustment. Streets run diagonally. The Wedge is north of 6th but its street addresses are "South" because Division takes over the city splitting duties from 6th Ave at Sprague.
Step Back in Time
The homes here are a delightful mix of architectural styles that tell the story of Tacoma’s early settlers. You’ll find Victorians that look like they belong in a fairy tale, Cozy Craftsmans with porches perfect for morning coffee and waving at neighbors walking by, boxy Foursquares with solid, timeless appeal and elegant Colonial Revivals that whisper of yesteryear, to name a few.
Most of these beauties were built before the 1930s. Living here feels like stepping into a postcard and living history.
A Neighborhood of Cultures and Characters
The original settlers of The Wedge hailed from Germany, Sweden, Norway, and England. It’s a neighborhood that’s always been a little eclectic, with stories as rich as its architecture. A Titanic survivor once called The Wedge home! Frank and Ethel Mars, founders of the Mars Candy Company, started their business inside their home on South Sheridan Avenue!
Location, Location, Location
The Wedge offers the best of both worlds: historic charm and urban convenience. You’re just steps away from 140 year old Wright Park and it's meandering paths beneath large old trees, downtown Tacoma's shops and culture, most of the area's medical services and coffee shops and eateries, including the legendary Frisko Freeze!
It’s a neighborhood that feels tucked away but is actually quite close to urban convenience. If you crave a community vibe that’s friendly and tight-knit, with a dash of small-town nostalgia, The Wedge delivers. It’s a place where neighbors probably know your name and history is part of the daily rhythm. If you’re hunting for a home with character, a story, and a vibe as distinctive as its shape, The Wedge in Tacoma might just be your perfect slice of life.
