Manitou Park-JB Lewis-McChord

Established in 1915, what was once a tourist camp is now filled with firs and grassy areas and a variety of recreational features.

This is a 7.4 acre park. A gravel walking path circles the park and is about 1/3 mile in length.

The Metropolitan Park District purchased 10 acres for $2,500 in 1915 in what was the extreme southwestern corner of the city. At the time of purchase, this tract was bisected by the Pacific Traction company’s electric car line which ran from City Center to American Lake and was later extended to Fort Lewis. When the line was abandoned, Metro Parks acquired the right-of-way for the nominal sum of $10.

It was considered to be one of the best tourist camps along Pacific Highway and at fifty cents a day it was self-supporting. Records show that 3,079 people traveling in 901 autos stayed at Manitou Park in 1920. By 1923 that number had increased to 11,000 people traveling in 3,086 autos.

Manitou Park Picnic Shelter

4408 American Lake Blvd. Tacoma, WA 98409

Manitou Park’s shelter is located in a grassy area with plenty of shade trees, next to a playground.

Manitou Park Picnic Shelter

Capacity: 100

Rental Rate: (April-September) $125

Amenities:

• Hours: Available daily 10 am-dusk
• Tables: 4 under shelter, 2 outside
• Restrooms: Yes
• BBQ’s and Stoves: None
• Electricity: n/a
• Water: None
• Parking: Street parking
• Picnic Shelter Rental Guide