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Spanaway, WA

Frequently asked questions

Spanaway, WA

Spanaway is a census-designated place (CDP) in Pierce County, Washington, United States. The population was 35,476 at the 2020 census, up from 27,227 in 2010. Spanaway is an unincorporated area near Tacoma and is often identified together with the more urban, less wealthy Parkland.  Spanaway's main business thoroughfare is Pacific Avenue South, which is a north-south road that coincides with State Route 7 through the Spanaway area.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 8.7 square miles (22.6 km²), of which, 8.3 square miles (21.6 km²) of it is land and 0.4 square miles (1.0 km²) of it (4.25%) is water.

The Hudson's Bay Company, headquartered at Fort Nisqually, had control of this region until 1863. Company maps and journals show the company's subsidiary, the Puget Sound Agricultural Company, raised cattle, grain, and sheep at "Spanueh Station" on the south and east shores of "Spanueh Lake." Spanueh is the Hudson Bay Company's spelling of the native Lushootseed spadue, which means "dug roots" referring to an area where camas and other edible roots can be found. Lushootseed underwent a loss of nasal consonants in the 1800s, so "Spanueh" simply transcribes an older pronunciation of what is now "Spadue".

The first white settler to take a donation claim by the lake, Henry de la Bushalier, tried to rename the lake after himself. That faded away with his death one year later. In 1890 the area was renamed "Lake Park" as a planned community by the Lake Park Land, Railway and Improvement Company, which bought all the nearby land east of the lake and built a rail line to its "recreation mecca" on the shore of "Spanaway Lake." When Mount Rainier National Park was established in 1899, tourists would take the train to its terminus in Lake Park and from there make the two-day journey to Mount Rainier, making Spanaway the original "gateway" to Mount Rainier. The journey was made by stagecoach, with an overnight stop in Eatonville; the route was in operation as early as 1893.

Although the U.S. Board of Geographic Names recognized the community of "Lake Park" in 1897, it had to very belatedly reverse its decision in 1970 to accept common usage: Spanaway (Spanueh). In the 21st century, several attempts were made to incorporate Spanaway and neighboring communities into a city.

Promoting health and wellness is central to Spanaway's identity, evident in its numerous facilities and programs catering to residents' well-being. MultiCare Family Medicine - Spanaway offers comprehensive health services, including wellness check-ups and preventive care programs. Anytime Fitness and LA Fitness offer comprehensive fitness programs including cardio, strength training, and group exercise classes. For those interested in aquatic activities, Sprinker Recreation Center provides an excellent ice rink, tennis courts, and various classes and programs year-round. If relaxation and rejuvenation are your goals, Massage Time Spa offers a variety of treatments including massages, facials, and wellness therapies. For those who enjoy hiking, the nearby Swan Creek Park offers trails that range from easy to challenging, perfect for a day of adventure and exercise. The Spanaway Fitness offers comprehensive fitness programs, including personal training and group exercise classes.

Top sites in Spanaway, WA are Spanaway Park, Old McDebbie's Farm / Jim's U-Fish, and Debbie Dolittle's Petting Zoo.

Population: 34,322 (2023). ZIP code: 98387. Area codes: 253, 564. Elevation: 381 ft (116 m). Area: 8.7 square miles (22.6 km²).

FAQs

What is the crime rate in Spanaway, WA?

With a crime rate of 32 per one thousand residents, Spanaway has one of the highest crime rates in America compared to all communities of all sizes - from the smallest towns to the very largest cities. One's chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime here is one in 31. Within Washington, more than 77% of the communities have a lower crime rate than Spanaway.

What is Spanaway WA known for?

One of the main attractions in Spanaway is the Spanaway Lake Park, a 135-acre park with a lake for fishing and boating, hiking trails, picnic areas, and sports fields. It is a popular spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Another attraction in the area is the Sprinker Recreation Center, which offers ice skating, swimming, and other recreational activities. Spanaway also has several other parks, including the Bresemann Forest Park and the Spanaway Park, which offer playgrounds, sports fields, and walking paths, providing plenty of opportunities for residents to enjoy the outdoors. 

Is Spanaway WA a good place to live?

The allure of Spanaway lies in its perfect blend of natural beauty and modern convenience. You’re never far away from lakes, parks, or hiking trails, making it an ideal place for outdoor enthusiasts. Plus, its proximity to cities like Tacoma and Seattle gives you access to urban amenities without the hustle and bustle.

Sources

Pierce County

Wikipedia

The Boss Magazine

Neighborhood Scout

Living In Washington

Spanaway Park 

Old McDebbie's Farm / Jim's U-Fish 

Debbie Dolittle's Petting Zoo

MultiCare Family Medicine - Spanaway

Anytime Fitness

LA Fitness

Massage Time Spa

Swan Creek Park

Spanaway Fitness

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