Mom's Escape: Tacoma's Proctor District Really Does Have It All

Tacoma's historic Proctor District has crafted itself over the years as one of the city's finest neighborhoods and shopping districts.

Pedestrian-friendly and easy to get to, this district seriously offers everything you would need or want, all in one convenient location.

Start your day with a coffee at the corner Starbucks (26th and Proctor). This joint is always jumping and a perfect people watching location. (Tip: on a nice day, try to snag an outdoor seat or grab one of the comfy chairs near the entrance for the best perch).

Make your way to one of the great boutiques to find that one-of-a-kind outfit, some snazzy jewelry, or those perfect shoes. Boutiques to check out : Envy, Megs and Mo Upscale Resale, and Jasminka. Need a creative and fun gift for someone special? For out-of-town friends, try the Pacific Northwest Shop for unique gift baskets and other goods that celebrate all things Northwest. Giardini Gift and Garden has lovely and eclectic gifts from interior décor to to dishes. Book lover? Browse at Culpepper's Books for rare and out of print treasures. Chirp and Co. and Wags offer a great selection of things for our feathery and furry friends. Need a gift for your favorite kids? Teaching Toys is a Proctor mainstay and offer unique toys and books and has FREE gift wrapping!

Getting hungry? I thought so. Craving pasta? Try Pomodoro or Europa Bistro. Asian cuisine? East West Cafe. An elegant luncheon with tea with friends? Old House Cafe. Wine tasting? Pour and Four. And during the spring and summer seasons (with additional markets in fall and winter) try out the lively Proctor Farmer's market. Looking for foods with that gourmet touch to grab and go? Metropolitan Market will dazzle you.

So, you've shopped and eaten. Perhaps a movie at the Blue Mouse Theater or quietly reading at the historic Anna Lemon Wheelock library is your speed. However, if you want to burn some calories, hit Chalet Bowl or check out Rainier Cycle for a new set of wheels.

Mom's tip: Sometimes, busy moms have to combine time to themselves with other errands. Proctor can help. Major banks, a UPS store, Safeway, Radio Shack, two dry cleaners and the U.S. Post Office are all right nestled in this district. Got the kids with you? That's okay. Well, okay, maybe not, but there are things to think of if you have them . Again, the aforementioned bowling alley (very kid-friendly), Teaching Toys (sure to please and dazzle) , the library has a great kid's section, , child's hair salon called Wild Child and a candy store called Sugar.

So, have a little fun and get a little done!