5 Things to Do in Tacoma, Washington

Just a short drive away from Seattle and resting in the shadow of Mount Rainier, Tacoma, Washington, is definitely worth a visit if you’re in the Pacific Northwest. Outdoor adventurers will find lots of excitement, whereas those travelers more interested in arts and culture will find lots to love as well.

If you have an upcoming trip to Tacoma, here’s where to start exploring.

1. Experience Tacoma’s Most Notable Art Form

Ask anyone what to do while you’re in Tacoma and, unfailingly, glass will come up, notably, the art of glassblowing. Learn everything you ever wanted to know about this art form when you visit Tacoma’s Museum of Glass, the Dale Chihuly collection at the Tacoma Art Museum and/or the Tacoma Glassblowing Studio.

2. Visit a Museum (Or a Few!)

But Tacoma is so much more than glasswork. Learn about the area’s history — as well as a bunch of other cool topics — at museums such as the Tacoma History Museum, America’s Car Museum, The Children’s Museum of Tacoma or the Washington State History Museum. Whatever you’re interested in, whoever you’re traveling with, you’re likely to find a museum that’ll pique your interest in Tacoma. Make sure to fully explore the Tacoma Museum District, too; this neighborhood encompasses six museums and includes the notable Chihuly Bridge of Glass, a 500-foot pedestrian walkway that’s a spectacular work of art all on its own.

H2: 3. Get Outdoors at the Country’s Largest Urban Park

If you don’t like the idea of spending your day in Tacoma cooped up indoors, get outside and see what’s awaiting you in Point Defiance Park. The largest urban park in the country, it offers 760 acres of fun, from old-growth forests and flower gardens, beaches to a boardwalk. There are plenty of ways to enjoy the scenery, whether you just want to go for a leisurely walk or you’d like to try something a bit more strenuous, such as kayaking off shore. Kids will also love this itinerary addition, as the park is home to the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium.

4. Explore Tacoma’s Relationship with the Water

You won’t find yourself ever straying too far away from the water when you’re exploring Tacoma. Be sure to take full advantage of all the water activities and water-related attractions while you’re in town. Visit Foss Waterway Seaport or the Harbor History Museum to learn about Tacoma’s maritime past. Walk out to Browns Point Lighthouse to take in the views. Or, pack a picnic and spread out on the sand at Owen Beach.

5. Shop the Local Scene

Looking for a unique souvenir to take back home? Never one to pass up an opportunity for some shopping? Visit Freighthouse Station Marketplace, where you can find art galleries, small businesses galore and even a food court.

Need More?

Not finding anything to catch your fancy among the recommendations above? There’s still even more to love about Tacoma. Buy your own Discovery Map of Tacoma, Washington, for more helpful suggestions on things to do, where to stay, where to shop and where to eat while you’re in the area.