The Ultimate Weekend Guide to Tacoma, USA

Explore the city of museums and glass in Tacoma.

22 April 2023

Tacoma is a coastal city situated in Washington State which is considered one of the best places to visit in the USA. It is famous for its splendid natural attractions, including the Point Defiance Park and the Foss Waterway Seaport. By visiting Tacoma, tourists can immerse themselves in the city's vibrant cultural scene with a variety of art galleries, museums, and the spectacular Chihuly Bridge of Glass.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Tacoma Treasures

  • Check-in at the Hotel Murano, a chic hotel with glass art pieces in every corner.
  • Start off the day with a visit to the Museum of Glass, where you can watch skilled glassblowers in action.
  • Head over to the Washington State History Museum to learn about the rich history of the Pacific Northwest.
  • Take a stroll through the Tacoma Art Museum, showcasing a variety of art styles and mediums from local artists.
  • Enjoy a delicious meal at The Table, known for their farm-to-table menu featuring Pacific Northwest ingredients.
  • Cap off the night with a drink at The Mix, a lively neighborhood bar with a funky vibe.
Day 2

Nature in the City

  • Grab breakfast at The Spar, a historic waterfront eatery with a cozy atmosphere.
  • Head over to Point Defiance Park and Zoo, where you can see a variety of animals and take a scenic drive through the park.
  • Take a walk on the scenic 5 Mile Drive, a winding road through the park with stunning views of Puget Sound.
  • Visit the Point Defiance Rose Garden, featuring over 1,500 rose bushes and breathtaking views of Mount Rainier.
  • Have lunch at WildFin American Grill, a waterfront restaurant with a menu featuring local seafood.
  • End the day with a visit to the Bridge of Glass, a stunning pedestrian bridge with glass art installations by Dale Chihuly.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Tacoma by plane is to fly to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and then take a shuttle or rental car to Tacoma.

Car

The easiest way to get to Tacoma by car is to take I-5 south from Seattle or north from Portland.

Train

There is no direct train to Tacoma, but you can take the Amtrak Cascades to the nearby Tacoma Dome Station.

Boat

There are no direct boat routes to Tacoma, but you can take a ferry from Seattle to Bainbridge Island and then drive to Tacoma.

Bus

You can take a Greyhound or Bolt Bus to Tacoma from various cities in the Pacific Northwest.

More travel plans

Escape for a 3-Day Tacoma Adventure

Tacoma, located in the state of Washington, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, history, and modernity. Steeped in culture, visitors to Tacoma can explore the Museum of Glass, Tacoma Art Museum, and the Washington State History Museum. Couples can indulge in the region's culinary delights, take a stroll on the famous Ruston Way Waterfront, or explore nearby Mount Rainier National Park for a truly romantic getaway.

Tacoma on a Budget: 3 Days of Adventure

Visit Tacoma, known for its beautiful scenery and vibrant culture, even on a limited budget. Enjoy free activities such as exploring Point Defiance Park, admiring the iconic Tacoma Dome, and browsing the Tacoma Art Museum. Stay at affordable accommodations like the Silver Cloud Inn or America's Best Value Inn and savor local cuisine at restaurants like Marzano Italian Restaurant or The Original Tahoma Coffee Co.

Tacoma City Escape in a Day

Visiting Tacoma, United States as a tourist offers an array of exciting activities. Take a stroll through the Museum of Glass with its beautiful views of the Puget Sound or explore Point Defiance Park with its botanical gardens, zoo and aquarium. Lastly, indulge in the local cuisine and take in the stunning Mount Rainier views for a memorable trip to Tacoma.

Tacoma Adventure: 5 Days of Romance and Fun

A Tacoma trip can be a perfect romantic getaway for couples who want to explore nature and indulge in some leisure activities. From the romantic waterfront to the beautiful gardens and parks, Tacoma offers plenty of opportunities to spend quality time with your loved one. Don't forget to visit the Museum of Glass and savor the local cuisine for an enriching experience.