Tidal Treasures: The Ultimate 3-Day Family Trip to Tacoma

Discover family fun in Tacoma, where adventure meets enchantment!

19 July 2023

Tacoma, located in the beautiful state of Washington, is a fantastic destination for a family-friendly trip. Known for its vibrant art scene, the city offers a wide range of museums and galleries to explore, including the iconic Museum of Glass. Families can also enjoy outdoor activities at Point Defiance Park, which boasts a zoo, aquarium, and breathtaking waterfront views. With its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and numerous family-friendly attractions, Tacoma guarantees a memorable and enjoyable trip for everyone.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Tumbling with Tides

  • Start your adventure by checking into the Hotel Murano, where every floor showcases a different art glass medium, like staying inside a kaleidoscope!
  • Visit the Museum of Glass and be mesmerized by the fiery spectacle of glassblowing, where artists shape molten goo into dazzling masterpieces.
  • Take a stroll along the Ruston Way Waterfront, where sandy beaches and salty breezes await, perfect for a scenic picnic or a game of frisbee with the fam.
  • Quench your thirst at Odd Otter Brewing Company, a local microbrewery where unusual flavors collide to create a delightful explosion of taste on your palate.
  • Indulge in a meal at Stanley & Seaforts, a charming waterfront eatery offering panoramic views alongside mouthwatering seafood delicacies that'll make your taste buds tango.
Day 2

Animal Encounters Galore

  • Start your day with a visit to Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, home to adorable otters, playful penguins, and majestic elephants to enchant the whole family.
  • Embark on a wildlife safari at Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, where you'll ride through sprawling forests and meadows to spot North American animals roaming freely.
  • Don't miss out on the LeMay America's Car Museum, a jaw-dropping collection of over 300 vintage vehicles, showcasing the evolution of automobile design and innovation.
  • Refuel your tank at Dirty Oscar's Annex, a quirky restaurant serving up eclectic dishes like cajun fried cauliflower and avocado fries that are guaranteed to delight.
  • Cap off the day with a visit to Dorky's Bar Arcade, a grown-up wonderland featuring retro arcade games and craft beers, where nostalgia and fun collide.
Day 3

Harbor Happenings

  • Begin your day with a visit to the Tacoma Art Museum, where vibrant paintings, intricate sculptures, and thought-provoking installations will stir your creativity.
  • Get a taste of history at the Washington State History Museum, a treasure trove of artifacts, interactive exhibits, and tales from the past that'll transport you through time.
  • Explore Tacoma's charming Proctor District, filled with unique boutiques, cozy cafes, and a local farmer's market offering farm-fresh goodies.
  • Satisfy your hunger at Indochine, a beloved Vietnamese restaurant serving up spicy pho, tantalizing curries, and zesty lemongrass chicken that'll transport your taste buds.
  • Conclude your adventure with a relaxing walk along the Tacoma Waterfront, where you can take in the magical views of the harbor, watch twinkling city lights, and bid farewell to this enchanting city.

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.

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A family friendly trip to Tacoma, United States, offers a diverse array of attractions for all ages. Explore the fascinating Museum of Glass, where you can watch glass artworks being created and try your hand at glass-blowing. Spend a day at Point Defiance Park, which features a zoo, beautiful gardens, hiking trails, and a charming waterfront. Lastly, enjoy a visit to the Children's Museum of Tacoma, where young ones can engage in interactive exhibits and hands-on activities.

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