Tacoma in 3 Days: Art, Nature, and Local Flavors

Discover the unexpected in Tacoma, Washington.

22 April 2023

As a tourist visiting Tacoma, you can explore the city's rich art and culture scene at the Museum of Glass, Tacoma Art Museum, and the restored Union Station. The city is also known for its natural beauty, with picturesque parks like Point Defiance Park and Ruston Way Waterfront Esplanade that offer stunning views of the Puget Sound. Finally, you can indulge in local cuisine with a visit to Tacoma's vibrant food and craft beverage scene.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Welcome To Tacoma

  • Staying at the Hotel Murano, a boutique hotel with a stunning glass art collection
  • Head to the Museum of Glass, built by the renown architect Arthur Erickson
  • Make a pit stop at Anthem Coffee & Tea — perfect for a quick caffeine boost
  • Take a walk on the Chihuly Bridge of Glass, a pedestrian bridge filled with glass sculptures
  • Enjoy seafood at Duke's Chowder House, a local gem with a magnificent Puget Sound view
  • End the day with craft brews at Wingman Brewers, a spacious venue with a unique aviation-based theme
Day 2

Discovering Tacoma's Charm

  • Gorgen Family Farm is worth waking up early for a fresh breakfast and outdoor dining
  • Take a stroll through Wright Park, a picturesque park that features specialty gardens, a pond, and a playground
  • Head to Old Town Tacoma, a colorful historic district with antique shops, delis, and restaurants
  • Visit the historic Stadium High School, known for its appearance in the movie "Ten Things I Hate About You"
  • Have lunch at the Pacific Grill, serving up a menu with local and seasonal ingredients
  • End the evening exploring the antiquities at Sanford & Son Antiques
Day 3

Nature and Art at its Best

  • Stop at Homestead Restaurant for breakfast, known for fluffy biscuits and gravy
  • Hike the trails at Point Defiance Park, a 760-acre park containing a zoo, botanical gardens and stunning beaches
  • Experience the charm of Proctor District, filled with local shops and cafes
  • Take a stroll through Union Station, a beautiful train station that is now a historical landmark
  • Check out the local art scene at Tacoma Art Museum
  • End your stay with dinner at Stanley & Seafort's, the best place to get a view of the sunset over Tacoma's skyline

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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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.

Destination

Tacoma

If you love rain and coffee, then Tacoma is the perfect vacation spot for you! Just make sure to pack an umbrella and a tolerance for caffeine overdose.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Tacoma Treasures: Fun-filled Family Day Trip Adventure

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.

The Ultimate Weekend Guide to Tacoma, USA

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.

Tacoma on a Budget: Art, Beer, and Burgers

Tacoma offers a range of budget-friendly activities, from exploring the city's art museums and galleries to hiking in scenic parks. Visitors can also enjoy the city's trendy food and drink scene, sampling local craft beer and food truck fare. Budget-friendly accommodation options including hostels and budget hotels are available.

5 Days of Fun and Culture in Tacoma

A trip to Tacoma in the United States as a tourist is a perfect blend of exploring natural beauty and experiencing rich cultural heritage. The city features iconic museums like the Museum of Glass, the Washington State History Museum, and the Tacoma Art Museum, which gives visitors something to learn about history and art. Also, visiting places like Point Defiance Park and Ruston Way Waterfront offers scenic views of the city's nature and waterfront parks.