Tacoma on a Budget: 3 Days of Adventure

Experience the charm of Tacoma without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Downtown Tacoma

  • Check-in at Shilo Inn & Suites Tacoma
  • Visit Museum of Glass and witness the stunning glassblowing show
  • Take a stroll in the stunning Wright Park and see the botanical gardens
  • Grab a bite at Red Elm Cafe and enjoy their avocado toast and coffee
  • Visit Union Station and marvel at the historic architecture
  • End the day with dinner at Pacific Grill, an upscale restaurant with delicious seafood options
Day 2

Discovering Nature

  • Drive to Point Defiance Park and explore the rugged beach and hiking trails
  • See the marine creatures at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium
  • Visit the stunning Fort Nisqually Living History Museum and learn about the region's history
  • Grab lunch at Shake Shake Shake, a retro burger joint
  • Spend the afternoon at Owen Beach or dip your toes in the spray park
  • End the day with dinner at The Social Bar and Grill, a cozy and casual spot with delicious comfort food
Day 3

Tacoma's Art Scene

  • Have a gourmet breakfast at Over the Moon Cafe
  • Visit the Tacoma Art Museum and immerse yourself in local and international art
  • Check out the Railroading in the Northwest exhibit at Washington State History Museum
  • Grab Lunch at MSM Deli, a favorite local spot with delicious sandwiches
  • Head to the antique shops and art galleries in the Historic District of downtown Tacoma
  • End the day with drinks and dinner at the top-rated Tacoma Cabana, a Tiki-inspired spot with tropical cocktails and delectable Caribbean dishes.

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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