Weekend Guide: Experience the Best of Tacoma

Discover the vibrant culture and outdoor beauty in Tacoma, USA.

22 April 2023

Tacoma offers tourists a mix of history, culture and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the interesting museums and galleries, indulge in local cuisine or take a stroll through the stunning Mount Rainier National Park. With its vibrant atmosphere and array of activities, Tacoma is a must-visit destination for anyone planning a trip to the United States.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Welcome to Tacoma!

  • Check in to the Hotel Murano, a trendy boutique hotel with a glass art theme
  • Stroll through the Chihuly Bridge of Glass, a stunning art installation connecting downtown Tacoma to the waterfront
  • Visit the Museum of Glass to see live glassblowing demonstrations and works by renowned artists like Dale Chihuly
  • Experience some local flavor at The Table, a cozy restaurant serving Pacific Northwest cuisine using locally sourced ingredients
  • Catch a show at the historic Pantages Theater or the more intimate Theatre on the Square
Day 2

Get Outdoorsy

  • Drive to Point Defiance Park, a 700-acre park with hiking trails, a zoo and aquarium, and stunning views of the Puget Sound
  • Walk through the Rose Garden and Japanese Garden within the park
  • Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore the waters around Point Defiance
  • Stop at WildFin American Grill for lunch, a seafood-focused restaurant with a view of the Sound
  • Enjoy a refreshing craft beer at Wingman Brewers or 7 Seas Brewing, both located in Tacoma's brewery district
Day 3

History Comes Alive

  • Take a guided tour of the Washington State History Museum, which showcases the state's rich history through interactive exhibits
  • Visit the LeMay America's Car Museum to see an extensive collection of automobiles and learn about their impact on American culture
  • Have lunch at the Cozy Cottage Cafe, a popular diner-style restaurant serving up tasty breakfast and lunch classics
  • Visit the Foss Waterway Seaport Museum to learn about Tacoma's history as a bustling port city
  • End the day with a delicious dinner at The Melting Pot, a fondue restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and killer cocktails
Day 4

Artistic Vibes

  • Explore the Tacoma Art Museum, featuring works by local and regional artists as well as an impressive collection of American art
  • Walk through the Theater District and admire the stunning architecture of the historic Broadway Center for the Performing Arts
  • Grab a bite to eat at Indochine, a popular restaurant serving up delicious Vietnamese and Thai cuisine
  • Visit the Tacoma Dome to see a concert, comedy show or sporting event
  • End your trip with a relaxing drink and some pub fare at Doyle's Public House, a beloved Irish pub with a cozy atmosphere and live music on weekends.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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 in 3 Days: Art, Nature, and Local Flavors

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.

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.

Tantalizing Tacoma: 4 Days of Family Fun

A family-friendly trip to Tacoma, United States offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities. Start your journey by exploring the breathtaking Point Defiance Park, where you can enjoy stunning gardens, a zoo, and a beach. Move on to the engaging Tacoma Children's Museum and the fascinating Museum of Glass, where you can witness amazing glass-blowing demonstrations, ensuring an educational and entertaining experience for the whole family.

Discover Tacoma's Charm: A Two-Day Itinerary

Tacoma is a vibrant city in Washington state, USA that is perfect for a romantic getaway. Visitors can explore the beautiful Point Defiance Park, stroll along the Ruston Way waterfront, and enjoy a show at the historic Pantages Theater. With its lively dining scene and scenic surroundings, Tacoma offers plenty of opportunities for couples to create unforgettable memories together.