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

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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.

Tacoma Unpacked: Explore on a Budget

Tacoma, a port city in Washington, United States offers budget travelers a charming mix of history and nature. Must-visit attractions include the Museum of Glass, Point Defiance Park and Zoo, and the Tacoma Art Museum. For budget-friendly accommodations and meals, the city's hostels and food trucks serve as great options while exploring the unique city.

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.

Four Fun-Filled Days in Tacoma on a Budget

Tacoma, located in the state of Washington, offers a diverse range of attractions for budget travelers. A visit to Point Defiance Park, which has gardens, hiking trails, and a zoo, is a must. The city also has several museums and art galleries that offer free admission, making it accessible for those on a limited budget.