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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
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.

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.

More travel plans

Tacoma Tango: 2 Days of Family-Friendly Fun!

Tacoma, located in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, offers an array of family-friendly activities and attractions for a memorable trip. Explore the fascinating Museum of Glass and watch live glassblowing demonstrations, or immerse yourself in nature at the breathtaking Point Defiance Park and Zoo. Don't miss the unique experience of the LeMay-America's Car Museum, where both kids and adults can marvel at an impressive collection of automobiles spanning decades.

Fall in Love with Tacoma: A Romantic Day Trip

Tacoma, located on the shores of Puget Sound in Washington State, is an ideal romantic getaway destination with beautiful natural landscapes and cultural attractions. The city offers a variety of romantic activities including strolling through the stunning Point Defiance Park, visiting the acclaimed Museum of Glass, and indulging in local cuisine at romantic restaurants. Tacoma is the perfect place to relax, rejuvenate, and create unforgettable romantic memories.

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 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.