Four Fun-Filled Days in Tacoma on a Budget

Discover the charm of Tacoma without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

Travel plan

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Day 1

History and Art in Tacoma

  • Check into Hotel Olympus, an affordable option with clean rooms and great location
  • Visit the Washington State History Museum, featuring exhibits on the state's history and culture
  • Take a walk through the Chihuly Bridge of Glass, a stunning art installation featuring works by renowned artist Dale Chihuly
  • Explore the Tacoma Art Museum, showcasing modern and contemporary Northwest art
  • Enjoy a meal at Southern Kitchen, a soul food restaurant serving up delicious fried chicken and collard greens
Day 2

Nature and Sweets

  • Take a morning stroll through Point Defiance Park, a 700+ acre park with gardens, wildlife, and beaches
  • Visit the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium, home to over 9,000 animals from all over the world
  • Enjoy some unique ice cream flavors at Ice Cream Social, a local ice cream shop with flavors like lavender honey and potato chip
  • Check out the W.W. Seymour Botanical Conservatory, a beautiful glass conservatory filled with rare and exotic plants
  • Have dinner at Pacific Grill, a trendy restaurant serving up seafood with a Pacific Northwest twist
Day 3

Street Art and Beer

  • Take a self-guided tour of the city's street art scene, featuring murals and installations by local artists
  • Visit the Museum of Glass, showcasing the medium of glass through exhibits, live demonstrations, and glass installations
  • Grab lunch at Odd Otter Brewing Company, a microbrewery with a rotating selection of craft beers
  • Take a stroll along the Ruston Way Waterfront, a scenic walkway along the water with sculptures and dining options
  • Have dinner at The Fish Peddler, a seafood restaurant with fresh catches and an outdoor deck overlooking the water
Day 4

Market and Hiking

  • Start the day at the Proctor Farmers Market, a local market with fresh produce and artisanal products
  • Hike the trails at Mount Rainier National Park, offering stunning views of the mountain and surrounding wilderness
  • Pick up some sandwiches at MSM Deli on your way to Mount Rainier
  • End the day with a happy hour at Top of Tacoma Bar, a casual neighborhood bar with local beer and spirits.

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 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.

Tacoma Adventure: 5 Days of Romance and Fun

A Tacoma trip can be a perfect romantic getaway for couples who want to explore nature and indulge in some leisure activities. From the romantic waterfront to the beautiful gardens and parks, Tacoma offers plenty of opportunities to spend quality time with your loved one. Don't forget to visit the Museum of Glass and savor the local cuisine for an enriching experience.

Escape for a 3-Day Tacoma Adventure

Tacoma, located in the state of Washington, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, history, and modernity. Steeped in culture, visitors to Tacoma can explore the Museum of Glass, Tacoma Art Museum, and the Washington State History Museum. Couples can indulge in the region's culinary delights, take a stroll on the famous Ruston Way Waterfront, or explore nearby Mount Rainier National Park for a truly romantic getaway.

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.