5 Days of Fun and Culture in Tacoma

Discover the hidden gems of Tacoma, where adventure and culture await.

22 April 2023

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.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Discovering Downtown Tacoma

  • Check in to Hotel Murano, a funky boutique hotel centrally located in downtown
  • Visit the Museum of Glass to see the stunning glass sculptures and learn about the art of glassblowing
  • Stroll along the waterfront to see the iconic Tacoma Dome and the Ruston Way waterfront park
  • Grab a bite to eat at Pacific Grill, a trendy restaurant with delicious seafood and creative cocktails
  • Attend a show at the Pantages Theater, a historic venue that hosts a variety of performances
Day 2

Exploring Tacoma's Parks

  • Start the day with breakfast at Red Elm Café, a cozy spot with delicious coffee and pastries
  • Visit Point Defiance Park, one of the largest urban parks in the US, and see the zoo, aquarium, and beautiful gardens
  • Hike along the trails in the Tacoma Nature Center, a serene oasis within the park
  • Head to Owen Beach for some kayaking or paddle boarding on the Puget Sound
  • Enjoy some local craft brews and pub fare at Wingman Brewers, a casual hangout with a fun atmosphere
Day 3

Tacoma's Art Scene

  • Have a quick breakfast at the cozy Le Donut food truck, which serves up fresh, homemade donuts and coffee
  • Visit the Tacoma Art Museum to see the impressive collection of Northwest art and rotating exhibitions
  • Check out the street art in the Hilltop neighborhood and take a fun mural tour with Pretty Gritty Tours
  • Stop by the Freight House Square, a quirky shopping and dining destination housed in a historic railroad building
  • Grab dinner at the lively Rhein Haus, a German-style beer hall with tasty sausages, pretzels, and a fun atmosphere
Day 4

Day Trip to Mount Rainier

  • Take a day trip to Mount Rainier National Park, one of the most stunning natural wonders in the state
  • Hike along one of the many trails and take in the breathtaking views of the mountain and surrounding forests
  • Stop in at the Paradise Inn for a snack or lunch and admire the historic lodge's rustic charm
  • Try your hand at fishing or picnicking by the river at the park's Ohanapecosh Visitor Center
  • Return to Tacoma and treat yourself to a fancy dinner at Stanley & Seafort's, a classic seafood restaurant with an unbeatable view of the harbor
Day 5

Tacoma's Unique Offerings

  • Grab a quick breakfast at Dolce Si, a charming Italian bakery with pastries and sandwiches to go
  • Visit the Washington State History Museum to learn about the state's fascinating past and see interactive exhibits
  • Explore the local art scene at the Tacoma Art Walk, held on the third Thursday of each month
  • Have lunch at Indochine, a trendy spot with mouthwatering Thai-Vietnamese dishes and a hip bar
  • End the day with a pint (or two) at Dystopian State Brewing, a small-batch brewery with a funky aesthetic and eclectic beers
  • And there you have it five days of exploring the quirks and charms of Tacoma!

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

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.

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.

Weekend Guide: Experience the Best of Tacoma

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.

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.