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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.

Travel plan

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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!