Tacoma Unpacked: Explore on a Budget

Experience the charm of Tacoma without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

Day trip plan

Getting latest place information
Day

Discover Tacoma on a Budget

  • Start your day with a visit to the Museum of Glass 4.5 , where you can admire stunning glass art and even catch a live glassblowing demonstration.
  • Take a stroll through Point Defiance Park 4.7 , the city's largest park, and check out its rose garden, zoo and aquarium, and beach.
  • Have a delicious lunch at The Table 4.7 , a cozy farm-to-table eatery with dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients.
  • Explore the history of Tacoma's waterfront at the Foss Waterway Seaport 4.5 , where you can climb aboard historic ships and learn about the city's maritime heritage.
  • Finish off the day with a walk around the historic Stadium District, where you'll find charming old houses, boutique stores, and a variety of restaurants for dinner, such as Ram Restaurant & Brewery 4.1 or Indochine Tacoma 4.2 .

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 on a Budget: 3 Days of Adventure

Visit Tacoma, known for its beautiful scenery and vibrant culture, even on a limited budget. Enjoy free activities such as exploring Point Defiance Park, admiring the iconic Tacoma Dome, and browsing the Tacoma Art Museum. Stay at affordable accommodations like the Silver Cloud Inn or America's Best Value Inn and savor local cuisine at restaurants like Marzano Italian Restaurant or The Original Tahoma Coffee Co.

5 Days of Fun and Culture in Tacoma

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.

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 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.