14 Things To Do In Tacoma: Complete Guide To This Artistic PNW Hub (2024)

Tacoma is the museum district of Washington, where art and culture flourish through its streets. Explore the eclectic restaurants and pubs, walk through historical buildings, and admire art in Tacoma. Tacoma is not just a gorgeous city to explore; the people here are extremely welcoming. For visitors who are thrill seekers, mountain lovers, hikers, beach lovers, or simply wish to be amidst gorgeous art and architecture, Tacoma is the right place to vacation.

Tacoma is home to Mt. Rainier and offers a wide range of hikes and camping options for weekend getaways. Watch the city pass by, grab a bike, ride through the streets of Ruston Way Waterfront, admire the sunset over the pristine blue waters, or take a stroll in the botanical gardens. A weekend in Tacoma is all tourists need to explore some of the most exciting attractions in Washington State.

Top Things To Do In Tacoma

1 LeMay - America's Car Museum

Tacoma, Washington, USA: The entrance name and sign of the LeMay - Americas Car Museum

The family of Harold LeMay donated most of the cars on exhibit at America's Car Museum. It houses the world's largest private car collection, featuring over 350 varieties of cars with different designs, speeds, and colors.

The building also has a small gift shop and a coffee shop with fast takeaway finger food. The outdoor area covers three acres and usually hosts automobile events, music shows, swap meets, and auctions.

• Price: $18 for adults, $16 for seniors, $14 for those under 18 years, and $10 for those under 10 years.
• Hours: Thursday to Monday, 10 am - 5 pm

2 Point Defiance Park

Tacoma, WA USA: View of the entrance to Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium on a sunny day during covid 19.

Located at the banks of Puget Sound, this urban park has an aquarium, zoo, broad walk, a marina, a doghouse, and a boathouse. There are numerous short hiking trails spread across the park. The forest also contains 460-year-old Douglas firs. The park is more of a nature retreat, also perfect for kids.

Several smaller themed parks are inside, like the Japanese park, and the rhododendron garden ensure there's always something to do at Point Defiance Park. For animal lovers, be on the lookout for sea lions, eagles, deer, red foxes, and wolves.

• Price: $20 for 13+ age and $15 under 12 years
• Hours: 9 am - 3:30/4/5 pm, depending on the month

3 Washington State History Museum

Tacoma, WA USA: View of the exterior of the Washington State History Museum downtown

Washington State History Museum is located in Downtown Tacoma. The museum has a coffee shop, a gift shop, wheelchair accessibility, and an outdoor plaza.

For those who prefer learning about Tacoma's history and rich heritage, this museum, operated by the non-profit society, has permanent and rotational exhibits all year round.

It does a great job of promoting the beauty of art, culture, and the Tacoma community.

• Hours: The museum is open Tuesdays to Sundays, 10 AM to 5 PM.
• Price: $14 for adults, $11 for seniors and students

4 Chihuly Bridge of Glass

Chihuly Bridge of Glass Tacoma WA

The bridge of glass opened as a gift to the city and its rich vibe. This partially covered footbridge is over 500 feet and links the Museum of Glass to Pacific Avenue. The best time to go here is during the dimming sunset hours to watch this beauty reflect the sun's rays in delicate little patterns.

The Seaform Pavilion is the first installation that was created with 2000 glass objects. At the center of the bridge, visitors will spot the Crystal Tower, which beams like it has a light of its own. It almost looks like cool blue glacial ice.

• Price: Free

5 Skyline Trail Loop

Tacoma Narrows Bridge WA

Washing State boasts some of the most scenic hiking trails in the country, and for first-timers in the city, the Skyline Trail is a crowd favorite. Located 30 miles outside Tacoma, the Skyline Trail is the main route for hiking via Paradise, taking visitors through breathtaking views of Mt. Rainier, clear waterfalls and meadows, and glaciers.

This is a day hike, and it is best suggested to wear comfortable clothes, bring water, and wear slip-proof hiking shoes. Also, check the weather map before heading for this excursion. The mountain weather is often unpredictable.

• Price: Free

6 Tacoma Art Museum

Tacoma, WA, USA: Street view of the Tacoma Art Museum on a sunny, cloudless day.

In a city famed for its bustling art community, the Tacoma Art Museum is a must-visit for vacationers. The museum has a gorgeous collection of Northwestern art and showcases over 4500 works of art. They also have a dedicated glass art section that celebrates the best glass artists from across the world.

Visitors can find impressive works from European artists like Pissarro and Degas and some Japanese woodblock prints.

• Price: $18 for adults and $15 for senior citizens, free for kids
• Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 10 am - 5 pm (Thursday, 8 pm)

7 Tacoma Light Trail

Freeway light trails leading into Tacoma Washington downtown city center at night

The Tacoma Light Trail can be done on foot or by car. It is a fun way to explore the city during the dark hours of the night. The trail of light art runs through downtown Tacoma alongside music, art, and poetry.

• Hours: This trail only runs seasonally, around Christmas and New Year's.
• Time required: 2 hours

8 Mt. Rainier Hike

Mount Rainier National Park hike, Tacoma, Washington State

There are several hike options at Mount Rainier. It is perfect for a beginner-level hiker, a novice, or an expert at mountain climbing.

However, there are more options for short half-day to full-day hikes, and for the adventure enthusiasts who would like to camp overnight, there are 2-3 night hikes too. They have separate hikes for summers and winters.

Beyond hikes, there is plenty more to explore in Mount Rainier.

• Price: Differs

9 Ruston Way Waterfront Walk

Ruston Way Waterfront, Tacoma

This route connects Point Defiance to downtown Tacoma and is only a walking distance away from the museum district. On the 2-mile stretch, one can spot seals playing on the surf, with Mount Rainier on the West and the Olympic mountain range to the East.

Grab a cup of coffee, opt for a segway ride across town, or simply rent a bike and explore the beautiful neighborhood with plenty of food and drink options on the way.

• Price: Free

10 The Gig Harbor Gondola

Mount Rainier and Moon Reflecting over Gig Harbor Sunset, Tacoma, Washington State.

The owners of the Gondola have a long-living love affair with Venice and its Gondolas. Gregorio Garite, the co-owner of the Gondola, has been an American gondolier since February 2022 and runs the gondola out of pure passion and peace.

The harbor has a wide range of restaurants and quick-eating joints to enjoy simple munchies.

• Price: $45

11 Owen Beach

Two people sitting on driftwood at Owen Beach Tacoma WA

This is a beautiful spot to come by on a Sunday afternoon and just relax. Visitors can find many families sitting by the beach, enjoying a mean picnic.

The beach is a part of Point Defiance Park, where people often drop by to sunbathe, dog-walk, or just bring the kids by the shore. Visitors can spot Puget Sound from the beach.

• Price: Free

12 Tacoma Nature Center

A arbor of Roses covers a center garden at Point Defiance Park in Tacoma, Washington.

Tourists with a soft spot for nature and lovers of open spaces will have an unforgettable time exploring the Tacoma Nature Center. Situated in the heart of the city, this urban oasis spans 71 acres with a 2-mile light walking trail traversing forests, wetlands, and pleasant natural habitats, allowing visitors to experience the rich PNW ecosystem.

A great escape for the whole family, kids can get busy at the playground or curb their curiosity at the interpretive center, which provides learning materials about the Tacoma Nature Center.

• Cost: Free
• Hours: Open daily, 10 am - 2 pm

13 Wright Park

Pond at Wright Park in Tacoma, Washington, USA.

Wright Park is a tranquil space in the city's center, perfect for relaxing or unwinding after a long day. The park has over 600 trees, beautiful flowers, and awesome sculptures worth inspecting. Winding paths throughout the area allow guests to explore and bask in its peaceful atmosphere.

The park is also popular among families that come for picnics as the kids have fun on its playground.

• Cost: Free
• Hours: Open daily, 7 am - 9 pm

14 Museum Of Glass

Tacoma Art Museum and Glass Museum

The MOG displays intricate and impressive works of art by different glass artists. Guests can admire amazing glass sculptures from Tacoma's favorite son, Dale Chihuly, and watch the detailed glass art-making process in real-time.

Staff also hold live glass-blowing demonstrations at the Hot Shop to pass the knowledge to visitors, who are always fascinated by how experienced craftsmen manipulate molten glass to create awe-inspiring art.

• Cost: $18 adults, $10 children, free children under 6
• Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 10 am - 5 pm

15 Best Time To Go To Tacoma

Tacoma, Washington with Mt. Rainier in the distance on Commencement Bay

Tacoma is an eventful city every season of the year. However, those who prefer warmer weather and outdoor activities must opt to travel during the spring and summer months, from March to August.

Related: A Guide To The Best Places To See Fall Foliage In The U.S.

The least humid month is July, but it's also the busiest time of the year.

16 Best Ways To Get Around In Tacoma

Travel in Tacoma, Washington

Getting around in Tacoma is not very difficult, thanks to the variety of commute options. It's even possible to take the train from Tacoma to Seattle (and vice versa).

Most people prefer to drive and explore the city, but there are multiple options for public transport within the city too.

Tacoma is only 20 miles south of Sea-Tac International Airport. At the airport, travelers will find several car-rental services, buses, shuttles, and local taxis to start their journey into Tacoma. Tacoma also has a free light rail to take them into the city.

Related: These Are The Most Scenic Roads On The West Coast For A Road Trip

Tacoma has everything from busses, coaches, private hotel shuttles, taxi car rentals, and water transport available easily. Many travel agents and tour operators also offer these options for prior bookings.

The Tacoma Link Light Rail connects all of downtown Tacoma's 6 stations; Tacoma Dome station, S. 25th Street, Union Station, Convention center, Commerce street, and the Theater district.

17 Where To Stay In Tacoma

Tacoma's urban city, Washington

Tacoma has endless hotel and holiday rental options that fit every budget.

McMenamins Elks Temple (Upstyle luxury)

McMenamins is a whole building filled with art installations. This is a family-owned company that runs hotels, make its own handcrafted beers, wines, coffee, and ciders since 1983.

Located in an area full of historic pubs, live music, history, and movie theaters, the hotel guarantees a fun-filled stay.

With hotels spread across the Pacific Northwest, McMenamins Elks Temple is a luxury hotel to look out for.

• Accommodation: McMenamins Elks Temple
• Address:565 Broadway, Tacoma, WA 98402, United States
• Price: $250 onwards
• Amenities: In-house pub, craft brewery, king-sized rooms with balconies, and an excellent location.

Courtyard Tacoma Downtown (Mid-range)

This relatively spacious hotel has a contemporary design and has more of a business hotel feel to it. Only adults over the age of 18 may check in.

The hotel is located in the central business district, the heart of Tacoma's art and theater district. Some major museums and popular restaurants are just within walking distance.

• Accommodation: Courtyard Tacoma Downtown
• Address: 1515 Commerce Street, Tacoma, Washington, USA, 98402
• Price: $152 onwards
• Amenities: Indoor pool, convention center, refrigerators, microwaves, mountain views, fitness center, hair salon, gift shop, laundry, dry-cleaning, and in-house coffee house.

Related: 14 Most Underrated National Parks In The United States

Hotel Murano (Budget)

Murano hotel is a modern, minimalist hotel in Downtown Tacoma located only walking distance from the convention center, the city's best restaurants, epic nightlife, and historic museums.

It boasts luxurious guest rooms of all sizes adorned with glass art from around the world.

• Accommodation:Hotel Murano
• Address:1320 Broadway, Tacoma, Washington 98402
• Price: $130 onwards
• Amenities: Meeting and conference rooms, bar 960, Bite restaurant, fitness center.

18 Where To Eat In Tacoma

Tacoma Narrows Bridge, Tacoma, Washington, USA

Sushi Tama (Japanese)

This sushi restaurant has been running for 20 years in Tacoma's sixth avenue locality. They have the freshest fishes showcased artistically and the best quality Japanese sticky rice.

• Price: $$
• Address: 3919 6th Ave, Tacoma, WA 98406, United States

Loak Toung Thai

For the ones who favor Pan-Asian cuisine, this authentic Thai restaurant should be the go-to joint. It is located in the Oakland locality, and they serve the best grilled sour pork and sticky rice omelet.

• Price: $$
• Address: 3807 Center St, Tacoma, WA 98409, United States

T-Town Cafe

By far the best Korean dessert spot in the entire city, T-Town Cafe serves the best taiyaki waffles flooded with Nutella alongside a soft serve. Their ice cream comes with fresh fruit toppings and their menu has a long list of Korean street side snacks like fries, honey toast, and more.

• Price: $
• Address: 8515 S Tacoma Way, Tacoma, WA 98499, United States

Marzano's (European)

Many say this is the best Italian restaurant in Tacoma. The restaurant has chic decor and a family-friendly ambiance. It offers some delicious traditional Italian food options like pasta and pizzas. Chef Elisa Marzano aims to spoil customers by serving them authentic Italian food.

• Price: $
• Address: 516 Garfield St S, Tacoma, WA 98444, United States

19 How To Spend A Perfect Day In Tacoma

Commencement Bay in Tacoma WA

While Tacoma, Washington, needs over two days to explore fully, tourists can rush through the city in a day and do all the important spots. Start with Point Defiance Park and the aquarium for a few hours, and rent a bike to head down to the Ruston Waterfront.

Related: Why Tacoma Is A Low-Key Alternative To Visiting Seattle

Post lunch, visitors can spend the evening in downtown Tacoma exploring the museums and bar lounges. Do keep in mind the museum's hours and plan the day accordingly.

FAQ

Q: Is Tacoma Washington worth visiting?

Tacoma is absolutely worth your time. The historically rich city has an array of activities and events to offer. Besides, the art and culture district is one to watch for. There are many famous restaurants for foodies, artwork from across the world to admire for art and history lovers, and a range of hiking trails for adventure seekers.

Q: What Is Tacoma best known for?

Tacoma is best known for Mt. Rainier hiking trails, many of which are easy even for beginners, and its world-renowned glass art.

Q: Which is better, Seattle or Tacoma?

Tacoma and Seattle are different in many ways, but Tacoma is often considered a low-key alternative to its counterpart.