Nestled in the picturesque Pacific Northwest, Tacoma, Washington is a vibrant city that offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re a local looking to rediscover your city or a visitor eager to explore, Tacoma has something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll delve into some of the best things to do in Tacoma, from scenic parks and fascinating museums to unique local spots and lively entertainment venues.
Start your journey with a visit to the stunning Point Defiance Park, where you can explore miles of hiking trails, enjoy breathtaking views of Puget Sound, and visit the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium. For art enthusiasts, the Museum of Glass is a must-see, showcasing mesmerizing glass art and offering live glass-blowing demonstrations.
Visit Point Defiance Park
Point Defiance Park is one of the key Tacoma destinations, offering numerous activities and sightseeing opportunities.
There are several trails in the park that you can walk or run on, a big road that is free of cars where you can cycle or skate, and several places to play and sports courts. For people with dogs, there is a dog park. One of its highlights is Owens Beach which has recently been renovated to include scenic boardwalks, picnic areas, and a boathouse where boats are rented.
Explore the Museum of Glass
A visit to the Museum of Glass should not be missed by residents and tourists alike. The 75,000-square-foot museum opened in 2002 and is located in downtown Tacoma along Thea Foss Waterway; it features exclusively glass art. Visitors can watch as beautiful glass pieces are made through live glass-making studios inside the museum. It also holds several galleries exhibiting diverse works by glass artists.
Ride the Ferry to Vashon Island
Vashon Island lies across from North Tacoma over water; it has a friendly community, unique shopping spots, and fine dining establishments. Taking this ferry ride from Point Defiance Park to Vashon Island takes about ten minutes only during which one can see some local marine life.
On reaching there guests may decide to tour the Vashon Island Coffee Roaster, have lunch at The Hardware Store then visit many waterfront parks housing numerous breathtaking views.
Stroll Through the University of Puget Sound Campus
The University Of Puget Sound commonly known as UPS by locals resides at North Tacoma’s southern edge. It is surrounded by Three Bridges, 6th Avenue, and Proctor District so it is very accessible due to its strategic location on campus proper.
On campus, you will find large open spaces including a baseball field, football field, and soccer field plus a running track, swimming pool, several cafes/dining areas, etc. It is a pleasure to go for a walk on this beautiful campus with or without your dog, you will see some of Tacoma’s hidden gems.
Enjoy Wright Park
Wright Park is an urban park located on the edge of Downtown Tacoma and the Stadium District. The park contains a newly renovated conservatory that accommodates various types of beautiful plants.
For its size, Wright Park has well-lit paths and trails popular among many people in the area including playgrounds, water ponds with fountains, and numerous sports courts. Perfect for taking coffee from Cosmonaut Coffee Co. down the road and enjoying a leisurely walk through the park.
Play Pickleball at Vassault Park
Pickleball is a simple game with easy rules that can be perfect for novices. Once you start playing, however, you will find it hard to stop! One of the most common places in Tacoma where one may play pickleball is the North Tacoma public tennis courts at Vassault Parks.
Vassault Park offers free pickleball if you come ready with paddles and balls for yourself. This place welcomes both experienced players as well as beginners who want to play pickleball sometime.
Enjoy a Show at The Tacoma Comedy Club
The Tacoma Comedy Club has been a cornerstone for comedy in downtown Tacoma since opening in October 2010. The venue is vibrant, hosting shows every day of the week so that there is always something to keep you entertained.
Mostly the club features touring comedians and it has regular open-mic nights as well as other events throughout the week. If you are looking for a hilarious night out with great food and an intimate environment, visit The Tacoma Comedy Club.
Watch a Movie at The Grand Cinema
Situated on 6th Avenue in Tacoma city, Grand Cinema is a fondly regarded independent cinema that has been part of the community since its inception in 1995. It’s an award-winning theater with comfortable theaters featuring small rooms and a friendly atmosphere.
Volunteers staff the place while they offer hot yummy popcorn just like home, unlike huge commercial movie theaters. Indulge yourself with top-notch quality independent films at this amazing location that amplifies each visit with its cozy ambiance.
Explore the Tacoma Art Museum
Tacoma Art Museum (TAM) situated on Pacific Avenue in downtown Tacoma is an artistic marvel both inside and outside. Opened in 1935 TAM holds over five thousand three hundred art pieces displaying diverse exhibits.
The museum’s design has taken into consideration how space should look; it’s simply beautiful! With plenty of parking underneath the ground floor and a cozy bistro within, this makes TAM ideal for a relaxed day appreciating art pieces. Take your time experiencing all that this extraordinary museum offers by exploring through various exhibitions.
Conclusion
Tacoma is a city rich with exciting activities, stunning scenery, and cultural treasures. Whether you’re exploring the expansive natural beauty of Point Defiance Park, marveling at the intricate glass art at the Museum of Glass, or enjoying a serene ferry ride to Vashon Island, there’s an abundance of things to do in Tacoma.
The vibrant community and diverse attractions make it an ideal destination for both locals and visitors. It’s no wonder many people love moving here; local movers can attest to the steady influx of new residents. So, next time you’re in search of an adventure or a relaxing day out, consider Tacoma—a place where there’s always something new to discover.
