Are you moving to Tacoma? Beyond the excitement of living in Tacoma, the city has diverse places waiting to be explored. Discover the range of cultural events, outdoor pursuits, and delights that Tacoma, Washington, offers. Known as one of the undiscovered beauties of the area, this diverse city possesses an impressive past, breathtaking scenery, and a bustling arts community that draws tourists from all directions. Whatever your interests and preferences, Tacoma has a wide range of activities and attractions to satisfy them, whether you’re an art enthusiast, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast.
This extensive guide uncovers the most significant things to do with your family and kids, from hiking beautiful trails and sampling regional cuisine to visiting the city’s famous museums and waterfront. Tacoma promises a fantastic experience full of adventure, exploration, and the warmth of Pacific Northwest hospitality, whether you are planning a weekend trip or a more extended stay. So, let’s get started and explore the wealth of gems that this vibrant city by the bay has to offer.
Check Out Tacoma’s Art Museum
Tacoma is known for its beautiful museums and art scenes. The Tacoma Art Museum is a shining example of artistic expression and innovation in the Pacific Northwest. Since its founding in 1935, the Tacoma Art Museum has developed into a vibrant organization committed to presenting the rich creative legacy of the area and beyond.
Tacoma Art Museum honors historical and contemporary art styles, focusing on Northwest artists and their work. It is home to an outstanding collection of approximately 5,000 works of art. Paintings, sculptures, photographs, and decorative arts are just a few mediums available for exploration, offering visitors a thorough understanding of the area’s artistic heritage.
Tacoma Art Museum organizes educational programs, workshops, community events, and exhibitions to promote creativity, communication, and connection. The museum provides something for visitors of all ages and interests, including hands-on art-making workshops, family-friendly events, and artist talks.
Spend A Day At The Museum of Glass
The Museum of Glass in Tacoma, WA, is a prominent global destination for glass art fans and a remarkable architectural feat. Located in Tacoma’s downtown along the Thea Foss Waterway, the Museum of Glass is a unique structure representing the city’s industrial past and dedication to creative innovation.
MOG opened its doors in 2002 and has more than 5,000 items in its permanent collection, which includes everything from modern glass sculptures to antique glass relics. The museum offers visitors a thorough understanding of the development of the medium over time.
Take Fresh Air At Point Defiance Park
Over 700 hectares of unspoiled natural beauty make Point Defiance Park a vast urban paradise in Tacoma, Washington. Among the country’s biggest urban parks, it provides many recreational opportunities and sights for people of all ages. Wandering around the forested trails, visitors can enjoy the sights and sounds of nature while exploring on foot, by bicycle, or on horseback.
Families should not miss the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium inside the park. Believe me, your kids will also love it. More than 9,000 creatures from 367 species can be seen there, including polar bears, red wolves, and Sumatran tigers, all endangered. In addition, the zoo offers educational activities, immersive exhibits, and interactive encounters for guests of all ages.
Are You A Car Lover? Visit America’s Car Museum
Located in Tacoma, WA, LeMay, America’s Car Museum is a prestigious automotive museum highlighting the cultural relevance and rich history of the automobile in American life. The museum was founded in 2012 by well-known automobile collector and philanthropist Harold LeMay. Since then, it has become a popular destination for history lovers and auto enthusiasts.
A trip to this famous museum will likely be unforgettable, regardless of your interests—you might be a history buff, an automotive enthusiast, or just interested in learning more about how cars have influenced American culture.
LeMay – America’s Car Museum celebrates automotive history and culture year-round with special events, car exhibitions, and educational activities. The museum hosts various entertaining events, such as talks, film screenings, and vintage automobile rallies and auctions.
Learn More About Washington
If you want to know about the city you are moving to, the Washington State History Museum is an intriguing site that takes you on an enthralling tour through the state’s rich and varied past. Exhibits at the museum cover a broad range of topics related to Washington State’s history. Visitors of all ages can enjoy an immersive and instructive experience at the exhibits, which feature everything from multimedia presentations and interactive displays to archival documents and relics.
A vast array of educational events and materials are available at the museum for educators, students, and lifelong learners. You can interact meaningfully and interactively with history at the museum through lectures, workshops, family-friendly activities, curriculum materials, and field trips for schools.
Visit Jack Hyde Park With Your Family
If you are a fan of nature, you are in the right place. Jack Hyde Park is the quaint urban paradise of Tacoma, Washington. This lovely park, tucked away from the bustle of the city, is located along the magnificent Ruston Way shoreline.
One of the park’s main draws is admiring the breathtaking vistas of Commencement Bay and the Olympic Mountains. Enjoy the spectacular views of the Puget Sound, stroll along the waterfront promenade, and take in the beauty of the surroundings.
Jack Hyde Park hosts a range of community gatherings, festivals, and leisure pursuits all year round. Every month, the park hosts events that appeal to and engage visitors of all ages, from outdoor concerts and art fairs to yoga classes and fitness boot camps.
Spend a Perfect Weekend At Mount River National Park
Plan your weekend at Mount River National Park because you won’t be disappointed. Mount Rainier National Park is close to Tacoma and offers scenic views and thrilling outdoor experiences. Numerous breathtaking drives in Mount Rainier National Park provide unmatched views of the surrounding meadows, forests, and mountains. You can enjoy the stunning views from the luxury of their car.
Hikers of all ability levels can enjoy the park’s extensive network of hiking routes, which range from casual nature hikes to alpine climbs. Numerous wildlife species, such as black bears, deer, elk, mountain goats, and more, find a home on Mount Rainier. Your children will be happy to see these amazing animals in their natural habitat.
Buy Your Groceries At Tacoma Farmers Market
The Tacoma Farmers Market is the perfect place to buy groceries. The market is a thriving venue for community gatherings that honors regional food, artisan goods, and agriculture. The Tacoma Farmers Market offers various fresh, regionally farmed fruits and vegetables. The market features the most excellent seasonal food the Pacific Northwest provides, from juicy berries and crisp apples to heirloom tomatoes and lush greens.
Apart from freshly picked produce, the market offers an extensive assortment of handcrafted dishes by regional artisans. Live entertainment and music performances are a common component of the Tacoma Farmers Market, contributing to the lively ambiance. Take a break to unwind and take in the show, or wander through the market while listening to the tunes of local artists.
Check Out Chihuly Bridge of Glass
The Chihuly Bridge of Glass is well-known for its captivating artwork. The Chihuly Bridge of Glass is not merely a walkway but also an incredible piece of art. Chihuly’s famous glass-blown sculptures are displayed in three separate installations on the bridge, each providing a unique visual experience.
The two enormous buildings, the Crystal Towers, are among the bridge’s most remarkable features. Thousands of colorful glass pieces, illuminated from within, create a stunning show of color and light that changes throughout the day. You can view the Chihuly Bridge of Glass for free every day of the year. Easily accessible from Tacoma’s downtown, its central location will allow you to enjoy strolls across the bridge while admiring the breathtaking beauty of Chihuly’s creations.
As you can see, Tacoma is a city brimming with culture, natural beauty, and endless activities for everyone. If you’re planning to make this incredible city your home, ensure your move is hassle-free by choosing trusted Tacoma movers. With the right team to support you, you’re just steps away from starting your adventure in Tacoma, a city that promises discoveries around every corner.