Tacoma Weekend Guide for First-Timers

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Craving a quickie getaway that won’t eat up all your precious PTO? Then Tacoma Washington might just be the place for you.

Just a short drive from Seattle airport (yep, you can rent a car from the airport and be there in just 30 minutes), this city’s got all the essentials for a weekend trip.

Tacoma Narrows Bridge
Tacoma Narrows Bridge

Though it was initially pegged to be Washington’s top city before Seattle took center stage, Tacoma thrives with cool, underrated city vibes. Think big sports energy, indie theaters, plenty of shops, quirky history, mouthwatering food, and outdoor escapes at every turn.

Here’s everything you need for a fantastic weekend in Tacoma.

Things To Do in Tacoma

Tacoma has plenty for both history buffs and art lovers. Museum-goers, get ready to swoon. Start with the Museum of Glass, a nod to Tacoma native and glass art legend Dale Chihuly. You’ll find mesmerizing glass exhibits, plus live glass-blowing demos that show just how versatile (and gorgeous) this medium can be.

Hand-blown glass
Hand-blown glass

For our more artsy travelers, hit up the Tacoma Art Museum (TAM), where Pacific Northwest art shines, think contemporary Native American pieces by local Indigenous artists and recovered artwork once stolen by the Nazis.

Plus, for our car lovers, you’re covered too. Head to America’s Car Museum to see the world’s largest private car collection from the LeMay family. You can see iconic cars like vintage Chevrolet’s, custom Mercedes-Benz’s, and legendary NASCAR motors under one roof.

Not into museums? No worries! Here are three top picks for your first Tacoma weekend:

  1. Check out the Tacoma Nature Center: It's got hiking trails around Snake Lake, a visitor center with hands-on exhibits for kids, and a natural playground that features log slides, boulders, and even a treehouse.
  2. Catch a Rainiers game at Cheney Stadium: Round out the weekend with America’s favorite pastime by catching a minor league baseball game at Cheney Stadium. The Tacoma Rainiers put on an energetic show, and the stadium’s welcoming energy, combined with special events, make it a fun outing for everyone.
  3. Wander through Point Defiance Park and Zoo: For a more scenic adventure, spend an afternoon at Point Defiance Park. This massive urban park has something for everyone, from hiking trails with views of Puget Sound to the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, where you can meet tigers, polar bears, and tropical fish. If you’re feeling adventurous, take the 5-mile drive loop through the park for unbeatable waterfront views and lush forest scenery.

Where to Eat in Tacoma

Tacoma’s food scene is deliciously diverse, so come hungry.

If you’re craving hot dogs with a twist, The Red Hot is your spot. This joint is known for its craft dogs and even craftier beers (28 local brews on tap!). Classics like the Coney dog are always a hit, but for the more adventurous, try the Hound Dog topped with peanut butter and bacon, or the Mister Mac with mac ’n’ cheese, red pepper ketchup, and seasoned breadcrumbs.

Hot dog
Hot dog

For an authentic taste of Southeast Asian street food, Indo Asian Street Eatery is a must. Locals swear by this spot, where Chef Yu (self-taught from his Bangkok roots) brings you everything from spicy Korean hot wings to banh mi sandwiches and Singapore curry shrimp. If you're looking to spice up your meal, this place won’t disappoint.

And if BBQ is calling your name, make a quick detour over the Tacoma Narrows Bridge to BBQ 2 U in Gig Harbor (only about 20 minutes away and perfect if you have a rental car). It’s smoked brisket, ribs, and chicken done right, Texan-style, with sides like mac ’n’ cheese, sausage links, and the hard-to-find “Big Red” soda for a truly authentic experience.

Where to Stay in Tacoma

Whether you’re gathering a group of friends for a fun weekend, looking for a romantic escape, or seeking a cozy bed and breakfast, this city has the perfect spot to make your first-time traveler's experience unforgettable. Here’s a rundown of some fantastic accommodations to check out.

For a Quirky Group Trip

McMenamins Elks Temple is like stepping into a living piece of art, with local artists’ work on every wall. With funky rooms and a bunch of cool bars and dining spots (some of our favs include McMenamins Brewery Tasting Room, The Old Hangout, Doc’s, and Spanish Bar), you’ll have plenty to keep the fun rolling. It’s perfect for artsy first-time travelers and groups of friends looking for a quirky adventure, McMenamins promises a stay that’s anything but ordinary.

For the Polished Traveler

If you want something a bit fancier downtown, check out Hotel Murano. It’s super close to the business district and cultural spots, just a quick two-minute walk from the Tacoma Convention & Trade Center. You’ll find airy, modern rooms, an awesome art collection, in- room Well&Fit kits for a wellness boost, and a big gym. Plus, they have inter-connecting rooms, making it a great choice for families or groups needing a stylish base for work or play.

For the Love Birds (With a Paranormal Twist)

If you’re after a cozy, romantic retreat, Thornewood Castle is where you want to be. This Tudor Gothic castle, known as “the house that love built,” has themed rooms that set the mood, plus views of beautiful gardens and American Lake. You’ll feel like royalty here. Just an FYI though, you might feel like you’ve walked onto the set of The Haunting of Bly Manor, with its grand architecture and sprawling grounds.

The castle has its fair share of ghostly residents, too! Guests have reported glimpsing early 20th-century socialites mingling and enjoying themselves, with the occasional sound of a wine glass shattering, as if the past is still alive and kicking.

For the Charming B&B Traveler

Want to experience the local charm up close? Tacoma’s got some lovely B&Bs too! Check out The Geiger Victorian Bed and Breakfast in the historic district for a taste of Victorian charm, or swing by The Villa Bed and Breakfast near Commencement Bay. This one has gorgeous gardens with exotic plants and even a fun treehouse (but no kids under 10 allowed). These cozy spots are great for first-time travelers who want to soak up the local hospitality.

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Emily Taylor

Emily is a long term backpacker and her favorite destination to visit so far is Vietnam.

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