Tacoma

Tourist places in Tacoma, Tacoma Travel Info

City Overview

Tacoma, Washington, is a mid-sized urban port city situated on Puget Sound, approximately 32 miles south of Seattle. Known for its vibrant arts scene, beautiful waterfront, and stunning views of Mount Rainier, Tacoma offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban amenities. It's a city with a rich industrial past, which has transformed into a hub for culture, education, and innovation.

Where the City Is Located

Tacoma is located in Pierce County, Washington, on the shores of Commencement Bay in Puget Sound. It's strategically positioned in the Pacific Northwest, providing easy access to both the Olympic Peninsula and the Cascade Mountains. Its proximity to major transportation routes, including Interstate 5, makes it a key logistical center.

Why This City is Famous

Tacoma is famous for:

  • Museums: Home to several world-class museums, including the Museum of Glass, the Tacoma Art Museum, and the LeMay - America's Car Museum.
  • Mount Rainier Views: Offers breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Rainier, especially from its waterfront parks and higher elevations.
  • Glass Art: A significant center for glass art, largely due to the influence of artist Dale Chihuly and the Museum of Glass.
  • Port of Tacoma: One of the largest and busiest ports in the Pacific Northwest, playing a crucial role in international trade.
  • Point Defiance Park: A massive urban park that combines zoo, aquarium, gardens, and natural forest.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Tacoma is during the summer months (June to September). During this period, the weather is generally mild and sunny, with less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities, exploring the waterfront, and enjoying the city's parks and gardens. Spring and fall also offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds, while winters are typically mild and wet.

Top Tourist Attractions

Museum of Glass: An iconic museum dedicated to glass art, featuring a stunning Hot Shop where visitors can watch glassblowing demonstrations.

Point Defiance Park: A 760-acre urban park that includes the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, Fort Nisqually Living History Museum, botanical gardens, and scenic walking trails.

Tacoma Narrows Bridge: A pair of suspension bridges spanning the Tacoma Narrows of Puget Sound, famous for the collapse of "Galloping Gertie" in 1940.

LeMay - America's Car Museum: One of the world's largest automotive museums, showcasing a vast collection of classic and vintage cars.

Chihuly Bridge of Glass: A pedestrian bridge adorned with spectacular glass art installations by renowned artist Dale Chihuly, connecting the Museum of Glass to the downtown area.

Ruston Way Waterfront: A scenic promenade along Commencement Bay, offering stunning views, restaurants, and access to parks and beaches.

Washington State History Museum: Explores the rich history of Washington State through engaging exhibits and artifacts.