2026 Tacoma Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in July)

Standing under the cherry blossom tree in uniform for the last time. Wearing camouflage and counting over 1,000 sunsets, this time I can finally see the finish line. Counting the days until retirement, the rain we got caught in together, the sleepless nights, the officers we scolded... all have become memories that make me smile. Just like this cherry blossom tree, it should fall when it blooms the fullest. Some things, like camouflage green, will forever be dyed into my life. This is Tacoma Community College, completely empty. You can find angles to take really good photos. The University of Washington is just too crowded; I’ve taken photos there before, and it feels like the flowers there are getting whiter. Photos 2-3 are from Wapato Park; just look for the basketball court and you’ll see many cherry blossom trees.

Seattle downtown, the romantic Mount Rainier, a city where you can look at the snow-capped mountains from any corner, especially when the weather is good, the view is better! Here are 6 places in Seattle downtown to take photos of Mount Rainier. 1 Ferry The ferry from Downtown to Bainbridge Island can take a straight angle to the snow-capped mountains, full of retro feelings. 2 Ruston Way Park Walking up the small slope of the park, you can take photos of the city scenery of Tacoma, the lake and the snow-capped mountains, which is very atmospheric. Address: Ruston Way, Tacoma, WA 98407 3 Ferris Wheel Here, you can overlap the dreamy Ferris wheel and the huge Mount Rainier, which is visually shocking. Address: 2226 Elliott Ave, Seattle, WA 98121 4 Kite Park The end of the road is the snow-capped mountains. This is a very classic place to shoot Mount Rainier. It is recommended to use a telephoto lens to shoot, which can better capture the oppression of the distant snow-capped mountains. At the end of the road, there is also a coffee shop Caffé D'arte, where you can also check in the snow-capped mountains. Location: 13802 Canyon View Blvd E, Bonney Lake, WA

There is so much to see and do and we just scratched the surface. We did a lot of walking but also used taxis and metro and took a trolley tour. The list is endless that we fitted in to such a short space of time - tour of US Capitol, Washington Monument (buy tickets ahead of time on the National Park's Website), Lincoln Memorial, Vietnam Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, White House, Ford's Theatre (enjoyed A Christmas Carol in this quaint theatre), Union Station, National Cathedral,and endless Museums. Wouldn't hesitate in recommending this fabulous city for anyone looking for a long weekend or week away - plenty to see, do and just enjoy the whole atmosphere of this capital city. Having never been to Washington D.C. I did not know what to expect. The City is beautiful, with wonderful architecture, museums and great restaurants. We stayed at the Mayflower Renaissance Hotel; centrally located and we could walk to the White House. The hotel was beautiful and the service was great; better than I could have hoped for. Stayed seven nights and still did not see everything. Rode the Metro the whole time were there and it was very simple to figure out. I am proud to call this the capitol of our country. #awesomepic #couplestrip #deliciousfood #foodie #us #usatrip #citylife #dc #washingtondc #beauty #flowers #cupcakes #building #architecture #Gorgeous #summervacation #spring #cold9°#musem #art #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #travel #cafe #bucketlistreboot

Did this as an activity to celebrate a friend’s birthday. We all had fun though the activity will require some patience (that we ran out of nearing the end cause we were hungry) The instructor was really patient and nice and sat near us so whenever we ran into any problems we could easily ask her The selection of dried flowers was quite extensive. Overall we had fun and we spent about 2.5hours doing the round globe it turned out quite nice. #couplestrip There was a large variety of dried flowers which we could choose from and therefore large room for originality and customisations. The instructor shared some useful starters and tricks on floral arrangement and guided us patiently whenever we had questions. We signed up because their pricing is very affordable compared to other floral courses which are around the same duration. Would strongly recommend this activity to friends or couples looking to spend quality together. The only downside is that the location is secluded (deep in an industrial building)so just remember to refer to the directions whatsapped by the vendor as they're still in the middle of updating the klook page with the link

Missing international travels... especially summer in snow mountains! Great hiking trip for anyone looking for some fun! #leaveyourmark #hiking#nationalpark#urbanexplorer

A little post Thanksgiving dinner hike.

I mentioned the United States, what do you think of? Intentional indulgence? Open freedom? Still a nightlife of paper drunken fans? Look tired of the bustling New York street scene and LA's sparkling star not as good as Tacoma experience a unique tram American Italian as the port city of Washington Tacoma most famous The attraction is the Straits Suspension Bridge Today I found a different play experience in this port city in a tram with a retro accent like the United States/hh in the 90s / Have eaten delicious American meal go to Warehouse and friends to drink beer slightly sour mellow beer just dissolved undigested meals after eating enough I still have to go to the video game room to play in the last century's table pinball a whole day of happiness are hidden in the bit of life

🖊️ This year marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Declaration of Independence, making this year's Independence Day celebrations even more exciting! 🎆 From daytime parades, live music, and street games to evening fireworks displays, we've compiled a list of 10 must-attend events in the Seattle area. Feel free to add more suggestions below! 🥳 ⭐️ Downtown Seattle Seafair 4th of July: A classic Seattle event. If you want to see Lake Union fireworks with the Seattle skyline as the backdrop, this is the one to choose! ⭐️ East Side Bellevue Family 4th: The most popular event in the Eastside. If you live nearby, this large-scale fireworks show is a top pick. Celebrate Kirkland: A parade with an immersive festive atmosphere, perfect for daytime celebrations. Red, White & Boom: A typical community fireworks event featuring food trucks, vendors, and family-friendly activities. Fourth on the Plateau 2026: Sammamish's favorite Independence Day event, offering food trucks, kids' activities, lawn games, face painting, balloon art, and an evening fireworks display. ⭐️ North Side Kenmore 4th of July Celebration: Ideal for an evening outing. Enjoy food, stroll around, and relax while waiting for the fireworks. ⭐️ South Side Burien 4th of July Parade: A traditional American community parade with an authentic vibe. Kent Fourth of July Splash: A lakeside fireworks show in the Southside featuring music and food trucks—a quintessential summer evening event. Tacoma Summer Blast: In addition to fireworks, this event offers music, food, and over 150 vendors, making it a full-day celebration. ⭐️ Surrounding Areas Grand Old Fourth of July: Bainbridge Island's event focuses less on fireworks and more on the charm of a small-town Independence Day. Enjoy parades, markets, and vintage cars for a unique experience.

Still deciding where to go for the long Fourth of July weekend? We've compiled a list of the best activities in Seattle and nearby areas for the holiday, including free entry to national parks, fireworks shows, parades, Tacoma's Summer Blast celebration, and Lake Union cruises to watch fireworks. Everything is organized for you! 📍This guide includes: 🇺🇸 Free entry to national parks 🎆 Early fireworks shows (7/2–7/3) ✨ Fireworks schedules for various cities on 7/4 🎺 Fourth of July parades 🚢 Lake Union fireworks cruise guide 🎡 Tacoma Summer Blast celebration No need to search one by one—just save this guide and you're all set ❤️ 💡 If you're planning to watch fireworks at Lake Union: ✔️ This year, you need to reserve free tickets in advance (or purchase seating) ✔️ It's recommended to arrive early in the afternoon to secure a spot ✔️ Bring a picnic mat, sunscreen, and water for a more comfortable experience! 🌲 If you're heading to a national park: Expect large crowds during the holiday, so plan to leave early as parking spots fill up quickly. ✨ Wishing everyone a fun and safe Fourth of July! Don't forget to share this guide with friends who are planning their outings! —— 📌 Save + Share Almost all the Fourth of July weekend activities are here!

🌅 Hidden Gems Around Seattle | Chambers Bay, a Romantic Bay with an Apocalyptic Ruins Vibe There are so many treasure spots around Seattle, but if you're tired of the same old scenery, Chambers Bay Park, about an hour's drive from Seattle, will definitely surprise you! It's not only a paradise for photography lovers but also a perfect spot for couples and family outings. Save this detailed guide and head out this weekend! 🚗 📸 Why You Must Visit Chambers Bay? The scenery here uniquely blends an "apocalyptic ruins" vibe with a "romantic bay" atmosphere, making every shot a masterpiece: · Stunning Pink Sunset: Pick a clear evening and watch the whole world turn a romantic pink. The clouds in the sky burn like fire, and sitting quietly by the lake to watch the sunset slowly descend creates an unbeatable ambiance! 💑 · Apocalyptic Ruins Style Shots: The park is full of unique photo elements—abandoned massive bridge piers, weathered trains, and the story-filled lock bridge, combined with open valleys and yellowed dry grass, it feels like you've stumbled into an alien base. A must-visit for fans of the decayed aesthetic! · Rich Activities: Besides photography, there’s a beautiful pebble beach. Families with kids can flip stones to find little crabs or let children run freely on the vast lawn; nearby, the lush golf course is also a great place to relax. ⛳️ 📍 Essential Tips to Avoid Pitfalls (Must Read!) · Exact Location: Use the navigation address 4850 Grandview Dr W, University Place, WA 98466. · Entrance Choice: Be sure to enter from the south entrance at Chambers Bay Golf Course! Parking at the north park entrance means a very long walk to the beach, so don’t get it wrong! 🏃‍♀️ · Outfit Suggestions: Pair a denim skirt with white sneakers or a wasteland-style outfit, add sunglasses, and every snap will look like a fashion shoot. 🕶️ · Nearby Day Trips: If you have time, visit nearby Point Defiance Park (a huge park where you might spot deer, stroll through the rose garden and Japanese garden), or go cycling at Ruston Waterfront to watch the snowy mountain sunset by the sea and enjoy ultimate relaxation. 🏔️ 💡 Travel Tips 1. Best Time: Arrive 1-2 hours before sunset to capture both the daytime ruins vibe and the stunning evening glow. 2. Safety Reminder: The coastline is mostly rocky; be careful when flipping stones to find little crabs to avoid scratches. 3. Admission Info: The park is free to enter. Come to Chambers Bay and experience this unique tranquility and beauty! ✨ ^_^

#springtravel In 2026, Chihuly Garden and Glass remains a beacon of genuine hospitality and high-art innovation. Situated at the foot of the iconic Space Needle, this immersive experience celebrates the rich culture of the Pacific Northwest through the lens of Dale Chihuly’s boundary-pushing glasswork. Here, the "spirit of the artist" isn't just displayed—it is felt in the stippled light of the Glasshouse and the meticulously curated flora that frames every sculpture. The centerpiece of the 2026 experience is the museum’s commitment to sustainable tourism efforts. As part of a citywide green initiative, Chihuly Garden and Glass has achieved significant milestones: from eliminating all single-use plastics and bottled water to reducing irrigation by over 25% through advanced water-reclamation systems. Every ticket supports a "Climate Toolkit" mission, ensuring that the intersection of art and nature remains as vibrant for future generations as it is today. Seattle Art Explorer’s Toolkit · Transportation: The greenest and most scenic way to arrive is via the Seattle Center Monorail ($3.50 each way), which zips you from downtown to the museum's doorstep in 2 minutes. Alternatively, use the Link Light Rail to Westlake Station and enjoy a 15-minute walk through the city's newly expanded pedestrian corridors. · Best Time to Travel: April to June (Spring). Seattle’s gardens are in peak bloom, creating a breathtaking dialogue between the real flowers and Chihuly’s glass "Fiori." For the best light, visit in the late afternoon—your ticket allows you to experience the Glasshouse during the day and see the sculptures glow under dramatic night lighting. · Must-Visit Hot Spots: The Glasshouse (featuring the 100-foot-long vibrant sculpture), the Mille Fiori gallery (a "thousand flowers" of glass), and the Theater, where you can watch live glassblowing demonstrations that honor the well-preserved traditions of the craft. · Suggested Itinerary: Morning: Start with the indoor Galleries to see the "Macchia Forest." Lunch: Enjoy a zero-waste, locally sourced meal at the Collections Café. Afternoon: Wander the outdoor Garden, then head to the Space Needle (using a combo ticket) for a bird’s-eye view of the Puget Sound. · Do’s and Don’ts: * DO take advantage of the free digital photo service; roaming staff photographers will capture high-quality shots for you at no extra cost. · DON’T bring large bags or strollers inside the Galleries; space is tight to protect the fragile art, and there is no longer a public coat check as part of the 2026 streamlined entry protocol. #ChihulyGardenAndGlass #VisitSeattle2026 #SustainableArt #GlassArtMagic #SeattleCenter

Jay bahd

#couplestrip #birthday

Trying out a newly Cajun New Orleans styled restaurant in Tacoma,Wa!

Rare good weather, finally visited the much-anticipated Point Defiance. Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium are together, and booking online saves a few dollars. Although it looks quite large in area, it doesn’t feel very big... maybe because I was comparing it to Beijing Wildlife Park and Singapore Zoo. It’s recommended to follow the keeping chat schedule, where keepers interact with animals (feeding them). You can see Mount Rainier from the park. There is a plaza cafe in the park to grab a bite. Point Defiance Park, Dune Peninsula, and Point Ruston Waterfront all feel like they are close together. This area is great for viewing Mount Rainier, walking, and some people are kayaking. I chatted about photography with a local Tacoma uncle on a hill. He even showed me his Instagram and asked to follow each other later. The piers around here are all very beautiful, almost made me hesitate to change my itinerary. With limited time, I stopped at Les Davis Pier. A small regret was not visiting Owen Beach.

Seattle has a somewhat niche but truly worth visiting car museum. The LeMay Car Museum is a vibrant hall of American car culture. 1. Rich collection, truly a "kaleidoscope of cars": The museum's collection spans different eras and models, from elegant streamlined classic cars, powerful American muscle cars, to highly personalized custom cars, and even movie star cars. Whatever style you love, you can find your favorite here. 2. Immersive exhibits, a return to the golden age: The coolest part of the museum is its unique exhibition style. It doesn't just line up cars; it recreates vintage gas stations, old repair shop signs, and neon lights to create a time-traveling atmosphere. You feel like you're walking down an American small-town street from over half a century ago, surrounded by classic masterpieces from various eras. 3. Visually striking special exhibits: The museum is full of unforgettable "treasures." For example, a red motorcycle shaped like a giant high heel shoe, whose creativity and fun far exceed ordinary vehicle displays, fully showcasing the whimsical side of car culture. 4. Attention to detail and interactive experience: As seen in the photos, the vehicles are very well maintained with shiny paint. The museum also has photo spots encouraging visitors to participate, not just observe. In summary, the "cool" of the LeMay Car Museum lies in using cars as a medium to vividly tell a story about design, industry, pop culture, and American life history. It is not only a paradise for car enthusiasts but also an excellent place that offers everyone a novel experience and nostalgic feelings. 💵 Adults $20/person, children free 📍 325 152nd St E, Tacoma, WA 98445 📆 Tuesday-Saturday 9:00am-5:00pm, Sunday 12:00pm-5:00pm, closed Monday

Mount Rainier is really beautiful. First time here 🦐 and I was amazed by the photos!! And for some reason, I feel like Seattle people are generally smart and low-key. Wandered around without a plan for several days and really like this city. This set of photos was taken at the Space Needle. Space Needle 400 Broad St, Seattle, WA 98109 It's still incredible to think it was built in 1962. It was already there before my parents were born! You can buy tickets together with the nearby Museum of Glass and Museum of Pop Culture; combo tickets are cheaper. You can park at KOMO Plaza Garage. The longer you park, the cheaper it gets. You can also check out the International Fountain nearby. There’s also a delicious pho place within walking distance. 🍜 Pho Viet Anh 2621 5th Ave, Seattle, WA 98121 Actually, I found that Seattle’s attractions are pretty concentrated. Parking downtown is expensive, and it seems taking a taxi is more convenient. But since we rented a car this time, we just parked in one place. Then city walk~ Even on cloudy days in spring, Seattle is very comfortable. I really like the temperature and humidity 💕 Feels like a place that’s very good for the skin! Love it, love it.

#MayTravelSupport On the way to Albany, Oregon, USA, a delicious meal at Texas de Brazil, a steak buffet in Tacoma Mall, Washington State 😋 Compared to Texas de Brazil under the Andaz Hotel in Seoul, the store is much bigger, the salad bar is more diverse, and the quality and taste of the steak is much better. Above all, steak is delicious in the US 😋ㅋㅋ Of course, the price is more expensive here, and if you include the tip, it's not a cheap price, but if you like meat, I highly recommend it!! The taste of the steak is much better than in Korea^^ #OverseasTravel #AmericanRestaurants #TexasDeBrazil #SteakRestaurants

I had a BLAST at (G)I-DLE’s 2024 World Tour in Seattle, Tacoma. Tacoma itself was also amazing. Looking forward to another trip soon.

Flew into SEA in Tacoma for a work trip. The ride from the airport was only 30-35 minutes. The room was nicely decorated to be clean, comfy, and surprisingly homey for a hotel. The king size bed was very comfortable, the desk was long and spacious to work at, and the couch was a nice break from work. The hotel has a bistro downstairs and several closed by restaurants, making it very convenient for food. I didn't get to explore much so having the hotel room being this comfortable is very much appreciated #hotelstay #tacoma #washington #marriott

#freehotelstay #trip

#fallingseason old town Tacoma

#staycation

1. Address - Tacoma Wa Highlights - Rating - 2. Address - Tacoma Wa Highlights - #staycation Rating - 3. Address - Tacoma Wa Highlights - Rating - #