Take advantage of Third Thursday's free museum admission, enjoy family adventures at the Children's Museum of Tacoma, or explore Ruston Way waterfront for Mount Rainier views.
From cultural festivals to nature walks, Tacoma's budget-friendly attractions will surprise you.
Pro tip: Grab a free museum pass from your local library.
It's your ticket to exploring multiple venues, including the Washington State History Museum, Tacoma Art Museum, Museum of Glass, LeMay-America’s Car Museum, and more.
While Tacoma's museums offer cultural enrichment indoors, the city's stunning parks and natural areas provide budget-friendly outdoor adventures year-round. You'll love Point Defiance Park's 16 miles of free trails and waterfront access, perfect for wildlife viewing and family outings.
The Japanese-style Pagoda stands as a unique architectural highlight within the sprawling 760-acre park.
Tacoma's vibrant cultural scene comes alive through year-round festivals, performances, and seasonal celebrations that won't break the bank. You can immerse yourself in diverse experiences at the free Mosaic Arts Festival in Wright Park or catch live music at Art on the Avenue.
The Taste of Asia Festival offers cultural performances and food tastings for just $20-25, while the Museum of Glass provides budget-friendly demos. Don't miss the Asia Pacific Center's monthly culinary series featuring Indonesia, Hawaii, Lancang, Cambodia, Korea, and Thailand. Don't miss the Khmer New Year celebration or summer concerts at Dune Peninsula, where you'll find free parking and affordable food truck options.
A photographer's paradise awaits at the heart of downtown Tacoma, where stunning glass art installations meet dramatic waterfront vistas and historic landscapes. You'll find endless photo ops at the Chihuly Bridge of Glass, especially during Third Thursday when museum access is free.
Don't miss the waterfront along Ruston Way, where you can capture Mount Rainier's majesty reflected in marina waters or waves crashing against rocky shores. The park offers a clean, family-friendly environment perfect for capturing memorable moments. Time your visit for sunset to catch the glass art illuminated against the golden sky.
Have little ones with you? Making memories in Tacoma doesn't require deep pockets when you explore the city's wealth of family-friendly activities.
Visit the Children's Museum of Tacoma for free interactive play, or head to the Washington State History Museum on third Thursdays for complimentary admission. Your kids will love climbing aboard the Oregon Trail wagon replica and exploring the state's largest model train exhibit.
With your Tacoma Public Library card, you'll gain free access to select museums and educational resources throughout the year. The Tacoma Nature Center offers an engaging interpretive center and lake where families can explore local wildlife and natural habitats.
