Summary of Best Day Trips from Tacoma
Situated in a beautifully scenic location on the banks of the Puget Sound, Tacoma exemplifies a quintessential American riverside city. It is rich in culture, boasts an impressive array of art, and offers a vibrant culinary scene. The city features easily distinguishable districts, including the intriguing museum district, the lively 6th Avenue lined with restaurants, and the historically significant Stadium and Proctor Districts. Moreover, the surrounding area is filled not only with natural attractions such as hiking trails and wilderness parks but also with some of the most sought-after city breaks in the nation, particularly within Washington State. These metropolitan treasures and stunning natural getaways are all easily accessible from Tacoma. Now, let’s delve into the best activities to engage in while visiting Tacoma:
1. Vancouver
The journey to British Columbia is one of the most rewarding border crossings when in Tacoma, given the vibrant cultural attractions nestled amid stunning mountain and ocean landscapes. Vancouver is renowned for the famous Stanley Park—one of the largest urban parks in North America—boasting beaches, lakes, lagoons, and a plethora of activities for nature enthusiasts to enjoy throughout the day. The historic Gastown district serves as a haven for culture aficionados and food enthusiasts, while shoppers can leisurely explore the extensive retail offerings available at the Metropolis at Metrotown mall.
2. Castle Rock
Identified as the gateway to the magnificent Mount Rainier, Castle Rock is one of the most recognizable and cherished landmarks on the Tacoma skyline. This snow-capped mountain attracts both locals and visitors alike, situated within an expansive national park encompassing over 200,000 acres. The park offers hiking trails that can take days to traverse; however, early risers may reach the summit within a single day.
3. Seattle
As one of the most acclaimed cities in the nation, Seattle in the Pacific Northwest presents an enchanting blend of mountains, forests, and waterfront neighborhoods, coupled with a bustling metropolitan atmosphere abundant with attractions. The iconic Space Needle provides unparalleled 360-degree panoramic views of the city, while Pike Place Market entices with its diverse array of vendors ranging from fishmongers to florists. For an aesthetically compelling experience, be sure to visit the Olympic Sculpture Park—teeming with inventive installations—or the Washington Park Arboretum, showcasing over 5,000 plant varieties from around the globe.
4. Desolation Peak Trail
Although it may not be the simplest hike in the area, Desolation Peak Trail is a highly sought-after trek for those seeking serenity and breathtaking panoramic views. As you ascend, the steep trail flattens into stunning alpine meadows, culminating at a historic fire lookout well worth the exertion to reach. If you wish to cool off after reaching the summit, make your way back down to Ross Lake, where swimming, kayaking, and boating opportunities abound.
5. Vashon Island
With a modest population of 10,000 residents, Vashon Island stands out as a peaceful and idyllic retreat that can be comfortably explored in a single day from Tacoma. Amid rolling hills and dense woods, visitors will discover numerous family-owned farms, a rare find in today’s era of large-scale agriculture. The main town features numerous charming farm stands that offer fresh produce, while outdoor enthusiasts can bike or kayak around the island’s picturesque beaches and woodlands.
6. Leavenworth
Prepare to immerse yourself in the uniquely themed town of Leavenworth, designed based on traditional Bavarian aesthetics. The atmosphere is further enhanced by joviality and residents donning lederhosen. Though it’s a delightful destination year-round, planning your visit to coincide with the renowned Oktoberfest celebrations in the fall is highly recommended.
7. Woodinville Wine Country
Located merely an hour away from the bustle of Tacoma lies the renowned wine region of Woodinville. Despite its non-rural classification, the small town is home to some of the finest locally-produced wines in the area, which can be sampled at over 100 wineries. The grapes are predominantly cultivated in the nearby Columbia Valley, with local winemakers expertly processing them, ensuring that patrons receive knowledgeable recommendations on the ideal vintage.
8. Snoqualmie
Home to the breathtaking and awe-inspiring Snoqualmie Falls, a visit to Snoqualmie city attracts over a million visitors annually to experience these stunning cascades. The magnificent 270-foot waterfall is free and open to the public, offering views from sunrise to sunset while illuminated in the evening hours. The nearby parkland comprises two acres of beautifully maintained space, ready to be explored before or after you marvel at the falls. Winter sports enthusiasts may also wish to capitalize on Snoqualmie’s excellent skiing and snowboarding facilities.
9. Ocean Shores
An ideal day trip for those seeking both relaxation and enjoyment by the sea, Ocean Shores is a delightful coastal town that also serves as a picturesque vacation destination. The eclectic mix of lakes and canals lends itself perfectly to kayaking, while the Pacific Ocean delights with its inviting surf, making it a paradise for water enthusiasts. The town itself is an absolute delight to explore, filled with art galleries, exceptional seafood restaurants, and lively bars that contribute to an engaging nightlife.
10. Mount St Helens
Notorious for the eruption in 1980 that caused extensive devastation, Mount St Helens has remained dormant for many years. Consequently, it has become a popular site for numerous excursions, both guided and self-led. Visitors can traverse walking paths along the volcanic rim, experiencing the warmth beneath their feet as they take in the expansive vistas. Additionally, helicopter tours are available, providing an even broader perspective of the surrounding landscapes.
11. Portland
One of the most charming and eccentric destinations globally, Portland is a vibrant blend of uniqueness, culinary delights, and progressive attitudes. Home to over 50 breweries, it is indeed a paradise for beer enthusiasts, with the majority of local bars offering regionally produced brews. The downtown area has become a hub of the unusual and intriguing, highlighted by Hawthorne Boulevard in Southeast Portland, which features a mix of bars, restaurants, and captivating boutiques. For a taste of culture, visit the galleries on Alberta Street to appreciate some of the thought-provoking local art. Should you seek nature, a leisurely stroll through the picturesque hills of Forest Park, located just outside downtown, is highly recommended.
12. Olympia Farmers Market
Located less than an hour from Tacoma, the Olympia Farmers Market stands out as one of the rare year-round markets, unlike many that only operate during the spring and summer months. The diverse offerings at the Olympia Farmers Market can easily transform a visit into an entire day of exploration, featuring an extensive array of products from seeds and cured meats to local seafood sourced from the Puget Sound itself. Visitors not only leave with bags of fresh, delicious produce but can also savor meals from one of the many outdoor restaurants serving an international menu.
13. Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park
Approximately 20 miles away from Seattle, the historically significant mining region of the Cougar Mountain Range has been transformed into a Regional Wildland Park. This area features over 35 miles of trails designed for relaxed hiking experiences due to their relatively flat terrain and ample width. While exploring, be sure to visit Coal Creek and Doughty Falls for stunning views of the charming cascades. Additionally, you can gain fascinating insights into the region’s mining past by visiting the Ford Slope Mining Exhibit along the Rainbow Town trail.
14. Green Lake Trail
While at times bustling, the visually stunning Green Lake Trail offers the perfect day trip for locals and visitors alike seeking mild hiking options alongside beautiful lakes to unwind or cool off. The trail becomes particularly popular in summer due to its gorgeous surroundings, yet many hikers appreciate the serene experience winter brings when the landscape is blanketed in a fresh layer of snow.
15. Tillamook Rock Lighthouse
Although entry to the lighthouse itself is not permitted, the iconic rock known as Cannon Beach is clearly visible from Ecola State Park, presenting an impressive spectacle. Once recognized as the most expensive and dangerous lighthouse constructed on the West Coast, it now stands decommissioned and privately owned, allowing visitors to appreciate the challenges of its operation from a distance. As part of the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge, this day trip is an enriching experience for those interested in maritime history.
