Maybe you’ve had a connection through the Sea-Tac airport, or flew in to spend a long weekend in Seattle… but what about the “Tac” part of the name? Tacoma, where “Tac,” comes from, is a quintessential Pacific Northwest city located in the Southern region of Puget Sound. Named one of the best places to live in Washington, Tacoma is a vibrant place filled with various things to do between its luscious nature and a robust urban scene. Whether you’re looking to move into a new home or rent an apartment in Tacoma, we’ve compiled the ultimate Tacoma bucket list for you to peruse. Perfect for longtime locals, new residents, and visitors alike, you’re sure to find something on this list you’re ecstatic to try.
Looking to connect with the local community? What better way than through art? Vibrant Creations offers a plethora of events such as studio tours, art walks, creative workshops, and mural celebrations. A great place to get creative and involved in the Tacoma art scene, this place “uses art as a catalyst to empower the local Tacoma community [to ultimately] align a community’s values to the creative process enhancing the place and bringing people together,” says visual artist and designer Dionne Bonner.
It truly wouldn’t be a Tacoma bucket list without the mention of Point Defiance Park. Located right on the Puget Sound, this diverse landscape features old-growth forests, saltwater beaches, and the most picturesque bluffs. The infamous 5-mi drive is a must, but if you prefer on-foot this park has several beautiful trails – just remember to watch out for the raccoons (and other wildlife creatures). “Not only is it a great location for photographs, be sure to spend time at the Japanese Garden Pagoda, the rose garden when in bloom, [and] Owen’s beach” recommends Leah Browning, owner and photographer of Sage and Soul Photography. If rain has hit (after all, it is Washington), this park is also home to the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium and the Fort Nisqually Living History Museum which is a “wonderful experience and great way to get to know mid 1800s history of our area,” notes Leah.
If you can’t get enough of that PNW nature and almost want to take Point Defiance back to your Tacoma rental home, try stopping by a local plant store. Jade & Co Succulent Boutique not only sells a variety of plants (and everything you need for them) perfect for any place, but they also offer several services as well. With over twenty years of experience, plant nurse Jennie will teach you that “there are common parallels in keeping people and plants alive.” So, if you need some new greenery or help with your current plants, this place is a must.
Local cafes are central to getting integrated within a new community, and we recommend you look no further than Soulberry Coffee House. This community hub blends “the warmth of a friendly atmosphere with the rich aroma of expertly brewed coffee, creating the perfect spot for relaxation and connection,” says owner and roaster Terri Quintana-Jessen. If coffee (or alcohol) isn’t your vibe, this spot turns into a non-alcoholic speakeasy at night, offering inventure mocktails and a cozy ambiance. Whether you’re looking to “meet new friends, enjoy great coffee, [or] experience Tacoma’s vibrant community spirit,” you need to stop by.
If you want to send over a piece of Tacoma to friends and family that live elsewhere or are looking to decorate your place with some of that PNW magic, Stocklist Goods is your store! This woman-owned small business is located in the heart of downtown Tacoma and offers the best selection of unique and thoughtful gifts perfect for everyone on your list. “Whether you’re shopping for a loved one or treating yourself…our carefully curated selection of souvenirs and artisanal items ensures you’ll find something special,” notes assistant manager Autumn Swindahl. Oh and before you check out at this community gem, make sure to say hi (and see you again) to their shop dog Mona.
Photo courtesy of Stocklist Goods
Situated just above downtown Tacoma is the Hilltop neighborhood, one of the oldest residential areas in Tacoma. This area is full of both historic charm and vibrant culture, making it a must to explore. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional southern barbecue, a hot bowl of pho, or to do some vintage shopping, this neighborhood is uber fun!
One of our favorite spots here is Manifesto Coffee, a local coffee roastery and cafe. Not only is their coffee sourced free trade organic, but they also specialize in roasting single origin beans from various regions. They also focus on providing “customers with a high quality experience with a very approachable style [and] strive for an approachable and welcoming atmosphere for anyone that wants to enjoy really good coffee,” explains owner Jadin Bulger.
If you’re craving a cocktail over coffee, you have to go to Bar Rosa. Also located in Hilltop, this cocktail bar is known for both its cozy atmosphere and exceptional food. Their drink menu includes crafted cocktails, a variety of local beers, fine Italian wines, and an extensive amaro selection while their food menu features delicious wood-fired Neapolitan pizza made with authentic methods and flavors. Owner Meghan Seale “promises a delightful experience whether you’re there for a casual night out or a special occasion.”
If you’ve been wondering what the cone in Downtown Tacoma is… it’s the Museum of Glass! This Tacoma must-visit is the premier contemporary art museum dedicated to glass and glassmaking in the West Coast. Maybe you’ve heard of Tacoma local and famous glass artist Dale Chihuly or seen his pieces, but since its opening in 2002, the Museum of Glass has had over 140 exhibitions and featured glass art from other pioneers such as Lino Tagliapietra and Preston Singletary. This museum is sure to immerse you into the world of contemporary glass art in every exhibit, but we especially recommend checking out their live glass blowing demonstrations. They also offer other innovative programs such as Kids Design Glass, Science of Art, Junior Curator Academy, and Hot Shop Heroes.
If you are looking for an alcoholic beverage however, Amor Wine and Tapas is the place to be. Located in downtown Tacoma, this spot has a spectacular wine list and even curated wine flights. These lovely beverages pair exceptionally well with their “assortment of tapas and feature dishes spanning the cuisines of France, Spain, Morocco and Italy,” says owner Chris Dasef. Perfect for date night, a solo dining experience, and everything in between, you’re sure to love it here.
Another great dining option is the Field Bar and Bottle located on 6th Ave. This spot is, “centered around kindness, dope food, clean beverages, and sustainable supplies” describes restaurateur Brian Hibbard. Whether you’re headed to the bar for a craft cocktail, enjoying dinner or snacks made from ingredients from local farms, or shopping their curated selection of natural wines, pantry staples, and bar supplies, this place has it all!
Photo courtesy of Field Bar and Bottle
Another Tacoma must is visiting Point Ruston. Whether you decide to bike, stroll, rollerskate, or scooter along Ruston Way, we highly recommend doing so at sunset. Here you can enjoy stunning views of the Puget Sound, its several islands in the distance, the Olympic Mountains, and if you’re lucky, Mount Rainier. Point Ruston is also known for its lovely parks, unique local shops, cafes, and waterfront dining.
Speaking of, we recommend stopping at Macaluso’s for dinner after your sunset excursion. This Italian restaurant has an elegant atmosphere, but it’s also perfect for a more casual night out. Whether you’re pairing a glass of white with their gnocchi or a craft cocktail with another one of their delicious dishes, “Macaluso’s offers a taste of Italy that will leave you wanting more,” notes general manager John Monreal.
If you’re a ‘90s romcom fan, you have to stop by Stadium High School in the Stadium District. For our 10th Tacoma bucket list item, we had to mention the beloved 10 Things I Hate About You (TTIHAY) film! Although Washington features several filming locations, Stadium High School is just too iconic to miss. Not only can you see where Heath Ledger’s character serenaded Julia Stiles’, but the architecture alone is simply incredible.
If you’re not in high school (21+) and are looking for a drink and bite to eat after your TTIHAY tour, stop by Doyle’s Public House, also located in the Stadium District. Named one of Esquire Magazine’s Best Bars in America, this place has been “pouring proper pints of Guinness every day of the year since 2006 making it the perfect neighborhood pub,” says owner Russ Heaton. Did we mention they also have “the largest whiskey collection in Tacoma as well as the state’s top selling Jameson bar per square foot?” Oh and if you’re a soccer fan? This spot opens as early as 4am for matches, regardless of what club you support.
We can’t suggest a self-care moment enough, and in Tacoma, The Hive Beauty Boutique is the spot to do it. Located in Central Tacoma, this “amazing beauty boutique is a cooperative of estheticians who specialize in helping you feel your best,” says the boutique. They offer several services like electrolysis, sugaring, skin care, brows, lashes, and more to have you feeling and looking your best.
Whether you’re looking for a new piece to decorate your space or just want to check out the Tacoma art scene, Fulcrum Gallery is the spot. It’s “a combination of many things, a constantly evolving amalgamation of gallery/installation space, fine art retail, as well as an artistic community hub,” described founder and artist Oliver Doriss. With various shows and events occurring here, this gallery is definitely one for your bucket list.
If hands-on art is more your speed, SPUN is the place to be.This fun, creative, and affordable space is perfect for anyone who is interested in working with clay. The full-service studio is located in Downtown Tacoma, and is available for all-ages and all levels of potters, hand builders, and hand sculptors. The studio is built on the belief that “everyone should get an opportunity to try pottery without large financial investments [this space is here to] encourage and support you on your artistic journey,” boast co-owners April Sanders and Jennifer English.
Photo courtesy of SPUN
Pacific Northwest lifestyle blogger Anna Osgoodby loves a weekend adventure and especially recommends checking out the Proctor District in Tacoma. This area has a great Saturday farmers market perfect for supporting local businesses. Be sure to check out The Collection Bakery, a Proctor farmer’s market staple! This husband- and wife-owned and operated bakery featuring unique pastries with a Mexican-European fusion. From options like churro cruffins, hibiscus poached pear croissants, and lemon meringue danishes (just to name a few), you’re sure to find something to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Beyond the farmer’s market, Proctor District is also full of locally owned shops for the best unique finds, brunch spots, and cafes. “Some of my personal favorites are brunch at Waffle Stop, shopping at Compass Rose and the Pacific Northwest Shop, and getting a sweet treat at Ice Cream Social,” suggests Anna. Unsure what flavor to get at Ice Cream Social? Try Anna’s preferred choice: the almond poppyseed ice cream!
Not in the mood for ice cream, but still looking for a sweet little treat? Tacoma is home to several great bakeries as well. Also located in the Hilltop district, Love By The Slice offers a variety of cake slices (like strawberry crunch cake and banana pudding), cookies (like snickerdoodle and a classic chocolate chip), cupcakes, cake truffles cakesicles, yogurt parfaits, and more. Perfectly paired with their self-serve coffee bar, “your sweet tooth will bring you back again and again,” claims founder and lead baker Cassandra Williams.
If you’re in the market (get it?) for exclusive handmade goods, you need to add The Market on 6th Ave to your Tacoma bucket list. This craft fair features unique, handcrafted, and upcycled products created by local artisans. Occurring every first and second summer Saturday, the market is definitely something you want to mark on your calendar. “Our artists are ready and eager to teach patrons all about their work and process through fun free activities, tutorials, demonstrations, performances, and more,” says City of Tacoma community outreach and education program manager Jacki Fuller.
The Market also holds a special clothing drive for The Tacoma Rescue Mission. Perfect for those who just moved and are looking to cleanse their wardrobe, they welcome any and all clothing donations as volunteer sewists inspect and mend articles before they meet their final home closet.
Photo courtesy of The Market on 6th Ave
For our final Tacoma bucket list items, we have some bar recommendations for you! After all, a drink pairs well with any of the activities on this list.
Located in downtown Tacoma, The Living Taproom puts a unique spin on the typical bar. This is an elevated drinking experience that uses “self pour technology [to allow] customers to sample at their own pace and move about the space as if in their own living room,” describes co-owner Colin Wunder. Not only do they have thirty-four taps on draft, but the space also has an incredible terrace view of downtown Tacoma.
If you’re looking for a more traditional bar, Cheers does offer beer, but has an unordinary food menu. This joint has more than twenty beers on draft, but their food is where they really shine. For example, their tasty menu features birria that’s “freshly made in our kitchen,” boasts Carmela of the management team. Perfect for a drink and a bite to eat, cheers to Cheers and cheers to the end of this article.
Photo courtesy of The Living Taproom