One Day in Tacoma

Tacoma is a perfect destination for a day trip. The city has many well-known attractions as well as lesser known spots just waiting to be discovered. One good approach is to take in a few of the city's features that are known for showing it off and then choosing a few neighborhoods to explore to find some restaurants and shops you might otherwise never have known about. Tacoma is a friendly city that welcomes visitors - most people who live here will be glad to make suggestions and point you in the directions of things you might enjoy. I'm a native, and that'e exactly what I plan to do - share a few places in my city I think you might enjoy, and that all togerther are easy to see in a day.

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Start your Tacoma day in a frienfly and lively cafe that's popular with locals. Order up a smooth latte or one of a huge variety of teas and a scrumptious housemade pastry (or two) to fuel your morning. If you return later in the day, Mandolin Cafe often features local musicians. This cafe is located in the heart of the city within easy driving distance to parks, the waterfront and museums.
Tacoma's most elegant park, Wright Park is a well-preserved gem from the 1890s. Stroll its paths past statuary, around ponds and over rolling lawns with mature tree specimens. The park's Seymore Conservatory holds more than 250 plant species that change with the seasons, creating an ever-shifting display that's beautiful any time of year.
Interactive, multimedia exhibits make learning about history fun for kids and adults.
The Washington State History Museum sits in the heart of downtown Tacoma's Museum District. This must-see venue provides an excellent overview of Washington from its pre-ice age past to the present, covering natural and human history. Interactive, multimedia exhibits make learning about history fun for kids and adults. And if you visit... More >
The Washington State History Museum sits in the heart of downtown Tacoma's Museum District. This must-see venue provides an excellent overview of Washington from its pre-ice age past to the present, covering natural and human history. Interactive, multimedia exhibits make learning about history fun for kids and adults. And if you visit on your birthday, admission is on the house.
Want the best Thai food in a city full of Thai restaurants? Galanga's kitchen cooks up fresh, authentic flavors with healthy ingredients. Classic dishes and some creative specials populate the menu. If you're a curry fan, you can't go wrong with any of these spicy recipes. A great place to stop for lunch or dinner. My favorites? "Eggpl... More >
Want the best Thai food in a city full of Thai restaurants? Galanga's kitchen cooks up fresh, authentic flavors with healthy ingredients. Classic dishes and some creative specials populate the menu. If you're a curry fan, you can't go wrong with any of these spicy recipes. A great place to stop for lunch or dinner. My favorites? "Eggplant with Sweet Basil" and "Three Flavor Fish."
Tacoma's early residents had the foresight to preserve a huge tract of old growth forest on a scenic peninsula. In an age of nearly unchecked logging, this earcly act of conservation is nothing short of miraculous. And, because of it, we have Point Defiance Park today. This vast park and urban forest draws visitors from all over the w... More >
Tacoma's early residents had the foresight to preserve a huge tract of old growth forest on a scenic peninsula. In an age of nearly unchecked logging, this earcly act of conservation is nothing short of miraculous. And, because of it, we have Point Defiance Park today. This vast park and urban forest draws visitors from all over the world. It boasts a state-of-the-art zoo; Japanese, rose and dahlia gardens; a waterfront promenade and beach; and miles of forest trails. As a Tacoma native and long-time resident, this park has been and still is my favorite place in the city to get away from the city.
Tacoma's early residents had the foresight to preserve a huge tract of old growth forest on a scenic peninsula.
If your Tacoma outing is on a Sunday, make reservations at the Lobster Shop for its buffet brunch. I love starting my day with freshly shucked oysters on the half-shell, but if that doesn't suit your taste, they'll serve plenty that will. If you're near the restaurant at dinnertime, their dinner menu offers fine cuisinewith some of the best seafood in this seafood-lovers' town. Waterfront views are the best in the city. More
If your Tacoma outing is on a Sunday, make reservations at the Lobster Shop for its buffet brunch. I love starting my day with freshly shucked oysters on the half-shell, but if that doesn't suit your taste, they'll serve plenty that will. If you're near the restaurant at dinnertime, their dinner menu offers fine cuisinewith some of the best seafood in this seafood-lovers' town. Waterfront views are the best in the city.
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About the Author

Allen Cox
Allen Cox
Writing and editing professional, Communications Consultant. Editor, Northwest Travel magazine. Contributing Editor, HARBORS magazine. Freelance travel & lifestyle writer. Author of Best Easy Day Hikes - Seattle, Best Easy Day Hikes - Tacoma. Board of Directors: IFWTWA Faculty, Pacific NW Travel Writers Conference website: www.allencox.org blog: www.localroads.wordpress.com

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