We Pacific Northwesterners are a proud people. We live in a region where the landscape remains gloriously beautiful all year long. The PNW terrain is diverse, spanning ocean views, lush forests and hip urban skylines. All of this makes it fairly easy to find the perfect backdrop for your family photos that will adorn this year’s holiday cards. After all, you have to send your love to Aunt Mabel and she’d love to see how those tiny humans of yours have grown.
Here’s a few of my top picks for family photo locales in the area, in no particular order.
Chambers Bay
Grassy knolls, sweeping skylines and unique concrete structures from the days of yore can all be found at Chambers Bay. The home of the 2015 U.S. Open translates to expansive green grass and rolling hills as far as the eye can see. Plus, the pedestrian bridge to the beach is an exquisite stroll during sunset hours. For something a little different and visually compelling, pose near the concrete ruins at the center of the course. Giant relics of what was once a concrete plant create a cool, monolithic backdrops.
Wright Park
We have no shortage of phenomenal parks, but Wright Park has my vote for the best backdrop for family photos. This time of year, the ground is peppered with crisp autumn leaves throughout thanks to some beautiful trees. Bonus, the W.W. Seymour Botanical Conservatory is great for photos, both as a historical Tacoma structure in the background or inside where you’ll find exotic tropical plants in full bloom year-round.
Fort Steilacoom Park
A trip outside of the Tacoma area is well worth it for Fort Steilacoom Park. What was once home to the old Western State Hospital grounds is now the largest park in Lakewood. Some areas of the park seem so serene and isolated that you’d never know you’re literally just a hop away from a busy city intersection. Golden grassy paths, a lake, abandoned distressed barnlike structures and a playground that looks like a castle? What’s not to love.
Museum of Glass
In all the city, one off the most recognizable landmarks is the Museum of Glass. The large, metallic, cone-shaped structure provides a hip, urban backdrop to family portraits. Plus, even visiting the outside of the museum includes awe inspiring art with the Bridge of Glass nearby. Capture photos on the bridge and you’ll have backdrops of city as well as colorful handblown glass art pieces. Behind the Museum of Glass, you’ll also find great family portrait spots all along the Thea Foss Waterway that include the Water Forest and the Fluent Steps, but also beautiful marina backdrops.
Point Defiance Park
Point Defiance Park hosts some of the most diverse of options in one locale. The kids can squeal with delight at the sight of the ducks and geese at the pond. During warmer months, stop and smell the roses at the rose garden too. Zen and deep flashes of bright color can be spied at The Pagoda. Lush forested areas and moss-carpeted ground can be captured throughout the park with intimate, easily navigated trails. Owen Beach provides the perfect landscape of rocky beach, ocean waves and fallen logs. Hop on the ferry to Vashon for windswept hair. And a visit to the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium can provide candid family moments while interacting with wildlife. The options are plentiful at Tacoma’s largest park!
