Tacoma-area residents know the City of Destiny and its neighboring cities have a lot to offer. From superb shopping at local boutiques to the area’s ample options for top-notch gastronomy, a walk down most city blocks boasts hours of fun. If you’re in the mood for a little more adventure, local museums, Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium and other fun attractions are also close at hand.
But when you really want to experience Pierce County, you have to dive a little deeper. Countless gems exist throughout Tacoma and its neighboring cities — you just have to know where to find them. In 2016, make it your goal to take part in these 16 local activities. You’ll be glad you did.
1. Go off-roading at R/C Raceway
Rev your engines. Off-road racing of the mini variety is revered at Tacoma’s R/C Raceway. The facility features a full-service hobby shop that is stocked race-ready off-road cars and trucks. Once you’ve got your vehicle, enjoy racing around the 9,600-square-foot racing facility, which includes a 5,400-square-foot clay racing surface. Real time race results are always included with the fun. Visit R/C Raceway online for a schedule of race times and prices.
2. Satisfy your sweet tooth at the Almond Roca Outlet
Fans of the world-renowned Almond Roca candies, made by Brown and Haley, will be pleased to know these sugary morsels are made locally in Tacoma. What’s more, the Almond Roca Factory Store offers patrons their favorite candies at a discount. Visit the factory store Monday through Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The store is located at 110 East 26th Street.
3. Get scared during a Tacoma Ghost Tour
Old cities like Tacoma often boast a haunted history. Explore the eerie buildings during a guided tour of Tacoma’s presumably haunted neighborhoods with Tacoma Ghost Tours. Tour dates and ticket prices vary. Visit Tacoma Ghost Tour’s website for more information.
4. Sip your way through the South Sound Craft Crawl
Travel Tacoma + Pierce County has made navigating the area’s brews easy with the South Sound Craft Crawl. Follow the map and get your passport stamped at participating area breweries. Get nine stamps and earn a special edition pint glass to commemorate your boozy journey of sudsy bliss.
5. Head to Sumner for the Rhubarb Pie Festival
As the Rhubarb Pie Capital of the world, the City of Sumner knows how to dish up some tasty dessert. To honor this impressive ranking, the city celebrates each summer with six weeks of rhubarb-oriented fun. From the Music Off Main outdoor concert series to the satisfying flavors of Rhubarb Days, the Rhubarb Pie Festival is a fun-filled event not to be missed. Visit the Downtown Sumner Association’s website for 2016 festival dates.
6. Catch a live show at Tacoma Little Theatre
You don’t have to visit the Big Apple to enjoy live theater. The Tacoma Little Theatre offers a full schedule of theater performances. Check Tacoma Little Theatre’s website for information current season information including show dates and ticket prices.
7. Take a ferry ride to somewhere new
The South Puget Sound is brimming with small islands that can be visited easily by boarding a ferry from one of the several ferry terminals located around Pierce County. In no time at all you could be having lunch on Vashon Island or riding bikes across Anderson Island. For a ferry schedule and island information, visit Pierce County, Washington website.
8. Find total relaxation at Uncharted Waters Float Center
There are many ways to relax, but few compare to the tranquil experience offered through floatation therapy. Try this innovative approach to relaxation locally at Uncharted Waters Float Center in Tacoma.
9. Peer into the past with the Fort Nisqually Living History Museum
Ever wonder what life was like in the 1800s? Visit the Fort Nisqually Living History Museum and find out. Reenactors show what life was like years ago through the help of artifacts and props. The museum is open year-round, but check Fort Nisqually’s website before you go. Hours rotate seasonally and exhibits change regularly.
10. Expand your knowledge with continuing education
With two campuses in Tacoma and Gig Harbor, Tacoma Community College makes continuing education easy. In addition to the college’s regular course schedule, TCC offers the community access to workshops and mini-courses designed with fun and learning in mind. Brush up your photography skills, learn how to sew, or break a sweat with some Zumba. For a full list of current classes and how to register, visit Tacoma Community College online.
11. Have it your way at the Zodiac Supper Club
Looking for an experiential dining experience? Head to the Zodiac Supper Club. This new-ish bar and restaurant offers guests the opportunity to grill their own dinner atop a coal-fired grill located in the middle of the restaurant. After grilling your steak or burger just the way you like it, pair it alongside one of the restaurant’s revered sides and a punch bowl big enough for two or more. Before you go, check the Zodiac Supper Club’s Facebook page to see what’s on special.
12. Pick something fresh at Charlotte’s Blueberry Farm
Summertime in the Pacific Northwest provides the perfect conditions for fruits and veggies of all kinds. Even if you don’t have your own garden, you can enjoy picking fresh berries at Charlotte’s Blueberry Park. Check Metro Parks’ website to find out when the berries are in season and ripe for the picking.
13. Cheer on your favorite fighter during Battle at the Boat
Every now and then when driving south along interstate 5, the flashing billboard outside of the Emerald Queen Casino displays information for its legendary “Battle of the Boat” events. These professional live boxing matches take place periodically and always draw in a big crowd. See what all the fuss is about by attending a match of your own. For information about upcoming events, check out the Emerald Queen Casino’s entertainment schedule online.
14. Skate around the rink at Sprinker Recreation Center
Round-up the family — it’s time to go ice skating! Sprinker Recreation Center, located in Tacoma, offers ice skater’s of all skill levels to enjoy an afternoon on the ice. Ice skate rentals are available on-site. For skate times and rates, visit Sprinker Recreation Center online.
15. Order the “Mimbo” at Little Jerry’s
“Seinfeld” fans, this one’s for you. Enjoy sinking your teeth into cleverly named menu items at Tacoma’s own “Seinfeld”-themed restaurant, Little Jerry’s. This fun and quirky restaurant is more than good food — it’s a great experience.
16. Ring in the new year at First Night
Every December 31, the community gathers in Downtown Tacoma to say farewell to another year gone by and welcome the new year ahead with live entertainment, activities and fun. Each year offers something new, making First Night a great tradition to start with your family.
