Oh, the weather outside is frightful, but in Tacoma, it can be so delightful! Yes, for some, just the mere sight of snow is enough to have them saying, “Oh no!” but here in Pierce County, there are plenty of reasons to embrace, and even ample opportunity to escape, the winter wonderland that is the Pacific Northwest, so why not let it snow?!
To Embrace the Snow Around Tacoma
Snowshoeing and Sledding at Local Community Centers
Metro Parks Tacoma’s Snow Adventures welcomes winter through snowshoeing and sledding activities. Those looking to participate can choose between senior snowshoeing, adult snowshoeing, family snowshoeing and family sledding events.
Experienced outdoor leaders will meet with participants at their designated community center meeting spots, where they will then be provided transportation to the Snoqualmie Pass as they embark on a magical journey to a day of frosty play in the Cascade Mountains.
Ski and Snowboard Crystal Mountain
When the snow falls, the mountain calls, so head over to Crystal Mountain to shred the slopes of the largest ski resort in Washington. With over 2,600 acres of skiable terrain, including thrilling steeps, wide-open bowls, serene tree runs, over 80 named runs, and an average annual snowfall of 480 inches, there’s no better place to embrace the season.
The resort caters to riders of all levels, offering a diverse array of lesson options, equipment rentals, Crystal Freerides for freeskiers, lift tickets and passes for polarizing rides on the gondola, and even night skiing and snowboarding that light up the mountainside from December through February.
Winter Yurt and Cabin Camping in Grays Harbor
Embrace the region’s winter wonderland with a unique twist! Grays Harbor State Parks offers a range of yurts and cabins nestled amongst the breathtaking views of its coastal beauty. These fully equipped accommodations provide a comfortable and warm base camp for exploring coastal winter wonders.
Hike along scenic trails dusted with snow, search for treasures on the beach, or simply relax by the crackling fire near your cozy yurt or cabin. Be sure to book your stay in advance, as these winter getaways are a popular choice!
Winter Hikes in South Sound
Tacoma’s nature trails unveil their hidden winter magic as winter paints the landscape with a frosty brush. Explore the winding paths of Point Defiance Park, where towering evergreens and stunning coastal views create a picturesque scene of the season.
For a more family-friendly adventure, head to the Tacoma Nature Center, where you can spot local wildlife and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the snow-kissed trails. Or, for a more urban adventure, the Foothills Trail offers a paved path perfect for a leisurely winter stroll for those who aren’t afraid to embrace the cold.
Seasonal Skies Light up the Night with Winter Stargazing
Tacoma’s night skies offer a dazzling display of celestial wonders. Venture to the outskirts of town for an intimate night spent under the stars as the region’s more rural areas, like Puyallup and Gig Harbor, provide darker skies away from city lights.
Or head to Pierce College for public viewing nights hosted by the Tacoma Astronomical Society, where you can marvel at constellations like Orion and the Pleiades cluster. Each star-studded night spent looking up at the sky will illuminate the season’s beauty with winter stargazing in South Sound!
To Escape the Snow Around Tacoma
A Day at the Museum in Tacoma’s Museum District
Step out of the cold and into a world of creativity and heritage while exploring art and history at Tacoma’s Museum District. This walkable district features six diverse museums just waiting to be explored. Marvel at contemporary art at the Tacoma Art Museum, delve into local history at the Washington State History Museum and even admire vintage automobiles at LeMay – America’s Car Museum.
Little ones will especially enjoy visits to the Children’s Museum of Tacoma, where they can escape winter boredom by learning and playing with the museum’s many hands-on and interactive exhibits. As you delve into these cultural gems, enjoy the added bonus of nearby cafes, restaurants, gift shops, and boutiques, making your museum day a cozy and enriching experience.
Take a Tropical Staycation in Tacoma
Don’t let the winter weather keep you from an island getaway! Tacoma offers a variety of tropical escapes no matter the season. Step into the W.W. Seymour Conservatory and be transported to a lush, tropical paradise with exotic plants and vibrant blooms.
For a taste of the islands, visit Da Tiki Hut, where you can enjoy delicious Hawaiian-inspired dishes and tropical cocktails in a whimsically decorated setting. Whether exploring indoor gardens or savoring island flavors, Tacoma’s tropical staycations ideally escape winter’s embrace.
Indoor Arcade Adventures in South Sound
Swap in your winter coat for gaming tokens while embarking on arcade adventures around Tacoma. For adults, Flip Off Arcade offers a nostalgic escape with retro games, pinball machines, and a cozy atmosphere complete with craft beers and pizzas.
Meanwhile, kids can dive into excitement at Odyssey 1, featuring interactive games, a play area, and family-friendly activities. With endless games and cozy atmospheres, these arcades are the ultimate winter hideaway for both kids and adults.
A Day at the Theater with Tacoma Arts Live
While the frigid temperatures might have you taking a bow to the cold outside, Tacoma Arts Live offers the perfect encore for warmth inside, where it’s curtains up for cozy performances. The organization oversees several historic venues, including the Pantages Theater, Rialto Theater, and Theatre on the Square, hosting a diverse array of shows, including Broadway-style productions, classic music concerts, contemporary dance recitals, and comedy acts.
Winter is the perfect time to experience the grandeur of the theater in all its magic, as the stage is illuminated with dazzling displays and spectacular holiday performances. After all, the show must go on no matter the season, so why not stop in and enjoy a heartwarming performance that’ll make you forget all about the cold outside with Tacoma Arts Live?
Learn a New Skill in South Sound
Winter’s chill may have you yearning for a warm fireplace, but why not ignite a different kind of spark this season? South Sound boasts a vibrant array of learning centers and craft studios, offering the perfect escape from the cold and a chance to cultivate a new skill. From culinary creations at Metro Parks Tacoma’s STAR Center to the art of bonsai cultivation at EnviroHouse, these knowledge hubs cater to diverse interests.
Sharpen your photography skills at Point Defiance Park, or unlock the secrets of pottery at SPUN Clay Arts Studio. No matter your passion, South Sound’s learning centers offer a warm and welcoming environment to transform those long winter days into opportunities for growth and discovery. So, ditch the hibernation mentality and embrace the chance to learn something new this winter!
Whether you’re a frosty fan or an artic avoider, Tacoma and the South Sound region offer plenty of ways to both embrace and escape the winter season, ensuring snow much fun for everyone!