Driving from Seattle to Mt Rainier, we decided to detour for a short visit to Tacoma. We arrived just before lunchtime and managed to see 3 different spots before continuing on our journey. Each location was outdoors, featured something different (art, history, play), and were entirely free. Have a few hours to explore Tacoma? Add these to your list!
Chihuly Bridge of Glass
I had the Chihuly Garden and Glass museum on our list of possible places to visit while in Seattle. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to fit in a visit. Wanting to still enjoy a bit of Chihuly glass, I found another option that worked – the Bridge of Glass in Tacoma. It’s completely free, accessible, and doesn’t require a lot of time.
On the day we visited, the nearby Museum of Glass was closed. We were able to park in the lot below the museum (note: while the bridge is free, you will need to pay a small fee to park in this lot). From there, we took the stairs to the back of the museum building and followed a LONG ramp up to access the bridge.
It was so worth it. The Bridge of Glass spans from Dock Street across to Pacific Avenue taking you over roads and railroad tracks. There are 3 distinct installations – the Venetian Wall featuring numerous floral glass creations, the pair of blue Crystal Towers, and the Seafoam Pavilion with colorful glass overhead.
We walked the full length of the bridge and continued onto Pacific Ave where we found a tasty salad spot for lunch (sadly, it has now closed). After lunch, we strolled back across and enjoy views of the glass again. I especially loved the Seafoam Pavilion. The sun shining in lit it beautifully. The colors, layers, textures. Simply stunning.
Tacoma Chinese Reconciliation Park
With each trip we take, we try to find ways to include history and/or local culture to help all 4 of us learn and better appreciate the world we are in. While researching Tacoma, we learned about the sad history of anti-Chinese sentiment in the country and their expulsion from Tacoma in November 1885. Over 100 years later, a group within the community began the act of reconciliation. The City Council acknowledged the horrendous act, a foundation was formed, and in time this park was created as a place of peace and healing.
We took this opportunity to visit, take in the views, stroll along the meandering paths, and view the beautiful Chinese architecture and sculptures.
Find the Chinese Reconciliation Park at 1741 N Schuster Pkwy, Tacoma, WA 98402.
Stairs and Slides
This was a unique find that we agreed was worth driving a little extra north to check out.
Credits: Snappy Album Templates by Scrapping with Liz; Hit the Road elements by Designed by Soco.
Six sets of stairs and slides are built into the hillside overlooking the water at Defiance Park. It’s truly like a life size Chutes and Ladders. Needless to say, we had to try it out. We found parking at the bottom, then began climbing our way to the top and sliding all the way down. So fun and a great way to burn a little energy before driving to Mt Rainier.
Looking for more travel ideas? Get inspired with our US road (and day) trips here.
