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Well Tacoma folks, we’ve waited far too long for some consistent sunshine and warmer weather. Whether you’re a new resident or a Tacoma native, it’s safe to say we’re all aching to get out and go. Here’s a variety of summer options that will help you check off some bucket list items in the PNW.
1. Tacoma Comedy Club
The Tacoma Comedy Club is one of the best“bang for your buck” nights in the city. They do a fantastic job of booking well-known comedians and providing quality table service while you enjoy the show. Performing this summer is Deray Davis, Dan Soder, Michelle Wolf (the notorious 2018 Correspondents’ Dinner performer), and Margret Cho– all who have been featured on Netflix, HBO, Comedy Central, Showtime, and nominated for a handful of Grammy and Emmy Awards. If you want a one stop shop for food, drinks, and hilarious entertainment, the Tacoma Comedy Club is sure to deliver
Ps. If you want to try being the entertainment, they have open mic night every Wednesday.
When: Event dates vary
Where: Tacoma Comedy Club, Market Street Tacoma, WA 98402
See event dates here
2. Children’s Museum of Tacoma
If you need something indoors that will keep your kiddos occupied for hours, look no further. I can truly say, even as an adult this museum is such a fun experience. It’s an incredible set up of explorative, hands-on learning and play for kiddos of all ages. Major plus? You don’t have to break the bank to entertain the little ones. The Children’s Museum’s mission is to make sure all kids have unique opportunities to play and grow– so admission is known as “pay as you will.” While donations are appreciated, there’s no set fee.
BONUS: if you’re military, you have access to their second location on Joint Base Lewis-McChord.
When: Tuesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, 10am-4pm
Where: 1501 Pacific Ave, Suite 202 Tacoma, WA 98402
More info here
3. Picnic at Mount Rainier
Whether you’re a Washington native or just passing through, Mount Rainier is an absolute must-see. The plus with Rainier is that it can be as intense or as peaceful as you’d like it to be. You can set out for an all-day hike or simply pack the necessities for a sweet picnic (for me this requires a charcuterie board set up and a glass of red wine). If you’re up for a shorter hike to get to a great spot, Reflection Lake is hands down amazing. The wildflowers, the lake, and the unobscured view of the mountain? That’s a postcard worthy backdrop.
When: Best blooms & views occur late June through early September
Where: scenic areas include Sunrise, Wilkenson, Carbonado, Mowich Lake, and Reflection Lake
More info here
4. Tacoma Night Market
The Tacoma Night Market is a special time to see what local artists and creatives in the area are up to. Grab a drink, eat and shop local, all while listening (and dancing for you brave ones) to live music. There’s free entry, over 100 vendors, and an ‘all ages welcome’ policy. Talk about an entertaining way to invest back into our community.
When: July 17th, 2022
Where: Dune Peninsula Park
More info here
5. Brew Five Three: Tacoma’s Beer & Music Festival
Washington is home to tons of breweries that are well worth the visit– if you want to experience them all in one place, then this is your opportunity! This festival will host 13 local breweries, a handful of food trucks and live music to enjoy. Whether you are the designated taste tester or the designated driver, this is an event you won’t want to miss.
When: August 6, 2022
Where: Broadway between 9th & 11th
More info here
6. American Lake
Come enjoy the fishing, boating, paddle boarding, or sunbathing. Whatever brings you to American Lake, it will provide you and your crew the perfect summer day. There’s a handful of places to rent boats for the day, but if you’re trying to keep it a bit more low-key there are two beaches open to the public. Bring your floaties and koozies, and leave with the refresh you deserve.
More info here
7. Keys on Main
This is the perfect place to celebrate a bachelorette, birthday, girl’s night, or date night. If someone from out of town is coming to visit, you can bet that I’m bringing them here. Keys on Main is an upbeat, requests only, dueling piano bar that will have you belly-laughing and jaw dropping until closing time.
When: Thursday, Friday, & Saturday, 8:30-midnight
Where: 1003 Pacific Ave, Tacoma, WA 98402
More info here
8. Tacoma Farmers Market
If you’ve been in Tacoma long enough, you know just how much the farmers markets have to offer. There are locally made gifts, fresh produce and seafood, vibrant flowers, hard cider, and so much more. The only thing sweeter than the baked goods are the vendors. Leash up the pup, pack up the kiddos, and fill up those strollers with treats that will last you the week.
When & Where: Location and hours vary
More info here
9. Point Ruston’s Mile Long Water Walk
The possibilities are truly endless here. This could make a great solo trip, afternoon with the kids, or an active date night. At Point Ruston you can stroll, jog, or rent all sorts of bikes, kayaks, and paddle boards to take down the coast. Beyond that, there’s great shopping, a movie theater, a splash pad, and local food and drinks. This is the kind of spot you won’t be able to tackle all in one day. Whatever you decide to do, make sure you grab a scoop of ice cream from Ice Cream Social. If there’s a line, it’s well worth the wait.
Where: More info here
10. Bob’s Sunflower Experience
This corn and pumpkin farm turns into sunflower central in the summer months. The sunset over the cleared paths between acres and acres of blooms will make for some sweet memories you’ll want to catch on camera. Beyond the beautiful scenery, there’s food, drinks, hayrides, and events all summer long: “Market Night in the Barn,” “Yoga in the Sunflowers,” “Sunset Sip & Stroll,” and “Date Night on the Farm,” and more! Though it’s north of Tacoma, it’s well worth the adventure.
Where: 10917 Elliot Rd Snohomish, WA 98296
More info here
Tacoma can become a bit overwhelming when trying to check off items from your summer bucket list. Whether you’re looking to do things with friends, plan unique date nights, or entertain the kiddos while they’re on summer break, Tacoma is PACKED with something for everyone.
Pro tip: plan your outings only ONE weekend in advance. This helps the summer not pass you by, while leaving room for new adventures to come.
Happy summer!
