Jake Cain is an entrepreneur and writer from Cincinnati, Ohio. He spends his free time driving around the country in his late 90’s conversion van, affectionately known as the “Monster Van” with his wife and 3 boys.
Situated on the banks of the scenic Puget Sound, Tacoma is an example of a great American riverside city. The town is bustling with culture, art and entertainment.
There are lots of things to explore in the town itself like the Museum of Glass, which is a unique attraction. Visit the buzzing 6th Avenue where you can visit many restaurants.
The surrounding area is full of natural landmarks like hiking trails and wilderness parks, plus many other unique attractions.
Let us explore some of the best day trips from Tacoma which you can explore with your family and friends.
Vashon Island, Washington
Vashon Island makes for a great getaway and makes for an easy visit from Tacoma. You can hop on a ferry and visit the island, though many visitors consider the ferry trip the highlight of their visit.
The island lies amongst gently rolling hills and thick woodland and you will be able to see simple one-lane roads, rural landscapes, ocean views. If you are looking for a peaceful escape, then Vashon Island is the place you should go for.
The island has a number of family-run farms and also many vineyards, allowing you to pick the freshest spirits to suit your tastes. Do visit the iconic 1915 Point Robertson Lighthouse, surrounded by grassy planes and driftwood.
- Distance: 1 hour
- Ideal for: Peaceful getaway
Vancouver, Washington
Not to be confused with the British Columbia namesake, Vancouver in Washington is just north of Portland. There are many vibrant attractions in the city that you will find sandwiched between the attractive mountain and ocean landscapes.
This waterfront city is located at the north shore of the Columbia River and offers history, culture, outdoor recreation, charming shops. Vancouver is also home to Stanley Park, which is one of the largest urban parks in North America.
Visit the historic Gastown which is a foodie’s paradise and a have for culture buffs. Shoppers will also have a great time browsing the retail offerings at the Metropolis at Metrotown mall.
- Distance: 2 hours and 7 minutes
- Ideal for: Fun getaway
Leavenworth, Washington
Leavenworth is a village located in the Cascade Mountains and is a Bavarian-style town. It began as a 19th-century lumber town.
Located around two-hours away from Tacoma, it is known for its Alpine-style buildings, a Nutcracker Museum, and multiple restaurants serving German food and beer. This town is now a top tourist destination, millions walk the streets each year enjoying the local food and beer.
If you are more of an outdoorsy person, then you can head to Waterfront Park, where you can spot eagles and ospreys, located on the Wenatchee River.
- Distance: 2 hours and 34 minutes
- Ideal for: Beer and wine lovers
Snoqualmie, Washington
Snoqualmie is a hilly region located west of Seattle and attracts over a million tourists every year. Most of the visitors come to visit this town to admire the mesmerizing cascades of Snoqualmie Falls.
The waterfall is available for public viewing from dawn to dusk, but only a few people can avail a small group tour on-board a private van. When going to view the falls, you can also explore the two acres of parkland surrounding the falls.
This area is also famous as the shooting location for the cult classic television show, Twin Peaks. Many fans of this show travel to Snoqualmie to see many of the show’s landmarks, such as the Great Northern Hotel, aka the Salish Lodge and Spa.
- Distance: 48 minutes
- Ideal for: Outdoor lovers
Ocean Shores, Washington
Located on the jetty of Washington’s North Bay, Ocean Shores is a charming seaside town which makes for a great day trip from Tacoma.
The town makes for a great vacation spot allowing travellers to relax by the sea and various lakes. Lounge on the Pacific Beach, buy and fly kites, rent bikes to ride along the beach trail, do kayaking – there are lots of outdoor activities which you can indulge in.
When tired of all the activities, head to town and enjoy art galleries, excellent seafood restaurants, and bars.
- Distance: 1 hour and 53 minutes
- Ideal for: Beach lovers
Portland, Oregon
Portland is a three-hour drive from Tacoma and makes for a perfect day trip. The city offers an eclectic mix of experiences for every type of traveller.
Portland is also referred to as the City of Roses and has a wide array of quirky and historic art pieces to admire and over 50 breweries to indulge in. This city is definitely a beer lover’s paradise.
Visit downtown Portland, especially Southeast’s Hawthorne Boulevard which is a highlight of the downtown area thanks to its bars, cafes and shopping avenues. Other areas of interest in the city include Lan Su Chinese Garden, The International Rose Test Garden and more.
When in Portland, you must also try the famous Voodoo Doughnuts.
- Distance: 3 hours
- Ideal for: Fun getaway
Castle Rock, Washington
Located at the Western base of Mount St. Helens and Castle Rock is best known for its proximity to the famous 1980 eruption. It is also one of the most dominant and beloved silhouettes on the Tacoma skyline.
Castle Rock is surrounded by an enormous national park spanning over 200,000 acres and also offers hiking trails which can take days to complete.
- Distance: 1 hour and 26 minutes
- Ideal for: Outdoor lovers
Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park, Washington
Washington’s Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park protects over 3,000 acres of wilderness and contains over 35-miles of trails that are perfect for the casual hiker because of their relative flatness and width.
It is also connected to the nearby Squak Mountain State Park by way of the Cougar-Squak Corridor. Be sure to explore Coal Creek and Doughty Falls on the way which are small but beautiful waterfalls.
Some trails allow horseback riding; mountain biking is not allowed.
- Distance: 38 minutes
- Ideal for: Outdoor lovers
Green Lake Trail, Washington
Green Lake Trail makes for a wonderful day trip from Tacoma. Though it sometimes gets a bit busy, the Green Lake Trail is 10 mile round trip journey through old-growth forests to a breathtaking waterfall.
The hike begins at Carbon River Valley before climbing just over 1,300 feet to a small lake at the base of Tolmie Peak. Summers are a great time to explore these trails as most of the trail is shaded by thick forests.
- Distance: 40 minutes
- Ideal for: Hikers
Mount Saint Helens National Volcanic Monument, Washington
Mount Saint Helens is infamous for the 1980 eruption that caused huge swathes of destruction. Since then the Mount has been silent for a few decades.
One of the most popular activities in the park is volcano watching which can be done by climbing the volcano. You can also hike the nearby trails or take a helicopter tour.
There is a limit to 100 guests per day for climbing the volcano and permits are required. To know more, you can also visit the Johnston Ridge Observatory which offers exhibits and films.
- Distance: 2 hours and 43 minutes
- Ideal for: Adventure enthusiasts
Woodinville, Washington
Located just an hour away from Tacoma, Woodinville is a wine lovers paradise. Nestled in a picturesque river valley, this area is known for artisanal winemakers and craft brewers.
The town produces some of the best locally-produced wine in the region, which you can sample at over 100 wineries. You can also take part in annual food and wine events like Sammamish Valley Harvest Celebration and summer’s Chateau Ste. Michelle Concert Series.
- Distance: 1 hour
- Ideal for: Wine lovers
Desolation Peak Trail, Washington
Located in the North Cascades National Park, Desolation Peak Trail makes for a great day trip from Tacoma. Though it is not meant for casual hikers, the hike is definitely a rewarding one.
The trail is accessed by boat from Ross Lake, or via the park’s East Bank Trail. If you need to cool off once you have reached the peak, you can head back down to Ross Lake, where you’ll find swimming, kayaking and boating opportunities.
- Distance: 1 hour
- Ideal for: Hikers
Seattle, Washington
The urban and hip city on Puget Sound is one of the most popular cities of the nation and offers entertainment galore. It is a thriving metropolitan hub full of many attractions, plus it is an enchanting combination of mountains, forest and waterfront neighbourhoods.
The most popular tourist attraction is the Space Needle which was built for the 1962 World’s Fair. It offers unbeatable 360-degree panoramic views of the city.
- Distance: 34 minutes
- Ideal for: Family-friendly getaway
Olympia, Washington
Located at the southern end of Puget Sound, Olympia is also the capital of Washington state. Visit Percival Landing Park alongside the waterfront boardwalk to view the public art.
Visit the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge where over 200 species of birds migrate. Don’t forget to stop by at the Olympia Farmer’s Market which is the second-largest in the state of Washington.
- Distance: 31 minutes
- Ideal for: Family-friendly getaway
Bellingham, Washington
Bellingham is a unique place which is located between the ocean and 100,00 acres of farmland.
Start by exploring the downtown art district, enjoying the local craft beer scene, or indulge in mountain biking.
You can also enjoy bird-watching from any of the Audubon Society’s six Bellingham area choice locations.
- Distance: 1 hour and 59 minutes
- Ideal for: Outdoor lovers
Tacoma has a lot to offer in itself, but it is also the perfect base to explore the state of Washington. Explore the bustling Seattle or the many trails that the state has to offer.
9 Day Trips From Virginia Beach Full of Rich History
Discover the top day trips from Virginia Beach that offer a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. From exploring the historical sites of Colonial Williamsburg to witnessing the wild ponies on Chincoteague and Assateague Islands, this article has something for everyone. So, plan your mini-vacation now and explore the best of Virginia’s gems!
16 Aesthetic Beach View Day Trips From Santa Barbara
If you’re planning a trip to Santa Barbara, don’t miss out on exploring the nearby destinations that offer something for everyone. From hiking in the Los Padres National Forest to relaxing on the beaches of Avila Beach, you’ll enjoy this list of the best day trips from Santa Barbara. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or a film buff, there’s something for everyone on this list of exciting day trips.
10 Day Trips From Gainesville
If you’re planning a trip to Gainesville, Florida, don’t miss out on exploring the nearby destinations that offer something for everyone. From the historic city of St. Augustine to the beautiful beaches of Daytona and Cedar Key, we’ve compiled a list of the best day trips from Gainesville. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or a history buff, there’s something for everyone on this list of exciting day trips. So, plan your mini-vacation now and explore the best of Florida’s gems!
Best 16 Day Trip Spots From Myrtle Beach
If you’re planning a trip to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, don’t miss out on exploring the nearby destinations that offer something for everyone. From the charming fishing town of Murrells Inlet to the historic city of Charleston, this article has compiled a list of the best day trips from Myrtle Beach. Whether you’re a beach lover or a history buff, there’s something for everyone on this list of exciting day trips. So, plan your mini-vacation now and explore the best of South Carolina’s gems!