Top 10 Family-Friendly Day Trips Around Tacoma, WA

Tacoma, Washington, is surrounded by natural beauty and filled with incredible places to explore, making it the perfect starting point for a variety of family-friendly day trips. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, or educational experiences, these day trips around Tacoma offer something for everyone. Here are the top 10 family day trips near Tacoma that promise to keep both kids and adults entertained.

1. Point Defiance Park

Right in Tacoma, Point Defiance Park is a family favorite, offering over 700 acres of outdoor fun. You can enjoy hiking trails, play at Owen Beach, or visit the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium. The park also has beautiful gardens and a historic fort for families to explore. This is one of the top things to do with kids in Tacoma.

2. Mount Rainier National Park

Just a short drive from Tacoma, Mount Rainier National Park is perfect for a family day trip. With its towering peak, lush forests, and beautiful waterfalls, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife spotting. Be sure to stop by Paradise for stunning views and family-friendly hiking trails.

3. Northwest Trek Wildlife Park

Located about 45 minutes from Tacoma, the Northwest Trek Wildlife Park is an amazing place for families to experience the wonders of wildlife. Take a tram ride through the park to see bison, elk, and deer, or explore the walking trails where you can spot bears, wolves, and owls. It’s an educational and exciting day trip for kids who love animals.

4. LeMay – America’s Car Museum

For car enthusiasts young and old, the LeMay – America’s Car Museum in Tacoma is a must-visit. This impressive museum features a wide collection of classic and unique cars. Kids can enjoy interactive exhibits and car-themed activities, making it a fun and engaging family-friendly museum.

5. Gig Harbor

Just across the Tacoma Narrows Bridge, Gig Harbor is a charming waterfront town perfect for a relaxing family day trip. You can stroll along the harbor, visit local shops, or rent kayaks and paddleboards for a water adventure. Gig Harbor also offers great family-friendly dining options with stunning views of the water.

6. Seattle

Less than an hour from Tacoma, Seattle is full of family-friendly attractions. Take the kids to the iconic Space Needle, explore the interactive exhibits at the Pacific Science Center, or visit the Seattle Aquarium. The famous Pike Place Market is also a fun stop for families to experience local culture and food.

7. Olympic National Park

A bit farther from Tacoma, but worth the trip, is Olympic National Park. With its diverse ecosystems, you can experience everything from coastal beaches to alpine forests in one park. The park is great for hiking, exploring tidepools, and learning about nature, making it one of the best family day trips from Tacoma.

8. Wild Waves Theme & Water Park

Located just 20 minutes from Tacoma, Wild Waves Theme & Water Park in Federal Way is a fantastic spot for a family day of thrills and water fun. With roller coasters, water slides, and kid-friendly rides, this amusement park is perfect for families with children of all ages looking for an exciting day trip.

9. Museum of Glass

For a more artistic and educational day trip, visit the Museum of Glass in Tacoma. This unique museum showcases beautiful glass artwork and offers live glassblowing demonstrations. Kids can even try their hand at glass-related crafts and enjoy the hands-on exhibits. It's a fun and creative outing for the whole family.

10. Snoqualmie Falls

About an hour and a half from Tacoma, Snoqualmie Falls is a stunning natural wonder that’s perfect for a family day trip. The 268-foot waterfall is one of Washington’s most famous landmarks. Families can enjoy easy hiking trails around the falls, take in the beautiful views, and have a picnic in the nearby park.

Conclusion

There are endless family-friendly day trips near Tacoma that offer fun, adventure, and education for all ages. From exploring national parks and visiting wildlife to relaxing by the water or learning something new at a museum, these day trips ensure your family will never run out of exciting things to do. So pack up the car, gather the kids, and head out for a memorable family day trip from