If you’re planning on moving to Tacoma, you’ve probably got your checklist together: packing, moving company, new home, etc. What happens, though, when you’re ready to relax? A big piece of falling in love with your new home is finding all of the places that will put a smile on your face. That is why we’ve put together this list of 8 fun things you can do when you move to Tacoma.
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1. Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium
If you’re moving your family to Tacoma, you’ll want to stop by the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium. The zoo is filled with a variety of different animals including elephants, tigers, clouded leopards, and more. One of their unique areas is the Asian Forest Sanctuary. Here, the zookeepers tend to various endangered species from the continent.
The Pacific Seas Aquarium is just as exciting. There, you’ll spend time around sea turtles, eagle rays, and even hammerhead sharks. All this comes with an amazing view of Washington’s famous Mount Rainier.
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2. Museum of Glass
This 90-foot-tall glass museum sits elegantly on Tacoma’s waterfront. The stainless steel structure houses a unique array of glass sculptures, some exhibits are permanent fixtures while others are part of the museum’s permanent collection. In the museum’s Hot Shop Amphitheater, you can even see artists create their own pieces in real time.
There’s an entire selection of activities to explore, too. You can create your own art piece in the museum’s Education Studio, send your young child through the Science of Art tour, or make your way across the multi-colored Chihuly Bridge of Glass.
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3. W.W. Seymour Botanical Conservatory
If you’re a plant lover, the W.W. Seymour Botanical Conservatory is just for you. This glass dome and its corresponding wings house over 250 species of plant. The conservatory is not just a display, however. Events known as Mindfulness Walks take place throughout the year to promote mindfulness in the present and a deeper appreciation for nature. You can also reserve space for a small wedding, maxing out at around 45 people.
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4. Foss Waterway Seaport
Get an up-close look at Tacoma’s nautical history with the Foss Waterway Seaport. The exhibits take you through the long history of the city’s seafront from the native Puyallup people who sailed the waters for generations to the marine mammals of Puget Sound. All this is under the roof of a century-old warehouse built for shipping cargo.
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5. The Old Spaghetti Factory
When you’re in need of a good meal, head over to The Old Spaghetti Factory. You’ll be treated to a diverse selection of quality pasta, soups, and bread to satisfy your appetite. The restaurant also provides banquet rooms that can hold up to 80 guests for events such as birthday parties and other large gatherings. Adjoining rooms can even be combined to fit a party of 100. You can take advantage of their catering services for any large event you have.
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6. Children’s Museum of Tacoma
The Children’s Museum of Tacoma is where learning and play intersect in Washington. Children will have the opportunity to interact with playscapes and programs that help in their development, from fine and gross motor skills to critical thinking. These programs are split into five main areas: Wood, Water, Voyager, Invention, and Becka’s Studio.
7. Point Defiance Japanese Garden
This historic location, inspired by ancient Japanese architecture, provides a serene getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The garden is surrounded by crystal-clear pools, a beautiful wooden footbridge, and sakura cherry trees. In the center of the garden lies the Point Defiance Pogada. As you can imagine, it’s become a popular setting for events like weddings or family gatherings.
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8. Tacoma Art Museum
Resting in the heart of downtown Tacoma, get your fill of fine art with the Tacoma Art Museum. Take advantage of the ever-changing exhibits focusing on artists from the Pacific Northwest. Enjoy their permanent collection including works from Mary Cassatt, Camille Corot, Jacob Lawrence, and Akio Takamori.
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