Staying over for the weekend?

While you're in the neighborhood, why not explore?

The South Puget Sound Area that encompasses Tacoma hosts a number of outstanding attractions and uniquely Pacific Northwest nature experiences. Here are a few that you might want to consider during a long weekend.

Photo of a colorful buffalo at Tacoma Museum of Art

Tacoma Art Museum

The Tacoma Art Museum offers art, architecture, amazing views, and lovely gardens. It houses a strong collection of Northwest art, along with works by world-renowned artists such as Edward Degas, Ralph Rauschenberg, and Andrew Wyethe. Located in downtown Tacoma.

LeMay Car Museum

This four-story museum houses up to 350 cars, trucks and motorcycles from private owners and corporations, along with the LeMay collection, which amassed more than 3,500 vehicles in the mid-90s, setting a Guinness Book world record. Located 5 minutes from downtown Tacoma.

Washington State History Museum

Located in Tacoma's Union Station, the Washington State History Museum recreates the old downtown station with a permanent model train layout. Other exhibits include artifacts from Native American Tribes, State industrialization and the women's suffrage movement.

Photo of a child looking at a polar bear at Point Defiance Zoo

Point Defiance Park, Zoo & Aquarium

Venture to Point Defiance Park for endless outdoor activities amidst 700+ acres. While you're there check out the Point Defiance Zoo + Aquarium. Encounter wildlife by riding a camel, watching polar bears swim or talking with walruses. 20 minutes from downtown Tacoma.

Crystal Mountain

Outdoor enthusiasts love Crystal Mountain, Washington's largest and highest destination ski resort, located on the Sunrise side of Mount Rainier National Park. Take a scenic ride on the Mount Rainier Gondola that will whisk you to the summit in 10 minutes. Then dine at the Summit House, Washington's highest restaurant at nearly 7,000 feet. Located 1.5 hours southeast of Tacoma.

Paradise on Mount Rainier

77 miles outside Tacoma is Mount Rainier. It's a spectacular drive through one of our greatest national parks to Paradise, the site of the historic Paradise Inn and Visitors Center. You'll be able to hike the easy trails surrounding the lodge, or take on some of the more challenging hikes, all within one day. Located 2 hours southeast of Tacoma.

Chambers Bay Golf Course

With tawny fescue grasses, towering sand dunes, massive fairways, and breathtaking views of the Puget Sound and snow-capped Olympic Mountains, Chambers Bay brings the traditions of Scottish linksland to the Pacific Northwest. This 18-hole, walking-only course provides an authentic links experience for players of every ability. Located a 20-minute drive from downtown Tacoma.