Here's a simple and enjoyable itinerary for parents and the little ones in Tacoma. We planned activities over two separate days—one at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium with friends and another as a family at the Chihuly Bridge of Glass. Let’s go!
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Things to Do and Eat in Tacoma with Little Kids
- Address: 5400 N Pearl St, Tacoma, WA 98407
- Free Parking
All the recommended food spots are about 17–20 minutes away from the zoo. You can bring food and drinks inside; we brought musubi and water. There’s plenty to see, and you’ll likely spend most of the day here. I love the underwater exhibits as I’m always drawn to water. As for the tiger, I’m unsure how I feel—he seemed bored, making me wonder if he would be happier in the wild, as might all the animals in the zoo. But that's just my perspective. My little one had a blast walking around and seeing different kinds of animals. There’s also a show that entertains the kids. The walking trails around the zoo are wide enough, and it didn’t feel crowded at all. We visited in September, and the crowd was just right—no queues, and everyone seemed relaxed, which is what we enjoy most on our trips.
Day 2: Chihuly Bridge of Glass
For Parking:
- Museum of Glass Parking Garage
- Address: 1801 Dock St, Tacoma, WA 98402
- Parking Fees: 0–1 hour for 2 USD, and 3 hours for 6 USD
- Free and open to the public all day, every day.
We took a picture of the QR code to pay for parking since the ticket machine was broken. We paid $6 for 3 hours. After making our way up to street level, we headed to the Bridge of Glass. If you have a stroller, make sure to use the ramp to access the museum entrance and the Bridge of Glass. We didn’t see it right away and ended up taking the stairs and carrying our stroller all the way up—oops!
The 500 ft long pedestrian bridge is free to walk across and the displays were amazing, and my child especially loved the bright colors, particularly the underwater exhibit.
We started at the Venetian Wall, which has 109 fancy vases. They were colorful and fun to look at. Next, we saw the Crystal Towers, which are two 40-foot blue towers that looked like trees to me. My favorite was the Seaform Pavilion, with over 2,000 glass pieces on the ceiling. It was mesmerizing—the colors and shapes let our imaginations run wild. I can only imagine how magical it feels at night. My little one enjoyed every moment, especially when Saul lifted him up, making it feel like he was flying or swimming in a colorful coral kingdom. Since the museum was closed when we visited, we had the bridge all to ourselves.
Nearby Attractions:
Museum of Glass
If you're interested in learning more, the Museum of Glass is open from Wednesday to Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. They offer live glassblowing demonstrations throughout the day, dynamic exhibitions, and opportunities for hands-on glass-making experiences.
Tickets: 18 USD for adults; 9 USD for ages 6–18; children under 6 are free.
The U.S. Courthouse at Union Station
After that, we went down to the street and admired Union Station or the Courthouse. It felt like stepping back in time. This historic building, originally a train station from 1911, now serves as a U.S. Federal Courthouse. Its 90-foot copper dome is an example of Beaux-Arts architecture, and it’s truly a standout among the surrounding buildings.
The Children's Museum of Tacoma
Just a short walk from the courthouse is The Children's Museum of Tacoma, where admission is free, and donations are graciously welcomed. The museum's hours are as follows: Thursday: 1 – 5 p.m and
It's 20 minutes away from the Zoo and 10 minutes away from the Museum of Glass. Saul is picky about Japanese food since he grew up in Japan, and this is one of the few places he'd visit again—it's really that good! The prices are fair for the variety they offer.
Harbor City Tacoma Restaurant
Burger Seoul
Just a 10-minute drive away from the Museum. I absolutely loved the Very Milkshake! Even though I’m not a huge burger fan, the meat here tasted fresh, and the lettuce was crisp and fresh.
The U.S. Courthouse at Union Station
- Address: 1717 Pacific Ave, Tacoma, WA 98402.
- Admission: Open to the public, but security screening is mandatory.
- Hours: Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Closed on Saturday and Sunday
After that, we went down to the street and admired Union Station or the Courthouse. It felt like stepping back in time. This historic building, originally a train station from 1911, now serves as a U.S. Federal Courthouse. Its 90-foot copper dome is an example of Beaux-Arts architecture, and it’s truly a standout among the surrounding buildings.
The Children's Museum of Tacoma
Just a short walk from the courthouse is The Children's Museum of Tacoma, where admission is free, and donations are graciously welcomed. The museum's hours are as follows: Thursday: 1 – 5 p.m and
Friday – Sunday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Where to Eat - Hidden Gems of Tacoma
Where to Eat - Hidden Gems of Tacoma
Most of these food places are 20-30 minutes away from the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium and 10 minutes away from the Museum of Glass.
We loved Tacoma Sumo Sushi & Grill sashimi platter!
Sumo Sushi & Grill AYCE - Tacoma
Tacoma Branch
- Address: 2919 S 38th St, Suite B, Tacoma, WA 98409
- Free parking
- Diaper changing station available
It's 20 minutes away from the Zoo and 10 minutes away from the Museum of Glass. Saul is picky about Japanese food since he grew up in Japan, and this is one of the few places he'd visit again—it's really that good! The prices are fair for the variety they offer.
Harbor City Tacoma Restaurant
- Address: 4816 Pacific Ave, Tacoma, WA 98408
- Free parking
- No diaper changing station
A hidden gem in Chinese food, the restaurant might not be fancy, but the food is fantastic. My favorite was the Pork with brown sauce—something with “hua,” though I can't remember the name. We also loved the huge Siomai and Buns! They have a wide selection of dim sum and traditional dishes that keep customers coming back.
Indochine Asian Dining Lounge
Located just across from the Museum of Glass, this place boasts an excellent ambiance. I found the Drunken Noodle to be perfect, while the rest of our party's orders were just average.
Indochine Asian Dining Lounge
- Address: 1924 Pacific Ave, Tacoma, WA 98402
- Pay for street parking
- No diaper changing station
Located just across from the Museum of Glass, this place boasts an excellent ambiance. I found the Drunken Noodle to be perfect, while the rest of our party's orders were just average.
Burger Seoul
- Address: 1701 Division Ave, Tacoma, WA 98403
- Free limited parking
- Diaper changing station available
Just a 10-minute drive away from the Museum. I absolutely loved the Very Milkshake! Even though I’m not a huge burger fan, the meat here tasted fresh, and the lettuce was crisp and fresh.
The Red Hot: Oopz Parents only!
This is 10 minutes from the Museum by car. Food is amazing! Unfortunately, kids aren't allowed here, so we had to enjoy our meal in the car. I particularly enjoyed the Ruston Ragin’ Cajun, featuring spicy andouille sausage topped with BBQ sauce, onions, their signature coleslaw, and a sprinkle of cayenne pepper – it was heavenly! The hotdogs are all under $10, which is quite a bargain.
If you enjoy chili dogs, you’ll love their Destiny City Slaw Dog, made with BBQ sauce, onions, all-meat chili, and topped with southern-style slaw.
The Bingsoo here is delightful, with just the right amount of milk, perfect texture, and big portions. They offer a variety of flavors, and their desserts are perfect for satisfying sweet cravings while exploring Korean treats.
Boulangerie Bakery & Cafe
We usually visit the Silverdale location, but most places provide an exceptional milk tea experience! We love the A3, which is the classic boba milk tea, as well as the A7 milk tea with boba, pudding, and jelly. Oh! And I just realized after my trip from Vancouver, Canada, that I love warm Taro milk tea - try it, it's life changing!. The best part is you can choose how much ice and sugar you want. Their bubble matcha waffle is another favorite! Discover more: Best Asian Food in Kitsap County, Washington.
Daiso for Japanese Goodies
We picked up some warm piroshky, fresh Armenian bread, and beef pierogies to cook at home, all of which were delicious. The pierogies are like dumplings, and my little one particularly enjoyed the biscuits they have in store!
Explore these fantastic locations in Tacoma. Begin your adventure with a simple activity that transitions into a delightful dining experience. Just relax and enjoy an easy day in Tacoma with your little ones.
- Address: 2914 6th Ave, Tacoma, WA 98406
- Free limited parking
- Just for takeout, kids not allowed
This is 10 minutes from the Museum by car. Food is amazing! Unfortunately, kids aren't allowed here, so we had to enjoy our meal in the car. I particularly enjoyed the Ruston Ragin’ Cajun, featuring spicy andouille sausage topped with BBQ sauce, onions, their signature coleslaw, and a sprinkle of cayenne pepper – it was heavenly! The hotdogs are all under $10, which is quite a bargain.
If you enjoy chili dogs, you’ll love their Destiny City Slaw Dog, made with BBQ sauce, onions, all-meat chili, and topped with southern-style slaw.
For Dessert
T-Town Cafe
T-Town Cafe
- Address: South Tacoma Way, Tacoma, WA
- Free limited parking
The Bingsoo here is delightful, with just the right amount of milk, perfect texture, and big portions. They offer a variety of flavors, and their desserts are perfect for satisfying sweet cravings while exploring Korean treats.
Boulangerie Bakery & Cafe
- Korean cakes and desserts
- Address: 9701 S Tacoma Way #123, Lakewood, WA 98499
The Red Velvet cake is delicious—not too sweet, with just the right texture and flavor. They also offer a selection of Korean and French-inspired pastries and bread.
For Milk Tea
Happy Lemon - Tacoma
- Address: 2505 S 38th St a114, Tacoma, WA 98409
We usually visit the Silverdale location, but most places provide an exceptional milk tea experience! We love the A3, which is the classic boba milk tea, as well as the A7 milk tea with boba, pudding, and jelly. Oh! And I just realized after my trip from Vancouver, Canada, that I love warm Taro milk tea - try it, it's life changing!. The best part is you can choose how much ice and sugar you want. Their bubble matcha waffle is another favorite! Discover more: Best Asian Food in Kitsap County, Washington.
For Unique Shops and Groceries
H Mart Tacoma for Korean Products
H Mart Tacoma for Korean Products
- Address: 8720 S Tacoma Way, Lakewood, WA 98499
- Lots of other locations
I come here for my Emperor Love Black Tea and Sweet Potatoes. I also love Seoul Bakery inside the store for its soft and delicious bread. The store is well-stocked with a wide range of Korean groceries, fresh produce, and specialty items that make it a one-stop shop for all your Korean culinary needs.
- Address: 6111 Lakewood Towne Center Blvd SW F, Lakewood, WA 98499
- Lots of other locations
Daiso is a Japanese store chain that offers a variety of Japanese merchandise, including beauty products, housewares, and snacks. I’m a huge fan of this store and wish they would open a location in Kitsap County.
European Delicatessen for Eastern European Delicacies
- Address: 3612A Center St, Tacoma, WA 98409
- Free parking
We picked up some warm piroshky, fresh Armenian bread, and beef pierogies to cook at home, all of which were delicious. The pierogies are like dumplings, and my little one particularly enjoyed the biscuits they have in store!
Explore these fantastic locations in Tacoma. Begin your adventure with a simple activity that transitions into a delightful dining experience. Just relax and enjoy an easy day in Tacoma with your little ones.
Have fun and be safe ^__^
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Where am I going next?
- For my next adventure, we're hunting for the Best Asian Foods in Kitsap County, Washington.
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