Good to know: Visit and neighborhood recommendations in Tacoma Tacoma charms visitors with its creative spirit, maritime heritage, and walkable downtown full of surprises. Glass art installations by Dale Chihuly, scenic trails along Ruston Way, and indie shops in Proctor create a dynamic atmosphere. Mount Rainier towers in the distance while urban parks and preserved historic buildings add character. It’s a city where industry meets artistry and nature meets neighborhood life. Top areas to stay at in Tacoma Downtown Tacoma Downtown Tacoma offers museums, theaters, and galleries all within walking distance of the waterfront. Vacation rentals include loft-style apartments in restored buildings and modern condos with views of Commencement Bay. Attractions like the Museum of Glass and the Tacoma Art Museum are right nearby. North End / Proctor District A charming and walkable neighborhood, the Proctor District offers tree-lined streets, local boutiques, cafes, and a popular Saturday market. Airbnbs here range from Craftsman homes to updated apartments with porch swings. It’s great for families or travelers who want a residential feel with personality. The area balances peace with plenty to do. Old Town Tacoma’s original settlement, Old Town offers historical charm with views of Commencement Bay and access to Ruston Way’s scenic walking paths. Vacation homes here include cozy cottages and water-view apartments. The vibe is relaxed and quaint, with restaurants and small parks nearby. Stadium District Known for its grand architecture and iconic Stadium High School, this district offers a mix of history and urban living. Visitors can walk to cafes, bakeries, and wine bars while enjoying views of the Sound. Rentals include historic buildings converted into stylish flats. South Tacoma A more eclectic and up-and-coming area, South Tacoma features vintage shops, music venues, and easy access to the Tacoma Mall. Vacation rentals here tend to be more affordable and spacious. It’s a fun, off-the-beaten-path choice with creative flair. Great for younger travelers and bargain seekers. Must-visit places and attractions in Tacoma Museum of Glass A striking architectural landmark and homage to glass art, this museum features live glassblowing demonstrations and contemporary exhibits. Visitors can walk the Chihuly Bridge of Glass connecting to downtown. It’s a must for art lovers and families. The outdoor installations are just as stunning as the interior. Point Defiance Park Covering over 700 acres, this massive park includes a zoo, aquarium, rose gardens, and forested trails. Highlights include Owen Beach and the Five Mile Drive scenic loop. It’s one of the best urban parks in the Pacific Northwest. Ideal for hiking, picnics, and nature escapes. Tacoma Art Museum Featuring a strong collection of Northwestern and Native American art, this museum is right in downtown. Visitors can enjoy rotating exhibits and a beautiful glass-filled lobby. It’s walkable from many rentals and easy to combine with other attractions. LeMay – America’s Car Museum This impressive museum displays hundreds of classic and rare vehicles from across decades of automotive history. It’s interactive, family-friendly, and close to the Tacoma Dome. Great for car buffs and curious visitors alike. The exhibits are creative and expansive. Ruston Way Waterfront A scenic promenade stretching along the Sound, Ruston Way is perfect for joggers, walkers, and cyclists. Visitors can stop at seafood restaurants, picnic on the beach, or enjoy public art installations. The views of the Olympic Mountains and passing boats are stunning. Washington State History Museum A great starting point to understand the region’s Indigenous history, railroads, and early settlement. The exhibits are detailed and interactive, making it educational for all ages. The building is striking and conveniently located downtown. A well-rounded cultural experience. Foss Waterway Seaport Located along the revitalized Thea Foss Waterway, this maritime museum tells the story of Tacoma’s port and boating culture. Visitors can tour historic vessels and learn about shipbuilding. The setting is scenic and photogenic. Wright Park and W.W. Seymour Botanical Conservatory This 27-acre park in central Tacoma includes a beautiful Victorian glass conservatory filled with tropical plants. It’s ideal for a relaxing stroll or weekend picnic. Families and photographers love its peaceful vibe. The changing exhibits make it worth a repeat visit. Where to Find a Vacation Rental Near Tacoma Seattle, Washington Just 45 minutes north, Seattle offers world-class dining, Pike Place Market, and iconic sights like the Space Needle. Visitors can enjoy museums, waterfronts, and coffee culture galore. It’s a vibrant urban pairing with Tacoma’s creative core. Stay in an apartment in Seattle that puts you steps from galleries, cafés, and ferry views. Gig Harbor, Washington Just across the Tacoma Narrows Bridge, Gig Harbor is a charming maritime village with boutiques, marinas, and waterfront dining. It’s perfect for romantic getaways or slow-paced escapes. The setting feels like a coastal postcard. Spend a weekend in a vacation rental in Gig Harbor overlooking sailboats and historic storefronts. Puyallup, Washington Located 25 minutes southeast, Puyallup is known for its antique shops, farmers markets, and the Washington State Fairgrounds. Vacation homes are more suburban and spacious. A quieter contrast to Tacoma’s bustle. Unwind in a house in Puyallup ideal for families and longer stays. Olympia, Washington About an hour south, Olympia is Washington’s capital with a vibrant arts scene, historic downtown, and waterfront parks. Visitors can tour the capitol, shop local, and explore nearby nature reserves. A cultured addition to a Puget Sound trip. Discover quiet mornings in a vacation rental in Olympia near murals, markets, and museums. Federal Way, Washington Roughly 30 minutes north, Federal Way offers shopping centers, family attractions like Wild Waves Theme Park, and coastal parks. It’s a practical and affordable base for exploring the greater Seattle-Tacoma area. Settle into an airbnb in Federal Way for convenient access to parks, malls, and highways. Embark on a journey through diverse cultures and thrilling urban landscapes in the United States Enjoy the city's rich cultural tapestry with its impressive museums and historic theaters. To further enrich your understanding of the region's cultural heritage, consider exploring short-term rentals in Oklahoma City, where the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum awaits; or visit Olympia airbnb rentals, offering proximity to the Washington State Capitol and its remarkable art displays. Additionally, the vacation rentals in Covington provide access to the charming MainStrasse Village, brimming with historical significance. If urban adventures excite you, the city offers bustling life and vibrant activities. Enhance your escapades by checking out airbnb Bella Vista, ideal for a more serene environment with its close-knit community feel. Alternatively, explore airbnb in Denver, where the Denver Art Museum and Red Rocks Amphitheatre await exploration. In Arizona, the Surprise airbnb options present a fantastic opportunity to indulge in recreational areas and regional parks. For a riverside experience, Stillwater rental properties offer charming activities along the scenic St. Croix River.