Things To Do With Kids in Tacoma, WA

Discover kid-approved adventures in Tacoma, from hands-on museums to wild zoo days and more, perfect for family fun today!
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Unleashing Fun with Kids Activities in Tacoma

Explore Family-Friendly Activities in Tacoma

Looking for exciting and engaging things to do in Tacoma with kids? Tacoma offers a wide variety of fun, educational, and interactive attractions perfect for families. Whether you're planning a weekend adventure or just a weekday break, there’s something here for every age group to enjoy.

Top Family Activities in Tacoma

Tacoma’s blend of nature, culture, and creative play makes it a perfect spot for parents and caregivers looking for meaningful family activities in Tacoma. Here are some favorites:

  • Museums: The Children's Museum of Tacoma offers imaginative, hands-on exhibits for young learners. Nearby, the Washington State History Museum engages older kids with interactive exhibits about the state’s past.
  • Zoos: Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium combines land and sea life in one family-friendly destination. Kids can see polar bears up close, explore the aquarium, and even touch stingrays.
  • Parks: Point Defiance Park is more than just stunning Pacific Northwest scenery—it includes walking trails, gardens, and scenic picnic spots that make it ideal for families.

Indoor Fun and Weather-Proof Options

On rainy days, Tacoma still shines with indoor activities that keep kids moving and minds engaged. Great for playdates or weekend plans, these ideas offer reliable fun:

  • Indoor Play Centers: Trampoline parks, climbing gyms, and bounce houses like Pump It Up keep kids active in a safe, enclosed environment.
  • Art and Discovery: Local art studios and libraries often host kid-centric craft days, reading events, and sensory activities designed to spark creativity.
  • Tours and Experiences: Historic trolley rides, firehouse tours, and nearby nature centers such as the Tacoma Nature Center provide a mix of learning and outdoor exploration.

Parents looking for family things to do in Tacoma today can find plenty of spontaneous options. From discounted admission to local favorites to family-friendly events, there’s always something going on. Groupon is a great resource for discovering last-minute deals and ideas that fit your schedule and budget.

Whether you live in the area or are visiting for the day, Tacoma offers a wide array of experiences that highlight the best of the Pacific Northwest—all while keeping kids entertained. With options ranging from educational museums to outdoor parks and cozy indoor play zones, there’s no shortage of things to do in Tacoma with kids all year round.

Frequently Asked Questions

There are many children’s activities in Tacoma. Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium, Tacoma Art Museum, the Museum of Glass, and the Children's Museum of Tacoma offer interactive experiences for kids. Also, the Tacoma Nature Center offers a variety of outdoor activities, while Tacoma's Cheney Stadium is popular for baseball games.

Yes, Tacoma has a variety of free kids activities. The Tacoma Art Museum offers free admission on certain days, as does the Children's Museum of Tacoma, although it's always 'pay as you will'. Furthermore, Wright Park and the Dune Peninsula are great places for outdoor play and exploring.

Certainly. Tacoma has several indoor activities for kids. The Children's Museum of Tacoma has hands-on exhibits that inspire creativity and learning. The Museum of Glass also has interactive installations and glassblowing demonstrations. Other indoor venues like Odyssey 1 offer laser tag and jungle gym attractions for children.

Tacoma offers a variety of outdoor kids activities. Point Defiance Park has an array of outdoor attractions including a zoo, aquarium, and several gardens. It also has plenty of trails and wide-open spaces for picnics and games. The Ruston Way Waterfront, on the other hand, is a great place for walking, biking, and sightseeing.

Several educational activities for children are available in Tacoma. The city's many museums, like the Tacoma Art Museum, the Museum of Glass, and the Washington State History Museum offer enriching experiences. The Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium can also provide a combination of learning and fun with live animal shows and exhibits.

What others are saying

joel
9, Sep
3 to 5 hour Orca Only Tour with Guaranteed Orcas Valid May 01, 2025 to September 30, 2025
Really great experience! Saw several orcas that came up to our boat, and also puffins
Whale or Orcas Watching Tours in San Juan Islands
Dawn
10, Sep
General Admission Tickets
Wonderful zoo!
Admission to Woodland Park Zoo
Cierra
7, Sep
185-Point Card
Good selection of games and attractions for all ages. The voucher is a great saver 🤗
Up to 32% Off at Family Fun Center and Bullwinkle's Restaurant
Jo
2, Sep
One Regular Size Drink
The theater and popcorn are the best
AMC: Yellow Tickets & Snacks – Experience big-screen magic Anytime!
DARRELL
10, Sep
$84 for 6 people to bowl 2 hours + includes free shoe rental
Great time with family
Up to 73% Off Bowling with Shoe Rental Included at Bowlero
Samantha
8, Sep
Admission for 3 People
I love this place! And I was so relieved to see all the healthy food options at the cafe! Expect to spend several hours here. We left because the girls needed to nap, but there was still so much they hadn’t seen. They had a blast!
Up to 46% Off Explore & Play at the Hands On Children's Museum