INSIDER TIPS + FUN ON THE WATER + CRAFT BEER + MOUNT RAINIER
OFFICIAL VISITORS' GUIDE + MAP
2017–18 TRAVELTACOMA.COM
Around Here,It’s
Visit Us at Harbor Lights For a Downtown Tacoma Waterfront Tradition!
2761 Ruston Way • (253) 752-8600 www.anthonys.com
Fresh Northwest Seafood With a View
Anthony’s at Gig Harbor 8827 Harborview Dr. N (253) 853-6353
Anthony’s at Point Defiance 5910 N. Waterfront Drive (253) 752-9700
www.anthonys.com
Pierce County, Washington not only features Chambers Bay, site of the 2015 U.S. Open, but also a rich culture with exciting attractions. Come experience the Northwest from sea level to 14,000 feet. ChambersBayGolf.com | 877-295-4657
Photo Martin Miller
Jordan Spieth, 2015 U.S. Open Champion
CONTENTS
PUBLISHED BY Travel Tacoma + Pierce County 1516 Commerce St | Tacoma, WA 98402 800-272-2662 | traveltacoma.com
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PRESIDENT + CEO Bennish Brown VICE PRESIDENT OF MARKETING Jaime Vogt MARKETING MANAGER Brandi LaPointe COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER Matt Wakefield VISITOR EXPERIENCE MANAGER Lisa Barker
PUBLISHED IN CONJUNCTION WITH SAGACITY MEDIA SENIOR EDITOR Ethan Chung ASSISTANT EDITOR Karin Vandraiss ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR Erika Kim EDITORIAL INTERNS David B. Clark,
Emmaline Cotter, Katie Grice, Valerie Siu
FEATURES
10 INSIDERS’ GUIDE
Nine notable locals share their Pierce County favorites.
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18 CULTURE COUNTY
Get enriched by museums, stage performances, and art galleries.
22 A LIFE AQUATIC
Explore the rich waters of the Puget Sound region.
DEPARTMENTS
5
SOUNDOUT Discover outstanding architecture, classic cars, fun events, area peculiarities, local spas, and more.
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FAMILY Explore more than 700 acres of Point Defiance Park and build a familyfriendly bucket list.
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SCENE Enjoy dive bars, play grown-up games, and see a show.
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FEAST Eat fresh seafood, drink craft beer, indulge in baked treats, sip coffee, shop farmers markets, and do brunch.
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WILD+LIFE Ski and snowshoe the region’s winter wonderland, see wild animals, and hike Mount Rainier.
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LODGING Detailed options from around the region.
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MAPS Get around Pierce County.
PRESIDENT Nicole Vogel SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, EDITORIAL & OPERATIONS
Bill Hutfilz
DESIGN DIRECTOR Anne Reeser DIRECTOR OF PROCUREMENT & PRODUCTION
Norma Machado
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Simba Rusike
HR MANAGER Bonnie Barcellos
Travel Tacoma + Pierce County is a publication of SagaCity Media in conjunction with Travel Tacoma + Pierce County. For advertising, contact Jeff Adams at 206-454-3007. For editorial, contact Ethan Chung at echung@sagacitymedia.com. All rights reserved.
The Doughsant from Legendary Doughnuts, page 35 ON THE COVER Hiking through Spray Park in Mt. Rainier National Park. Photo by Stephen Matera/ Tandemstock.com
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: DEAN PAULSON PHOTOGRAPHY, AMELIA SKINNER (3)
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VICE PRESIDENT, CUSTOM MEDIA Jeff Adams SENIOR DIRECTOR, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Liz Utley SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Carol Cummins ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Chelsea Alfano PRODUCTION MANAGER Mary Bradford ACCOUNTANT Ashley Nelson
TACOMA MUSEUM DISTRICT SIX GREAT STOPS. ONE LOW PRICE.
ONE FULL YEAR.
PURCHASE YOUR MUSEUM PASS AT TACOMAMUSEUMDISTRICT.ORG
Experience the dynamic Pacific Northwest through maritime and state history, international and regional art and glassworks (don’t miss the Hot Shop), engaging child’s play, even the largest automotive museum in North America. TMD passes offer something for everyone! Good for one year, save up to 25% today!
traveltacoma.com/museumdistrict
Mt. Rainier Gondola At Crystal Mountain Resort Crystal Mountain Resort is best known as a skiers paradise, but it’s more than just that. It’s memories waiting to be created. It’s family hikes, horseback rides, and never-ending photo opportunities. It’s scenic gondola rides and a gourmet lunch or dinner at what feels like the top of the world. It’s Mt. Rainier bigger and more beautiful than you’ve ever seen it. Crystal Mountain Resort is located just 6 miles from the Northeast entrance to Mt. Rainier National Park. Keep the mountain magic going and stay the night. Conveniently located hotels, condos and cabins make for a perfect relaxing or adventurous getaway. Visit website for schedule and hours. Let’s connect: CrystalMountainResort.com | Facebook.com/CrystalMountainWashington
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PIERCE COUNTY
at a Glance
Mount Rainier, craft beer, and glass art are just a few of the many attractions that define the Pierce County region. Here are some fun tidbits about the area to consider on your next visit.
THERE ARE
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STOPS
Several Hollywood movies have been filmed in Pierce County, including 10 Things I Hate About You, I Love You To Death, Say Anything , Prefontaine, Get Carter, WarGames, Three Fugitives, and The Hand that Rocks the Cradle.
TACOMA LINK LIGHT RAIL is open 365 days a year and offers free, easy access to the many hotels, restaurants, and businesses in downtown Tacoma.
PIERCE COUNTY’S lively craft brew scene helped create the South Sound Craft Crawl. Craft beer fans can visit 21 participating artisan brewers and win prizes for visiting breweries and filling out a passport.
Actor and singer Bing Crosby, artist Dale Chihuly, Major League Baseball pitcher Jon Lester, singer Vicci Martinez, and The Far Side artist Gary Larson are among the many celebrities that were born in Pierce County.
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THE TACOMA RAINIERS, who play at Cheney Stadium, is the Triple-A affiliate of the Seattle Mariners and will host the 2017 Triple-A All-Star Game.
The Home Course and Chambers Bay Golf Course have held USGA Championships, including the 2015 U.S. Open. Chambers Bay will host the 2019 U.S. Amateur Four-Ball Championship.
RUSSELL JOHNSON
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: ©20THCENTFOX/COURTESY EVERETT COLLECTION, JOE SEER/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM, COURTESY SOUND TRANSIT
in the Museum District in downtown Tacoma, where you can see the works of glass artist Dale Chihuly.
Mt. Rainier National Park features more than
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MILES OF TRAILS traveltacoma.com + 5
SOUNDOUT
Lewis Army Museum
Centennial Celebration
100 years of preserving freedom
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Hot Wheels Tacoma’s LeMay—America’s Car Museum celebrates its fifth anniversary in 2017. See more than 300 polished vehicles in all shapes, sizes, ages, and colors. With exhibitions like British Invasion and Legends of Motorsport: The Nascar Story, vehicles at this beautifully designed museum have a fascinating history. For example, the 1923 Lincoln 124-A Touring car was the first to cross the new Narrows Bridge in 1940, just four months before its iconic wind-induced collapse. The Lincoln repeated that same inaugural journey over a second span built in the same location in 2007. The car has carried dignitaries such as Queen Elizabeth and President Franklin Roosevelt. Then there’s the 1957 Ford Thunderbird, first leased by actress Phyllis Kirk, who played opposite Peter Lawford on the TV series The Thin Man. Shortly thereafter, the Thunderbird went to a California girl as a high school graduation gift. In 1991 the car underwent a full mechanical and cosmetic restoration. Currently in showroom condition, this Ford sport a Colonial White body, white top, and white-tucked vinyl interior.
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See more classics at the LeMay Family Collection at Marymount.
Parked in the Collections Center Gallery display is a rare 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Split Window Coupe with automatic transmission, which was never manufactured with a split window after that year. Owners complained that the Stingray’s split window impaired their rear-view vision. While its hideaway headlights were common and continued as a Corvette hallmark, automatic transmission was an unusual order. At the time, many Corvette owners preferred a manual transmission . —Heather Larson IF CARS COULD TALK > First Tuesday of every month RACE NIGHT > Second Thursday of every month CRUISE-INS > Second Thursday from Apr through Aug FAMILY STEAM DAY > Third Saturday of every month DRIVE-IN MOVIES > July 8 + 22, Aug 11 + 26 CARS & CIGARS > Aug 5 SUMMER ENDER FENDER BENDER > Sep 9 TAKE A SPIN > Sep 23 TRUNK OR TREAT > Oct 28 (LeMay Family Collection)
LeMay—America’s Car Museum 2702 East D St; americascarmuseum.org / LeMay Family Collection at Marymount 325 152nd St E; lemaymarymount.org
FROM LEFT: COURTESY JOE MABEL, COURTESY LEMAY–AMERICA’S CAR MUSEUM
Lewis Army Museum 4320 Main St and Constitution Dr, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, lewisarmymuseum.com
LeMay—America’s Car Museum
Events
Fort Lewis, the U.S. Army’s section of Joint Base LewisMcChord, celebrates its centennial this year. In 1917, residents bought 70,000 acres in American Lake for $2 million, which they donated to the War Department. This large swathe of land has undergone several name changes. The first troops arrived at Camp Lewis (named for Meriwether Lewis) in the fall of 1917. Camp Lewis later became Fort Lewis. When the army post merged with nearby McChord Air Force Base, the area became known as Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM). To find out more about this lengthy history, plan a visit to the Lewis Army Museum. This 98-year-old building first functioned as a lodging facility for friends and family of those serving at Camp Lewis. The museum is set to reopen in July 2017 after an extensive redesign. New mannequins will don historic uniforms, other artifacts will be displayed in pristine cases, and dioramas depict famous battles. Visitors can expect new interactive exhibits and features. The immersive museum is a fantastic way to learn about the role of the military in the Northwest. Visitors can access the museum directly without having to go through permitting processes at JBLM. As it did a century ago, this land mass in the heart of Pierce County still makes an ideal place for training and maneuvers. Military personnel have access to nearby mountains, lakes, and a variety of other terrain. For more information about centennial events and for details about base access for visitors, visit www.lewismcchord.army.mil. —Heather Larson
SOUNDOUT
AWESOME ARCHITECTURE
Tacoma is home to gorgeous classic and contemporary buildings. Here are some must-see feats of architecture.
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: ARTAZUM/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM, ROBBY VIRUS/FLICKR.COM, COURTESY TACOMA DOME/DARRELL WESTMORELAND, DYLAN MCCANN ALYEA/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
Museum of Glass Stadium High School
Begin a self-guided tour of the city’s architecture with Stadium High School. The French-chateauthemed edifice, originally intended as a luxury hotel, now houses high school students who refer to it as the “castle.” Visitors aren’t allowed on campus, but feel free to take in a viewing from nearby public sidewalks. The 34-year-old Tacoma Dome was constructed of wood and concrete, and is one of the largest wooden dome structures in the world. To erect this behemoth of a building, it took 1.6 million board feet of lumber and enough concrete to form a sidewalk 70 miles long. The flagpole at the very top of the dome had to be set in by a helicopter.
Tacoma Dome
Union Station in downtown Tacoma once provided railway access to the thriving city via the transcontinental railroad. The building now serves as a federal courthouse. The symmetry, embellishments, rounded arches, and soaring dome all denote neoclassical architecture. Nearby, the Museum of Glass features aspects of fire, water, earth, and sky, elements found throughout the grounds. Its landmark 91-foot cone, wrapped with 2,800 panels of brushed stainless steel, houses the hot shop amphitheater where glass artists ply their trade. The Theater District’s Pythian Temple, designed by Tacoma architect Frederick
Pythian Temple
Heath, exemplifies renaissance revival architecture. A sandstone façade and masonryand-timber frame highlight the exterior. The temple is open for public tours Mondays at 6:15pm and during the yearly First Night (Dec 31) celebration as a venue to experience different types of art. —Heather Larson
Museum of Glass 1801 Dock St; museumofglass.org / Pythian Temple 1924 Broadway / Stadium High School 111 N E St; tacomaschools.org/stadium/pages/school-history.aspx / Tacoma Dome 2727 E D St; tacomadome.org / Union Station 1717 Pacific Ave; unionstationrotunda.org
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Calendar of Events May 5–14 Lakewold Gardens Mayfest (Lakewood) Celebrate the start of spring at Lakewold Gardens with blooming flowers, local art, and shopping. lakewoldgardens.org May 20 Gig Harbor Beer Festival Try award-winning craft brews and artisan food from all around the Puget Sound at this annual festival. gig harborbeerfestival.com June 3–4 Maritime Gig Festival (Gig Harbor) Compete to find the roundest rock at the Round Rock contest at this annual festival, which also includes a classic car show, family fun run, parade, and concerts. gigharborchamber.net June 15–18 Festival of Sail (Tacoma) Explore historic ships on the shores of Puget Sound with ship tours, day sails, a ship parade, and much more at this maritime festival. festofsailtacoma.com June 16–18 Meeker Days (Puyallup) The streets are lined with arts and craft vendors, food courts, antique tractor
display, a beer garden, and classic car show at Pierce County’s largest street fair. puyallupmainstreet.com
SUMMER June 23–25 Taste of Tacoma Start summer off at this festival full of food vendors, live music, cooking demonstrations, wine and beer tasting, and much more. tasteoftacoma.com June 25 Fife Family Affair Car Show Marvel over all sorts of rides, from custom cars to classic automobiles. cityoffife.org July 4 Freedom Fair (Tacoma) An amazing fireworks display, air show, car show, music stages, and hundreds of vendors make up this Independence Day festival. freedomfair.com July 8 Mount Rainier Wine Festival Enjoy sipping local wine while listening to live music at this annual event in the mountains. crystalhotels.com/ mt-rainier-wine-festival July 8 SummerFEST (Lakewood) Soak up the sun with food trucks, trapeze, live music, all-day yoga, a car show, triathlon, and a movie night. cityoflakewood.us
Taste of Tacoma
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July 12 Triple-A All-Star Game (Tacoma) The Tacoma Rainiers (the Triple-A affiliate of the Seattle Mariners) hosts the 2017 Triple-A All-Star Game at Cheney Stadium. tacomarainiers.com July 15–16 Rhubarb Days (Sumner) Join the Rhubarb Pie Capital in all things rhubarb with baking competitions, pie-eating contests, games, and live music. rhubarb piecapital.com July 28–30 Goodguys 30th Pacific Northwest Nationals (Puyallup) Admire more than 2,500 automobiles from classics to muscle cars, see a vintage drag race, and manufacturing exhibits. good-guys.com July 29 Gig Harbor Wine and Food Festival Sip from more than 30 wineries, breweries, and distilleries at this threeday festival, culminating in the signature Grand Tasting event. harbor wineandfoodfest.com Aug 5 Brew Five Three (Tacoma) Taste 30-plus Washington breweries, eat from local food trucks, and listen to live music on the streets of Tacoma’s Beer and Blues Festival. broadwaycenter.org Aug 13 Classy Chassis Car Show (Sumner) Downtown Sumner’s charming streets make a perfect venue for this
car show that displays classic cars, motorcycles and trucks. rhubarbpiecapital.com Aug 26 LeMay Marymount Car Show (Tacoma) Join in this 40-year tradition with more than 1,000 vintage automobiles, accompanied with antique memorabilia and a car auction. lemaymarymount.org Aug 31–Sep 1 Camp Lewis Centennial (Lakewood) Celebrate 100 years of service at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, with historic walks, bike rides and runs, and a commemoration event. myjblm .cityoflakewood.us Sep 1–24 Washington State Fair (Puyallup) Crazy rides and great food are hallmarks at one of the largest state fairs in the U.S. thefair.com
FALL Oct 1–31 Tacoma Arts Month Get involved with arts and cultural activities in October, with exhibits in visual art, theater, film, and literary events. tacomaartsmonth.com Oct 5–12 Tacoma Film Festival There’s something for everyone at this Northwest film festival, which shows some of
Lakewood SummerFEST
the best independent films around. tacomafilmfestival.com Oct 6–8 Oktoberfest Northwest (Puyallup) Washington’s largest Munich-style festival celebrates with authentic German beer and bratwurst, weiner-dog races, the Stein Dash 5K run, games, and entertainment abound. oktoberfestnw.com Oct 7 Fife Harvest Festival Welcome fall at this free community event full of arts, crafts, food, and performances. The annual festival takes place at Dacca park, rain or shine. cityoffife.org
WINTER Nov 24-Jan 1 Zoolights (Tacoma) Get into the holiday spirit with camel rides, carousel spins, and animal light displays including a 30-foot-wide underwater landscape. pdza.org Dec 31 First Night Tacoma Join in this 20-year tradition of ringing in the new year with familyfriendly activities and spectacles, live music, and food in downtown Tacoma. firstnight tacoma.org
MAIN IMAGE: CHRISTOPHER NELSON; INSET: COURTESY CITY OF LAKEWOOD
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PECULIAR PIERCE COUNTY The area is full of legends, lore, and things that go bump in the night.
Bigfoot is perhaps the area’s most famous legend. It has been sighted all over the U.S., but most frequently here in Washington. According to the Bigfoot Field Researchers Organization (bfro.net), Pierce County has had the most Bigfoot sightings by county at 76.
Stormking Spa and Cabins
CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: RAMBLIN LAMB, CACTUS STUDIO/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM, EVGENY BORNYAKOV/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
Get Some R + R Tacoma has a smattering of lovely spas, but Serenity Spa is a standout that certainly lives up to the name, with two tranquil locations decked out in light blues and staffed by kindly estheticians. The name doesn’t convey the breadth of its offerings—aside from the usual facials and scrubs, it also employs naturopaths, acupuncturists, and physical therapists. Whether you need a relaxing spa day or a full check-up, you’re covered. Don’t miss Serenity’s shot bar, where you can enjoy a wide range of homeopathic injections to fight everything from fatigue to headaches to the winter blues. Olympus Spa in Lakewood is the old faithful on the South Sound spa scene, a spacious, women’s-only Korean spa just south of Tacoma. A day pass gets you access to hot and
cold pools, plus a mugwort steam room and a dry sauna—not to mention the three earthenergy-heated rooms—choose between sea salt, sand and charcoal, or mud and jade. An additional $7 brings you unlimited cups of excellent tea from the tea room, and there are dozens of lovely add-on services—the Korean body scrub is always an invigorating choice. Olympus even has a restaurant of its own, where it serves classics like bibimbap and japchae for a for post-relaxation lunch. For a full-on retreat, head to Stormking Spa and Cabins in Ashford, near Mount Rainier. Guests can stay overnight in pretty, woodsy cabins (complete with private hot tubs) and spend the day relaxing with massages, aromatherapy, and sauna time. Day trippers are welcome too. —Anne Larkin
While there is no scientific proof of the existence of Bigfoot, there is a real monster (of sorts) living in Pierce County. Puget Sound is home to the giant Pacific octopus, the world’s largest species of octopus. Book a dive with a scuba outfitter to explore local waters and you may run into one of these shy but magnificent creatures.
If a good scare is your thing, check out Tacoma Ghost Tours. Founded by father-and-son team Charlie and Andrew Hansen, the tours run through downtown and the Stadium District. The duo relies on their expert grasp of local history to tell both real and spooky tales of how Tacoma came into its own as a city. —Ethan Chung
Olmypus Spa 8615 S Tacoma Way, Lakewood; olympusspa.com / Serenity Spa 3518 Sixth Ave, Ste 200 and 706 Market St; serenityspatacoma.com / Stormking Spa and Cabins 37311 State Route 706 E, Ashford; stormkingspa.com / Tacoma Ghost Tours tacomaghosttours.com
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INSIDERS’
GUIDE Nine locals of note offer up their suggestions for travel in greater Pierce County.
INTERVIEWS BY ETHAN CHUNG
TK
PHOTOGRAPHS BY AMELIA SKINNER
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TACOMA
MARY KRAUSZER
Park Ranger, Point Defiance Park WHAT DO YOU DO AS PARK RANGER AT POINT DEFIANCE PARK? I am a uniformed interpretive guide for the
park. That means I am here to help visitors connect with the park in memorable and safe ways. DO YOU HAVE ANY TIPS FOR VISITING POINT DEFIANCE PARK? If you come during the summer, stop by the
Point Defiance Visitors Center to chat with one of our Park Ambassadors. This is the best way to find out about all the cool things happening that day in the park and get all the info you need in one place.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE PLACE TO GRAB A BITE TO EAT IN TOWN? This is a tough one, so I have to give
you my top three: special occasions at Gari of Sushi on South 38th, comfort food at Vuelve a la Vida on Pacific Avenue, and after playing in a roller derby game, my go-to is a sandwich at [Peterson Bros.] Eleven-Eleven in the Hilltop neighborhood.
HOW ABOUT A GREAT CUP OF COFFEE? For some
shameless self-promotion, my favorite place to grab a cup of coffee is at a “Coffee with the Birds” event at Point Defiance Park. It’s a monthly event where we watch birds and sip coffee provided by Lift Bridge Coffee. We check out different spots in the park each month, but the coffee is always great!
DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE PLACE IN THE PARK? PERHAPS AN INSTAGRAM-WORTHY SPOT? My favorite
place in the park is probably the waterfront Promenade. From there you can watch sea lions and kingfishers catching fish, or get a spectacular view of Mount Rainier across the port, or watch the ferry come in at sunset. I’m a marine wildlife lover, so no matter the weather I love being down on the waterfront in the park.
TK
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WHAT MAKES PUYALLUP SPECIAL TO YOU? I’ve lived here most of my life. It’s home. I love the friendly, tight-knit community. It’s got a very authentic feel to it. My great grandparents relocated here from North Dakota in 1936 and brought the business with them and its been going since. WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE PLACE TO GRAB A BITE TO EAT IN TOWN? I like Arista Pasta for a nicer dinner.
I love to go to Auntee B’s for breakfast after church. I am vegetarian so I like their breakfast burrito with chili, potato, and eggs. A great takeout place is Fiesta Taqueria, a hidden gem on North Meridian. My favorite food place in town is really My Cheese Shoppe. It’s not a restaurant per se, although you can get some great sandwiches there, but it is definitely one of the best destination shops downtown. WHERE SHOULD VISITORS GO FOR A COCKTAIL? Bourbon Street—the bar is very old world with lots of dark wood. They have interesting cocktails with a very thoughtful menu.
KATHY HAYDEN
SUMNER
Deputy Mayor, Barber at Doug and Kathy’s Barber Shop WHAT MAKES SUMNER SPECIAL TO YOU? You can walk down the street and everyone knows everyone. We’re a very walkable community, things are handicap accessible. It’s personable, friendly, and has a real small-town feel. People sit on their porches and say hello. You really feel welcome here. SUMNER IS THE RHUBARB PIE CAPITAL OF THE WORLD. TELL US YOUR THOUGHTS ON RHUBARB PIE. When I
think of rhubarb pie, I ask myself, “Do I want lattice top, or crumble?” All the restaurants make it here, they’re all delicious, so I just wonder: What kind do I want today?
DO YOU HAVE ANY RECOMMENDATIONS FOR VISITORS? Check out The Cannery [The Old Cannery Furniture Store]. It’s advertised as a furniture store, but it’s so much more than that. There’s a museum and a fudge shop, too. Windmill Gardens has little shops in it—a tea shop, bistro, and more. Both places anchor each end of the town.
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INSIDERS’ GUIDE
Co-owner, Johnson Jewelers
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AMY JOHNSON
PUYALLUP
KRIS BRANNON
TACOMA
Sonics Guy, standup comedian, local celebrity/activist WHAT MAKES TACOMA SPECIAL TO YOU? They say that
Reno is the biggest little city, but I think it’s actually Tacoma. When you live here for long enough, you feel like you know everyone, and then it’s about as little as it gets. Also, there’s usually plenty of free parking.
TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR PERSONAL CONNECTION WITH THE SONICS. I love the team. A lot of people
might not know this, but when KeyArena was being remodeled in the 1994–1995 season, the team played in the Tacoma Dome.
WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE EVENTS TO ATTEND AS SONICS GUY? In Tacoma, hitting a game at the Tacoma
Rainiers on a nice sunny day is just the best. What I like about the stadium is that you can tour the whole thing easily, and everyone can see you, and you can see everyone. It’s a de facto community meeting place. Baseball is a slower sport so you can talk to people and make connections, and that’s something I love doing. The Washington State Fair is also a good one. Lots of people to see there. WHERE CAN VISITORS SEE YOU DO STAND-UP? I just
did a show at Tacoma Comedy Club. I perform all over, but that’s kind of the place in Tacoma to catch a comedy show.
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GIG HARBOR
STEPHANIE SAGLE Owner, The Harbor General Store
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE PLACE TO GRAB A BITE TO EAT IN TOWN? For breakfast, Netshed #9, has amazing
French toast and buffalo milk coffee. My go-to lunch on a summer day by the water is JWs Trolley at the Boatyard. For dinner, I would say Brix 25° or Millville Pizza Co. WHAT ARE SOME FUN FAMILY ACTIVITIES YOU ENJOY?
We love the concerts in the park at Jerisich Dock during the summer, a trip to the Skansie House to check out Harbor WildWatch’s cool marine life exhibits and touch tanks, and spending an afternoon at Sehmel Homestead Park where it hosts activities all year long. It has the annual Spring Easter Egg Hunt, Food Truck Feast, or Scarecrow Festival, or you can walk the Cushman Trail. WHAT DO YOU RECOMMEND VISITORS DO IN GIG HARBOR? Check out the Historical Downtown Area.
There is a small museum with a good gift shop, scenic waterfront walking paths, home décor shops, and souvenir shops. The Heritage Distillery tasting room is a must. Also stop in at the Fly Shop, which offers great outdoor apparel. Right next door is Gig Harbor Watersports where you can rent a kayak or paddle board and take it right out into the harbor. There are galleries, and restaurants both sit-down and graband-go. Downtown is so cute and quaint. For shopping and more of an urban vibe, head uptown and stroll through the outdoor mall style shopping center.
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CORA WELLS
LAKEWOOD
Volunteer and Marketing Manager, Lakewold Gardens WHAT CAN VISITORS EXPECT AT LAKEWOLD GARDENS?
It’s so incredible—I don’t think words do it justice. It’s a 10-acre garden space. In the middle of all that garden there’s a gorgeous family home. You’ll see things in the garden you won’t find anywhere else. Japanese maples, lots of rhododendrons, and I swear a ton of things that aren’t even from this planet. The coolest thing about Lakewold Gardens is that it’s in the middle of the city but it feels like a world away. WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE SPOT IN THE GARDEN? Hands down it’s the Peace Garden. It’s a lovely little area right in the middle of the property. From there you can see the lawn, some of the woodland area, and you can see some of Gravelly Lake and hear the garden’s water features. Plus, it’s surrounded by maple trees that are bright red during the spring. WHERE DO YOU SEND VISITORS FOR A GOOD BITE TO EAT IN LAKEWOOD? I always recommend this spot. It’s
just up the road called Steep and Comfort. It has an amazing selection of teas and some of the best scones I’ve tasted outside the Washington State Fair.
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INSIDERS’ GUIDE
WHAT ELSE SHOULD FOLKS VISITING LAKEWOOD DO? If you want to make a day of it, check out the Lakewood Historical Society—there’s a great museum there, and you can learn how Lakewold Gardens fits in with the overall history of the area. If people are looking for more of a retail experience, Key Antiques is phenomenal and has so many neat things.
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PATRICK CAHILL
TACOMA
Glass artist, owner Area 253 Glassblowing WHAT MAKES TACOMA SPECIAL TO YOU? What brought Tacoma to me was the first time I took a glassblowing class here. I was working in construction and I knew guys who worked on the Museum of Glass. The art scene was unknown at that point, but seeing that built and knowing what was coming got me really excited. I love how there are so many unique neighborhoods here, and people are super friendly. Everyone’s willing to point you in the right direction. HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE MAKING GLASS ART TO SOMEONE WHO HAS NEVER SEEN IT OR DONE IT BEFORE? Once you start, you’re in it. You can’t stop and chit chat with your friends. It’s a full commitment to the project. But the project is limitless. It sets fire to your imagination. It’s something that everyone should experience just once. When you’re blowing glass, you’re using your own life force to create this. You’re blowing your air into this beautiful piece of art. It’s amazing.
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WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE PLACE TO GRAB A BITE TO EAT IN TOWN? When I’m feeling hungry, I’ll head over to Trapper’s Sushi up on Sixth. I can really put that stuff down. I like the Red Hot for great hot dogs or Pacific Grill for a nice dinner. And I recommend the Harmon to groups who take classes with me because it’s a wide-open space. HOW ABOUT A DRINK? I don’t drink, but I can recommend the new 7 Seas Brewing on Jefferson. Maybe do a bar crawl up and down Sixth Avenue. There are also plenty of good Irish pubs in the area. IF YOU HAD GUESTS IN TOWN WHO HAVE NEVER VISITED THE CITY, WHERE WOULD YOU TAKE THEM? WHAT KINDS OF ACTIVITIES WOULD YOU DO WITH THEM? It depends on what they like. I’d definitely take them to the Museum of Glass. Five Mile Drive is a gorgeous place to take visitors, or maybe over the Narrows Bridge to enjoy the harbor life over in Gig Harbor. Northwest Trek is cool, too.
DUPONT
AMY WALKER
Recreation and Tourism Coordinator for the City of DuPont, local golf expert WHAT CAN VISITORS EXPECT FROM THE HOME COURSE?
Breathtaking views, a trip down memory lane with golf history, a challenging yet fair golf course, and exceptional customer service. WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE PLACE TO GRAB A BITE TO EAT IN TOWN? I love all the restaurants here. We have a
really great Irish pub in town called McNamara’s that serves great French onion soup. The DuPont General Store’s homemade soup is fantastic, too.
DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE VIEW IN TOWN? PERHAPS AN INSTAGRAM-WORTHY SPOT? Walking down the ninth
hole at The Home Course in the fall with the colors, the scenery, and views of the clubhouse—it’s beautiful. It’s my favorite hole to play there.
JULIE WATTS
FIFE
Managing Director, Fife History Museum and Dacca Barn
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INSIDERS’ GUIDE
TELL US ABOUT THE FIFE HISTORY MUSEUM. The Fife
History Museum is in the former home of Louis and Marion Dacca. Louis was a descendant of one of Fife’s first Italian farmers who immigrated here around the turn of the century. The formation of Fife as a city was born in discussions in this home. Our museum is 4,000 square feet strong with more than 1,800 artifacts from Fife-area settlers.
IF YOU COULD PICK ONE THING FOR VISITORS TO SEE AT THE MUSEUM, WHAT WOULD IT BE? Our gorgeous
state-of-the-art 1950s kitchen. Legend has it that the retro diner booth is from the original 1933 Poodle Dog which underwent a remodel at the same time the Dacca house was built. WHERE DO YOU GO TO GET A GREAT CUP OF COFFEE?
Reservation Outpost is the best place to get coffee; it’s a convenience store with real home-cooked food ready to grab and go and its coffee drive-through is open 24 hours. It’s woman-owned, which I absolutely love. traveltacoma.com + 17
COUNTY TK ERNIE MISNER
BY HEATHER LARSON
CULTURE
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NUMEROUS MUSEUMS, A VIBRANT THEATER SCENE, AND GALLERIES GALORE FLOURISH IN THIS REGION, MAKING IT AN INTERNATIONALLY ACCLAIMED HAVEN FOR LOVERS OF CREATIVITY, ART, AND CULTURE.
PERFORMING ARTS
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ierce County hosts some of the finest operas, symphony performances, concerts, and plays in Western Washington. Perhaps the most well-known venues for live stage performances come under the umbrella of Broadway Center for the Performing Arts. That entity encompasses three theaters on a long block in Tacoma’s Theater District. Opened in 1918 to showcase vaudeville, the Pantages Theater later became a movie house. After extensive renovations in 1983, it reopened and featured live shows and concerts. The 2017 season includes a performance by Symphony Tacoma in May, Ben Harbor and the Innocent Criminals in July, and more. The beaux-arts-style Rialto first opened as part of a movie theater chain in 1918. Much of the ornate plaster décor—including depictions of cupids and eagles—remains intact. In 2017, visitors can see shows like the opera La Périchole in May and Joan Osborne performing the songs of Bob Dylan in June. Theatre on the Square, the newest and littlest of the three venues with 302 seats, often shows films and live performances. For more intimate theater-going experiences, check out smaller venues like Tacoma Little Theatre, Tacoma Musical Playhouse, or the Lakewood Musical Playhouse.
Meeker Mansion
Experience Puyallup’s Legendary Landmark
CULTURE
COUNTY
Elegant 1890 Italianate Victorian Home of Pioneer, Hop King, and the Champion of the Oregon Trail, Ezra Meeker.
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Open Wednesday–Sunday, 12pm–4pm March thru December (by appointment Monday–Tuesday and January–February)
TREASURE HUNT AT
GOODWILL
ON YOUR VACATION Find unique Pacific Northwest treasures at 31 Goodwill retail stores
Plus, shop our 3 upscale blue Boutiques or our 3 outlet locations.
www.goodwillwa.org 20 + TRAVEL TACOMA + PIERCE COUNTY 2017–18
MUSEUMS
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lthough mid-size in the world of art institutions, the Tacoma Art Museum (TAM) displays some noteworthy collections. A 16,000-square-foot space houses the Haub Family Collection of Western Art, which details western concepts, both real and fanciful. Glass artwork by Tacoma native Dale Chihuly as well as other icons of the medium are on continuous view. Sculptures including Kinetic Repose and Blanket Stories activate the spaces outside TAM. The Washington State History Museum pays homage to the state’s past. An ongoing exhibit, The Great Hall of Washington History, chronicles the story of Washington from early times until today. Watch for Gridiron Glory: The Best of the Pro Football Hall of Fame on display through September 10, 2017. The exhibit features a special section devoted to Washington’s football teams. Explore on your own or opt for a docent-led tour at the Museum of Glass, the only museum west of the Mississippi devoted entirely to the medium of glass. Until October 1, 2017, enjoy the display of Linda MacNeil’s elegant, wearable jewelry. Visitors have access to Cappy Thompson’s painted stories on glass and to Hot Shop demonstrations. For a sample of frontier history, visit the Job Carr Cabin Museum, a replica
of Tacoma’s first non-Native home. Inside, the living space showcases furnishings of the late-19th century. A breadth of Pierce County history can be found at museums such as Fort Nisqually Living History Museum (Tacoma), Foss Waterway Seaport (Tacoma), Meeker Mansion (Puyallup), Harbor History Museum (Gig Harbor), DuPont Museum and Historical Society, Fife History Museum, Lakewood History Museum, and The Sumner Ryan House.
FINE ARTS
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ead to Tacoma and meet Brick and Mortar Gallery owner Laura Hanan, whose style is abstract expressionism, and co-operator Marty Fehl, who likes delicate portraiture. Schedule an appointment to see their finished products. Find handmade artwork from more than 20 local artists at Dazed and Reused, where paintings, photography, prints, and jewelry share space with vintage and retro clothing and décor. Both Gallery Row and Waters Edge Gallery in Gig Harbor feature artists whose mediums include oil, watercolor,
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312 Spring St. Puyallup WA 98372 (253) 848-1770 www.meekermansion.org Contact us to book your Tea, Wedding, or Event
Tacoma Art Museum
FROM TOP: COURTESY TACOMA ART MUSEUM, ESHA HART PHOTOGRAPHY
The Makery
pastels, stained glass, collage, paper sculpture, and pottery. Paint, make signs, and use power tools during public workshops at The Makery under the guidance of a qualified instructor. Create glass beads, vessels, and more at Area 253 Glassblowing. A professional artist guides students of all skill levels through the glassblowing process every step of the way. Observe the glassblowing in action, shop the gallery, or schedule a hands-on experience at the Tacoma Glassblowing Studio.
Lobster Shop
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Lady Washington
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A LIFE
Pierce County’s vicinity to Puget Sound makes it ideal for water adventures of all sorts. By John Nelson
Aquatic T
all-ship lovers, get ready to party like it’s 1899 on the Tacoma waterfront. The Festival of Sail brings some of the world’s longest and most historic sailing ships to Foss Waterway June 15–18, 2017. The sailing ships were a fixture on Commencement Bay in the late 1800s, carrying crew and goods to the thriving seaport, but eventually disappeared with the advent of steamships in the early 1900s. Thanks to the Festival of Sail, the tall ships return for the first time since 2008. Only a handful of ports on the West Coast host the festival this year, making it a real catch for Tacoma, says Jayna Marshall, administrative director of the Tacoma Waterfront Association. “It’s a wonderful chance to recognize the heritage of our city, the beauty of our shoreline and to celebrate our community and its resources,” she says. Ships scheduled to take part include Adventuress, an early-20th-century fishing vessel that is a National Historic Landmark, local favorite Lady Washington, and the San Francisco–based A Schooner Freda B. Festival visitors can tour the vessels and even set sail on the waters of Commencement Bay. In addition, a full lineup of entertainment is planned for the four-day event. And a different kind of floating vessel will be a part of the Festival of Sail. Mama Duck, the world’s largest rubber duck at 61 feet tall and 50 feet around, will serve as mascot, floating serenely near the sailing ships.
JEFF HOBSON
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» Aquatic A Life
American Lake
Kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are available at Foss Harbor Marina, where you can paddle along the historic Tacoma Waterfront, Commencement Bay, and beyond. Dock Street Marina offers a variety of kayaks and SUPs for rent, too. At Point Defiance Park, take a leisurely paddle along the waterfront of the 760-acre park after renting a kayak at Owen Beach during the summer months. In the middle of picturesque Old Town, SUP rentals and lessons are available at Jack Hyde Park, conveniently located between downtown and Point Defiance. To the southwest, Sunnyside Beach Park in Steilacoom has kayak and SUP rentals and lessons, and your adventures come with commanding views of the Olympic Mountains across Puget Sound. Take a spin around Ketron Island, or head north to Chambers Bay Golf Course, location of the U.S. Open in 2015. Near Gig Harbor Marina and Boatyard, you’ll find several outlets that offer 24 + TRAVEL TACOMA + PIERCE COUNTY 2017–18
rentals for kayaks and SUPs and easy paddling on the sheltered bay waters. Once your paddling skills are dialed in, consider exploring the Cascadia Marine Trail on Key Peninsula. The paddling route circumnavigates the peninsula in Pierce County and is perfect for SUPs and kayaks. If Puget Sound feels too big for your beginning skills, the waters of American Lake in Lakewood and Lake Tapps near Bonney Lake are excellent choices, but rentals need to be brought by car top to their public launches. All this paddling might make you hungry. Reel in your dinner at any number of great restaurants in Pierce County, all minutes away from the water. The 21-and-older set can check out Katie Downs Waterfront Tavern and Eatery for pizza and beer with an incredible waterfront view. Hit up The Old Spaghetti Factory for comforting carbs and family fun. Try Indochine Asian Dining Lounge for tasty chef’s specials or Galanga Thai for excellent noodles. Head to Marlene’s Market and Deli for a healthful meal. Reload on calories with a sweet treat from Hello, Cupcake in downtown Tacoma.
LET’S GO FISHING
Point Defiance Marina is your go-to for saltwater pier fishing and boat rentals. Visitors can rent 14-foot fiberglass skiffs for three hours or daily. A tank of gas and required safety equipment are included. Lakewood has an aquatic name for a reason. Several lakes in the city are stocked with rainbow trout including Steilacoom Lake and American Lake. A bit southeast, catch rainbow trout and rock bass, or just chill at one of two popular swimming beaches at Spanaway Lake. Near Bonney Lake, you’ll find some of the best bass fishing in the county at Lake Tapps. This huge reservoir has a popular county park with a large picnic area and swimming beach and also comes with a grand view of Mount Rainier. And speaking of Mount Rainier, you’ll find more fishing spots nearer to its volcanic flanks at Lake Kapowsin, Clear Lake, and Ohop Lake off U.S. Route 7 just north of Eatonville.
DEAN PAULSON PHOTOGRAPHY
GET ON THE WATER
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LUXURIOUS DESTINATION
LUXURIOUS SPA • POOL & FITNESS CENTER NON-SMOKING GAMING FACILITY OVER 1,200 SLOT MACHINES AWARD WINNING GOLF COURSE • 8 RESTAURANTS
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See the collection.
Experience the stories. Over 500 Vintage Vehicles.
325 152nd St. E | Tacoma, WA 98445 253.272.2336 | www.lemaymarymount.org
AT THE CORNER OF REST AND RELAXATION Experience our newly renovated home away from home: Eat. Drink. Connect. at The Bistro · Stay in touch with your world via Media Pod Spaces · Take advantage of our comfortable meeting rooms · Relax at the Pacific Avenue Spa & Salon · Dine at the Award-Winning Pacific Grill Restaurant
253.472.4080 2951 S. 38 St. Tacoma, WA 98409
Call (253)591-9100 to reserve your room today!
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marlenesmarket-deli.com
1515 Commerce Street, Tacoma · (253)591-9100 · courtyardtacoma.com
FAMILY
Point Defiance Pagoda
ON POINT
VICTORIA DITKOVSKY/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
Exploring Pierce County’s largest park Point Defiance Park, a 760-acre nature preserve, is a true gem for outdoor enthusiasts, engulfing the northwest top of Tacoma in forest. Home to Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium, the park boasts numerous green spaces and garden plots featuring Japanese plant life, rhododendrons, Northwest native plants, irises, herbs, fuchsia flora, dahlias, and roses, all perfect for photo opportunities. The paved Five Mile Drive begins with the duck pond, Point Defiance Pagoda, and outdoor playground before offering a scenic adventure by motor vehicle, bicycle, or foot. Loop around to spectacular views of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge and curvaceous water channels. The dense woodland of ancient trees offers an evergreen sanctuary to both paved and unpaved trails. Among them, find Fort Nisqually Living History Museum and an abundance of picnic spots and natural wonders.
Forgot to pack your own lunch? Try the snack shack at Owen Beach and stroll the boardwalk imprinted with literary inspiration. Or, grab a table at Anthony’s at Point Defiance for fresh Pacific Northwest seafood and a full cocktail bar framed with panoramic views of Commencement Bay and Mount Rainier. Sand and pebble beach stretches around the outskirts of the park, where some trek far and wide for a pocket of secluded beachside, or discover an afternoon of whale watching and kayaking. Point Defiance Park is open daily from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes hour after sunset. The park welcomes visitors and community members to annual and ongoing events such as Taste of Tacoma, Metro Parks community nature walks and beach camp outs, 19th Century Christmas at Fort Nisqually, zoo events, fun runs, and more. —Kayla Schroeder
Anthony’s at Point Defiance 5910 N Waterfront Dr; anthonys.com/restaurants/detail/anthonys-at-point-defiance / Fort Nisqually Living History Museum 5400 N Pearl St; metroparkstacoma.org/fort-nisqually-living-history-museum / Point Defiance Park 5400 N Pearl St; metroparkstacoma .org/point-defiance-park
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FAMILY
Children’s Museum of Tacoma
Chamber’s Bay
WW Seymour Botanical Conservatory
Tacoma Narrow’s Bridge
Dine retro at Shake, Shake, Shake, which offers tasty fair burgers and old-fashioned milk shakes in a classic school diner setting.
built for two or four. The new Downtown to Defiance trolley runs from Pacific Avenue in downtown Tacoma to the Point Defiance Zoo with stops along Ruston Way.
Pierce County is home to a handful of kid-friendly art and culture opportunities, including locally loved institutions such as the Children’s Museum of Tacoma and Puyallup Children’s Theater and Musical Academy. If you’re looking to visit six museum highlights of the Tacoma Museum District in one shot, consider the Tacoma Museum Pass. One price ($52.50 for adults, $42 for students, military, and seniors over 65) gets you admission to Washington State History Museum, Tacoma Art Museum, Lemay—America’s Car Museum, Museum of Glass, Foss Waterway Seaport, and Children’s Museum of Tacoma for a full year.
Tacoma Narrows Bridge offers a unique adventure for daring families and those accustomed to extreme heights. Begin your journey at War Memorial Park and cross the street to the enchanting views of Northwest nature from this dual-function lookout, which was once the site of “Galloping Gertie.” Venture out one mile, across the Puget Sound channel to Gig Harbor, or travel by bike and consider continuing to local favorite Cushman Trail.
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Let the little ones run wild at Point Ruston on the playground or salmonrun sprayground before ordering ice cream from The Daily Catch window. Lap the new development on a Wheel Fun Rentals bicycle
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Chambers Bay put University Place on the map in 2015 after hosting the U.S. Open on its vast British-links-style golf course, but little ones will love nearby Chambers Creek Regional Park. The grounds are open year-round to the public with a 3-mile trail that dips toward train tracks at the water’s edge. A lift bridge safely brings visitors to the shoreline for salty exploration and stunning
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sunsets. Kites often fly high on the field green, where old cement towers still stand as remnants of the sand and gravel mine that once claimed the land. Steep switchbacks propose a more strenuous excursion but leisure awaits at the Northwest-themed wooden playground. Kayak from Foss Harbor Marina at any point during the summer and fair-weather ends of spring and fall. Within the protection of the Foss waterway, gentle currents provide a relaxing maritime tour for families. Test your endurance by paddling out into Commencement Bay and you may come across some friendly sea life.
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WW Seymour Botanical Conservatory is like something out of a fairy-tale scene. More than 600 tree species span 27 acres on this quiet hill in Tacoma’s Wright Park. Inside the glass castle-like structure, visitors can browse exotic tropical plant life and seasonal flowers for no more than a suggested $3 donation. Ongoing events include weekday children’s story times and the Second Sunday music series. —Kayla Schroeder
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Chambers Creek Regional Park co.pierce.wa.us/1317/Chambers-Creek-Regional-Park / Children’s Museum of Tacoma 1501 Pacific Ave; playtacoma.org / The Daily Catch 5057 Main St; wildfinamericangrill.com/the-daily-catch / Foss Harbor Marina 821 Dock St; fossharbormarina.com / Puyallup Children’s Theater and Musical Academy 300 North Meridian, Puyallup; puyallupchildrenstheater.org / Tacoma Narrows Bridge wsdot.wa.gov/TNBhistory / Shake, Shake, Shake 124 N Tacoma Ave; shakeshakeshake.me / War Memorial Park 624 N Meyers St / Whee Fun Rentals 5005 Main St; wheelfunrentals.com/Locations/Tacoma-1 / WW Seymour Botanical Conservatory 316 S G St; metroparkstacoma.org/conservatory
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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: LISA MONET PHOTOGRAPHY, COURTESY PIERCE COUNTY, BOB CUCKLER, CHECUBUS/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
BUCKET (OF FUN) LIST
Seven must-do activities for kids and families in Pierce County.
La Quinta Inn & Suites Tacoma Conference Center
Welcome to one of North America’s largest cargo ports Our working waterfront includes publicly accessible places to view the beauty of our region and the jobs that help sustain it. • Visit our observation tower to see working terminals.
• Newly Renovated • Full-Service Accommodations
• Launch your kayak for an up-close view of a busy port. • Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy prime bird-watching wetlands.
www.portoftacoma.com/public-access
• 7,000 sq. ft. of Meeting Room Space • Free Continental Breakfast • Ultra-Fast Internet
1425 East 27th Street Tacoma, WA 98421 Reservations: 253-383-0146 800-Sleep LQ (753-3757) http://685.lq.com
PHOTO COURTESY KATELYNCHPHOTOGRAPHS.COM
More than 30 Cultural Celebrations
Over 1/2 Million Visitors to World-Class Events
There are HUNDREDS of reasons to VISIT TACOMA this year 80 Community Festivals
365 Days of Art
Visit our web site for full calendar of events cityoftacoma.org/businessdistricts
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Parkway Tavern
DIVE IN
AMELIA SKINNER
Brush elbows with locals at these favorite dive bars and watering holes. Tacoma is known for its abundance of dive bars and these much-loved establishments share a charmingly rowdy spirit. At 82 years of age, Stadium District’s Parkway Tavern fits right in with the historic homes and buildings of the neighborhood. Wood-paneled and decked out with historical photos, Tacoma memorabilia, and an impressive collection of old taps, it’s a cozy spot from noon until night. The draft list is long (30-plus taps) and the food menu is a delicious steal with a dozen or so burgers and sandwiches, all for under $10. This hot spot offers shuffleboard, pool, video games, and pinball, too. It might just be the cutest dive bar in the city with its homey façade and flowering vines spilling down from its classic neon sign. Just a few blocks away is Hank’s, which boasts a great patio in the warmer months. Previously known as Corner Bar, Hank’s plays its role as a rowdy gathering spot in the evenings, but also serves up killer pizzas. A remodel a few years back spiffed up the space, but it still feels lived in and convivial—it’s a delightful place to catch a game or people watch.
Top of Tacoma is a lively locals haunt in the McKinley Hill neighborhood. True to dive bar form, it’s not much from the outside but it’s got great vibes inside, with a long bar, dozens of tall tables, a photo booth, and a surprisingly great food menu. The twice-daily happy hour (2pm to 6pm and 10pm to close) is mighty generous, with $5.50 pitchers of Rainier beer and $3 well drinks. It’s raucous and fun here, with a truly diverse blend of Tacoma patrons, from pink-haired college students to dads in Seahawks jerseys. Magoo’s Annex in the North End is dark and loud. Its beer-tap stalagtites gives this dive bar a beer-cave feel. Tacomans go nuts for Taco Tuesdays, when hard-shell tacos are just $1.50 a pop. Finally, check out Mountain Tavern: a deliciously true dive complete with pull tabs and pool, but possibly most famous for its fried chicken and jo-jos. Choose your own divey adventure in Tacoma. —Anne Larkin Hank’s 524 N K St; hankstacoma.com / Parkway Tavern 313 N I St; parkwaytavern.com / Magoo’s Annex 2710 N 21st St / Mountain Tavern 5520 Pacific Ave / Top of Tacoma 3529 McKinley Ave E; topoftacoma.com
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Tacoma Dome
STAGE SCENE WA
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PLAY AND STAY IN
DuPont Washington EAT, PLAY AND STAY IN
Historical DuPont
NESTLED ON THE BEAUTIFUL PUGET SOUND, NO MATTER YOUR AGE OR INTEREST, NESTLED THE BEAUTIFUL SOUND, THERE ON IS PLENTY TO DO PUGET IN DUPONT NO MATTER YOUR AGE OR INTEREST, THERE IS PLENTY TO DO IN DUPONT
visitdupont.com
dupontwa.gov visitdupont.com visitdupont.com
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From the Tacoma Dome to Jazzbones, Pierce County has live music and comedy for everyone. The Tacoma Dome isn’t just a major presence in the city’s skyline—it also hosts an impressive roster of shows and events year-round. The Dome’s first ever major concert performer when it opened back in 1983 was David Bowie, so it’s a place blessed with good energy. Keep a lookout for over-thetop stadium rock shows as well as sporting events and monster truck rallies. On the other end of the spectrum is the historic Rialto Theater, built in 1918 and still just as gorgeous as ever. The white tile exterior glimmers with grandeur, and the interior is just as beautiful—it’s worth keeping an eye on the schedule to catch a show in the stately space. Aside from bands and speakers, the Northwest Sinfonietta, a small and talented ensemble of musicians that’s about half the size of a typical symphony, plays at the Rialto. Broadway Center for the Performing Arts manages the Rialto as well as the Pantages Theater, another historic spot.
All three venues support speakers, plays, concerts, and more. Up on Sixth Avenue, a happening street lined with buzzing restaurants and bars, is Jazzbones, a nightclub that hosts a wide array of acts. Don’t let the name fool you— jazz sometimes makes an appearance at the club, but there are also reggae bands, dance-centric DJ nights, country singers, and hip hop shows. A crowd favorite is Monday night Rockaraoke—karaoke taken up a notch with a live band backing up the brave souls that hop on stage and sing their hearts out. Tuesdays are for “tightwads” at Jazzbones—well drinks, beers, and a pair of tacos are all just $2. For some laughs, try the Tacoma Comedy Club on Market Street, where it hosts big talents most weekends plus an open mic night on Wednesdays. Over at The Swiss Restaurant & Pub, local cover bands are the main draw and it’s a fun atmosphere that’s kid-friendly until 8:30pm. —Anne Larkin
Broadway Center for the Performing Arts 901 Broadway; broadwaycenter.org / Jazzbones 2803 Sixth Ave; jazzbones.com / Pantages Theater 901 Broadway; broadwaycenter.org / Rialto Theater 310 S Ninth Ave; broadwaycenter.org / The Swiss Restaurant & Pub 1904 S Jefferson; theswisspub.com / Tacoma Comedy Club 933 Market St; tacomacomedyclub.com
COURTESY TACOMA DOME/DARRELL WESTMORELAND
CITY OF CITY OF
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closed tUesdays & sept. 6
Emerald Queen Hotel & Casinos
Games for Grownups
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Trivia, video games, blackjack, and more round out fun for big kids in Pierce County.
Put your general knowledge to use at one of many establishments in the region that hosts trivia nights. With Pierce County locations in Tacoma, Sumner, Parkland, and DuPont, Farrelli’s Pizza offers up trivia nights weekly. You can go solo or team up with six other knowledgeable players at Narrows Brewing’s weekly five-round Mind Tap Trivia. The winning team gets a cash prize, and the last-place team picks the next week’s topic. In downtown Tacoma, The Office Bar and Grill’s popular trivia night is every Thursday at 7pm. Winners can walk away with their share of $150 in cash and prizes. Dorky’s, a bar arcade also in downtown Tacoma, will satisfy your nostalgic need for button-mashing fun. This oldschool establishment is home to dozens of video arcade games and pinball machines. Dorky’s also serves more than 100 varieties of beer and cider, many of which are seasonal and local. Tempt fate at the I-5 or Fife locations of Emerald Queen Casino, both of which offer Vegas-style video slot machines. Be sure to stop at guest services to inquire about promotions. If you’re more into table games, the larger I-5 casino has blackjack, craps, roulette, and more, plus a concert venue that draws national acts and holds a no-cover charge nightclub. —Ethan Chung
opens labor day weekend! Washington State Fair • September 1–24, 2017 (Closed Tuesdays & Sept. 6)
Washington State Spring Fair • April 19–22, 2018 @WaStateFair
thefair.com
Dorky’s 754 Pacific Ave; dorkysarcade.com / Emerald Queen Hotel & Casinos 2024 E 29th St and 5700 Pacific Highway E, Fife; emeraldqueen .com / Farelli’s Pizza multiple locations; farellispizza.com / The Office Bar and Grill 813 Pacific Ave; theofficeonpacific.com / Narrows Brewing 9007 S 19th St; narrowsbrewing.com
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FEAST
Sam Choy’s Poke to the Max
FRUITS OF THE SEA Find a bounty of ocean flavors in Pierce County.
ERIKA KIM
As a region set near a sprawling waterway, stellar seafood comes naturally to Pierce County. The variety of options for how your shrimp is cooked, what your view will be, and where you’re eating is what takes the ocean offerings here to the next level. For award-winning chowder and seafood with a view of Commencement Bay, head to Duke’s Chowder House on Ruston Way. The Northwest favorite serves up sustainable, wild-caught fish alongside locally sourced Dungeness crab and intriguing cocktails. Facing off across the bay in Gig Harbor, Tides Tavern brings a more casual style of seafood in the old-school bar and on its waterfront patio. Its fish and chips are famous in these parts. A flavorful challenger to Tides’ fish and chips is the snack shop at Northern Fish on Tacoma’s Ruston Way. Stop by for an order—plus a cuppa chowder—and pick some smoked salmon to take home. The oyster bar 3uilt (pronounced “built”) is stationed entirely within Downtown Tacoma’s 7 Seas Brewing. Head
here for oysters served up raw and shucked-to-order from local Taylor Shellfish farms by the each or by the dozen. Nearby, newly opened Hawaiian eatery Sam Choy’s Poke to the Max specializes in poke, a salad usually comprised of raw, sashimi-grade tuna or salmon and various seasonings and toppings. Meanwhile, over in the Lincoln District, seafood takes on the Asian flavors of the neighborhood. Vien Dong offers the seafood-rich Southern-style hu tieu hai san, a rice noodle soup featuring calamari, prawns, and crab meat. Head down the street to Dragon’s Crawfish where you’ll find the “Caisun” tradition of Vietnamese-meetsCajun. Traditional crawfish, shrimp, and crab boils come in original Cajun and garlic butter flavors, but for the brave, there are five levels of spicy, including “hot” and “very hot” before culminating in “Dragon Breath.” Other notable seafood dishes in Tacoma include the paella at The Table, grilled mahi mahi tacos at Boathouse 19, and the steamed clams bordelaise at Harbor Lights. —Naomi Tomky
3uilt 2201 Jefferson Ave / Boathouse 19 9001 S 19th St; boathouse19restaurant.com / Dragon’s Crawfish 730 S 38th St; dragonscrawfish.cf / Duke’s Chowder House 3327 Ruston Way; dukeschowderhouse.com / Harbor Lights 2761 Ruston Way; anthonys.com/restaurants/detail/ harbor-lights / Northern Fish 2201 Ruston Way; northernfish.com / Sam Choy’s Poke to the Max 1716 Pacific Ave; samchoyspoke.com / The Table 2715 Sixth Ave; thetabletacoma.com / Vien Dong 3801 S Yakima
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FEAST
Seven Seas Brewing
Beer seems to flow through Pierce County like water through veins. The couple dozen or so taprooms in the area welcome drinkers in to taste their wares, learn more about beer, and have a good time. The bright blue of Odd Otter Brewing’s taproom stands out among the brick buildings of Downtown Tacoma, fitting for the veteran-owned brewery that prides itself on being just a little bit out of the ordinary. Inside, the taps pour beers like the Ottermelon hefeweizen and Scotchy McOtterPants Scottish Ale. The small, warm space is welcoming and friendly and allows customers to bring in outside food. Within walking distance, drinkers will find Pacific Brewing and Malting Co., where a pre-prohibition brewery has been resurrected in a new, family-friendly, downtown space. Try the 1897 Pale Lager—a nod to the founding year of its namesake business, or the Dirty Skoog double IPA, named for a prohibition-era speakeasy. Seven Seas Brewery, a Gig Harbor favorite, recently opened a second location in Tacoma. While the original location continues its reign as a local hot spot, the new space in the historic Heidelberg Brewery, also houses 3uilt, an oyster bar and
sandwich shop within it. Less than a mile away is Wingman Brewers Taproom, where a dedication to simplicity, good ingredients, and great beer shine from the tap. While the year-round Ace IPA brings Washington hops to the front, the seasonal and special beers— like the Stratofortress (aged in cedar soaked in dark rum)—are always worth tasting. The list of local breweries feels endless— Half Lion in Sumner, Northwest Brewing in Pacific, Cockrell Hard Ciders in Puyallup, and even a nanobrewery called Elk Head in Buckley—so how can you possibly try them all? Luckily someone’s thought about that: the South Sound Craft Beer Crawl guides you through 21 breweries in Pierce County and beyond. The program offers you a passport to get stamped at each stop you make. Collect fifteen stamps and you earn a free growler. Meanwhile, Bikerobrew’s history and brewery tour will guide you through trying four of them—and a distillery. Other activites include beer-oriented tours from Lifestlye Valet and Pretty Gritty Tours. If you’re looking for a souvenir or want to take some craft brew flavors back to your Pierce County accomodations, just stop by a bottle shop like Pint Defiance and pick up an assortment of local beers. —Naomi Tomky
Half Lion Odd Otter Brewing
Bikerobrew 309 Puyallup Ave; bikerobrew.com / Cockrell Hard Ciders 6613 114th Ave Ct E, Puyallup; cockrellbrewing.com / Elk Head 28120 State Route 410 E, Buckley / Half Lion 1723 W Valley Hwy E Ste 101, Sumner; halflion.com / Lifestyle Valet lifestylevalet.net / Northwest Brewing 1091 Valentine Ave SE, Pacific; nwbrewingcompany.com / Odd Otter Brewing 716 Pacific Ave; oddotterbrewing.com / Pacific Brewing and Malting Co. 610 Pacific Ave; pacificbrewingandmalting.com / Pint Defiance 2049 Mildred St W; pintdefiance.com / Pretty Gritty Tours prettygrittytours .com / Seven Seas Brewery 2101 Jefferson Ave and 3006 Judson St Ste 110, Gig Harbor; 7seasbrewing.com / South Sound Beer Crawl traveltacoma.com/south-sound-craft-crawl / Wingman Brewers Taproom 509 1/2 Puyallup Ave; wingmanbrewers.com/taproom
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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: JEFF HOBSON, COURTESY HALF LION, COURTESY ODD OTTER BREWING
PIERCE COUNTY BREWS
FEAST
BAKER’S DOZEN Thirteen must-try baked treats in Pierce County
These thirteen essential baked goods show off the depth of pastry products in Pierce County. We’ve rounded up sweet and savory treats inspired by cuisines from around the world to give you a taste of what dough can do. 1. Butter croissant at Corina Bakery, where gluten-free goods and expertly pulled espresso share the menu. 2. Bavarian cream-filled maple doughnut at Original House of Donuts, because bigger is better, when it comes to doughnuts.
Doughsant from Legendary Doughnuts
3. Marranitos at El Zocalo Tortas y Bakery, for the most adorable pig-shaped cookies (and great Mexican food while you’re there). 4. Doughnuts at Legendary Doughnuts, because Tacoma’s local shop can take on any New Yorker’s Cronut.
Peach cookie from Kusher Bakery
5. Peach cookies at Kusher Bakery, for the most beautiful, artistic use of dough in the county. 6. Custard and cream swans at Dolce Si, where Sicilian tradition meets creative confections. 7. Conchas at La Huerta International Market, a colorful essential for any Mexican breakfast.
Swan from Dolce Si
8. Scones at British Bites, and don’t forget the clotted cream! 9. Cream puffs at Boulangerie, because French pastry at a Korean grocery store is why America is already great. 10. Pretzels at Hess Bakery & Deli because dough is often at its best when plump, knotted, and salted. 11. Cinnamon Buns at Susanne’s Bakery and Deli, for the quintessential sweet and sticky comfort food, done right. 12. Sweet potato-filled pastry at Olive Bakery to understand how Asian ingredients and classic pastry technique can marry so perfectly.
AMELIA SKINNER
13. Rhubarb pie in Sumner, the Rhubarb Pie Capital of the World. —Naomi Tomky
Conchas from La Huerta
Boulangerie 9701 S Tacoma Way / British Bites 720 E Main Ave, Puyallup; britishbites.net / Corina Bakery 602 Fawcett Ave; corinabakery.com/tacoma / Dolce Si 5005 Main St Ste 105; dolcesi.com / El Zocalo Tortas y Bakery 701 S 38th St / Hess Bakery 6108 Mt Tacoma Dr SW, Lakewood; hessbakery.com / Kusher Bakery 7214 26th St E Ste 102, Fife; kusherusa.com / La Huerta 5606 A Pacific Ave; lahuertamarket.com / Legendary Doughnuts 2602 Sixth Ave; legendarydoughnuts.com / Olive Bakery 8720 S Tacoma Way, Lakewood / Original House of Donuts Multiple locations; originalhouseofdonuts.com / Susanne’s Bakery and Deli 3411 Harborview Dr, Gig Harbor; susannesbakery.net
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FEAST
Broadway Farmer’s Market
FARMERS MARKETS
Fresh produce, entertainment, vendors, and more
Bluebeard Coffee Roasters
PIERCE COUNTY PERK-UP
TACOMA > Broadway: Thursdays, May 4–Oct 26,
at Dillanos Coffee Roasters in Sumner, as are the beans from nearby Craft 19, another local favorite. In Gig Harbor, head to Java and Clay Cafe, where visitors can paint pottery and order an espresso drink served right at your crafting table. —Margo Greenman
10am–3pm, Broadway between Ninth and 11th
> Eastside: Wednesdays, June 21–Aug 30, 3pm to 6pm, 1724 E 44th St >South Tacoma: Sundays, May 21–Sep 10, 11am to 3pm, 3873 S 66th St > Tacoma General Rose Garden: Fridays, Aug 4–Sep 8, 11am to 2pm, 315 Martin Luther King Jr Way
> Proctor: Saturdays, March 25–Dec 16 , 9am to 2pm, 2702 N Proctor St GIG HARBOR > Saturdays, Apr 1–Sep 30, 9am to 2pm,
5503 Wollochet Dr NW
PUYALLUP > Saturdays, Apr 15–Oct 14, 9am to 2pm,
Pioneer Park and Pavilion, 330 S Meridian.
LAKEWOOD > Tuesdays, June 6–Sep 12, 10am to 3pm,
Lakewood Towne Center at 6000 Main St SW
FIFE > Fridays, June 16–Aug 25, 3pm to 7pm,
2820 54th Ave Anthem Coffee & Tea
ORTING > Fridays, June 9–Sep 1, 3pm to 7pm, 101
Washington Ave NW —David B. Clark
Anthem Coffee and Tea 1911 Pacific Ave and 210 W Pioneer Ave, Puyallup; myanthemcoffee.com / Bluebeard Coffee 2201 Sixth Ave; bluebeardcoffee.com / B Sharp Coffee House 706 Opera Alley; bsharpcoffeehouse.com / Craft 19 1201 Main St; craft19coffee.com / Java and Clay Cafe 3210 Harborview Dr. Gig Harbor; javaclaycafe.com / Urban Timber Coffee 6621 166th Ave E, Sumner and 15941 Meridian Ave, Puyallup; urbantimbercoffee.com / Valhalla Coffee 3918 Sixth Ave; valhallacoffee.com
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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: COURTESY BLUEBEARD COFFEE, COURTESY TRAVEL TACOMA + PIERCE COUNTY, CHELLE NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
Coffee here is serious, independent, and tasty.
Pierce County has cultivated an impressive craft coffee culture, offering a wide selection of quality cafés and roasters throughout the region. Whether you’re in search of the perfect latte, a quiet space to escape, or just need a quick jolt to start your day, there are countless options for getting caffeinated. Bluebeard Coffee and Valhalla Coffee, both located in Tacoma’s Sixth Avenue Business District, roast their own single-origin beans and blends on-site, so you know you’re always getting the freshest cup. Staffed by knowledgeable baristas, both of these shops offer great-tasting coffee made with care. Local mainstays like Anthem Coffee & Tea (with a sister location in Puyallup), and B Sharp Coffee House serve up more than just a good cuppa—these cafés double as concert venues and performance stages, hosting everything from open-mic nights to poetry readings. Woman-owned and independent coffee shop Urban Timber Coffee serves espresso, craft beer, and wine at its Sumner and Puyallup locations. It also features a stage for entertainers and provides ample event space. Urban Timber’s espresso is roasted
Pierce County is home to 10 fantastic farmers markets, each one reflecting the spirt of the neighborhoods and cities it represents. The area’s fertile soils and close vicinity to farmlands mean easy access to some of the best tasting produce in Northwest. And there might not be better places to find art, jewelry, soap, and more made by local artists and artisans than at a Pierce County farmers market.
FEAST
SEL Restaurant
BRUNCH BUNCH
From smoked-salmon eggs benedict to pancakes, waffles, and more, get your trip started on the right foot with the most important meal of the weekend.
AMELIA SKINNER
Rise and shine to an eclectic selection of restaurant serving breakfast and brunch in Pierce County. The Lobster Shop’s Sunday brunch buffet is a stunner with made-to-order waffles and hand-tossed omelets among a melange of breakfast and lunch options. Prime rib and crab legs, smoked salmon, farmer’s scrambles, strawberry blintzes, and a milk chocolate fountain are a few of the delicious indulgences available here. The tables at tiny Old Milwaukee Café and Dessert Company on Sixth Avenue in Tacoma fill quickly with huckleberry pancakes, SOS, the “Scramlette” concoctions, and more. The small husband-and-wife-run establishment requires a bit of patience on busy weekends, but its worth it for one of the most flavorful menu repertoires in town. Nearby, the 21-and-older Dirty Oscars Annex features a bar with an eclectic menu
of mixers and spirits, including a bold, housemade Bloody Mary base, flavored moonshine, firewater bitters, and Bluebeard coffee. Try the shrimp and grits (so good they offer it at every meal) or go for the elk hash topped with sausage gravy and a gooey, farm-fresh over-easy egg. Downtown Tacoma’s Sel, another 21-andolder establishment, offers a covered back deck with cozy seating, epic views of the Foss Harbor and Port of Tacoma, and seasonal selections like Dungeness crab benedicts or fried bacon chicken waffles. Pacific Grill, also downtown, draws in locals with its impressive all-day happy hour, but brunch is also a major attraction. Pair bottomless bloody Marys and mimosas with small plates like tempura bacon or oysters on the half shell or full dishes such as The Hot Mess (Certified Angus Beef pastrami, hash browns, braised cabbage, and sawmill gravy)
or The Waddell Omelet (cage-free eggs, dungeness crab, brie, scallions, hollandaise, and hash browns). Up the street at Hotel Murano, find an extensive brunch menu at Bite. Highlights include the breakfast corn cake (pulled pork, bourbon syrup, soft scrambled eggs) and the brioche French toast. Carrs Restaurant, an auto-themed classic in Lakewood, serves up hearty breakfast fare and claims it has the best gravy in town. Don’t miss menu items such as the Texaco Taco or Volvo Vegetarian omelettes at this family-friendly spot. Head out to The Buttered Biscuit, a Sumner favorite known for big portions of tasty morning eats. Specialties like the savory and sweet French toast eggs Benedict or the Train Wreck scramble may make you want to become a regular every time you visit Pierce County. —Kayla Schroeder
Bite 1320 Broadway; hotelmurano.com/bite-restaurant / The Buttered Biscuit 1014 N St Ste 1000, Sumner / Carrs Restaurant 11006 Bridgeport Way SW, Lakewood; carrsrestaurant .net / Dirty Oscars Annex 2309 Sixth Ave; dirtyoscarsannex.com / The Lobster Shop 4015 Ruston Way; wp.lobstershop.com / Old Milwaukee Café 3102 Sixth Ave / Pacific Grill 1502 Pacific Ave; pacificgrilltacoma.com / Sel 229 St Helens Ave
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Your Trip through Washington State Begins
HERE
Everything you need for planning a quick weekend escape, a winding road trip, or an unexpected Evergreen adventure. Insider Stories • Accommodations • Trip Ideas • Maps • Itineraries • Calendars
WILD+LIFE
Crystal Mountain Resort
WINTER WONDERLAND
TK
REED PITMAN
Whether you’re a hardcore shredder or the greenest of skiers, there’s plenty of powder to go around for visitors looking for cold-weather fun in Pierce County. On a true bluebird day—bright and sunny, crisp and clear—you can catch a stunning view of Mount Rainier from the top of Crystal Mountain Resort. The Mt. Rainier Gondola drops skiers and boarders at 6,872 feet, with more than 2,600 acres of topnotch terrain waiting below. The mountain is friendly to skiers of all levels, but if you want to dig in a little deeper or level up on ability, sign up for one of its adult clinics, covering everything from skiing steeper runs to navigating trees and cliffs. It even offers women-specific clinics. Want to slow things down? Strap on some snowshoes and take in the sights. Crystal guides lead tours through the picturesque forests on the far east side of the resort— the day ends with a delicious family-style meal at the Bullwheel Restaurant and Bar at the base. There are also ranger-guided trips on Mount Rainier on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. Rangers even loan out snow shoes for a $5 donation. Cross country skis are available for rent
at the Longmire General Store from December through April, and there are plenty of tranquil wintry trails through the park, many of which start right near the store. Feeling extra adventurous? Snow camping is permitted in certain zones, including along certain cross country ski trails. For more winter fun, try the Mount Tahoma Trails on the south side of Mount Rainier: 50-plus miles of beautiful, remote trails, with about 20 miles routinely groomed. There are three huts and a yurt along the way, which can be reserved for overnight excursions and are open to the public for warming up with hot cocoa from 7am to 7pm daily. The view from the High Hut of majestic, snow-topped Mount Adams, Mount St. Helens, and Mount Rainier is more than worth the trek. —Anne Larkin
Crystal Mountain Resort 33914 Crystal Mountain Blvd; crystalmountainresort.com / Mt. Tahoma Trails skimtta.org
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TK
WILD+LIFE
Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium
CREATURE FEATURE
Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium is home to more than 367 species and 9,000 total specimens. The aquarium’s largest tank reserves 240,000 gallons of water for what is known as the Outer Reef environment, welcoming oversized fish and five different shark species, some of which can grow up to 14 feet in length. Black lighting in the lower level lends to a true underwater sensation while the Marine Discovery Center puts an interactive habitat at your fingertips with
touch tanks devoted to sea Point Defiance stars and sea urchins. More of Zoo and Aquarium nature’s finest await in the zoo—elephants, polar bears, the Cascade horizon. A new sculpture of the monkeys, tigers, clouded leopards, and the late local celebrity Ivan the Gorilla stands arctic fox are some of the many highlights. at the front steps of the zoo and serves as a Between the Wild Wonders Outdoor Thereminder of evolving community values and atre performances and the expansive Kids’ animal preservation. Zone (where two quarters buys you goat grub Want to add more to your zoo adventure? in the petting zoo), there’s plenty of exciteTake a camel ride or book a cage dive in the ment here. Outside the park entrance, breathshark tank on your next visit. taking views overlook Tacoma and stretch to
Northwest Trek 11610 Trek Drive E, Eatonville; nwtrek.org / Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium 5400 N Pearl St; pdza.org
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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: COURTESY POINT DEFIANCE ZOO AND AQUARIUM (2)
You don’t have to go far to come face to face with the animal kingdom, but it does help to know the best destinations.
WILD+LIFE Northwest Trek
Sports Report Root for the home teams on your next visit to Tacoma and Pierce County. CHENEY STADIUM is home to the Tacoma Rainiers, the Triple-A affiliate of the Seattle Mariners. Catch a game from April through August and don’t miss one of the Rainiers’ excellent ballpark promotions like apparel giveaways, fireworks shows, and more. Cheney Stadium will host the 2017 Triple-A Home Run Derby on July 10 and the 2017 Triple-A All-Star Game on July 12. Fans of college sports will want to catch a Division III NCAA game at Pacific Lutheran University (Go Lutes!) or the University of Puget Sound (Go Loggers!). The cross-town rivals typically play a football homecoming game in the fall, and basketball takes over in the winter. The Dockyard Derby Dames is Tacoma’s original roller derby league. Watch local ladies with names like Slainbrow Brite and H.P. Lovecrash skate and bruise their way through action-packed derby bouts. Swing away at one of Pierce County’s world-class golf courses. The Home Course in DuPont is a popular public course offering incredible Puget Sound views and challenging holes. Or play like the pros at Chambers Bay, host of the 2015 U.S. Open Championships. The course, designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr., mimics Scottish links-style courses with its fescue grasses, large dunes, huge fairways, and sweeping panoramas. —Ethan Chung
FROM TOP: COURTESY NORTHWEST TREK, STEVE MESSERER
+
MUST SEE
Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium’s Eye-toEye Shark Dives will submerge you with more than a dozen large sharks. Opt for a cage dive (patrons 8 and older, no experience necessary) or SCUBA session (15 and older, proof of SCUBA certification required).
Northwest Trek takes a more natural approach in the foothills of Mount Rainier, on a vast preserve where native species roam together. View bison, Roosevelt elk, and moose in their wildest form from an hour-long Discovery Tram tour. Visit the park in late spring and you might see the newer arrivals before
they double in size within their first year. Children will enjoy the Kids’ Trek playground designed for tree climbing, boulder scaling, and river splashing, while patrons five years and older can opt to zip line above all the action on one of Northwest Trek’s five age-appropriate ropes courses. —Kayla Schroeder Dockyard Derby Dames
Chambers Bay 6320 Grandview Dr W, University Place; chambersbaygolf.com / Dockyard Derby Dames dockyardderbydames.com / The Home Course 2300 Golf House Rd, DuPont; thehomecourse.com / Pacific Lutheran University 12180 Park Ave; plu.edu / Tacoma Rainiers University of Puget Sound 1500 N Warner; pugetsound.edu / Tacoma Rainiers 2502 S Tyler St; milb .com/index.jsp?sid=t529
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WILD+LIFE
Skyline Trail
HIKES FOR ALL
About 2 million people visit Mt. Rainier National Park every year—many show up with boots on their feet and trails on their mind. But where to go, exactly? The easiest way to get to Mount Rainier from Pierce County is through the Nisqually Entrance, just past the town of Ashford. Once inside the park, head to the Henry Jackson Visitor Center at 5,400 feet, where the vast mountain fills the skyline just waiting for you to start stomping. If you need packs, shoes, or other gear, Whittaker Mountaineering in Ashford has you covered with rentals and equipment for sale. HERE ARE THREE DAY-HIKING OPTIONS: >> EASY: The Nisqually Vista Loop is a 1.1mile hike on a rolling paved path that leaves from the Paradise parking lot. Wildflowers are everywhere as you enjoy great views of Mount Rainier and Nisqually Glacier in this short, but exceptional and picturesque walk.
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>> MODERATE: Sometimes, it’s best to step back to truly enjoy a masterpiece. On the 2.5-mile Pinnacle Peak Trail, you actually hike south, away from Mount Rainier to a high viewing spot in the nearby Tatoosh Range. From Paradise, drive to the Stevens Canyon turnoff and head to Reflection Lakes, where you’ll park and start climbing 1,050 vertical feet to a point that offers a great overall look at the mountain. >> DIFFICULT: The hike for anyone wanting to climb high onto Mount Rainier’s volcanic shoulders is the Skyline Trail. The 5.5-mile loop starts at the Paradise parking lot and ascends a steep but well-maintained trail, topping out at 1,700 feet of elevation. Take in dramatic views of Rainier’s rocks and ice, or turn around for a stunning look at sister volcanoes Mount Adams and Mount St. Helens to the south. You’ll return past
the Stevens-Van Trump Memorial on your way into the Paradise Valley and back to the parking lot. All three are upper elevation hikes and are best made after snow melt in late July. —John Nelson
Mt. Rainier National Park nps.gov/mora / Whittaker Mountaineering 30027 WA-706, Ashford; whittakermountaineering.com
FROM TOP: JOHN SCHRANTZ, STEVE ESTVANIK/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
Pinnacle Peak
RESOURCES LODGING Alexander’s Lodge & Restaurant 37515 SR 706 E, Ashford 360-569-2300 alexanderslodge.com 76 $$–$$$$ Alta Crystal Resort at Mount Rainier 68317 SR 410 E, Mt. Rainier 360-663-2500 800-277-6475 altacrystalresort.com $$–$$$$ 65 Best Western Lakewood 6125 Motor Ave SW, Lakewood 253-584-2212 800-844-6656 bestwestern.com/ lakewoodmotorinn $–$$ 32 a Best Western Liberty Inn 1400 Wilmington Dr, DuPont 253-912-8777 877-912-8777 libertyinndp.com $$–$$$ 40 a Best Western PLUS Tacoma Dome Hotel 2611 East E St, Tacoma 253-272-7737 800-973-7110 bestwesterntacomadome.com $$–$$$ 24 a Best Western Premier Plaza Hotel & Conference Center 620 S Hill Park Dr, Puyallup 253-848-1500 888-204-5804 bestwesternpremierplaza.com $$–$$$ 29 a Best Western Wesley Inn + Suites of Gig Harbor 6575 Kimball Dr NW, Gig Harbor 253-858-9690 wesleyinn.com $$-$$$ 35 a
COURTESY METRO PARKS TACOMA
Courtyard Marriott–Tacoma Downtown 1515 Commerce St, Tacoma 253-591-9100 marriott.com/seatd $$$–$$$$ 25 Crystal Mountain Hotels 33818 Crystal Mountain Blvd, Crystal Mountain 360-663-2262 888-754-6400 crystalhotels.com $$–$$$ 73 Crystal Mountain Resort 33914 Crystal Mountain Blvd, Enumclaw 360-663-2265 crystalmountainresort.com 73
Wright Park Emerald Queen Hotel + Casino 5700 Pacific Hwy E, Fife 253-922-2000 888-820-3555 emeraldqueen.com $–$$ 20
Holiday Inn Express Hotel + Suites–Sumner 2500 136th Ave Ct E, Sumner 253-299-0205 888-HOL-IDAY hiexpress.com/sumnerwa $$$–$$$$ 22 a
The Maritime Inn 3212 Harborview Dr, Gig Harbor 253-858-1818 888-506-3580 maritimeinn.com 36 a $$–$$$
Shilo Inn + Suites Tacoma 7414 S Hosmer St, Tacoma 253-475-4020 800-222-2244 shiloinns.com $$–$$$ 28 a
Fairfield Inn & Suites 202 15th Ave SW, Puyallup 253-770-3100 marriott.com/seapp $$–$$$ 28 a
Holiday Inn Express Hotel + Suites–Tacoma 8601 S Hosmer St, Tacoma 253-539-2020 hiexpress.com/tacomawa $$–$$$ 29 a
Mill Village Motel 210 Center St E, Eatonville 360-832-3200 800-832-3248 whitepasstravel.com $$–$$$ 52 a
Silver Cloud Inn–Tacoma 2317 N Ruston Way, Tacoma 253-272-1300 866-820-8448 silvercloud.com $$–$$$ 27 a
National Park Inn Mt. Rainier National Park, Longmire, six miles inside the Nisqually Entrance to the park 360-569-2275 mtrainierguestservices.com 98 $$–$$$
Travelodge Tacoma 3518 Pacific Hwy E, Fife 253-922-0550 800-578-7878 travelodge.com $ 22 a
Hampton Inn + Suites DuPont/ Joint Base Lewis McChord/ Camp Murray 800 Station Dr, DuPont 253-912-4444 dupontsuites.hamptoninn.com $$–$$$ 39 a Hampton Inn + Suites– Puyallup 1515 S Meridian, Puyallup 253-770-8880 hamptoninn.hilton.com $$–$$$ 28 a Hampton Inn + Suites Tacoma 8203 S Hosmer St, Tacoma 253-539-2288 hamptoninntacoma.com $$$-$$$$ 28 a Holiday Inn Express Hotel + Suites–Downtown Tacoma 2102 S C St, Tacoma 253-272-2434 888-465-4329 hiexpress.com/tacoma downtown $$–$$$ 25 a Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites, Puyallup 812 S Hill Park Dr, Puyallup 253-848-4900 888-HOLIDAY hiexpress.com/puyallup $$–$$$ 29 a
Holiday Inn Express– Lakewood 11751 Pacific Hwy SW, Lakewood 253-582-7000 hiexpress.com/lakewoodwa $$–$$$ 32 a Hotel Murano 1320 Broadway, Tacoma 253-238-8000 888-862-3255 hotelmuranotacoma.com $$–$$$ 25 The Inn at Gig Harbor 3211 56th St NW, Gig Harbor 253-858-1111 800-795-9980 innatgigharbor.com $$–$$$ 34 a La Quinta Inn + Suites and Conference Center 1425 E 27th St, Tacoma 253-383-0146 800-531-5900 laquintatacoma.com $$–$$$ 23 a
Paradise Inn Mt. Rainier National Park, Longmire, 19 miles inside the Nisqually Entrance to the park 360-569-2275 mtrainierguestservices.com 99 $$–$$$ Quality Inn + Suites Tacoma 8820 S Hosmer St, Tacoma 253-507-5055 qualityhoteltacoma.com $–$$ 29 a
MARINAS Dock Street Marina 1817 Dock St, Tacoma 253-250-1906 dockstreetmarina.com Point Defiance Boathouse Marina 5912 N Waterfront Dr, Tacoma 253-591-5325 metroparkstacoma.org/ pointdefiancemarina
Red Lion Hotel Tacoma 8402 S Hosmer St, Tacoma 253-548-1212 redlion.com/tacoma $$–$$$ 29 a
KEY Number of miles to Sea-Tac Airport a Free breakfast Wheelchair accessible Pet friendly
Pool
Fitness center/Health club
$ Less than $100 $$ $100–$150 $$$ $151–$200 $$$$ $201 and up
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&
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Emerald Queen Hotel & Casinos
MAP BY HALEY WILLIAMS
University of Washington Tacoma
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HALEY WILLIAMS
To Portland from Tacoma 145 miles To Olympia from Tacoma 30 miles
Chambers Bay Golf Course
To Seattle from Tacoma 35 miles
For more information call 1-800-272-2662.
One
Visit 18 cities between Vancouver BC and Eugene, including Seattle and Portland.
ten best
North America
–National Geographic
Vancouver, B.C.
Seattle
Portland
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25% off 14-day advance purchase | Seniors and students – 15% off | Children – 50% off Restrictions apply. Visit AmtrakCascades.com for details.
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