Quick Facts: Seattle to Tacoma Day Trip
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance | ~32 miles |
| Driving Duration | 40-90+ minutes (traffic dependent) |
| Public Transit Duration | ~60-90 minutes |
| Average One-Way Cost | $3.75 (Bus) to $120+ (Uber) |
| Best Time to Visit | July-September (Weekdays are best for museums) |
| Main Attractions | Museum of Glass, Point Defiance Park, LeMay Car Museum |
Why Tacoma is a Day Trip Worth Taking in 2025
So, you’re in Seattle and wondering, “Is Tacoma worth visiting?” The answer is a resounding yes! For too long, Tacoma has lived in Seattle’s shadow, but this gritty, authentic city has transformed into a cultural powerhouse. It’s the perfect escape, offering a more relaxed, affordable, and refreshingly unpretentious vibe. If you love art, history, and stunning waterfront views without the overwhelming crowds, Tacoma is calling your name.
- A World-Class Museum District: Tacoma boasts an incredible concentration of top-tier museums, all within easy walking distance of each other. It’s a culture lover’s dream!
- Stunning Waterfront Views: The Ruston Way waterfront offers miles of walking paths along Commencement Bay, with epic, frame-worthy views of Mount Rainier on a clear day that rival anything you’ll see in Seattle.
- A Unique “Grit City” Vibe: Embrace the history! Tacoma is proud of its blue-collar roots, and that authenticity shines through. It’s less about tech booms and more about art, community, and genuine character.
- The Epicenter of Glass Art: Home to world-renowned artist Dale Chihuly, Tacoma is a global destination for glass art. You can see it being made, walk through stunning installations, and feel the creative energy everywhere.
- Expansive Urban Nature: Point Defiance Park isn’t just a park; it’s one of the largest urban parks in the entire country, offering everything from old-growth forests and beaches to a world-class zoo and aquarium.
How to Get from Seattle to Tacoma: All Your Options
Getting from Seattle to Tacoma is straightforward, but choosing the right option depends on your budget, schedule, and tolerance for the infamous I-5 traffic. Here’s a complete breakdown of your choices.
| Mode | Est. Duration (One-Way) | Est. Cost (One-Way) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Driving | 40-90+ min | Gas + Parking ($10-$20) | Flexible, convenient for exploring places like Point Defiance Park | I-5 traffic can be terrible, parking can add up |
| Sounder Train | ~60 min | ~$5.75 | Relaxing, scenic, avoids traffic, comfortable | Weekday commuter schedule only, very limited service |
| ST Express Bus | 60-90 min | ~$3.75 | Affordable, frequent, runs 7 days a week | Can get stuck in traffic, makes more stops |
| Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) | 40-90 min | ~$60 – $120+ | Door-to-door convenience, no parking hassle | Very expensive, subject to surge pricing |
The Best Option for Most Travelers: Using the ST Express Bus
For its blend of affordability and flexibility, the ST Express Bus (Routes 590/594) is our top recommendation. It runs frequently all day, seven days a week, meaning you aren’t tied to a restrictive commuter schedule. For just a few dollars, you can sit back and let someone else handle the I-5 chaos. Use your ORCA card for the easiest payment.
Can you take the Light Rail from Seattle to Tacoma?
This is a common point of confusion, so let’s clear it up: No, you cannot take a single light rail train from Seattle to Tacoma. The two cities have separate, unconnected light rail systems.
- Seattle’s Link Light Rail: This system runs from Northgate through downtown Seattle to its southern terminus at Angle Lake Station. To use it for a Tacoma trip, you would take it to Angle Lake and then transfer to the ST Express Bus 574 to Tacoma.
- Tacoma’s Link Light Rail: This is a completely different system. It’s a 1.6-mile line that runs through downtown Tacoma, connecting the Tacoma Dome Station to the Museum District and Theater District. Best of all? It’s 100% free to ride!
Top 5 Things to Do on a Tacoma Day Trip
Ready to explore? Here are the must-see attractions that make Tacoma a destination in its own right.
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Explore the World-Class Museum District
Tacoma’s cultural heart is the Museum District, where you can easily walk between several amazing institutions. Start at the Tacoma Dome Station, hop on the free Tacoma Link Light Rail, and get off at the Union Station/S 19th St stop.
See Glass Come to Life at the Museum of Glass
- What it is: A breathtaking museum dedicated to glass art. The highlight is the “Hot Shop,” a massive cone-shaped amphitheater where you can watch master glassblowers create art right before your eyes. Don’t miss the iconic Chihuly Bridge of Glass, a 500-foot pedestrian bridge linking the museum to the city.
- Details: Adults ~$20. Open Wed-Sun, 10 am-5 pm.
- Insider Tip: The Chihuly Bridge of Glass is free and open to the public 24/7. It’s especially magical to walk across at night when the installations are lit up.
Marvel at Automotive History at LeMay – America’s Car Museum
- What it is: A paradise for car enthusiasts and design lovers. This massive, architecturally stunning museum houses a huge collection of cars spanning over a century of automotive history.
- Details: Adults ~$22. Open Thu-Mon, 10 am-5 pm.
Discover Local Stories at the Washington State History Museum
- What it is: Located in a beautiful building next to the historic Union Station, this museum tells the rich, diverse story of the Pacific Northwest, from its Native American heritage to its industrial past.
- Details: Adults ~$14. Open Tue-Sun, 10 am-5 pm.
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Get Lost in Nature at Point Defiance Park
One of the largest urban parks in the United States, Point Defiance is a 760-acre natural wonderland. You could easily spend an entire day here alone. If you’re driving, this is a must-do. If you took public transit, a short rideshare from downtown is your best bet.
- Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium: A fantastic zoo and aquarium with a focus on Pacific Rim species.
- Five Mile Drive: A scenic loop road (with walking/biking lanes) that winds through old-growth forest and offers stunning viewpoints of Puget Sound and the Narrows Bridge.
- Owen Beach: A beautiful spot to relax, look for seals, and enjoy the waterfront.
- Gardens: Explore the meticulously kept Japanese Garden, Rose Garden, and Dahlia Trial Garden.
Insider Tip: If you’re short on time, prioritize the Five Mile Drive. The views from the viewpoints are absolutely spectacular and give you a true sense of the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty.
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Stroll the Ruston Way Waterfront
This gorgeous two-mile paved path runs along Commencement Bay and is perfect for a leisurely walk. You’ll find several parks, restaurants with patios, and on a clear day, one of the most incredible, unobstructed views of Mount Rainier you will ever see. It’s where locals go to walk, run, and soak in the scenery.
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Wander Through the Brewery District & McMenamins Elks Temple
Tacoma’s revitalized Brewery District is a testament to its “Grit City” renewal. The crown jewel is the McMenamins Elks Temple, a spectacularly restored historic building that’s now a multi-level complex with a brewery, several unique bars (look for the secret ones!), a restaurant, and a concert venue. It’s a destination in itself.
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Grab a Bite at a Tacoma Institution
To really feel the local flavor, you have to eat like a local. Skip the fancy chains and head to a Tacoma classic like MSM Deli (Magical Sandwich Makers) for a legendary, oversized sandwich that will fuel your entire day, or visit Frisko Freeze, an iconic walk-up drive-in that has been serving burgers and shakes since 1950.
Sample One-Day Tacoma Itinerary (The “Art & Nature” Plan)
Feeling overwhelmed? Here’s a simple plan to help you see the best of Tacoma in a single day.
- 9:00 AM: Catch the ST Express Bus 594 from Downtown Seattle.
- 10:30 AM: Arrive at Tacoma Dome Station. Hop on the free Tacoma Link Light Rail.
- 11:00 AM: Get off at the Union Station stop. Explore the Museum of Glass & walk the Chihuly Bridge of Glass.
- 1:00 PM: Grab lunch in the Museum District.
- 2:30 PM: Take a rideshare (approx. 10-15 mins) to Point Defiance Park. Enjoy the scenic Five Mile Drive and visit the gardens.
- 5:00 PM: Head to the Ruston Way Waterfront for a beautiful pre-dinner stroll.
- 6:30 PM: Have dinner at a restaurant on the waterfront or head back towards the Brewery District.
- 8:00 PM: Catch the express bus from the Tacoma Dome Station back to Seattle.
Where to Eat in Tacoma: From Quick Bites to Fine Dining
$$ – Mid-Range & Delicious
- Wooden City: A hip and lively spot known for its amazing wood-fired pizzas, creative cocktails, and fantastic burgers. A local favorite.
- Indo Asian Street Eatery: Bold, vibrant flavors from across Southeast Asia served in a cool, modern setting. Perfect for sharing plates.
- McMenamins Elks Temple: Multiple bars and restaurants in one incredible building. A reliable and fun choice with something for everyone.
$ – Budget-Friendly & Iconic
- MSM Deli: Famous for their massive, delicious, no-frills sandwiches. An absolute Tacoma institution. Be prepared for a line!
- Frisko Freeze: A classic, 1950s-style walk-up burger joint. The perfect spot for a cheap and satisfying burger, fries, and a milkshake.
- The Red Hot: A temple for craft beer and creative hot dogs. It’s loud, fun, and quintessentially Tacoma.
Planning Your Visit: Insider Tips for Your Tacoma Day Trip
A few extra tips to make your day trip smooth and memorable.
- Use the Tacoma Dome Station as Your Hub: If you drive, the massive park-and-ride garage is free. If you take transit, it’s where you’ll arrive. From here, the free Tacoma Link whisks you downtown.
- Ride the Link for Free: We can’t say it enough! The Tacoma Link Light Rail is the best way to get around the downtown core, and it costs nothing.
- Check Museum Hours! This is critical. Many major Tacoma museums are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Always check their websites before you go to avoid disappointment.
- Look for the Mountain: On a clear day, the sight of Mount Rainier looming over the city is breathtaking. The best views are from the Ruston Way waterfront and the Washington State History Museum.
- Accessibility: Major museums and the Point Defiance Zoo are ADA accessible. The Ruston Way Waterfront path is flat and paved. The free Tacoma Link light rail is also accessible. Be aware that downtown Tacoma has some hills.
What to Pack for Tacoma
- Comfortable walking shoes (you’ll be doing a lot of it!)
- A rain jacket or layers (this is still the Pacific Northwest, and weather can change in an instant)
- A camera and/or a portable phone charger
- Your ORCA card for easy payment on the bus from Seattle
Estimated Day Trip Budget for 2025
Here’s a rough idea of what you can expect to spend per person.
| Expense | Budget Traveler | Mid-Range Traveler |
|---|---|---|
| Transportation | ~$7.50 (Round-trip bus) | ~$11.50 (Round-trip train) or ~$25 (Gas/Parking) |
| Food | ~$25 (Deli sandwich & coffee) | ~$60 (Sit-down lunch & dinner) |
| Attractions | ~$20 (One museum) | ~$45 (Two museums) |
| Total Estimated Cost | ~$55 per person | ~$130 per person |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I take the light rail from Seattle to Tacoma?
No, you cannot take a single light rail train directly from Seattle to Tacoma. Seattle’s Link light rail system is separate from Tacoma’s. You must take a bus (or transfer from the Seattle light rail to a bus) to travel between the two cities.
Is Tacoma worth visiting?
Yes, Tacoma is absolutely worth visiting for a day trip. It offers a fantastic, less-crowded alternative to Seattle with world-class museums (especially the Museum of Glass), a beautiful waterfront with views of Mount Rainier, and a unique, artsy vibe.
How much is the train from Seattle to Tacoma?
The Sounder commuter train costs approximately $5.75 for a one-way adult fare from Seattle’s King Street Station to the Tacoma Dome Station. Be aware that it has a very limited, weekday, commuter-focused schedule.
How much is an Uber from Seattle to Tacoma?
An Uber from Seattle to Tacoma can cost anywhere from $60 to $120+ one way. The price varies significantly based on traffic, the time of day, and demand (surge pricing).
TL;DR: Your Perfect Tacoma Day Trip
In a hurry? Here are the absolute essentials:
- Best Way to Get There: Take the ST Express Bus (590/594) for the best mix of cost and flexibility.
- Must-Do Activity: Visit the Museum of Glass and walk across the free, stunning Chihuly Bridge of Glass.
- Top Tip: Use the 100% free Tacoma Link Light Rail to get from the Tacoma Dome Station to the Museum District.
- Best View: Find a spot along the Ruston Way Waterfront on a clear day for an unforgettable view of Mount Rainier.
