Nature's Beauty And Urban Charm Unite In Washington's Most Underrated City
When we talk about cities in Washington state, Seattle usually dominates the conversation. After all, the Emerald City is a modern, thriving metropolis with a unique array of neighborhoods, off-the-beaten-path attractions, and cultural quirks — like a local aversion to using umbrellas. Seattle is so much the alpha burg that the state's other big towns have perpetually languished in its shadow.
This is especially true for Tacoma, Seattle's sister to the south. Just a 30-minute shot down I-5 (when traffic is light), this port city has long played second fiddle to her larger sibling. Once considered a gritty working-class center and the butt of local jokes for the pervasive odor blamed on its now-defunct pulp mill (snarkily referred to as the "Tacoma Aroma"), the city has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past couple of decades, so much so that it recently landed on CNN's list of 25 of the USA's most underrated destinations.
What makes Tacoma so attractive? Location, location, location. Spread out over hillsides above the water, Tacoma offers sweeping views of Puget Sound along with the imposing forms of rugged, snow-capped mountains on both sides. It's within quick striking distance of two national parks, and the city itself boasts terrific seafood restaurants, bars, and cafes, as well as a revamped waterfront, great parks, and a number of world-class museums.
A modern town that hasn't forgotten its working class roots
Tacoma is situated on the edge of Commencement Bay in the shadow of Mt. Rainier, a 14,410-foot active volcano also called "Tahoma" (for which the city was named). Incorporated in 1874, this western terminus for the transcontinental railroad, the town quickly grew as a shipping and industrial hub, and the old brick buildings in the historic downtown reflect this heritage.
This downtown is home to the city's Museum District, which might be Tacoma's greatest draw. The Museum of Glass features works by the city's native son, renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly, and more, along with a Hot Shop Amphitheater where visitors can watch the artists ply their trade in real time. The Tacoma Art Museum is a treasure trove of exhibits focusing on regional works; the Washington State History Museum tells the story of this fascinating corner of the country with the largest collection of Native American artifacts on the West Coast, while the expansive America's Car Museum explores and celebrates the nation's love affair with the automobile.
While you're downtown, check out the city's revitalized waterfront, where you can take a stroll or cruise along the docks in a rented kayak or paddleboard. Sit down for a fresh salmon or halibut feast at Duke's or West 112, and make sure not to miss the city's iconic Point Defiance State Park. Set among old-growth trees, this tranquil 640-acre peninsula sticks out like an appendage on the edge of the city into the waters of Puget Sound and is also home to a top-notch aquarium and zoo.
Some of North America's top nature at your doorstep
Tacoma's proximity to jaw-dropping natural wonders is surely a top selling point. It beats out Seattle in this regard, and the most obvious choice for exploration is to head an hour and a half up the road to Mt. Rainier National Park. This 241,782-acre reserve surrounds the most glaciated US peak outside of Alaska and is a wonderland of campgrounds, hiking trails, climbing rocks, pristine rivers, virgin forests, and more.
To the west is another glorious expanse of wilderness: the Olympic National Park. Just under two hours from downtown, this nearly one-million-acre, largely roadless cluster of mountains and deep valleys features rocky ridges, glaciers, alpine meadows, temperate rain forests, and 73 miles of raw, untouched coastline. The park is also teeming with wildlife, including Roosevelt elk, mountain goats, deer, black bears, marmots, sea mammals, and raptors.
Just next to the Olympics is Hood Canal, one of the few natural fjords in the United States. Cruise along its shoreline as part of a greater road trip and sample some of its famous shrimp, clams, or oysters. If you're feeling extra adventurous, squeeze into a dry suit and plunge beneath its icy surface, as Hood Canal has become a hotspot for cold-water diving. For more urban gems, check out these underrated cities in the American South.