There is really no better place than the Pacific Northwest during summertime. We are lucky to have such a beautiful playground. With no short-age of things to do, how do you go about choosing? ShowCase checked out some of the best local attractions and compiled them here. So get out your calendar and prepare for some serious playtime.
Tacoma
One of Tacoma’s family favorites is the Independence Day Freedom Fair, located on Ruston Way and in historic Old Town. Celebrate our nation’s independence with a day of family activities capped with a spectacular fireworks show.Later in the month, July 16 and 17, take a weekend and enjoy the Tacoma Maritime Fest. This annual event includes plenty of kid-friendly activities, ships to explore and free boat tours of the Foss Waterway and the Port of Tacoma.Admission to both events is free. For more information and a schedule of events, visit freedomfair.com and tacomamaritimefest.org
Gig Harbor
Slow down a bit and take a boating trip out to Gig Harbor. Enjoy a flight of whiskey at Heritage Distillery or a bowl of clam chowder at the Tides Tavern in historic downtown. Stroll along the waterfront and stop in at the Harbor History Museum for activities for kids and grown-ups. Later in the evening, catch an outdoor concert at Summer Sounds at Skansie or take a blanket and some popcorn for Friday Family Fun Movies in the Park. gigharborguide.com
Enumclaw
Head out to Enumclaw over the weekend of July 29 and 30 for the Enumclaw Rotary Street Fair. Besides terrific food and vendors, visitors can check out local art at the Arts Alive Gallery on Cole Street. Stop by Tracy’s Roadside Produce for farm-fresh produce, jams, jellies and even local Washington wines. enumclawstreetfair.com
Olympia
Olympia, Lacey and Tumwater have activities and events for everyone this summer. Tour our state capitol or the Olympic Flight Museum. Get in touch with your wild side at Wolf Haven International in Tenino or the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge. Take the kids to the Hands On Children’s Museum or enjoy an adult outing on the South Sound Wine Trail. For more Top 10 attractions, go to visitolympia.com.
DuPont
A town steeped in rich Pacific Northwest history, DuPont is a fascinating place for a historical perspective. Visit the DuPont Historical Museum to view photos, maps and more. Looking to explore? DuPont has a thriving parks system filled with hiking and biking trails for the whole family. dupontwa.gov
Puyallup
Downtown Puyallup offers friendly hometown charm in both shopping and dining. For a taste of fresh, local food and art, visit the Farmers’ Market in Pioneer Park. This unique market features only local vendors, farmers and artists and is sure to be a favorite. puyallupmainstreet.com
Seattle
Seattle has much to offer year round and is particularly spectacular during the summer months. With so many unique neighborhoods, Seattle boasts numerous markets, street fairs and an abundance of exceptional dining experiences. There are also the familiar local attractions such as Pike Place Market and the Great Wheel. Coffee snobs might want to visit the Starbucks Reserve Roastery and Tasting Room located just nine blocks from the original store at Pike Place. Check out the helpful links below for more information.
roastery.starbucks.com
seattle.gov/visiting-seattle