The Mighty Museums of Tacoma

Small but mighty describes this spirited place for kids to come play and learn. The hands on activities, everyday pay what you will admission, free 3rd Thursdays and complimentary lockers make this a must visit for parents of the young set.

It doesn't matter if you are brand new to Washington state, just visiting or lived here your whole life. You are certain to learn something new about the evergreen state at this wonderfully informative museum housed in an historic building in downtown Tacoma. The museum is flanked by a great gift shop, a cupcake cafe and a comfy coffee shop. Free admission each 3rd Thursday.

Need a way to while away a day or a week or a month? Then visit 'America's Car Museum.' Not a car nut? It doesn't matter (I'm not and my first visit lasted 3 hours), the building and the cars are so beautiful you'll be drawn to them like a magnet. Friendly & knowledgeable staff, a thoughtfully stocked shop, several hands on car racing simulations and an in house cafe seal the deal.

Follow the Chihuly Bridge to this contemporary cone on Tacoma's waterfront. This gem houses the work of glass artists from around the world, a great hands on kids activity area, a cafe with a view and a well curated shop. As a bonus it's free on the 3rd Thursday and there are always free outdoor exhibits.

Don't miss watching the live hot shot demos that make for a mesmerizing way to spend the day.

On any given visit the darlings of the international contemporary art world (think Warhol) hang in galleries adjacent to northwest masters of the past (think Graves) and they all get along swimmingly. The museum also hosts a lauded Biennial which celebrates emerging and mid-career artists of the region. A kids area, a nice gift shop, free admission each 3rd Thursday and an in house-cafe are a plus. Don't miss (well you can't really) Scott Fife's 'Puppy.'