Free Things to Do in Tacoma, Without Waiting for a Festival

Not every outing should start with buying four tickets before anyone has agreed on a plan. These Tacoma places cost nothing to get into on an ordinary day.

Pick one: the trees at Wright Park, the boats at Foss Waterway Seaport, or a Thursday evening at Tacoma Art Museum. They’re in different parts of town, so there’s no need to do all three.

1. Wright Park

Wright Park has more than 600 trees on 27 acres, plus a playground. Parks Tacoma’s tree-tour information gives you a route, or you can just walk the paths and stop at a bench. Give it about 45 minutes, longer with playground time.

The grounds open half an hour before sunrise and close half an hour after sunset. It’s at 501 South I Street. The park is free, but street parking has its own rules, so read the signs.

2. Foss Waterway Seaport

Foss Waterway Seaport is the indoor pick: maritime exhibits, a heritage boat shop and hands-on activities beside the water. Admission is free during public hours, Thursday through Sunday, 10am to 4pm, and it stays open until 8pm on third Thursdays. Special events have their own arrangements.

Give it about an hour. It’s at 705 Dock Street.

3. Tacoma Art Museum on a Thursday evening

Tacoma Art Museum is free for everyone on Thursdays from 5 to 8pm. Pick one gallery; an hour is plenty for a first visit. It’s at 1701 Pacific Avenue, and it closes on Thanksgiving and other listed holidays.

For dated concerts, walks and other free events, see the free events list.

Pay what you like

The Seymour Conservatory is free, with a suggested $3 donation. The Children’s Museum is Pay As You Will.

The conservatory closes November 30 through December 4 for its seasonal changeover. If it’s closed, or the weather’s bad, go to the Seaport, or try the rainy-day guide for more indoor ideas, some of them paid.