Tips on avoiding Tacoma Tourist Traps with Virtual Tourist

Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium

09:30-17:00

Aquarium

5400 North Pearl Street

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Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium in Tacoma offers a unique combination of zoo and aquarium experiences with over 9,000 animals across 29 acres.

Duration: 3-4 hours.

Adults: $25, Children (2-12): $18. Free for children under 2. Special discounts available for military and seniors.

Jozee Rooz Indoor Petting Zoo

10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Zoo

120 138th St S (Pacific Ave)

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Jozee Rooz Indoor Petting Zoo in Tacoma offers interactive animal encounters and educational programs for all ages, promoting a love for animals and nature.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Adults: $10, Children (3-12): $8, Under 3: Free. Discounts for groups and special events may apply.

Tacoma Mall

Mo-Sa 10:00-21:00; Su 10:00-19:00

Mall

4502 S Steele St (S 38th St)

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Tacoma Mall is the largest shopping center in Tacoma, WA, featuring 150+ stores, including Nordstrom, H&M, and Apple, serving the nearby communities.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Free. No admission fees required.

Great American Casino

9:00 AM–4:00 AM

Casino

10117 South Tacoma Way (at Hwy. 518)

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Great American Casino in Tacoma offers a lively gaming experience with diverse slots, table games, and dining options just minutes from downtown.

Duration: 2-4 hours.

Free entry. Some poker tournaments and special events may have entry fees.

Kids' Zone

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Amusement Park

Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium (5400 N Pearl St)

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Kids' Zone in Tacoma offers a creative haven for children with interactive play areas and engaging activities focused on learning through play.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. Special events may have a nominal fee.

Chips/Palace Casino

10:00 AM–4:00 AM

Casino

8200 Tacoma Mall Blvd (84th Street)

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Chips/Palace Casino in Tacoma offers a diverse selection of gaming options, dining experiences, and live entertainment in a vibrant casino atmosphere.

Duration: 2 to 4 hours.

Free. Some dining and entertainment options may require payment.

McKinley park

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Amusement Park

Mckinley (46th)

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McKinley Park in Tacoma features vast green spaces, sports facilities, and historical structures, providing recreational opportunities for families and visitors.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some events may require tickets.

Proctor Farmers' Market

9:00 AM-2:00 PM

Market

2702 N Proctor St (N 27th St & Proctor)

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Proctor Farmers' Market is a vibrant community market in Tacoma. It offers fresh fruits, vegetables, and local crafts every Saturday, creating a lively atmosphere where neighbors meet and shop.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free

The Broadway Farmers Market

10:00 AM-3:00 PM

Market

921 Broadway

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The Broadway Farmers Market is a local market in Tacoma. It offers fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts from local vendors, creating a community atmosphere.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free

Tacoma Farmers Market at Point Ruston

10:00 AM-5:00 PM

Market

5005 Ruston Way

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The Tacoma Farmers Market at Point Ruston offers fresh produce, local goods, and artisan products. It supports local farmers and small businesses while providing a vibrant atmosphere by the water.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free

Costco Wholesale

10:00 AM-8:30 PM

Mall

2219 South 37th Street

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Costco Wholesale in Tacoma is a large warehouse store that sells groceries, electronics, and household items in bulk. It offers great prices and a wide selection, making it a smart choice for families and individuals.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Membership required, starting from $60 annually

Point Ruston Public Market

10:00 AM-7:00 PM

Market

Yacht Club Rd

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Point Ruston Public Market is a lively shopping and dining space in Tacoma. It features local shops, restaurants, and a waterfront view, making it a pleasant place to explore and relax.

Duration: approx. 2 hours

Free