Quick Answer
Tacoma offers numerous family-friendly activities for rainy days, including interactive museums, indoor play spaces, and artistic experiences. Explore the city's vibrant indoor attractions to keep the whole family entertained, even when it's wet outside.
Who This Guide Is For
This guide is designed for families living in or visiting Tacoma, Washington, who are looking for engaging activities to enjoy on rainy days. Whether you have toddlers, teenagers, or a mix of ages, you’ll find plenty of options to keep everyone entertained and happy.
Neighborhoods Mentioned in This Guide
In this guide, we will explore various neighborhoods in Tacoma where you can find exciting indoor activities. These neighborhoods include:
- Hilltop
- 6th Avenue
- North End
- Proctor District
- Stadium District
- Downtown
- West Side
- North Side
- South Side
- East Side
Engaging Museums and Learning Centers
Museum of Glass
The Museum of Glass is a must-visit for families interested in art and creativity. This contemporary art museum focuses on glass art and features stunning exhibitions, live glassblowing demonstrations, and hands-on activities for children.
- Location: 1801 Dock Street, Tacoma, WA 98402
- Highlights:
- Live glassblowing demonstrations
- Interactive art installations
- Kid-friendly workshops
Washington State History Museum
Learn about the rich history of Washington State at the Washington State History Museum. This family-friendly destination offers interactive exhibits that cover everything from Native American history to the state's development over time.
- Location: 1911 Pacific Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98402
- Highlights:
- Engaging exhibits that appeal to all ages
- Storytelling sessions for younger children
- Hands-on historical artifacts
LeMay - America’s Car Museum
For families with car enthusiasts, LeMay - America’s Car Museum offers a unique experience. This museum showcases an impressive collection of automobiles and provides educational programs that teach kids about engineering and design.
- Location: 2702 East D Street, Tacoma, WA 98421
- Highlights:
- Extensive car exhibits from various eras
- Interactive displays and educational programs
- Family-friendly scavenger hunts
Indoor Play Spaces and Activities
Funtopia
Funtopia is an indoor adventure park that features climbing walls, obstacle courses, and other fun activities for children of all ages. It’s a great place for kids to burn off energy while staying safe from the rain.
- Location: 1502 Pacific Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98402
- Highlights:
- Climbing walls for various skill levels
- Soft play areas for younger children
- Birthday party packages available
Jump! Indoor Trampoline Park
Jump! Indoor Trampoline Park is perfect for families looking for a fun way to stay active indoors. The park features wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits, and dodgeball areas.
- Location: 1001 5th Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98405
- Highlights:
- Trampoline dodgeball and basketball
- Foam pit for safe landings
- Special toddler jump times
The Play Station
The Play Station is an indoor play center designed for young children. With a variety of play structures, slides, and interactive games, it’s an ideal spot for toddlers and preschoolers to explore and make friends.
- Location: 6603 6th Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98406
- Highlights:
- Safe and clean environment
- Parent-friendly seating areas
- Snack options available on-site
Artistic Experiences and Workshops
Tacoma Art Museum
The Tacoma Art Museum offers a variety of exhibits and programs that encourage creativity. Families can explore the museum’s collections and participate in art-making workshops designed for all ages.
- Location: 1701 Pacific Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98402
- Highlights:
- Family art-making workshops
- Interactive exhibits
- Special family events throughout the year
Creative Forces Art Studio
Located in the Proctor District, Creative Forces Art Studio offers art classes for children and families. Workshops range from painting to pottery, providing a hands-on experience that encourages artistic expression.
- Location: 3921 North 26th Street, Tacoma, WA 98407
- Highlights:
- Variety of art classes for all skill levels
- Open studio days for free play
- Family art nights
Neighborhood Breakdown
Hilltop
Hilltop is known for its cultural diversity and community spirit. Families can explore local art galleries or enjoy the neighborhood parks when the rain subsides. However, on rainy days, consider visiting the Museum of Glass or the Washington State History Museum nearby.
6th Avenue
This vibrant area is home to various shops and restaurants, but it also features indoor play spaces like Funtopia. Families can enjoy a meal at one of the local eateries after burning off energy at the play center.
North End
The North End features beautiful waterfront parks, but when it rains, families can head to the Tacoma Art Museum or LeMay - America’s Car Museum. Both venues offer educational experiences that are enjoyable for all ages.
Proctor District
The Proctor District is a family-friendly neighborhood with easy access to Creative Forces Art Studio. Kids can engage in artistic activities while parents explore the local shops and cafes.
Stadium District
The Stadium District is home to beautiful architecture and parks. However, when the weather doesn’t cooperate, families can visit the nearby Washington State History Museum for interactive learning experiences.
Downtown
Downtown Tacoma offers a variety of indoor activities, including the Museum of Glass and various dining options. Families can easily spend a full day exploring museums and enjoying meals together.
West Side
The West Side provides access to beautiful views and parks, but families can also find indoor fun at the local trampoline park, Jump! Indoor Trampoline Park, perfect for active kids.
North Side
The North Side is home to community centers and local parks. When it rains, families can take a short drive to the Tacoma Art Museum or the Museum of Glass for engaging indoor experiences.
South Side
The South Side features family-friendly neighborhoods with local parks. On rainy days, families can visit indoor play spaces like The Play Station for a safe and fun environment for younger children.
East Side
The East Side combines suburban living with access to Tacoma's cultural attractions. Families can enjoy educational visits to the Washington State History Museum or the LeMay - America’s Car Museum when the weather isn’t cooperating.
Neighborhoods to Explore in Tacoma
- [family fit in Hilltop](/wa/tacoma/neighborhoods/hilltop)
- [living in 6th Avenue](/wa/tacoma/neighborhoods/6th-avenue)
- [North End neighborhood guide](/wa/tacoma/neighborhoods/north-end)
- [family fit in Proctor District](/wa/tacoma/neighborhoods/proctor-district)
- [living in Stadium District](/wa/tacoma/neighborhoods/stadium-district)
- [living in Downtown](/wa/tacoma/neighborhoods/downtown)
- [family fit in West Side](/wa/tacoma/neighborhoods/west-side)
- [North Side neighborhood guide](/wa/tacoma/neighborhoods/north-side)
- [South Side neighborhood guide](/wa/tacoma/neighborhoods/south-side)
- [family fit in East Side](/wa/tacoma/neighborhoods/east-side)
Related Guides for Tacoma
- [Free Things to Do in Tacoma With Kids](/wa/tacoma/guides/free-things-to-do-tacoma-kids)
- [Things to Do in Tacoma With Kids](/wa/tacoma/guides/things-to-do-in-tacoma-with-kids)
- [Tacoma Cost of Living vs National Average](/wa/tacoma/guides/tacoma-cost-of-living-national-average)
- [Is Tacoma Affordable? An Honest Cost Analysis](/wa/tacoma/guides/tacoma-affordability-analysis)
- [Grocery & Food Costs in Tacoma: What to Expect](/wa/tacoma/guides/grocery-food-costs-tacoma)
- [Best Neighborhoods in Tacoma for Retirees](/wa/tacoma/guides/best-neighborhoods-tacoma-retirees)
Helpful Tacoma Tools
- [Get your Tacoma CityFit Report](/wa/tacoma/cityfit-report)
- [Tacoma City Guide hub](/wa/tacoma)
- [All Tacoma guides](/wa/tacoma/guides)
- [Events in Tacoma](/wa/tacoma/events)
- [Moving to Tacoma](/wa/tacoma/move-in)
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some family-friendly indoor activities in Tacoma?
Tacoma offers a variety of family-friendly indoor activities, including visits to the Museum of Glass, the Washington State History Museum, and indoor play areas like Funtopia and Jump! Indoor Trampoline Park.
Are there any art classes for kids in Tacoma?
Yes, Creative Forces Art Studio in the Proctor District offers art classes for children, including painting and pottery workshops, encouraging creativity and artistic expression.
What is the best museum for kids in Tacoma?
The Washington State History Museum is a great option for kids, featuring interactive exhibits that engage young visitors and teach them about the state's history.
Where can I find indoor play areas for toddlers in Tacoma?
The Play Station in the South Side is an excellent indoor play area designed specifically for toddlers, with safe play structures and interactive games.
Is there a trampoline park in Tacoma?
Yes, Jump! Indoor Trampoline Park located on 5th Avenue offers wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits, and special toddler jump times, making it a fun option for families.
Can we do any hands-on activities at the Museum of Glass?
Yes, the Museum of Glass offers hands-on workshops and live glassblowing demonstrations, allowing families to engage with art in a dynamic way.
What are some rainy day events for families in Tacoma?
Many museums and indoor play areas host special events for families, including art-making workshops at the Tacoma Art Museum and themed activities at the Washington State History Museum.
Where can I go for educational experiences on a rainy day?
For educational experiences, families can visit the Washington State History Museum and LeMay - America’s Car Museum, both of which offer engaging exhibits and programs.
Are there any indoor family-friendly restaurants in Tacoma?
Yes, many restaurants in Tacoma are family-friendly, especially in the Downtown and 6th Avenue areas, where you can find eateries with kids' menus and casual atmospheres.
What neighborhoods in Tacoma are best for families on rainy days?
Neighborhoods like Downtown, Proctor District, and the Stadium District offer various indoor activities and amenities that are great for families looking to stay entertained on rainy days.