Wild or Mild: Choose Your Own Experience

To experience iconic Mount Rainier National Park and the picturesque small towns that surround it, there are a few "musts" to include before you can check this destination off your bucket list:
A hike, a meal, a museum, a guided tour, a unique experience, and an overnight stay.

While some travelers are more adventurous and "wild," a more "mild" side of Visit Tacoma-Pierce County can be just as breathtaking and exciting for those who want to take it slow and easy. Pick and choose below to build an itinerary that's right for you and your crew.

Hikes

A walk or hike is a must for any Pacific Northwest experience. If you're looking for high-alpine adventure, snowshoe an alpine snowfield (sometimes as late as June or July!) or hike through fields of wildflowers and snow capped peaks. If a meandering family jaunt (or bike ride) is more your pace, the Sumner Link Trail is the spot for you.

Meals

Finding the right meal for your adventure level is a crucial part of your experience. In Ashford, in the shadow of Mount Rainier, you can dig into a hearty mountain meal made from scratch (or take one to go) and follow it up with famous blackberry pie a la mode at Copper Creek. Or down in Sumner, relax in one of the most picturesque dining spots in all of Washington State: Windmill Bistro.

Museums

Museums offer a glimpse into what is truly the foundation of an area, and Visit Tacoma-Pierce County is no different. Continue your WILD adventure and check out a bigger-than-life driftwood Sasquatch or enjoy the Pioneer Farm Museum, a MILD interactive stop perfect for the whole family.

Guided Tours

Sometimes it's best to leave it to the experts, or at least have an expert by your side. Whether its an exclusive, personalized hike through Mount Rainier National Park or seeing the largest privately-held automobile collection in the Northwest, you are sure to find something new and interesting.

Unique Experiences

Make sure to fit in a one-of-a-kind, unique experience you can brag about when you get home. Where else can you learn how to drive a Ford Model T or drive on the wild side at Northwest Trek Wildlife Park and see animals in their natural environment.

Overnights

The end to a day of exploration and adventure can be as important as the day itself. So whether you want to stay out in seclusion, or find affordable accommodations closer to the city, we have something you'll find perfect.