Tacoma, WA

After passing over the bridge, you enter into the pavilion where you can access the Glass Museum entrance. Lately, I seem to make it only during after business hours which are fine by me, because the eye candy hasn’t stopped. Just past the Amphitheater, Baby and me take a nice pleasant cascading walk down to the water front where there’s even more water on Thea Foss waterway to continue my exercise. But, the genuine work out is the journey back up the waterfall terraces. By the time I’m back up to the Venetian Wall, my legs are starting to feel the burn because I’ve kept a brisk pace. But heads up, there’s a coffee shop at the end that I always underestimate in the beginning. It’s Cascade Deli and they’ve got free WIFI, snacks, and tables in their cute little café. One day I’m going to finish this exhilarating and stimulating walk without one of their delicious iced mochas!

I always remember this route like an old reliable friend. Before the drive you have to enter at Point Defiance Park; I love being greeted by the large pond with the waterfall, ducks and birds relaxing, enjoying their life. There are families and friends lying on the grass so peacefully. It’s funny to think that annually I walk through this very same park in a people-congested hunger frenzy during the Taste of Tacoma.

A beautiful little stretch of beach, providing a little oasis from the big city. If you want to take a stroll on the beach, search for seashell and other little treasures or just play in the sand, Owens beach offers that and more.<!–

Northwest Trek Wildlife Park is a treasure for wildlife enthusiasts. The signature tram tour through the 435-acre free-roaming area offers the opportunity to spot different species of animals as they wander through forests, wetlands and meadows. In the core walking-tour area, visitors can get a peek at native wild canines and cats as well as forest and wetland critters. The 723-acre park has a little bit of everything: lakes, trails, meadows and plenty of animals. Located near Mount Rainier in Washington state just south of Seattle and Tacoma, Northwest Trek is home to more than 200 North American animals representing more than 30 species.

It isn’t even half the size of some renowned conservatories in the nation, but I’m amazed how long my visits last at the modest, but beautiful, W. W. Seymour Botanical Conservatory. Even before we get through the front door, we’re greeted by the loads of colors, lush petals and a fragrance that no candle can reproduce. Located on the east side of Wrights Park in Tacoma, it’s no Disney Land, but I’m already running after my excited toddler.

In North Tacoma, enter into the hospitality of Mandolin Café. I tell visiting friends I’m taking them there, and they ask me what so great about this cafe. I describe it as Mr. East India meets Ms. South America, then the two go on a second date in a European bistro. But importantly, the coffee… the coffee is divine. Though some other places have a decent roast, with their pricey cup of joe you’d expect that they wouldn’t charge for WIFI. Thankfully Mandolin Café gives us those deserved basics plus offering more than a Costco muffin or packaged cookie.

The Old Cannery is a very unique place to find a piece of furniture. Located in Sumner, about fifteen minutes from Tacoma, the 10 acres of furniture isn’t the most surprising thing about it. Converted from what was once a vegetable and fruit cannery, The Old Cannery retains much of its historical roots. The owners have created an environment that is much more than just a furniture showroom, but more of a country wonderland.

Located in the Proctor District of North Tacoma, this Metro Park at N. 9th and N. Monroe is appropriate for all ages year-long. Though it’s much smaller than the downtown Wright Park, it remains cozy while still having all the basics. The day I discovered it, I felt very safe. I’ve noticed that this park rarely attract adults without being in a ball team, with a child, or a dog.

NE Tacoma has a hidden treasure. Tucked away off of Marine View Drive, on Hyada Avenue NE, is the Browns Point Lighthouse/Park. Families, couples, dog-and-owner duo, a photographer- at any given moment there are at least one or more of the above. You won’t find a fancy playground, sandbox, or basketball court. Instead, what draws such diversity is actually the simplicity.

Ah, the Luck of the Irish!
If you are in the mood for tasty stick to your ribs comfort food such as shepherds pie, fish and chips, or the more familiar burgers and fries accompanied by some wonderful Irish music, I would strongly recommend Paddy Coynes!