Explore Picturesque Pierce County
From Ruston to Rainier, Bonney Lake to Buckley, Sumner to Steilacoom, Pierce County is home to some of the most picturesque places to be found anywhere. Maybe you’re a photographer with a lens looking for natural beauty. Perhaps you’re a hiker seeking the wonders of Washington. Or possibly, you just want to escape the city for something beautiful. Whichever you may be, follow our lead and be mesmerized.
Mt. Rainier - Paradise
With trails for any skill or age, spring wildflowers, playful marmots, and waterfalls at every turn, you’ll understand why this area’s earned this name.
Stay the night... or a few
Built in 1916 and designated as one of the "Great Lodges of the West", Paradise Inn sits in the shadow of Mount Rainier surrounded by mountain meadows lush with wildflowers.
Grab a bite
Just ten minutes or so down the road, you’ll find the Copper Creek Restaurant, where blackberries are king. Dig into breakfast with the “Frenchie’s” French Toast with homemade blackberry syrup and take a piece of the famous blackberry pie with hand-rolled crust on the road.
DuPont - Sequalitchew Creek Trail
A forested tunnel-like trail leads you from the city to a pebbled beach and long-forgotten railroad tracks to an extraordinary view of Puget Sound.
Stay the night… or a few
FairBridge Inn & Suites is minutes from the Stottle Winery Tasting Room, the Fort Lewis Museum - and for those looking to take to the fairways - The Home Course.
Grab a bite
It doesn’t matter whether it’s St. Paddy’s Day or not. Close enough. Stop into McNamara’s Pub & Eatery for Corned Beef & Cabbage, Shepherd’s Pie, or Irish Lamb Stew.
Tacoma - Point Defiance Ferry
Take the free ferry from Point Defiance to Tahlequah and back for incredible views of Puget Sound and the chance to see orcas and other aquatic wildlife.
Stay the night… or a few
Silver Cloud Point Ruston offers up the best views in the city and all the amenities of a luxury hotel. Reserve a suite with a Jacuzzi to soak and watch the ships sail by.
Grab a bite
Who would think to stuff Rockfish with Alaskan Crab? The geniuses at WildFin American Grill on the Tacoma Waterfront would. Follow it up with the Chocolate Overload Cake with Tillamook ice cream.
Sumner - Sumner Link Trail
Explore the valley along the White River and take in the river views, wildlife and native vegetation. Not a bad idea to bring a fishing pole as well.
Stay the night… or a few
Holiday Inn Express Hotel + Suites is conveniently located within a few steps from one of the cutest downtowns you’ll find anywhere. Stop by A Good Book and take home a couple of treasured tomes.
Grab a bite
The Hometown Charm Cafe serves up renowned Hobo Hash, but don’t leave without trying a slice of the rhubarb pie Sumner’s known best for.
Eatonville - Northwest Trek Wildlife Park
Ever stared a moose in the face? Here’s your chance at this 435-acre home to bison, caribou, elk and more than 200 other species of animals - including a moose named “Birch.”
Stay the night… or a few
Head up a road a bit and find the Nisqually Lodge, offering rustic splendor in a woodsy setting, and a perfect jumping off point to explore Mt. Rainier and Narada Falls.
Grab a bite
Feelin’ hungry? Really hungry? Check out Eatonville’s Cruiser Cafe and the Code Blue Burger. A pound of beef. Grilled onions and mushrooms. Bacon and a fried egg. Four kinds of cheese. Jalapeños, lettuce, pickles, tomatoes, and a whole lot of napkins.
Tacoma - Browns Point Lighthouse Park
A beacon for ships as far back as 1887, the lighthouse and surrounding park now call to those who want to experience a breathtaking view of Commencement Bay.
Stay the night… or a few
Be a honorary lighthouse keeper when you stay at the meticulously restored three-bedroom cottage. Your stay comes with official duties, however… raising and lowering the flag, logging the weather, and tracking shipping traffic.
Grab a bite
It’s time for a little elegance at The Cliff House.
A Tacoma landmark since 1925, it showcases a panoramic
view of the city and Commencement Bay, fresh-as-it-gets seafood, and an extensive wine list.