I will probably have no shame about being a tourist, ever. Even in my own town (whichever it may be at the time), I have no qualms about snapping photos wherever I go.
My family is in town to see Margot for the first time since she was born, and I’m glad their visit is to this area in Washington where the tourism opportunities are endless. Tacoma, WA is a beautiful city. Period. When I read up on this area, I tend to see a lot of comments on how rough around the edges it is, but as long as you don’t hang out in Hilltop at midnight, I see no problems.
Downtown is especially beautiful since it’s adorned with blown glass by local native Dale Chihuly. Abstract architecture and early twentieth century masonry create a unique skyline on Commencement Bay where Marina and Industry coexist. I can’t get enough. Truly.
Kicking around the town giving our usual Tacoma tour, we ran into other residents who were giving the same tour to their out of town family. What a coincidence, we all end up gawking at the house that starred in the film The Hand That Rocks The Cradle, strolling through Stadium High School, and crossing the Glass Bridge. “This is where Heath Ledger serenaded Julia Stiles back in the 90s”, I imagine many a Tacoman explain at the gates of the Stadium Bowl. Maybe even a brief explanation on the School’s history as a hotel is provided. They may give a quick bio of Chihuly, or explain the landmarks around Commencement Bay. The conclusion is the same: Tacoma has colorful highlights.
Of course we visited the same lovely landmarks that all other tourists come upon when they visit Tacoma. My family seemed to enjoy it.
If my Dad was impressed with sea otters, rabbits and raccoons at Point Defiance Park, I’m sure he’ll get a kick out of Seattle later this week.
Yea Yea Pueblo 
Just wanted to share my hiliarious blog with a fellow traveler. Hope you enjoy mine as much as I have enjoyed yours.
http://www.atruetalltale.wordpress.com
My husband makes fun of me sometimes for being so touristy (it’s no secret I want to go to Dollywood). Sometimes a town is just so fun! Now that you’re a military wife, you have the best excuse to be a tourist: you don’t know when you’ll be shipped out again. Enjoy everywhere!
My husband bought a fanny back recently…I’m pretty sure I have the upper-hand in all tourist situations, even while clicking away on the camera. Marriage is fun, isn’t it?
I love downtown Tacoma! Avery had the best time riding on the train with me, and there’s a great little children’s museum close to one of the stops!
I wish Margot were big enough to appreciate that Children’s Museum. It looks like a blast!
I loooove Chihuly’s work. So amazing.
We were married in front of the Chihuly piece at the MoMA in OKC. His work is everywhere!
nice pictures. I especially like those racoons! haha.
Someone threw peanuts out on the side of the road on the Five Mile Drive, which is against the rules, but it brought the raccoons out and made for some great photos. Point Defiance Park is endlessly beautiful.
OH nice! haha. I love watching those little guys 😀