
Foss Waterway Seaport
Historic maritime museum on Tacoma's waterfront, featuring engaging exhibits, a functional dock, and stunning bay views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Touch tanks are open!

Foss Waterway Seaport
Best Time
Touch tanks are open!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic maritime museum on Tacoma's waterfront, featuring engaging exhibits, a functional dock, and stunning bay views.
"A stunning waterfront venue with incredible character and views!"

Check Website for Closures
Events can cause closures. Always check the official website before your visit! :informationdeskperson:
Weekend Touch Tanks
Experience the touch tanks with local sea life, but expect more visitors on weekends. :star2:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

MV Kalakala Ferry Model
Maritime Exhibits
A poignant model of the once-grand MV Kalakala ferry, a symbol of Tacoma's maritime past.

Interactive Exhibits
Main Exhibition Hall
Hands-on displays, including a pretend fishing boat, make maritime history engaging for all ages.

Touch Tanks
Exploration Area
Get up close with local sea life in these weekend-only touch tanks, a hit with kids.

Historic Architecture & Views
Throughout the Seaport
Experience the industrial-meets-maritime charm and stunning Commencement Bay views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Experience
Embrace the Waterfront Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Website for Closures
Events can cause closures. Always check the official website before your visit! :informationdeskperson:
Weekend Touch Tanks
Experience the touch tanks with local sea life, but expect more visitors on weekends. :star2:
Free Admission (Donations Welcome)
Enjoy the museum for free, though donations are greatly appreciated to support its mission. :moneybag:
Explore the Waterfront
Combine your visit with a stroll along the Foss Waterway for beautiful bay views. :kayak:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Website for Closures
Events can cause closures. Always check the official website before your visit! :informationdeskperson:
Weekend Touch Tanks
Experience the touch tanks with local sea life, but expect more visitors on weekends. :star2:
Free Admission (Donations Welcome)
Enjoy the museum for free, though donations are greatly appreciated to support its mission. :moneybag:
Explore the Waterfront
Combine your visit with a stroll along the Foss Waterway for beautiful bay views. :kayak:
Kid-Friendly Fun
Interactive exhibits and touch tanks make it a great outing for families with children. :child:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Foss Waterway Seaport for its stunning waterfront venue, historic charm, and panoramic views, making it ideal for celebrations and exploration. The free admission and engaging exhibits, especially the MV Kalakala model and touch tanks, are highlights. While generally positive, some note that touch tanks have limited hours and event closures require checking the website.
"A stunning waterfront venue with incredible character and views! As a wedding DJ and MC, I’ve had the privilege of performing at many venues—but Foss Waterway Seaport stands out as one of the most memorable. The industrial-meets-maritime charm, historic architecture, and panoramic views of Commencement Bay create an unforgettable atmosphere for any celebration.
The staff is top-tier—professional, helpful, and truly invested in making events run smoothly. Load-in was easy, acoustics were great, and the space allows for seamless transitions between ceremony, dinner, and dancing.
If you’re looking for a unique Tacoma venue that blends history, elegance, and waterfront beauty, Foss Waterway Seaport is it. Highly recommend for weddings, corporate events, and milestone celebrations!"
DJ iSizzle
"Do check their website before coming for the upcoming event-related closures. Five stars just for updating visitors on the website.
The museum itself is very spacious. You enter, fill out a form at the front desk, and enter through the gift shop (or however you wish; we started on the right side and made a nice loop).
My favorite exhibit was the MV Kalakala. I've seen only photos of it and was super excited to see a model of the ferry. It's so sad that the restoration efforts failed and the ferry got disassembled.
I also liked the "The known world as of 1643" globe. I have never seen a map with no US West Coast on it (it's noted on the sign that the Pacific Northwest Coast has yet to be charted).
They have touch tanks but they are "open" only on the weekends from 1-3pm.
And last but not least- the chalk storage in the exploration area is a ferry, so cute.
Overall, a great museum with awesome exhibits and friendly staff."
Jesse A.
"Great spot to walk along the water just off downtown Tacoma. You can see mt. Rainer, cargo ships, Tacoma Dome, Glass Museum (Free Thursdays and free glass bridge), the Foss Waterway Seaport Museum (FREE, highly recommend), the sound, and The Olympics if you do the whole stretch. Excellent place to Kayak or boat about."
Josiah Devine Johnson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Foss Waterway Seaport is located along the Thea Foss Waterway in Tacoma, WA. Paid street parking is available nearby. It's also accessible by kayak or boat, with a functional dock on site.
Yes, there is a small, free lot available, and paid street parking is also an option.
Absolutely! The Seaport features a functional dock, making it a great destination for boaters and kayakers exploring the Foss Waterway.
While specific bus routes aren't detailed, its downtown Tacoma location suggests accessibility via local transit options. It's recommended to check Pierce Transit for current routes.
The Seaport is close to other attractions like the Tacoma Dome, the Museum of Glass (with its Chihuly Glass Bridge), and the History Museum, making it part of a larger cultural exploration.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Foss Waterway Seaport museum is free, though donations are welcomed and encouraged to support their operations and exhibits.
The museum is typically open Thursday through Sunday. It's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours, as they can vary due to events.
No, tickets are not required as admission is free. However, for special events, it's advisable to check the website for any registration or ticket information.
Yes, the Tacoma Public Library offers passes that can grant access to the Seaport, so check with your local library branch.
The Seaport hosts various events, including weddings. It's crucial to check their website for event-related closures to ensure you can access the museum.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Highlights include the MV Kalakala ferry model, a 'Known World as of 1643' globe, and interactive displays like a pretend fishing boat. The museum showcases maritime history and local culture.
Yes, the Seaport offers hands-on activities, including a fun pretend fishing boat and touch tanks (open weekends 1-3 PM), making it great for families.
It features a model of the MV Kalakala, a historic ferry that served the Puget Sound. It's a significant piece of local maritime heritage, evoking nostalgia for its failed restoration.
Yes, the Seaport has touch tanks where visitors can interact with local sea life, but these are only open on weekends from 1 PM to 3 PM.
The Seaport offers a blend of industrial-maritime charm, historic architecture, and beautiful waterfront views, making it a picturesque spot for photos.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Seaport itself does not appear to have a dedicated restaurant. However, its downtown Tacoma location means many dining options are within walking distance.
While not explicitly stated, it's common for museums to allow outside food in designated areas or for picnics on the grounds, especially given its waterfront setting. Check with staff upon arrival.
The surrounding downtown Tacoma area offers a variety of cuisines, from casual cafes to sit-down restaurants, catering to diverse tastes.
There isn't a dedicated cafe mentioned, but the gift shop might offer light refreshments. It's best to plan for meals before or after your visit.
The waterfront location offers scenic spots for a picnic. Consider enjoying your meal with views of Commencement Bay before or after your museum visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the historic architecture, the functional dock with boats, waterfront views of Commencement Bay, and the unique exhibits like the MV Kalakala model.
Yes, personal photography is generally allowed inside the museum, but it's always good practice to check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or certain exhibits.
The waterfront location provides excellent vantage points for sunset shots over Commencement Bay, with the Seaport's structures adding character to the scene.
Drone usage is typically restricted in public areas and near maritime facilities. It's essential to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
The Seaport has hosted art exhibitions, such as 'If I Lived in the Ocean,' which featured unique installations. Keep an eye on their website for current and upcoming art displays.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Admission is free, making it an affordable outing. Consider visiting on a weekday for a less crowded experience, or embrace the weekend buzz for the touch tank fun. The combination of history and hands-on activities ensures a fun and educational day for everyone.
🏛️ History Buffs
Discover historical maps, navigational tools, and stories of the people who shaped the region's connection to the sea. The Seaport's architecture itself is a testament to the area's industrial past, offering a tangible link to history.
💍 Couples & Event Planners
Its picturesque setting is ideal for capturing beautiful wedding photos, with the bay and maritime elements providing a distinctive backdrop. Consider this venue for a celebration that combines elegance, history, and breathtaking scenery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Maritime History and Exhibits
Beyond the historical artifacts, the Seaport emphasizes interactive learning. Children and adults alike can engage with hands-on displays, such as a pretend fishing boat, allowing them to experience aspects of maritime life firsthand. The museum also showcases navigational tools and historical maps, like the 'Known World as of 1643' globe, offering a unique perspective on historical cartography and exploration.
The Seaport also celebrates the cultural connections fostered by the sea. It has hosted events like the arrival of the Hōkūleʻa, a traditional Polynesian voyaging canoe, highlighting the enduring legacy of seafaring traditions and international maritime communities.
Family Fun and Educational Experiences
A major draw for families, especially on weekends, are the touch tanks. From 1 PM to 3 PM on Saturdays and Sundays, children can get up close and personal with local sea creatures, offering a memorable and educational encounter with marine biodiversity. This direct interaction fosters a sense of wonder and respect for the ocean.
Complementing the museum's offerings, the nearby Melanie's Park playground provides an additional space for children to burn energy, making the Foss Waterway Seaport area a well-rounded family outing. The combination of indoor exhibits and outdoor play makes it an ideal spot for a day trip.
Waterfront Venue and Community Hub
The Seaport actively engages with the community through various events and welcomes diverse groups. It has hosted significant cultural events, such as the arrival of the Hōkūleʻa, fostering a sense of shared heritage and connection. The venue's flexibility allows for seamless transitions between different event components, from ceremonies to receptions, making it a practical choice for event planners.
Its role extends to being a point of interest for local exploration. Visitors can enjoy walks along the waterfront, observe boats, and take in views of landmarks like Mount Rainier, further solidifying its status as a key destination in Tacoma's revitalized port area.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit