LOCAL
In the heart of winter, Point Ruston transforms into a serene coastal haven. The streets are lined with twinkling lights, giving the whole area a warm and festive glow. Along the Ruston Way Waterfront, the walking paths invite visitors to slow down and savor the peacefulness of the season. The local shops beckon with their inviting displays of one-of-a-kind treasures, perfect for holiday gifts. Cafes and restaurants offer the promise of warmth, delicious food, and breathtaking views of the bay. Families and friends can come together to enjoy activities designed to foster connection and spark joy!
Point Ruston offers a lively mix of winter activities, festive events, and a variety of small businesses to explore and support. One standout is Escape Hour, a beloved local gem offering an immersive experience that’s perfect for your family and friends to enjoy together.
Whether you're exploring a new destination or seeking adventure in your own hometown, finding activities that capture the magic of the season can be a challenge. We understand the importance of discovering experiences that everyone—friends, family, and loved ones of all ages and backgrounds—can enjoy. That’s why we’ve curated a list of "must-do's," so you can skip the planning and dive straight into the fun!
Waterfront Market at Ruston
When looking for things to do at Point Ruston, we encourage you to include a stroll around the completely indoor Waterfront Market. Far more than a place to shop, the market is a celebration of local culture and a shining example of the vibrant community spirit that defines Point Ruston.
It is open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and features over 40 permanent tenants and a variety of day-stall vendors, offering an eclectic mix of goods. Visitors can enjoy fresh produce, colorful market flowers, handcrafted gifts, bath products, and a full-service butcher. It’s a delightful way to enjoy holiday shopping in the cozy comfort of an indoor space.
Be sure to remember this winter, you can treat your little ones to a special surprise—keep an eye out for the Market’s mischievous elf, Jingles! Follow us on Instagram for clues about where he might be hiding!
Zoolights at Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium
Zoolights has been a cherished annual tradition in the Tacoma area for over 30 years, bringing together locals and visitors alike. We warmly invite you to join in and be part of this beloved celebration.
Zoolights transforms the zoo into a sparkling wonderland with over 800,000 lights, featuring breathtaking displays of animals, nature scenes, and holiday themes. It’s an enchanting experience and the perfect spot to capture unforgettable holiday photos. Designed for all ages, it’s the ultimate family outing! In addition to the lights, you might catch a glimpse of the zoo’s nocturnal animals, offering a unique after-dark encounter.
Conveniently located near Point Ruston, your trip to Zoolights can easily be combined with other activities, such as savoring a delicious meal at a waterfront restaurant or exploring the charming Waterfront Market. This seamless pairing creates the perfect opportunity to enhance and extend your holiday outing. With its dazzling lights, festive ambiance, and close proximity to these attractions, a visit to Zoolights at Point Defiance Zoo is a cheerful winter experience you simply can’t miss.
Escape Hour Point Ruston
Step out of the chilly weather and into a world of immersive entertainment. More than just a game, Escape Hour provides a warm, engaging indoor activity where you can bond with family and friends.
While Point Ruston offers plenty of outdoor activities during the summer, many options like the splash pad and bike rentals are closed in the winter. With limited entertainment choices during the colder months, Escape Hour stands out as a year-round attraction.
Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or coworkers, Escape Hour in Point Ruston offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn more about your teammates, and enjoy a one-of-a-kind quest. Designed for all ages and skill levels, its custom-designed rooms and captivating storytelling ensures everyone can participate and experience an unparalleled escape room journey.
If you’re holiday shopping in Point Ruston, consider gifting an Escape Hour experience. Gift vouchers are available, making it easy to give a memorable adventure instead of just another tangible gift that often goes unused and unappreciated.
Escape Hour fits seamlessly into any holiday trip to Point Ruston. Play an escape room, enjoy shopping, and then head to dinner to discuss your experience— We recommend scheduling dinner after your escape room, as it makes for a great conversation starter and allows for an opportunity to relive the adventure.
Booking an escape room at Escape Hour in Point Ruston is simple and convenient. You can easily make a reservation through their official website, or, if you have questions or prefer a more personal touch, you can book over the phone.
Winter Walks Along the Waterwalk
A winter stroll along the Waterwalk in Point Ruston is a delightful way to spend a crisp, chilly day. During the quieter winter months, the path takes on a serene charm with twinkling lights and festive decor.
The walk blends urban and natural beauty, with Tacoma's skyline complementing the peaceful waterfront. You will take in sweeping views of the bay, where sparkling waters may reveal playful seals, soaring seabirds, or the graceful passage of a ferry. On clear days, the towering majesty of Mount Rainier creates a breathtaking backdrop!
The paved path is ideal for a simple stroll or an invigorating jog right next to the water. With its stroller-friendly design and ample space for kids to play, it’s perfect for families! Whether you’re seeking exercise, sightseeing, or a tranquil escape, the Waterwalk at Point Ruston has something for everyone, making it a standout feature of this vibrant community.
Cozy Coffee and Sophisticated Eateries
After roaming the Waterwalk or an exciting adventure at Escape Hour, you might find yourself craving a hearty meal or a warm cup of coffee. Point Ruston offers a wide variety of local eateries to satisfy any craving.
Jewel Box Café, at 5107 Grand Loop, is a cozy spot with a vintage espresso bar vibe. We recommend trying the festive Peppermint Stick latte or one of the refreshing bubble teas. For something more filling, you might enjoy the Italian Panini, Meat Lover's Bagel, or the Smoked Salmon Crepe! With weekly sandwich specials and a delightful holiday menu, there’s sure to be something you’ll love!
For a special occasion or when you have time to indulge in something more refined, Woven Seafood and Chophouse is the perfect choice. Celebrating Tacoma's waterfront culture, Woven features a carefully curated menu that masterfully blends the best of seafood and steakhouse cuisine. From perfectly seared scallops to expertly cooked steaks, every dish is crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients for an unforgettable dining experience.
So whether you're diving into the challenge of an immersive escape room, savoring coffee by the waterfront, or exploring the charming local shops, winter at Point Ruston is filled with endless activities. We warmly invite you to join us in celebrating the beauty of the season.
LOCAL
Welcome to the LOCAL Topic of the blog, where we celebrate the small businesses and localized news that make your community special. Our mission is to shine a spotlight on the people and places that make our neighborhood unique, and to provide a platform for local voices to be heard. From highlighting the best local shops and restaurants to reporting on important community issues, we aim to be a valuable resource for anyone interested in staying connected to their community. Thank you for joining us, and we hope you enjoy reading about all the amazing things happening in your neighborhood.
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