It’s easy to toss the word unmissable around sometimes, but trust us when we tell you that the attractions and activities we’re about to give you the lowdown on are the real deal.

The Pacific Northwest has everything you need for a memorable vacation, from the artsy, waterfront city of Tacoma to the majestic peaks of Mount Rainier and more hidden gems sprinkled across Pierce County. Starting with a Seattle airport car rental, you can easily set off on an action-packed road trip.

So, before you pass on this region for somewhere more familiar, think twice. Every corner holds a new discovery, leaving you with stories to share for years. Here’s our top list of must-do activities to make your trip truly remarkable.

Watch the Sunrise at a Place Named Sunrise

If you’re up for an experience that’s truly worth the early alarm, this is it. Sunrise at Mount Rainier National Park is the highest viewpoint that you can actually drive up to. Yep, no mountain climbing needed.

At a solid 6,400 feet up, you’ll be surrounded by wildflower-strewn meadows and, if the weather’s on your side, treated to jaw-dropping 360-degree views of surrounding valleys, Mount Adams, and other Cascade volcanoes.

The only catch is you have to get the timing right. The road to Sunrise usually opens around late June or early July, but it can close as early as late September, so check the road status before you go. Make it to the top though, and this peak offers an unforgettable, “Did this really happen?” morning that’ll have you grabbing for your phone to snap that perfect shot. Just don’t blame us if the views ruin every other sunrise for you.

Cook Yourself (But, Like, in a Fun Way)

You may not have had turning yourself into a lobster on this year’s predictions list, but here’s your chance to literally cook yourself… well, sort of.

Situated at the Paradise Village Hotel, just outside Mount Rainier National Park, this hot tub is no ordinary soak. It’s a giant kettle, heated over an open wood fire, letting you slowly adjust to the rising temperature as you simmer away. No need to worry, though, it’s all about soothing, skin-loving heat, not boiling alive (phew).

If you want to make it a group thing you can book the whole Cannibal Hot Tub for up to 8 people, making it the perfect quirky bonding activity with friends or family.

Swim with The Sharks

Cue the Jaws music because it’s about to become real shark-y at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium in Tacoma, Washington. If you’ve ever dreamed of diving up close and personal with these toothy creatures (without becoming their dinner of course), this is your moment.

No matter if you’re a certified scuba diver ready to glide with these toothy creatures or more of a “let’s stay in the cage” type (hey, we understand), you’ll get that heart-pounding, shark-tastic thrill. Just show up, take a quick briefing, suit up, and dive right in. Before you know it, you’ll be face-to-fin with sharks, channeling your inner Nemo.

TIP: If sharks aren’t your thing, you can still spend the perfect day at Point Defiance Park, an enormous 760-acre area highlighting botanical gardens, hiking trails, ancient forests, and a peaceful beach.

Blow Some Glass Masterpieces

For those of you who aren’t yet in the know, Tacoma’s famous for being the birthplace of the legendary Dale Chihuly, the man who turned glass into art and made the world see it in a whole new light. His large-scale installations are like nothing you’ve ever seen, and his genius has made Tacoma the unofficial glass art hub of the world.

Now, it’s your turn to get in on the molten magic. At some of Tacoma’s hottest studios, like Tacoma Glassblowing Studio or Area 253, you’ll work alongside skilled artists who’ll guide you through the process of gathering, shaping, and blowing glass into your own custom creation. Whether you’re crafting a quirky vase, a wild bowl, or an ornament that’s about to be the star of your next Christmas tree, you’ll walk away with a souvenir that’s totally you and will definitely be the talk of your next dinner party.

Once you’ve got your DIY masterpiece in hand, why not keep the glassy goodness going? Head over to the Museum of Glass, where you can explore exhibits that feature everything from Chihuly’s iconic works to the creations of other glass artists pushing the boundaries of the medium.

Hit the Slopes at Crystal Mountain

Just 1.5 hours from Tacoma, Crystal Mountain is Washington’s largest ski resort, boasting over 2,600 acres of terrain and more than 2,400 vertical feet of downhill fun. With runs for every level of skier or snowboarder, you can carve down groomed slopes or venture off-piste for a bit of wild fun.

And if the weather’s clear, prepare for some seriously breathtaking views from the summit, think all five of Washington’s towering volcanoes in one sweeping panorama.

That’s a Wrap—Now Go Explore!

We told you we weren’t exaggerating! Tacoma and its neighboring areas are absolutely bursting with unmissable experiences.

Now that you’ve got your itinerary locked down and your wanderlust switched to full throttle, let’s wrap things up with some helpful travel tips to make your journey even smoother:

  1. Do your research: Some attractions are seasonal, so be sure to check opening dates before heading out. You wouldn’t want to drive all the way there only to be greeted by a “closed for winter” sign.
  2. Pack smart: Weather can be as unpredictable depending on when you visit. Bring layers, because one minute it’s sunny, and the next, you’re in a downpour (and possibly, a foggy mountain).
  3. Book ahead: The best experiences fill up faster than you can say “selfie with a shark.” So, book early and avoid the heartbreak.
  4. Bring a good camera: You’ll be seeing more breathtaking views and jaw-dropping art than you can count. So be sure to pack a camera that doesn’t make it look like you’ve used an iPhone 4. Pixelated pics are so 2010.

Have the best time!