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Tacoma's best

Dog and kid-friendly spots

Bringing the dog and the kids along means everyone gets to be part of the outing.

Based on 813 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Seawolf Barbershop image 1
Seawolf Barbershop image 2
Seawolf Barbershop image 3
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Spacious barbershop with an industrial style and cozy, stylish vibe creates a relaxed atmosphere. Friendly French Bulldogs often hang out, adding warmth to the space. The shop maintains a clean, well-lit environment that feels welcoming and inclusive.

Two cute frenchie shop dogs named Ginger and Tony are always around and fun to interact with. The waiting area often has dogs, adding to the friendly vibe.

Haircuts for kids happen quickly, often in about 45 minutes. Barbers like Sean provide sharp, fresh cuts that stand out. Staff answer calls even after closing time to confirm they do kids' haircuts.

People are saying

"Marco's Barbershop is where you get the best fade, done with care and intention."

"You can pet the two cute shop dogs while you wait."

"Sean gets each of my grandsons' hair types just right."

Good to know

1

Booking an appointment online is recommended to secure your preferred time.

2

Haircuts typically cost around $45, with tips expected on top.

3

There is ample street parking available near the barbershop.

02
Tacoma Curly Salon image 1

Salon offers a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with colorful artwork and plants enhancing the space. Energy stays relaxed and friendly, supported by comfortable chairs and a small dog that adds to the vibe. Specialists focus on curly hair care, providing expert treatments and personalized tips.

A salon dog named Cardi B often sits in laps, adding a friendly touch. Dogs in the shop boost the overall vibe during appointments.

Stylists offer curly hair care tips and let kids pick bows, clips, and hair glitter after haircuts. They welcome toddlers and older kids with friendly service and provide custom haircuts for children with curls.

People are saying

"Jade at the Hair Salon gave my kid's first haircut amazing patience and kindness."

"My curls have never looked better after this Relaxing Spot experience."

"They're so kid-friendly, treating my girls with care and patience."

Good to know

1

Public street parking can be limited; arrive early to find a spot.

2

There is street parking available for a small fee.

3

Expect personalized care for all types of curly hair.

03
Mercury Dime Barbershop image 1

Barbershop offers a relaxed, rustic feel with comfortable chairs and a super clean, well-designed space. Positive energy flows from top barbers and a welcoming atmosphere that includes friendly dogs and great music. The environment balances professionalism with a warm, inviting vibe.

Warm and welcoming atmosphere with dogs greeting customers. A cute dog walks around to boost morale.

Staff speak Spanish fluently and show strong empathy with children. They handle kids well, including those with sensory input issues.

People are saying

"The barbers here are amazing with great cuts and hot towel shaves."

"It's really Kid Friendly; Juan speaks Spanish and is great with children."

"I've been going to Brenden for about a year for my hair."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to ensure you get a spot, especially on weekends.

2

The barbershop is known for its cleanliness and hygiene standards.

3

Parking is plentiful and easily accessible for all customers.

04
Puget Sound Glassblowing Studio image 1

Studio offers a hands-on glassblowing experience in a family-friendly, laid-back atmosphere with passionate artists and a curated, intimate setting. Music adds to the creative, fun vibe while a shop dog adds to the welcoming feel. Finished glass art requires cooling time before pickup or shipping.

A friendly dog is always around the studio, adding a warm vibe. The shop dog is a regular presence during visits.

Staff provide expert guidance to kids during glassblowing. Children from ages 6 to 13 enjoy hands-on experience making their own glass pieces with patient support.

People are saying

"It's so much fun learning glassblowing with knowledgeable and patient staff."

"It's so Kid Friendly; they guide you through glassblowing."

"Anthony and Ricky were so helpful and kind."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure your spot for the glassblowing experience.

2

The glass art takes 18 hours to dry and cool before it can be picked up.

3

Finished glass items can be shipped to you for an additional fee if you're out of state.

05
Titlow Park image 1

Park offers beautiful water views and a quiet, peaceful atmosphere despite occasional train noise. Trails and a splash park provide activities for children and dogs. Open spaces near the beach and estuary create a refreshing natural setting for relaxation and walks.

Walking trails offer a great spot for dogs to explore alongside kids. The small beach provides a beautiful place to meet other dog owners and enjoy the outdoors together.

Playgrounds and a children's splash area keep kids entertained. The spray park excites children, and easy hiking paths suit toddlers and older kids.

People are saying

"I found this park to be a lovely place with something for everyone."

"It's a great Kid Friendly place with a fun spray park."

"It's a great place to walk your dog."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited at Titlow Park, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

The park features paved and natural trails suitable for walking and biking.

3

Titlow Park is family-friendly, with a playground and splash area for kids.

06
Wright Park image 1

Victorian-style conservatory and century-old heritage trees create a historic botanical garden atmosphere. Peaceful walkways, ponds with bridges, and open lawns offer a calm, natural setting. Spacious playground and splash pad provide family-friendly amenities amid a city-center green space.

Dogs enjoy plenty of space to run and play with their owners. The park welcomes pets with leash rules and expects owners to bring poo bags for cleanup, creating a safe and clean environment for all.

Wide open spaces include a playground, kids splash zone, and fountains. The playground is well-maintained and suits children of various ages, making it a fun spot for kids to play.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful park for walking, exercising, and relaxing."

"It's a great kid-friendly spot with a fun play area and spray park."

"It's a beautiful, gorgeous park with stunning views and nature walks."

Good to know

1

The playground at Wright Park is currently closed for renovations.

2

Wright Park hosts cultural events and music during spring, summer, and fall.

3

Outdoor yoga circles are held at Wright Park on Sunday mornings.

07
Charlotte's Blueberry Park image 1

Park features dense blueberry bushes and free berry picking, creating a quiet, peaceful atmosphere even when busy. Small playground, picnic tables, and shaded seating offer convenience for families. A short trail with medicinal plants adds to the natural diversity.

Open spaces invite dogs to explore freely while owners enjoy year-round walking paths. The park blends family-friendly areas with spots for pets, though some dog waste on the grounds can be an issue.

A playground offers a fun spot for kids to play and explore. Families and casual pickers often bring children here for a kid-friendly outdoor adventure.

People are saying

"You can pick tons of tasty blueberries at these parks."

"It's a really kid friendly place with a fun playground."

"I loved bringing my dog here to explore and pick blueberries."

Good to know

1

The park offers free blueberry picking from late June to early September.

2

Visitors should bring their own buckets for blueberry picking.

3

Street parking is available near the park entrance.

08
Jefferson Park image 1

Wide open space with large shade trees and lush green lawns creates a relaxing atmosphere. Multiple sports courts and an interactive splash park offer varied activities for families and groups. The park stays well-maintained and attracts many well-behaved dogs and families, especially during busy times.

Lots of well-behaved dogs and polite owners gather here. Off-leash play and obedience training happen often, sometimes with up to six dogs off leash at once.

Interactive water park and splash pad offer fun, safe play for kids, including very small ones. Playgrounds feature Kompan equipment and fountains that brighten the space for children under 8.

People are saying

"The splash park here is great for kids."

"It's a great spot for a picnic with plenty of lawn space."

"The splash park here is so fun and kid friendly!"

Good to know

1

The public restrooms are closed; only port-a-potties are available.

2

There is plenty of street parking, but it can be limited during busy times.

3

Visitors should be prepared if they want to spend the day at the park.

09
Wapato Hills Park image 1

Cherry trees bloom around basketball courts, creating a beautiful setting. Quiet atmosphere with occasional distant plane noise. Features include playground, walking trails, and a splash park for children.

Good-sized dog park area offers plenty of space for dogs to run. Trails provide options for longer walks with dogs.

Spray park and playground with slides offer fun activities for kids. Trails, basketball court, benches, and tables provide spots for play and rest.

People are saying

"The cherry blossoms in the parks are beautiful in spring."

"It's a great kid-friendly spot with a nice playground."

"It's a great dog-friendly spot with a good-sized area for them."

Good to know

1

The park has a walking trail, an open field, and a baseball backstop.

2

The park is a spray park, which is fun for kids.

3

The public restroom is pretty clean.

10
Climb Tacoma image 1
Rock climbing gym

Spacious bouldering gym with inclusive atmosphere and a tight climbing community. Offers varied routes suitable for all skill levels and features amenities like a Moon Board and a kids' climbing section. The environment stays relaxed and welcoming without feeling crowded.

Super dog friendly with lots of cute dogs around. Kids and pets are both welcome, making it a relaxed spot for everyone.

Kids find a dedicated climbing section designed just for them. The environment welcomes children and encourages them to climb safely and quietly.

People are saying

"This rock climbing gym's staff is super friendly and helpful."

"It's a really fantastic and welcoming spot for kids."

"It's so dog friendly, I saw so many cute dogs here."

Good to know

1

Climb Tacoma is suitable for all skill levels, making it a great choice for beginners and experienced climbers alike.

2

The gym has a separate room for kids to climb, ensuring a family-friendly environment.

3

The prices are fairly cheap compared to other gyms in the area, making it budget-friendly.

11
Wapato Park image 1

Park surrounds a beautiful lake with a wooden gazebo and large dock extending over the water. Atmosphere stays peaceful and quiet, offering plenty of walking paths and picnic areas. Off-leash dog parks and a big playground make it welcoming for families and pet owners.

Two off-leash parks offer plenty of space for dogs to run freely. The park includes an even level walking path that suits joggers, families, and dogs alike.

Big playgrounds offer plenty of space for kids to play. Feeding ducks adds a fun, interactive activity for toddlers and families.

People are saying

"It's a great place to walk your dog; the dog park is large."

"It's a great place for picnics with lots of spots by the lake."

"It's a great Kid Friendly spot with a big playground."

Good to know

1

The park provides doggy bags for pet owners.

2

Restrooms are available for visitors.

3

The dog park is separated for large and small dog breeds.

12
Point Ruston image 1
Tourist attraction

Waterfront area offers stunning views of Mount Rainier and Puget Sound with an antique nautical ambiance. Family-friendly with splash pad and playground, plus trails and bike rentals for outdoor activities. Atmosphere is cozy and scenic, often quiet with beautiful natural surroundings.

Waterfront promenade offers wide walking paths ideal for dog walking and biking. Restaurants and shops provide spots to stop with dogs, making it a dog and people friendly area.

A splash pad and playground offer fun spots for kids to play and explore. Families can enjoy a colorful map for kids, picnic areas, and activities like biking, scootering, and kayaking nearby.

People are saying

"I loved the beautiful views of the water and mountains."

"It's really kid friendly with a fun splash pad and play area."

"It's a great spot for dog walking along the waterfront promenade."

Good to know

1

The weekend farmers market at Point Ruston runs every Saturday from 9am to 2pm.

2

Parking at Point Ruston is validated by most shops and restaurants.

3

Expect to pay around $14 for three hours of parking.

13
Verlo Playfield image 1

Open field with splash pad and multi-game court creates a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. Kids enjoy playground equipment and water features, while adults find space for walking and picnics. Energy is relaxed but active, with frequent gatherings and outdoor play.

Big open field offers plenty of space for dogs to run freely. Verlo Playfield provides a great spot to throw the ball and keep dogs active. The area is excellent for walking dogs comfortably.

Splash pads and water slides provide fun ways to cool off on hot days. Play areas include spinning toys that kids enjoy. The environment feels safe and welcoming for children.

People are saying

"It's a great kid-friendly place with a fun splash pad."

"The parking here is really spacious."

"It's great for dogs to run in the big open field."

Good to know

1

The splash pad operates in 30-minute intervals, which may frustrate young kids.

2

Only one restroom is open, and it can be hard to access.

3

Parking is spacious but can get crowded during peak times.

14
Dune Peninsula at Point Defiance Park image 1

Trail along the waterfront offers stunning views of mountains and Puget Sound. The park feels peaceful and scenic, with plenty of grass and paths for walking, biking, and relaxing. Families enjoy playgrounds and slides, while the area supports outdoor activities like volleyball and skating.

Wide, well-kept walking paths make it easy to walk dogs and pass others. Dogs can swim and explore while people enjoy activities like roller skating and biking nearby.

Kids enjoy the alternative to stairs slides and the playground. A field for play offers extra space, and skateboarding is possible at Dune Peninsula.

People are saying

"I loved the amazing views of Mt. Rainier and the water."

"It's so dog friendly, the walking paths are nice for passing other dogs."

"It's really Kid Friendly with a playground and a field for playing."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited and fills up when the weather is nice.

2

There are public restrooms available at Dune Peninsula.

3

The paths on the Dune Peninsula are accessible for wheelchairs and slow walkers.

15
Franklin Park image 1

Park offers spacious grassy areas with shady trees and a variety of play and water features including a splash pool, splash pad, and zip line. Facilities support sports activities like baseball, softball, basketball, and ultimate frisbee. Atmosphere is family-friendly and safe, welcoming all ages for outdoor recreation and gatherings.

Dogs find plenty of space to roam with a basketball court, water play area, and baseball field nearby. The ground often has dog waste, including on the baseball field.

A fun splash zone and a big toy for smaller kids make this spot great for kids. The playground and water features keep kids entertained on hot days.

People are saying

"The parks have a fun splash pool and playground for kids."

"The playground and splash pool are awesome for kids."

"It's a great place for taking your dog for a walk."

Good to know

1

There is a reserveable picnic shelter available for gatherings.

2

The park has a water park open during the summer months.

3

Restrooms are available but may not be well maintained.

16
McKinley Park image 1

Large walking park with old trees and well-maintained plants offers sloping trails and great views. Noise from nearby interstate affects quietness, but the space feels like a step into wilderness. Amenities include playground, skatepark, workout equipment, and picnic areas.

Trails stay cool enough to protect dogs' paws on hot days. Plenty of spots exist for dogs to run, with leash rules and waste receptacles available throughout.

Several amenities support kids including a children's playground and a skatepark. Kids get worn out easily and need full-time watching due to the park's size and layout.

People are saying

"I found the park pretty with nice walking trails."

"It's a great place for dogs to walk and run."

"This place is great for kids, they loved the playground."

Good to know

1

Dogs must be leashed at all times in the park.

2

Expect noise from I-5, which runs next to the park.

3

The bathrooms are closed after summer.

17
Vassault Park image 1

Expansive park with large sports fields and multi-use courts offers a family-friendly and well-maintained outdoor space. Quiet and peaceful atmosphere supports both active sports and relaxed gatherings. Fields fill with teams during weeknights, creating lively energy amid mostly open areas.

Athletic fields allow dogs to run free despite leash rules. Open spaces invite games of fetch and long walks. This park stands out as a dog friendly spot for active outings.

A small playground with a big toy and limited swings, including two for toddlers and two for older kids. Picnic tables and benches surround the kids' play area, which feels safe but may not attract many younger children.

People are saying

"I found Vassault Park to be a wonderful, great park."

"It's a really nice, large park with lots of green space and a playground."

"It's so expansive and quiet, a great Dog Friendly park."

Good to know

1

The park hosts Irish sports activities on specific days with the Tacoma Rangers GAA club.

2

Parking can be tight if there are lots of games at the park.

3

Public restrooms are available and kept clean, open from dusk till dawn.

18
Charme Natural Nails Studio image 1

Salon offers a clean, relaxing vibe with non-toxic, waterless treatments that focus on nail health. Friendly atmosphere includes an adorable dog and appointment-only service ensuring focused attention. Polishes last long without peeling, and nail art is a specialty here.

A friendly dog adds to the welcoming atmosphere. Dogs are welcome, and salon pup Chai often sits on laps during pedicures.

Offers pedicures for kids and adults, making it easy to plan a mom and daughter date or a family outing. Kids can enjoy a fun experience alongside adults during their visit.

People are saying

"The manicure service here is unmatched and truly a relaxing self-care day."

"I love how they care about nail health and use quality polishes."

"It's so Kid Friendly; the staff is patient and engaged."

Good to know

1

Appointments are required as they operate by appointment only.

2

Getting an appointment is straightforward with an easy online booking system.

3

They don't use water during treatments, reducing bacteria risks.

19
Dystopian State Brewing Co. & Event Venue image 1

Brewery occupies a spacious 1920s building with exposed wood beams and high ceilings, creating a cozy yet airy atmosphere. The venue offers board games, live music capabilities, and flexible event space with views of the water. It attracts groups looking for a relaxed spot with ample seating and room for activities like dancing and speeches.

Dogs are allowed inside the venue, making it truly dog friendly. The space is also ADA accessible and welcomes families, combining pet friendliness with accessibility.

Space reservation allows for celebrations involving kids. A good selection of games keeps children entertained inside the venue. The place is ADA accessible and welcomes kids and pets.

People are saying

"I tried many good beers, especially the smooth Black Circle Stout."

"The place had a super cool, cozy vibe and felt welcoming."

"It's a perfect venue with lots of open space for everyone."

Good to know

1

You can bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages.

2

The venue is dog-friendly, kid-friendly, and wheelchair accessible.

3

There is plenty of nearby parking available on weekends.

20
Ferry Park image 1

Historic park with large grassy areas and small playground offers a quiet atmosphere for relaxation and picnics. Benches and picnic tables provide seating, while dogs often play freely in the green space. The park has a friendly pet presence and a calm, old-fashioned vibe.

Large grass area invites dogs to play freely. Friendly pets are common, but dog poop is everywhere with little cleanup.

A small playground with a slide and swings serves younger kids. The large climbing area was removed, so activities for older kids are limited.

People are saying

"The parks here are so green and grassy, perfect for relaxing."

"It's a kid-friendly spot with a small playground."

"It's Dog Friendly with a large grass area for dogs to play."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited at Ferry Park.

2

The playground at Ferry Park is small.

3

Ferry Park is a green and grassy area.

21
Dusty’s Hideaway image 1

Converted 1900s Craftsman house offers cozy, eclectic decor with a laid-back, homey vibe. Covered patio and outdoor seating welcome leashed pets for relaxed dining. Known for excellent burgers and creative cocktails, it blends comfort food with a friendly atmosphere.

Outdoor seating includes heated, covered areas where leashed dogs are welcome. Staff treats dogs with kindness and offers pup patties. The porch and yard provide expansive dog-friendly space.

Kids enjoy the food and find the atmosphere fun and kid-friendly during the day. Lunch visits with children are common and well-received.

People are saying

"I would visit for these burgers every day if I could."

"The outdoor seating is heated and dog friendly."

"It's really kid friendly and lots of fun during the day."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

3

Parking is limited to street parking only, which can be challenging.

22
Garfield Park image 1

Park offers large open fields and a forested walking trail with a children's play area and workout equipment. Atmosphere stays quiet and peaceful, tucked away from busy areas. Frequent presence of off-leash dogs shapes the environment throughout the day.

A huge field offers plenty of space for dogs to run around. Multiple off-leash dogs appear throughout the day, though the park is not a designated dog park and has a separate dog park area. Friendly dogs and people are common, but owners are expected to keep dogs leashed for safety.

A small children's gym and a play area with kids' toys make it easy to keep children entertained. The park feels safe for kids when owners watch their pets carefully.

People are saying

"It's a great spot for dogs with a huge field to run around in."

"I saw so many off-leash dogs in the parks."

"It's a great, kid-friendly park with a little play area."

Good to know

1

Expect to encounter off-leash dogs, some may be aggressive.

2

The park is not suitable for BBQ or extensive trail walking.

3

Garfield Park has a designated area for children to play.

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