What a fun trip! I underestimated the beauty of Washington. This west coast state has so much to offer for everyone, and it did not disappoint. Jason and I would absolutely go back. We would focus more on our favorite parts from this trip. The first two nights we stayed in Tacoma and the last four nights we stayed in Fox Island.
Tacoma & Gig Harbor, Washington
We arrived at our hotel in Tacoma late at night, so of course we did not get to explore the city, but we did make up for it the next day.
We started our morning enjoying breakfast at Alma Mater, followed by a quick stop at REI. We were on a mission for bear spray, which I recommend for any of the hiking that you might do. Then we went on a drive toward Ruston Way Park and walked on the pier for a little and decided that it was a good time to check out Gig Harbor.
Gig Harbor
Gig Harbor has a “small town” feel. I loved it. There was plenty of free parking available, but none close enough to any of the shops or breweries we wanted to go to, so we had to walk a little bit. I recommend wearing comfortable shoes… they were needed for majority of this trip.
7 Seas Brewing- This was our first stop in town. Patio seating was available with a nice view of the harbor and Mt Rainer in the distance. I didn’t pay attention to see if any food menus were available while we were there. On their website it states that they offer pre-packaged charcuterie, sandwiches, salads, and sides. Customers are allowed to bring their own food.
Gig Harbor Brewing: Harbor Taproom- We stopped in for a few drinks and had fun playing shuffleboard.
Heritage Distilling Company- Great atmosphere, delicious drinks, and a nice variety of spirits to take home. Jason and I both ordered a drink and sat inside in front of the window so we were able to people watch and enjoy part of an unexpected air show that was happening that day. I recommend buying a bottle of Demitri’s Classic Bloody Mary Seasoning mix. You can use this to make bloody mary drinks or use it as a marinade for steaks! YUM!
7 Seas Brewing 
Heritage Distilling Company 
Heritage Distilling Co
The rest of the night was spent in Tacoma. We dropped off a few purchased items at the hotel and decided to walk to Doyle’s Public House for dinner. There was a nice variety of food to choose from. The baked mac and cheese with brisket was delicious.
Our last stop of the night was at Odd Otter Brewing Company. This cute spot offered a tasty selection of beers and hard seltzers. I recommend stopping by if you are in Tacoma. By this point Jason and I were both very full and tired so we decided that it was a good time make our way back to the hotel.
Fox Island
We had a few hours before we were able to check in to our Airbnb so after we checked out of the hotel we drove to Point Defiance Park. Here you will find a lot of attractions: Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, Gardens, Owen Beach, Trails, Parks, Point Defiance Marina and Fort Nisqually Living History Museum. We followed the Five Mile Drive loop in our car and made a stop along the way and explored one of the trails.
We ended the day settling in to our cute Airbnb. I highly recommend choosing Fox Island for a vacation stay.
Pros: Very cute and quiet, almost feels like your own private community
Cons: We found only one gas station/restaurant on the island. Luckily it was right down the road from where we were staying.
Now back to the gas station. Here you will find a convenience store, deli, and pub all in one place. We enjoyed Zog’s pub and the beer and food they had to offer.
The cottage we stayed in was a perfect fit for us. It’s listed as accommodating six guests, but after viewing the small loft area upstairs, I would say maybe 2 small children and 2 adults would fit comfortably. We had access to kayaks, a grill, firepit and a washer & dryer, along with a stocked kitchen. Overall it was a wonderful stay!
Tipsee Travels 