Pierce County Courts Young Travelers with New Three-Day Fall Itinerary

The route shifts the focus of family travel from adult-centric sightseeing to hands-on engagement, spanning the region from the valley’s agricultural heart to the forests surrounding Mount Rainier. Families can navigate corn mazes, launch apples from cannons, and explore pumpkin patches, turning everyday outdoor activities into immersive play. The itinerary anchors these smaller adventures with larger spectacles, including a historic steam train ride on the Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad and a deep dive into the natural history of the park’s Longmire area.

Matt Wakefield, Chief Marketing and Data Officer for Visit Tacoma-Pierce County, notes that the strategy relies on following a child’s natural engagement rather than a standard tourist checklist. By connecting stops in Sumner, Spanaway, Eatonville, Elbe, and Ashford, the program offers a framework that remains flexible enough for parents to adjust based on their children's specific interests. Beyond the daily activities, the plan encourages thematic stays, with options like converted railroad cabooses and rustic cabins designed to keep the sense of adventure alive even at bedtime. Travelers are encouraged to verify seasonal farm schedules and current park conditions before finalizing their travel dates.