These days, it seems like I can get anything I need or want online. Theres a website to purchase anything, after all. But sometimes I just want to go out and shoptheres something about going through a store, being able to touch and feel the items on sale, that trumps the ease of online ordering. Theres other things that just arent worth ordering onlinethings like fresh fruits, vegetables, and other foods. When I need to shop around Tacoma, here are a few of the places I check out.
Malls: South Hill Mall and Tacoma Mall
Wandering the mall looking for deals, stopping for snacks, or just window shopping can be relaxing and a great way to spend a free afternoon. Add in the opportunity to take in a movie or play some games at the arcade, and youre set. The Puyallup area has two close-by malls: the South Hill Mall and the Tacoma Mall. For a list of stores, you can check out their websites: South Hill and Tacoma.
Farmers Markets
What better way to buy produce than straight from the source? With fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, eggs, dairy products, and even baked goods, farmers markets are the place to go if youve got a craving or a special dish in mind for dinner. In the area around Canyon park, there are several farmers markets: the Federal Way Farmers Market and Puyallup Farmers Market are on Saturdays; the Norpoint Market is on Sundays; and Wednesday brings the Town Square Market. Check out their websites for times and other details.
Bartering
Finally, for an interesting look back at how shopping used to go, you can attend Tradin Past to Present, a chance to see how bartering was done at the Hudson Bay Company trading post. This event provides a special opportunity to see what the possibilities are when this old fashioned exchange method is practiced in the present, courtesy of program partner Pierce Countys Fair Tradin. And family-friendly activities give even the youngest an opportunity to practice their bartering skills! Tradin Past to Present will take place on Saturday, Septermber 13th from 11am to 5pm at the Fort Nisqually Living History Museum in Tacomas Point Defiance Park. More details are available here.