Auburn, Washington: Where Fun and Adventure Collide – The Ultimate Guide to the Best Things to Do and Places to Visit!
Emerald Downs runs the whole of the thoroughbreds and the grandstand looks straight out at Mount Rainier out there. Muckleshoot Casino keeps over 3,000 games going right across the whole of the same floor out there. The Outlet Collection runs over 100 stores under the one single roof right out there as well. The amphitheatre fills right up for the whole of the big names out there. Genuinely.
Planning a trip to Auburn, Washington and wondering what fun things run there to do and places to visit? Auburn covers everybody, from taking nature to sports and activities galore, retail therapy, culinary delights, working Auburn’s culture, family fun and more.
Nature lovers will take to Soos Creek Botanical Garden or Flaming Geyser State Park, where you can go tubing or rafting down the river through the warmer months. Sports enthusiasts will love the Emerald Downs thoroughbred racetrack or PGP Motorsports Park, where you can race go-karts. And for anybody who loves shopping, plenty of retail options run in Auburn, the Outlet Collection Seattle among them.
On food, Auburn runs culinary delights across the range. Muckleshoot Casino runs over 3,000 games to choose from and is one of Washington’s best casinos. Do not miss working Auburn’s culture at the White River Valley Museum. For family fun, Gotcha Arenas is a strong place to visit for indoor play and event spaces.
Key Takeaways
- Embrace nature by visiting Soos Creek Botanical Garden or Flaming Geyser State Park.
- Sports enthusiasts should check out Emerald Downs thoroughbred racetrack or PGP Motorsports Park.
- Enjoy retail therapy at the Outlet Collection Seattle or explore Auburn’s culture at the White River Valley Museum.
Embracing Nature in Auburn
A nature lover? Then Auburn is the destination. Between its greenery, its bodies of water and its walking trails, Auburn runs a long list of outdoor activities to take. Here are the best places to visit in Auburn to take nature:
Green River Adventures
Green River Adventures should not be skipped by adventure seekers. Between its scenic beauty and its thrilling water activities, it suits a whole day. You can take activities like kayaking, canoeing and paddleboarding. Feeling adventurous? You can even try your hand at white-water rafting. So are you ready to get wet and wild?
White River Valley Museum
Interested in learning the history of the area? The White River Valley Museum is the place to be. It holds a collection of artifacts and exhibits showing the history and culture of Auburn. The museum sits in the historic Mary Olson Farm and is surrounded by fine gardens. So history buffs should not miss this one.
Soos Creek Botanical Garden
Do you have a green thumb? Then the Soos Creek Botanical Garden should not be skipped. Spread across 22 acres, the garden holds a collection of rare and exotic plants. You can take a leisurely stroll through the garden and take the flowers, trees and shrubs. So take a break from the noise of city life and get right into the beauty of nature.
Flaming Geyser State Park
Flaming Geyser State Park is an unusual destination you will not find anywhere else. The park is named after a methane gas seep that used to ignite, which made a flame that danced on the water’s surface. The flame no longer exists, but the park still runs outdoor activities across the range like hiking, fishing and picnicking. So pack a picnic basket and head over to the park for a day of fun in the sun.
Auburn suits a nature lover, and these are only a few of the many destinations you can visit to take nature. So what is the hold-up? Put on the hiking boots, grab the camera and head over to Auburn for an adventure of a lifetime.
Sports and Activities Galore
After some fun sports and activities to do in Auburn, Washington? Auburn covers everybody, horse racing through inflatable whitewater kayaking. So put on the athletic shoes and let us dive into the sports and activities galore in Auburn.
Emerald Downs
Horse racing fans should not miss Emerald Downs. This thoroughbred racetrack is one of the most popular attractions in Auburn. You can place the bets, cheer on the favorite horse, and take the excitement of the races. And the track runs a fine view of Mount Rainier. So grab a mint julep and get ready to watch some horse racing action.
Disc Golfing Fun
A fan of disc golf? Auburn runs a strong disc golf course at Game Farm Park. The course runs 18 holes and suits beginners or experienced players. Bring your own discs or rent them from the park office. The course opens year-round, so you can take disc golfing fun whatever the season.
Pickleball and Tennis
After some racket sports? Auburn runs several tennis and pickleball courts. You can challenge the friends to a game of tennis or pickleball and work up a sweat. The Les Gove Park runs six tennis courts and four pickleball courts. So grab the racket and get ready to play.
Inflatable Whitewater Kayaking
After something more adventurous? Then try inflatable whitewater kayaking. The White River in Auburn runs exciting rapids that suit inflatable kayaking. You can rent an inflatable kayak and paddle down the river. It is a thrilling and unusual run that stays with you.
So into horse racing, disc golfing, racket sports, or inflatable kayaking, Auburn runs something for all four. Get out there and take the sports and activities galore in Auburn.
Retail Therapy in Auburn
After a little retail therapy in Auburn? You are in luck. This city runs plenty of options to satisfy the shopping needs. Here are two strong places to take:
The Outlet Collection
First up is The Outlet Collection. This shopping center runs over 100 stores, so something will land. Clothing through home goods through electronics, they run it all. And with brands like Nike, Coach and Calvin Klein, you can shop the favorite names without breaking the bank.
But it is not only about the shopping here. The Outlet Collection also runs plenty of dining options, so you can refuel between stores. Grab a burger at Johnny Rockets, some sushi at Sarku Japan, or a sweet treat at Auntie Anne’s.
Fred Meyer
Next is Fred Meyer. This superstore runs everything you need, groceries through clothing through home goods. And with their low prices, you can stock up without worrying about the wallet.
But Fred Meyer is not only a one-stop-shop. They also run a pharmacy, a garden center and even a jewelry department. Need a new watch or a piece of fine jewelry? They cover you.
So in the mood for serious shopping or simply picking up a few essentials, Fred Meyer is the place to go.
Overall, Auburn runs plenty of options for retail therapy. After designer brands or everyday essentials, you find what you need either way. So grab the wallet and get ready to shop ’til you drop.
Culinary Delights
You are in for a treat on food in Auburn. Cozy cafes through fancy restaurants, this city runs it all. Here are a few places to visit to satisfy the taste buds.
West Hill Deli
After a quick bite? Head over to West Hill Deli. This place is a quiet corner that serves some of the best sandwiches in town. The portions run huge, so come with an empty stomach. You can choose from meats, cheeses and vegetables across the range to build the sandwich you want. And feeling adventurous? Try their famous Deli Challenge, a massive sandwich that costs nothing if you finish it in 30 minutes or less. Good luck.
Craft Beer
Auburn is home to some of the best craft breweries in the state. Beer lovers are in luck. Take Geaux Brewing, where you can take a cold one in a cozy and relaxed atmosphere. They run beers across the range behind the bar, and their friendly staff are always happy to help you choose the brew that fits. And hungry? They also serve strong pub grub.
Restaurants
After a fancy night out? Auburn runs plenty of upscale restaurants to choose from. For a taste of Italy, head over to Zanti Cucina Italiana. This restaurant serves some of the best pasta dishes in town, and their wine selection is top-notch. In the mood for something more exotic? Try Sushi Konami. This Japanese restaurant runs sushi rolls, sashimi and other traditional dishes across the range. And seafood lovers cannot go wrong with The Lobster Shop. This waterfront restaurant serves some of the freshest seafood in the area, and their views of the Puget Sound run long.
In the mood for a quick bite or a fancy night out, Auburn covers both. So grab the fork and the beer mug and get ready to take some culinary delights.
Summer runs the races at Emerald Downs and the spray park over at Les Gove out there. The amphitheatre books the whole of the big touring names through the warmer months out there. Winter sends the whole of it indoors to the casino and the outlet mall out there. Time it either way.
Exploring Auburn’s Culture
Visiting Auburn, Washington, you quickly find that this city runs deep on history and lively culture. Plenty of fun things to do and places to visit run here and they give a taste of Auburn’s character. Here are a few suggestions to get you started.
Local History at the Museum
History buffs should not miss the White River Valley Museum. This museum works on preserving and sharing the history of the area, from the Native American tribes who first lived in the region to the present day. You find exhibits on everything from early settlers to the development of the railroad, along with artifacts and photographs that bring the past to life.
Concerts at White River Amphitheatre
On live music, Auburn runs plenty. One of the strongest venues in the area is the White River Amphitheatre, which hosts concerts by some of the biggest names in the business. A fan of classic rock, country, or pop, a show here will suit the taste. Past performers have included Sting, Dave Matthews Band and Lady Antebellum.
Muckleshoot Casino
Feeling lucky? Head over to the Muckleshoot Casino for a night of gaming and entertainment. This casino runs slot machines, table games and poker rooms across the range, along with several restaurants and bars. You can also catch live music and other performances at the casino’s Club Galaxy.
So there you have it, a few suggestions for working Auburn’s culture. Interested in local history, live music, or gambling, this city runs something for all three. So pack the bags, grab the sense of adventure and get ready to find all that Auburn runs.
Family Fun in Auburn
After some family-friendly activities in Auburn? You are in luck. Auburn runs plenty of options for kids of all ages. Here are the best family-friendly activities:
Playgrounds at Les Gove Park
Les Gove Park is a strong place to take the kids for some outdoor fun. The park runs several playgrounds that suit kids of all ages. The playgrounds run slides, swings, climbing structures and more. The park also runs a spray park that opens through the summer months. The spray park is a strong way to cool off on a hot day.
Children’s Museums
If the kids love to learn, a visit to one of Auburn’s children’s museums should not be skipped. The Children’s Museum of Tacoma is a strong place to start. The museum runs hands-on exhibits that suit kids of all ages. The museum also runs a play area for younger kids. Another strong option is the Children’s Museum of Seattle. The museum runs exhibits on science, art and culture. The museum also runs a play area for younger kids.
So what is the hold-up? Get out there and have some fun with the family.
Around Auburn
Looking to work the surrounding areas of Auburn, Washington? Here are the nearby cities you can visit for a fun day trip.
Bellevue
A short drive from Auburn, Bellevue is a busy city with plenty to see and do. Take the Bellevue Botanical Garden for a peaceful stroll, or head to the Bellevue Arts Museum for a dose of culture. And feeling adventurous? Take a ride on the Bellevue Zip Tour for a thrilling run high in the treetops.
Des Moines
Sitting just south of Auburn, Des Moines is a charming waterfront town with plenty of activities to keep you entertained. Take a walk along the Des Moines Beach Park Pier, or head to the Des Moines Marina for some boating and fishing. And hungry? Take the local seafood restaurants for some of the freshest catches around.
Enumclaw
In the mood for some outdoor adventure? Head to Enumclaw for hiking, skiing and snowboarding. Take the trails at the Mount Rainier National Park, or hit the slopes at the Crystal Mountain Resort. And after a slower run? Take a dip in the natural hot springs at the nearby Salish Lodge.
Federal Way
Sitting just north of Auburn, Federal Way runs plenty of family-friendly activities to keep everybody entertained. Take the Pacific Bonsai Museum for an unusual look at the art of bonsai, or head to the Wild Waves Theme Park for a day of thrills and spills. And hungry? Try some of the local Korean BBQ restaurants for a strong meal.
Puyallup
Head east from Auburn and Puyallup turns up, a quaint town with plenty of charm. Take the Meeker Mansion for a look at local history, or head to the Puyallup Farmers Market for fresh produce and handmade crafts. And feeling adventurous? Take a ride on the famous Puyallup Fair roller coaster for a thrilling run.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some wacky and unique things to do in Auburn, Washington?
After something out of the ordinary? Head over to Gotcha Arenas for a thrilling game of laser tag or try your hand at axe throwing at Blade & Timber. Feeling brave? Take a ride on the zipline at Wild Waves Theme & Water Park.
What are the top-rated restaurants in Auburn, Washington?
In the mood for some strong seafood? Take The Lobster Shop South. For a taste of the Mediterranean, try Gyro Zone. And craving some classic American fare? Hop on over to Rainbow Cafe.
What are some hidden gems to explore in Auburn, Washington?
Take a stroll through the Soos Creek Botanical Garden or work the historic Mary Olson Farm. For an unusual shopping run, take the Auburn International Farmers Market.
What is the most thrilling thing to do in Auburn, Washington at night?
Get the adrenaline pumping with a night of racing at PGP Motorsports Park. Or feeling brave? Take a ghost tour of the historic Auburn Ave Theater.
What are some budget-friendly activities to do in Auburn, Washington?
Take a hike through Flaming Geyser State Park or work the Green River Gorge. For a fun activity that costs nothing, take the Auburn Art Walk.
What are some interesting facts about Auburn, Washington?
Did you know that Auburn is home to the largest annual Veterans Day Parade west of the Mississippi? Or that Auburn was once known as the Hop Capital of the World? And fans of the TV show Twin Peaks might recognize some of the locations in Auburn from the series.
Frequently asked questions about Auburn, Washington
How big exactly is the whole of the Muckleshoot Casino floor actually running out there, then, really now?
It keeps over 3,000 games running right across the whole of the floor out there. Slot machines and table games and poker rooms all sit inside the very same building. Restaurants and bars and live music at Club Galaxy fill out the rest. Late.
How many exactly of the stores does the whole of The Outlet Collection actually run out there, then, really now?
It runs over 100 stores right across the whole of the one single site out there. Nike and Coach and Calvin Klein all sit inside it at the outlet prices out there. Johnny Rockets and Sarku Japan and Auntie Anne’s handle the eating out there. Whole day.
How big exactly is the whole of the Soos Creek Botanical Garden out there, then, really now, in the end?
It spreads across 22 acres and the rare and exotic plants fill the whole of it. The paths run flat and the stroll asks almost nothing at all of anybody out there. Flowers and trees and shrubs carry the whole of the walk out there. Quiet.
Keep exploring Auburn, Washington
More places to visit in Washington
- Things to do in Bellevue, Washington
- Best of Bellingham, Washington
- Things to do in Blaine, Washington
- Our Bothell, Washington travel guide
- Bremerton, Washington: what to do
Top destinations in Washington
All things to do in Washington