Insider Tips for Exploring Sumner’s Small Town Charm
Nestled in between Puyallup, Auburn, and Bonney Lake, the City of Sumner is located in Pierce County and is a top destination for those who are looking for some small-town charm to enjoy! Amenities like a Sounder Train station, easy freeway access, and convenient shopping are made even better with Sumner’s picturesque atmosphere. Historically a farming community with a classic Main Street that runs right through town, you can still find Americana charm alive and well here!
Kelli Jo Hjalseth loves heading to Sumner to get in the mood for each season and holiday: “I visit all the funky and wonderful shops at the change of every season and during all major holidays. The merchants really do it up for the holidays! I never leave Main Street without a treasure to take home. Strolling Main Street and visiting the festively decorated stores is how I always start the Fall and Christmas season!”
We completely agree—we highly recommend heading to Sumner for a relaxing day of exploring, and we asked Pierce County locals exactly what to do while in town—check out their shopping and dining recommendations:
Where to Shop in Sumner: Gifts, Antiques, & Family-Owned Businesses
If you’re looking for a gift or just browsing for fun, Joyce Shipley highly recommends A Picket Fence on Main Street: “If you are a fan of Brighton, you can find almost everything in the line there. [They have] jewelry, purses, shoes, [and] I go there often for gifts.”
For other gift ideas (and also some great decor items if you’re working on sprucing up your home!), Cheryl Wilkerson has a great tip: “My friend Juleen Pudist owns an interior design shop in downtown Sumner called Northlight Interiors. They have gifts, interior decor such as mirrors, art, furniture, and offer a complete design service and ideas for remodel and design for homes old and new!”
The Old Cannery is also a must-visit spot if you’re working on giving your home a makeover. Not only are they one of the largest independently owned furniture stores on the West Coast, but The Old Cannery is just a fun place to visit! “[They have] great furniture and fudge!” shares Trish Stone. She also recommends checking out “Antique Row” on Main Street—here, you’ll find a great selection of shops all conveniently next to each other, which is perfect for a day of browsing!
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Where to Dine in Sumner: Brews, Cafes, & Incredible Breakfasts
Kylee Hill really knows her way around town—she has a long list of dining recommendations that include the Windmill Bistro and Tea Madame Tea Shop at Windmill Gardens. There’s also a new coffee and crepe spot called Craft 19, and a cool new brewery called Half Lion that’s a must-visit place for beer enthusiasts. Looking for something sweet? Trish Stone highly recommends Main Street Dairy Freeze: “Best shakes around!”
If you’re searching for an amazing breakfast place, Karen Noland can’t recommend The Buttered Biscuit enough! “Foodie Alert! Hands down… The Buttered Biscuit in downtown! Bacon and biscuits and Reubens… OH MY! Start with the Bacon Bacon Bloody Mary; it's a cure-all. On to the biscuits… I have never been a fan of biscuits and gravy, but I seriously could have eaten the gravy in a bowl (no spoon required). The biscuits… totally homemade country style! Now granted, I did not eat all this at once but the Reuben was divine and their waffles are like puffy maple clouds! The portions are twice the size of my head—seriously!”
Bonus Tips:
- While Spooner Farms is technically in Puyallup, Linnie Smith highly recommends this local icon. It’s close to Sumner and worth a stop if you’re in town! “Spooner Farms is awesome in the fall! There's a huge pumpkin patch, corn maze, hayrides and hot cocoa.”
- Trish Stone and Kylee Hill both recommend the local YMCA, and Trish especially loves the awesome pool there that’s especially designed for kids.
- In warmer months, Loyalty Park and Rainier Park are Kylee Hill’s favorite local parks to take advantage of.