Activities for Kids

Get Revved Up: Where to See, Touch (and Ride in) Monster Trucks

Here's where you and your mini monster truck fan can see, hear, smell, touch and even ride in monster trucks.

By Helen Walker Green April 14, 2015

Kids love trucks. Big trucks, small trucks and even high-octane monster trucks. And there’s a good reason why. These beasts on wheels are an engine-revving, dirt-churning, car-crushin’, high-flying blast for truck lovers of all ages. Race through our guide to where to see, hear, smell, touch, and even ride in monster trucks!

Monster Jam: January 15-17, 2016

Monster Jam is 1500 horsepower of sheer entertainment! Packing the T-dome for three days every January, this is where the superstars of the monster truck world face off. Grave Digger, Monster Mutt, El Toro Loco, Max-D, Captain America and more put on a roaring, thundering show – full of gravity-defying tricks (check out the sky wheelie).

Party in the Pits: Monster Jam drivers meet the fans at the pre-show Party in the Pits, held on the monster truck track on Saturday. Kids (and kids at heart) can check out the obstacles the trucks will jump (or smash), chat with the drivers, grab some pics and get up close and personal with the trucks. Psst! There’s even monster truck bouncy houses too!

Good to Know: Fans can get autographs after the show – drivers promise to stay until the last autograph is signed.

Insider Tip: Get there EARLY to avoid the traffic jam on the Tacoma Dome exit off I-5. Monster Jam is hugely popular, and this exit gets very backed up.

Tacoma Dome
2727 East D. St.,
Tacoma, Wa 98421
253-272-3663
Tickets: tacomadome.org
Online: monsterjam.com

photo: Feld Entertainment

Good to Know
Monster truck shows are LOUD, so make sure your kiddies have ear protection (highly recommended for grownups too). Ear plugs are fine, but we’ve found ear muffs work best for kids as they don’t fall off so easily. Psst! If you forget to bring a pair, most shows have them for sale near the concession stands.

What is your family’s favorite monster truck experience? Tell us about it in the Comments below.

— Helen Walker Green