Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium

Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, located in Tacoma, Washington, is a unique destination that combines the best of both land and sea. Situated within the scenic Point Defiance Park, this zoo and aquarium provides visitors with an opportunity to explore a wide range of animal exhibits, marine life displays, and interactive educational experiences. With a mission to inspire conservation and environmental stewardship, Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium offers a fun and informative visit for families, animal lovers, and anyone interested in wildlife.

Why Visit Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium

• Diverse Animal Exhibits: The zoo is home to a variety of animals from around the world, including endangered species like the Amur tiger and the red wolf. The exhibits are thoughtfully designed to provide animals with naturalistic habitats, offering visitors an up-close view of creatures from the jungles, savannahs, and Arctic regions.
• Aquatic Life Displays: The aquarium section features incredible displays of marine life, including colorful fish, sea otters, sharks, and rays. Visitors can watch sea otters play and learn about ocean conservation efforts while exploring the fascinating underwater world.
• Unique Experiences: Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium offers one-of-a-kind experiences, such as animal encounters, behind-the-scenes tours, and feeding demonstrations. These interactive opportunities allow visitors to connect with the animals in a meaningful way.
• Specialty Exhibits: The zoo and aquarium host seasonal and specialty exhibits, including the popular “Wild Wonders Outdoor Theater,” where visitors can watch educational shows featuring animals demonstrating their natural behaviors. These exhibits provide a fun and informative way to learn about animal behavior and conservation.
• Point Defiance Park: Located within Point Defiance Park, the zoo and aquarium benefit from a beautiful natural setting. After exploring the exhibits, visitors can enjoy the park's hiking trails, gardens, and scenic views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.
• Conservation Focus: As a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium plays a crucial role in global conservation efforts. By visiting, you’re supporting their initiatives to protect wildlife and preserve endangered species.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summer months tend to be busier, as schools are out and families flock to the zoo for summer break. Winter offers fewer crowds, though some outdoor exhibits may be less active or closed due to weather conditions. Regardless of when you visit, the zoo is open year-round, and each season offers its own unique experiences.

How to Get There

• By Car: Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is located within Point Defiance Park in Tacoma, Washington. It is easily accessible by car, with free parking available at the zoo. The drive from downtown Tacoma to the zoo takes around 15 minutes.
• By Public Transit: The zoo can be reached by bus from Tacoma. Several bus routes stop near the Point Defiance area, with connections to the main bus terminal in downtown Tacoma. It's best to check the local transit schedule for the most current information.
• By Ferry: If you’re coming from Seattle, you can take the ferry from Seattle to Tacoma, which provides a scenic route to the city. Once you arrive in Tacoma, you can drive to the zoo or take public transit from the ferry terminal.

Tips for Visitors

• Wear Comfortable Shoes: The zoo is spread out across a large area, and visitors will do a fair amount of walking. Comfortable shoes are essential, especially if you plan to explore both the zoo and the surrounding park.
• Plan for All Weather: While much of the zoo is outdoors, some exhibits are indoors or covered. Be sure to check the weather forecast before your visit and bring layers, as temperatures can vary in Tacoma.
• Check for Special Events: Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium frequently hosts special events and seasonal activities, such as zoo lights during the holiday season. Be sure to check the schedule ahead of time to take advantage of these events.
• Bring a Camera: The zoo and aquarium offer numerous opportunities for amazing photos, from close-ups of marine life to shots of the zoo animals in their habitats. Be sure to bring a camera or smartphone to capture these memories.
• Support Conservation Efforts: Consider making a donation or purchasing a membership to support the zoo’s conservation programs. Memberships provide unlimited access to the zoo for a year, as well as discounts on events, food, and souvenirs.

Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is a fantastic destination for animal lovers and families, offering a combination of engaging exhibits, interactive experiences, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring the diverse animal habitats, marveling at the underwater displays, or enjoying the beautiful park surroundings, the zoo provides an enriching experience for all ages. As a fun and educational attraction, it’s a great way to learn about wildlife and conservation while spending quality time with loved ones.