Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium

Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium

Explore a world of vibrant marine life at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium. An unforgettable journey into nature's aquatic wonders awaits you!

Essential Info

🕒

Hours

Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium | AZA-Accredited | Tacoma, WA Skip to main content Saturday, June 14: Open late at 10 am for Sound to Narrows Race Visit VisitHoursTickets & PricesDaily PresentationsAccessibilityMembershipZoo ExperienceField Trips & GroupsEvents CalendarYear-at-a-glance eventsImage Discover DiscoverPremier Experiencesshark divesBotanical GardensAdventure MazeCarouselPrivate EventsZoo CampsLearning ResourcesZoo Snoozes

📞
🎟️

Admission

Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium | AZA-Accredited | Tacoma, WA Skip to main content Saturday, June 14: Open late at 10 am for Sound to Narrows Race Visit VisitHoursTickets & PricesDaily PresentationsAccessibilityMembershipZoo ExperienceField Trips & GroupsEvents CalendarYear-at-a-glance eventsImage Discover DiscoverPremier Experiencesshark divesBotanical GardensAdventure MazeCarouselPrivate EventsZoo CampsLearning ResourcesZoo Snoozes

⭐ What Visitors Say

Real reviews from real visitors of Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium

Google Reviews

Trusted by millions

4.8

Based on 3,948 reviews

TripAdvisor

World's largest travel site

4.5

Based on 724 reviews

🎭 Shows & Experiences

🎭 Shows Available

Zoo Hours: Open Daily: Monday - Friday: 9 am - 4 pm, Saturday - Sunday: 9 am - 5 pm. Special event: Saturday, June 14: Open late at 10 am for Sound to Narrows Race. Daily Presentations available.

🐠 Animal Encounters

Interactive experiences include the new show at the Wild Wonders Outdoor Theater, where guests can see various animal demonstrations.

📚 Educational Programs

Educational offerings include school programs, camps, classes, workshops, and learning opportunities for all ages.

📅 Planning Your Visit to Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium

🌊 Notable Exhibits

New at the Zoo: Ume the tapir is exploring her habitats, new otter duo Sebastian and Pintar in the Asian Forest Sanctuary, and a penguin chick at Penguin Point. Other highlights include juvenile spiny Pacific lumpsuckers and a rare agave that is about to flower.

ℹ️ Visitor Information

⏰ Best Time to Visit

The zoo is open daily, with hours from 9 am to 4 pm on weekdays and 9 am to 5 pm on weekends. Special hours may apply for events, such as opening late at 10 am for the Sound to Narrows Race on June 14.

🌍 Conservation & Research

🐋 Conservation Programs

Conservation efforts focus on protecting threatened species and their habitats, including initiatives from the jungles of Borneo to local animal care.

AZA Accredited

This aquarium is accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, meeting the highest standards for animal care and conservation.

🐟

Species Diversity

Home to approximately 500 different species of marine life.

About Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium

Dive into a world of underwater wonders and wildlife at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium. Located in the heart of , this unique attraction is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts, families, and explorers alike. With a breathtaking array of marine life and interactive exhibits, a visit to this place is more than just a day out - it's an unforgettable adventure.

The Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is renowned for its diverse range of marine life. From playful sea otters to majestic sharks, there's always something fascinating to see at this world-class aquarium. Get up close to vibrant tropical fish, graceful jellyfish, curious octopuses, and more. The aquarium is a celebration of life beneath the waves, showcasing the natural beauty and diversity of our oceans.

But it's not just what's under the water that will capture your imagination. The zoo is home to a wide variety of animals from around the globe. From playful penguins to towering giraffes, each exhibit offers a unique window into the natural world. Discover the enchanting world of marine life and be mesmerized by the vibrant colors and intricate patterns of the coral reefs.

Your visit to Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is sure to be a memorable one. Beyond the exhibits, the aquarium offers a host of interactive experiences. Feed a stingray, touch a starfish, or take a behind-the-scenes tour to learn about the care and conservation of these marine creatures. For the little ones, the hands-on Kids' Zone is a delight, filled with educational games and activities.

Education is at the heart of Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium's mission. Through engaging exhibits, educational programs, and conservation efforts, visitors of all ages can learn about the importance of protecting our planet and its diverse inhabitants. Whether you're a seasoned marine biologist or a curious first-time visitor, the aquarium offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.

Planning your visit to Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is easy. The facility is conveniently located in , accessible by public transportation and offering plenty of parking. On-site amenities include a café, gift shop, and picnic areas, so you can make a day of it. Accessible pathways and exhibits ensure that everyone can enjoy their visit.

Immerse yourself in the wonders of nature and dive into the depths of our oceans at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium. From the vibrant exhibits showcasing an array of marine life to the interactive experiences and educational programs, this aquarium offers a captivating journey into the natural world. Whether you're a local resident or visiting , make sure to add Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium to your itinerary.

Explore, discover and learn – a visit to Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is more than just a day out, it's an adventure that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for our planet's incredible biodiversity.

📸 Photo Gallery