Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium

Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is a facility with animals from different ecosystems spread across a large forested area within the park. The grounds include outdoor enclosures for land animals, bird habitats, and water tanks with marine life, all connected by pathways.

The facility grew in the early twentieth century when the zoo was founded, followed by the later addition of an aquarium. The aquarium was originally built elsewhere but was eventually moved to the zoo grounds to bring both attractions together.

The Pacific Seas Aquarium displays marine life from different regions, including hammerhead sharks, eagle rays, and sea turtles, visible in large tanks throughout the facility. Visitors can watch how these animals behave in environments designed to mimic their natural habitats.

The grounds have paved paths that make it easy to reach all areas, even if walking is difficult for you. There are plenty of places to sit and rest in the shade under trees, especially helpful on warmer days.

The facility manages a special breeding program for an endangered canine species that has been running for decades. Some of these animals are eventually released into the wild to strengthen the species in natural areas.

Location: Tacoma

Address: 5400 N Pearl St, Tacoma, WA 98407, USA

Opening Hours: 09:30-17:00

Phone: +12535915337

Website: https://pdza.org

GPS coordinates: 47.30510,-122.52096

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:21