Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium sits inside Point Defiance Park, combining Pacific Rim animal habitats with aquarium galleries on one walkable site.
It is Tacoma's most family-oriented major attraction. Confirm hours and admission on the zoo's site.
Explore Places
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium
Zoo and aquarium inside Point Defiance Park. Oct. 15, 2026 – Jan. 24, 2027: four Thomas Dambo troll sculptures (Trolls: A Field Study) are hidden around the gardens and habitats, included with admission — see the official troll map at pdza.org/trolls.
On these Treks
- Tacoma With Kids Trek · Full day
- Point Defiance Family Trek · Full day
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Nearby in Tacoma
Owen Beach
Rebuilt saltwater beach and promenade in Point Defiance Park.
Point Defiance Marina
Point Defiance Marina is a waterfront marina in Tacoma’s Ruston / Point Defiance area, located at 5912 Waterfront Dr.
Fort Nisqually Living History Museum
Reconstructed 1850s Hudson's Bay Company post in Point Defiance Park.
Point Defiance Park
A large waterfront park with forest trails, gardens, beach access and a ferry terminal at its edge.
Copper & Salt Northwest Kitchen
Copper & Salt Northwest Kitchen is a waterfront restaurant at Point Ruston serving Northwest-style cooking.
North End on Pearl
North End on Pearl is a pub and restaurant on North Pearl Street near Point Defiance, serving pub food and drinks.