Petting Zoos Open
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium
4.5(14,791)4.5 out of 5 stars, 14791 reviews Seattle, WA
About Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium offers a unique combination of a zoo and aquarium experience, featuring interactive exhibits and animal encounters that create memorable experiences for families. The venue is particularly engaging for children with its diverse range of animals and educational talks.
What parents should know
Summarized from real visitor reviews.
Best for: Families with young children who enjoy interactive experiencesTeenagers interested in unique experiences like shark divesParents looking for a fun, educational outingAges 3 and under do not need a ticketSuitable for children up to age 16, especially those interested in marine life and animals
Why families love it
- Keeper talks that enhance the educational experience
- Interactive touch exhibits for kids
- Variety of vantage points for viewing marine mammals
- Shark dive experience for older kids and teens
- Multiple viewing angles for marine exhibits
- Touch pools for hands-on learning
Insider tips
- Bring cash for penny coin smashers to avoid higher fees
- Pack snacks and eat off-site to save money
- Consider bringing a large wagon stroller for easier navigation
Good to know before you go
- Visiting during peak hours which can lead to crowded conditions
- Entering the gift shop if you are not prepared to spend significantly
- Small polar bear enclosure compared to other facilities
- Gift shop prices can be high, averaging $50+ per child
- Crowds
- Can get busy during weekends and holidays; plan visits during off-peak times for a better experience
- Value
- General admission prices are not specified, but children ages 3 and under are free. The shark dive experience is a unique offering, likely priced higher than standard admission, but includes a video, adding value. Hidden costs include potential high gift shop prices.
- Food
- Outside food is recommended as dining options on-site may be limited or expensive
- Accessibility
- No specific special needs accommodations mentioned in reviews
- Safety
- Staff is noted to be friendly and helpful, indicating a focus on visitor safety
What parents say
"I've been going to this zoo since I was a child. Sad to see some of the long time animals gone from old age, but definitely fun seeing new life there to start memories for younger people. We got to see 3 keeper talks and the animals definitely were out and about today."
2 weeks ago
"I had such a wonderful time with my nine month old daughter. She loves aquariums, so it was neat to be able to see two small ones in the course of the same day. The marine mammals exhibit was great because you get a couple great vantage points. The only thing I didn’t like was that the polar bear enclosure seemed quite small. I’m used to a polar bear enclosure that’s quite a bit larger than this, so I’m comparing it to a more modern installation.We loved the puffins as well. You can see them from underwater or at water level, and I was able to get some really great videos. This is an excellent"
2 months ago
"This is the first time at the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium. It was such a great experience. Our family and kids loved it as well. Such a great variety of animals. We will definitely be coming back! Staff was very friendly and helpful!"
a month ago
Reviews sourced from public Google data.
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