Tacoma is one of Washington’s largest cities, both in population and in size. Still, when you’re there, it’s impossible to miss the massive, sprawling Point Defiance Park. The park spans 760 acres (to put that in perspective, Central Park’s size is 840 acres), and it has more beauty, views, amenities, and entertainment than any other park in the state. The next time you’re in the area, don’t pass up the chance at a park day.
Point Defiance Park was originally a military reservation in the 1840s.
Point Defiance Park / Facebook In 1888, President Grover Cleveland authorized its use as a public park.
The park sees an estimated three million visitors every year, both locals and people from out of state.
Point Defiance Park / Facebook Considering this place has something to offer everyone, it’s easy to see why it’s so popular.
Point Defiance Park has a Rose Garden, Rhododendron Garden, Japanese Garden, and several beaches and waterfront trails.
Turtleey / Wikipedia There’s even an old-growth forest within the park’s limits.
Of course, one of the main and best-known attractions is the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium.
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium / Google The zoo and aquarium are open all year and host plenty of seasonal celebrations.
The Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium is the only combined zoo and aquarium in the Pacific Northwest.
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium / Google The 29-acre zoological park was established in 1905, and it’s nationally accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums. This means the animals are treated to the best care.
You could easily spend the entire day at this part of the park alone.
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium / Facebook
The park also boasts miles of hiking trails, from waterfront nature walks to treks through the woods.
Point Defiance Park / Facebook And if you want to learn more about local history, just head to Fort Nisqually Living History Museum.
Point Defiance Park truly has something for everyone, and it’s worth visiting more than once.
Оксана Миргород / Google Stick around long enough and you might even spot some wildlife like bald eagles or seals.
What’s your favorite thing to see at Point Defiance?
Point Defiance Park / Facebook
In 1888, President Grover Cleveland authorized its use as a public park.
Considering this place has something to offer everyone, it’s easy to see why it’s so popular.
Turtleey / Wikipedia
There’s even an old-growth forest within the park’s limits.
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium / Google
The zoo and aquarium are open all year and host plenty of seasonal celebrations.
The 29-acre zoological park was established in 1905, and it’s nationally accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums. This means the animals are treated to the best care.
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium / Facebook
And if you want to learn more about local history, just head to Fort Nisqually Living History Museum.
Оксана Миргород / Google
Stick around long enough and you might even spot some wildlife like bald eagles or seals.
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Address: Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, 5400 N Pearl St, Tacoma, WA 98407, USA
