Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is one of Washington’s top attractions. For years, people have come from all over the Pacific Northwest to check out exotic animals and birds, get an up-close look at sharks and other sea life, and enjoy the beaches and botanical gardens at Point Defiance Park.

But did you know Point Defiance also offers a list of premier experiences you have to reserve in advance? With a little extra planning and preparation, you can enjoy all kinds of behind-the-scenes fun.

Located in Tacoma, Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is the only combined zoo and aquarium in the Pacific Northwest.
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium / Google
The zoo was founded in 1905, while the aquarium was originally founded in 1935.
An estimated 600,000 people visit Point Defiance every year.
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium / Facebook
While summer is obviously a popular time to visit, you won't want to mss Zoolights in the winter, when 800,000 lights dazzle the property. But if you want a less crowded experience, check out the Zoo For You options.
If you'd like to get a closer look at the aquarium, check out the 75-minute behind-the-scenes tour.
Tony Siegel / Google
This private tour allows you to explore the aquarium’s backstage areas to see where aquarists work and discover how they care for marine animals.
Better yet, focus on the captivating jellyfish with a Jammin’ with Jellies tour.
K Thompson / Google
It isn't every day you get to touch moon jellies.

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The Groovy Goats experience is a popular pick, and for good reason.
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium / Facebook
Have you ever met a goat without a personality? These adorable animals have so much character.
Have you ever wanted a quiet, more private experience with the animals? Check out the Wild Zoo Tour.
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium / Google
For 90 minutes, you can visit select areas of the zoo early in the morning, before it all opens.
There's even an option for a botanical tour.
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium / Facebook
After all, this place is also a botanical garden with a diverse collection of plants from around the world.
If you love animals and sea life, check out Point Defiance's premier experiences.
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium / Google
These adventures are truly one-of-a-kind.

Doesn’t this seem like a blast? For a list of the zoo & aquarium’s Zoo For You experiences, check out the official list on the website.

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Featured Addresses
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, 5400 N Pearl St, Tacoma, WA 98407, USA