Point Defiance - Park, Zoo & Aquarium

Point Defiance - Park, Zoo and Aquarium

Point Defiance is a 1-hour drive south of Seattle near Tacoma, and features a Zoo, Rose Garden, Japanese Garden, and Fort Nisqually Museum.  Set aside a full day to enjoy everything this amazing park has to offer. 

Things to do at Point Defiance

A 5-mile road loops around the park, passing all major attractions including the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium.  The Point Defiance 5-mile loop includes:

1. Stroll through the Japanese & Rose Gardens: After arriving at the Pearl Street Entrance, park your car and wander past the pond to the exquisite Rose Gardens.  After admiring these gardens, walk towards the Lodge (the oldest building in the park) and enjoy the Japanese Garden near the lovely Pagoda building. 
2. Have fun at TNT Family Go Karts: When returning to your car, you might find it difficult to resist the TNT Family Go Karts just near the entrance to the park.
3. Visit the Point Defiance Zoo: No visit to this Park is complete without setting aside some time at the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium.  The first thing that strikes you about this fantastic Zoo is its wonderful vantage point overlooking the water and Mount Rainier.  The Point Defiance Zoo is spacious and well planned, with an array of fascinating animals like Polar Bears, Clouded Leopards, Malayan Tapir's and Simatran Tigers.  The shark tank is very impressive and a little scary!  Some fun activities for the kids include the Carousel and Camel rides.  The Zoo also seems to run regular shows throughout the day.
4. Swim at Owen Beach: Continue on towards Owen Beach.  This is a great swimming beach in summer, and offers spectacular views of Mount Rainier and Vashon Island.  There are plenty of picnic tables, and a nice lawned area behind the beach.  The Bath Kiosk also sells refreshments.    The secluded north end of this beach is a true gem.  Lush forest meets the water in a thin stretch of sand strewn with weathered logs.  It is a truly enchanting and romantic place, but be extremely cautious of the changing tides.
5. See historic re-enactments at Fort Nisqually: The Fort Nisqually Museum stages historic re-enactments, and is well worth a visit.  The Fort was originally established in 1833 during the fur trade era.

Restaurants & Cafes at Point Defiance

Pick up a great sandwich just before the entrance to the park at the historic “Antique Sandwich Co" on North Pearl Street.  Or if you'd like to stop by a nice restaurant; consider "Anthonys" at the Marina (just near the Vashon Island Ferry).

© Copyright 2012.