Point Defiance Park, an urban park located on the banks of Puget Sound in Tacoma, Washington, has much more to offer than a typical city park. It has a zoo, an aquarium, a boardwalk, a lovely ocean beach, an off-leash dog park, a boathouse and marina, hiking trails, and a stand of old-growth forest that contains 450-year-old Douglas firs.
Stroll through the beautiful gardens
The park also has a variety of gardens, including a rose garden, a Japanese garden, a dahlia garden, and a rhododendron garden. Wild animals live in the park, and visitors may sight bald eagles, seals and sea lions sunning themselves, mule deer, red foxes, and wolves.
Ranger-led nature walks and workshops run throughout the year. Point Defiance Park is a popular special events venue, with the picnic shelters, Japanese pagoda, and rose garden available for rent.
5400 North Pearl Street, Tacoma, WA 98407, Phone: 253-305-1000
Ready to go?
Step 1: Visit the website and book directly and/or call ahead to confirm their hours.
Step 2: If you are spending the night, search for Hotel Deals nearby. Read the reviews, then call the hotel directly to book and ask for a romantic, kid-friendly or pet-friendly amenity if you need it.
Step 3: If you are flying, compare Flights. Book directly with the airline, add your frequent flier number and reserve your seat.
Step 4: Estimate your driving time using Google Maps (click the blue 'Directions' arrow in the search box).
Need some more help?
Read our Reservations & Travel Planning Tips guide.