"The Tacoma Nature Center is a 71-acre nature preserve with Snake Lake and its wetlands at its heart. "

Recommended For

  • Families: Explore kid-friendly trails, wildlife exhibits, and Discovery Pond’s nature play area.
  • Young Explorers: Climb through logs, splash in the waterfall, and scramble across boulders.
  • Nature Lovers: Spot birds, turtles, and deer while hiking forested loops around Snake Lake.
  • Educators & Groups: Book nature programs, summer camps, and birthday party packages.

Highlights

  • Discovery Pond: An imaginative, nature-themed playground with a treehouse and interactive water features.
  • Wildlife Viewing: See geese, turtles, foxes, and deer in their natural habitats.
  • Interpretive Center: Learn about local ecosystems through engaging exhibits and friendly naturalists.
  • Free Admission: Enjoy access to trails, play areas, and the visitor center with no entrance fee.

Trail Overview

  • Location: Nestled on 71 acres near Snake Lake, just west of central Tacoma.
  • Main Trail: A 1.3-mile loop with wildlife viewing platforms and shady, forested paths.
  • Play Zone: Discovery Pond offers a treehouse, logs, boulders, and waterfalls designed for hands-on exploration.
  • Visitor Access: Open daily; interpretive center staffed during regular hours, with seasonal events year-round.

Visitor Tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes and bring binoculars for wildlife viewing along the trails.
  • Discovery Pond is best for kids ages 3–10—expect to get a little wet!
  • Stop by the gift shop for nature-themed books, toys, and educational materials.
  • Check online for seasonal day camps and special family programs.

Local Vibe

Peaceful, playful, and rooted in the rhythms of nature, the Tacoma Nature Center offers a welcoming space for families to connect with the outdoors. Discovery Pond adds a touch of whimsy to this educational preserve, blending treehouse fun with environmental learning. Whether you’re hiking through wetlands, chatting with a naturalist, or watching your kids chase frogs by the pond, the nature center invites curiosity, discovery, and a deep appreciation for the natural world.

Location

Address: 1919 S. Tyler Street, Tacoma, WA 98405
Phone: (253) 591-6439
Website: metroparkstacoma.org

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