General Information about Tacoma Free Day

Visitors who live at a Tacoma address will be admitted free on the Tacoma Free Days listed below. Please bring proof of residency.

Proof of residency:
All adults 18 and older are required to provide proof of residency showing that they live at a Tacoma address. If your photo ID does not have a physical Tacoma address (not a P.O. box) you will be required to provide an alternative method of proof of residency. This can be done by presenting a photo ID with a utility bill or other legal document that lists a Tacoma address (Examples: lease, cable bill, etc.). This bill or legal document must match the name listed on the photo ID. Each adult living at that address must provide an alternative method of proof of residency if their ID does not have a Tacoma address. Children 18 and under do not require proof of residence.


The free day is offered as a thank you to Tacoma voters, who in 1999 approved a $35 million bond issue to pay for Zoo improvements. The money has funded several new additions to the zoo over the past decade, including Kids’ Zone and Animal Avenue, the Asian Forest Sanctuary, Wild Wonders Outdoor Theater, animal hospital, new front gate, education center, gift shop and café.  

The Zoo also rewards Pierce County residents with discounted admission prices every day. That discount recognizes the support of Pierce County voters, who approved a sales tax in 2000 that contributes to Zoo operations.