Life Science LIVE!
Whether you would like to bring your students to the Zoo or invite us to your classroom, we'll help you to make the most of your wildlife learning experience.
At the Zoo
Enhance your field trip with a Discovery Program led by a Zoo Educator. Students will have the opportunity to learn a little bit more about one of a specific animal, habitat or group of animals here at Point Defiance. Time is included for a hands on experience with our vast collection of pelts, skulls and other amazing biofacts.
Use our Field Trip Activities to help your students take what they've learned a step further.
Schedule your Field Trip online now!Schedule your school group at least 15 days in advance to receive the discounted school group rate. Rates listed are for both students and chaperone.Pre-registered school groups receive discounted admission year-round. Rates vary by season* with the biggest discounts in the fall and winter months!
$5.78 per student/chaperone: July – February
$6.83 per student/chaperone: March - April
$7.88 per student/chaperone: May - June
Please note: The Zoo is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays during the months of November, December, January and February.
*ADDITIONAL FEES: The admission prices do not include the $3 (per group) processing fee. One adult chaperone, at the school group rate, is required for every 5 students, regardless of grade level. Groups must have at least 12 paying students to be considered for the discounted rates.
Field Trip Scholarships
Tacoma elementary schools with at least 60% of their students receiving free or reduced lunches are eligible to apply for a field trip scholarship. Tacoma Head Start and ECEAP preschool programs are also eligible for free field trip admission. Please note: We no longer have funds available for 2013 field trips.
Download a Tacoma K-5 Scholarship Application.
Download a Tacoma Head Start/ECEAP Scholarship Application.
At Your School
Schedule a Zoo to You Outreach Program at your school! A professional Zoo Educator will visit your classroom to support your life science curriculum. We'll bring our expert knowledge, opportunities for hands-on discovery and a live animal ambassador. Click here to learn more.
Zoo to You Outreach programs must be scheduled at least two weeks in advance by calling 253.591.5333. You may also begin the scheduling process by emailing reserve@pdza.org.