At Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, we believe wildlife experiences should be accessible to everyone. That’s why we hosted Disability Adventure Day, a special evening designed for individuals with disabilities and their families to explore the zoo and both aquariums in a welcoming, supportive environment.

Held after regular hours, Disability Adventure Day offered guests the opportunity to enjoy the zoo at their own pace, with thoughtful accommodations in place from arrival to departure. The night included sensory-friendly check-in, accessible parking, and designated quiet spaces to help create a comfortable experience for all.

One of the evening’s most unique opportunities was a behind-the-scenes look at the Eye-to-Eye Shark Dive program. Guests toured the dive building, explored dive gear, and got hands-on with shark biofacts while learning how the experience is designed with accessibility in mind.

Throughout the evening, guests connected with wildlife, volunteers, and staff through a variety of engaging experiences, including:

• Animal care chats with keepers and aquarists (including ASL interpreters)
• Enrichment moments that showcase natural animal behaviors
• Up-close encounters with animal ambassadors
• Divers interacting with guests underwater in both aquariums

Disability Adventure Day is a celebration of community, connection, and access; an opportunity for families to share meaningful moments together while experiencing the wonder of wildlife.

Join our sister zoo, Northwest Trek Wildlife Park’s Disability Adventure Day on September 12.