Zoo For You
Want to dive with sharks, see behind the scenes in the aquarium or groom a goat? Book an unforgettable Zoo for You experience to meet our animals up close and learn how our team cares for animals (and plants!) that call Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium home.
Discover the delight and wonder of meeting sharks eye-to-eye in their home. Our expert divers will coach you through the entire experience. See new shark species and more sharks and tropical fish than ever before in our newly remodeled Outer Reef habitat.
Meet our charming herd of goats up close in this one-of-a-kind encounter! Spend time grooming Snap, Buckle, Juniper, and friends, pose for photos, and share a tasty treat with your new buddies. These groovy goats can’t wait to meet you!
Get a behind-the-scenes look at how aquarists care for marine animals! Touch a moon jelly, explore where jellies grow, and see where divers suit up to care for underwater habitats. Be amazed by the massive life support system that keeps it all running. You’ll even help feed animals in the Tidal Touch Zone on this unforgettable tour.
Embark on a memorable early-morning tour before the zoo opens! With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore select areas, say good morning to the animals, and enjoy a special Wild Wonders animal encounter.
The zoo is also a living botanical garden, home to plants from around the globe that help create natural habitats for animals. Join our horticulture expert to discover the unique adaptations that help these plants thrive and how our team grows them right here in Tacoma. It’s an unbe-leaf-able experience!
2026 SOLD OUT. Info on 2027 lottery coming this summer. Spend a night at the zoo for a spectacular sleepover! Drift off in the glow of the Tropical Reef Aquarium as sharks and colorful fish glide by. Evening fun includes a nighttime tour of the Pacific Seas Aquarium and outdoor habitats like Rocky Shores and Red Wolf Woods.
Frequently asked questions
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Will I get a refund if I need to cancel, and can I reschedule after booking?
No refunds are given for cancellations made less than 14 days prior to the program date. For cancellations made more than 14 days prior to the program date an 80% refund will be given. A 20% rescheduling fee will be charged for program changes. PDZA reserves the right to cancel any program due to animal care needs, inclement weather, or other factors. In the event that PDZA cancels a program, we will attempt to reschedule or all program fees will be refunded.
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What happens on the day of our Zoo For You experience?
Each tour has a designated meeting place where you will meet your tour guide. Check your ticket for a map of the meeting location. Because late arrivals cannot be accommodated, we recommend that you plan to be at the designated meeting location 10 minutes before the scheduled tour time. Zoo For You tours always include admission so that you can explore the rest of the Zoo before or after your tour.
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What if I need to request an accommodation?
Parks Tacoma strives toward providing inclusive programs to all community members. People of all abilities are invited to consider registering for any recreational program Parks Tacoma has to offer provided they meet the minimum eligibility requirements. We can usually build customized support to suit your needs. If you have an accommodation request, please contact [email protected].
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Can I make a special request for the program?
We are not able to accommodate specific requests for animal encounters or changes to the content of our tours; however, knowing more about your group can help us be prepared to give you the best experience possible. If you’re celebrating a special event or have a favorite animal you’re hoping to learn about, feel free to reach out to us at [email protected] to let us know!