Dog Nights of Summer
Long summer evenings, a quieter zoo, and time to simply wander. Spend a beautiful Pacific Northwest summer evening exploring the zoo after hours during this relaxed, adults-only (18+) experience. Enjoy wildlife habitats, both aquariums, summer treats, and nostalgic carousel rides. Guests may also bring one canine companion with a pre-purchased dog ticket to explore much of the zoo during this special after-hours experience, with select spaces remaining dog-free for animal comfort and safety.
All guests, including members, require event tickets for this special after-hours experience. Last entry at 7:15 p.m.
General Admission Adult Only: $20
General Admission Adult Plus Dog: $40
Member Adult Only: $10
Member Adult Plus Dog: $20
Whether you’re planning a unique date night, meeting friends for a summer outing, or treating your dog to a new adventure, this after-hours experience offers a calmer way to enjoy the zoo. Tickets are limited and must be purchased in advance. All guests must be 18 years or older to attend.
While dogs are not permitted inside the café, they are welcome on the outdoor patio, and a convenient walk-up window will be available for food and drink orders. Dogs are also welcome to help you pick out the perfect souvenir in the gift shop.
For everyone’s safety and enjoyment, all dogs must be well-behaved, up-to-date on vaccinations, and kept on a non-retractable leash no longer than six feet. Some areas of the zoo will be dog-free to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for all animals and guests, so check the map to see where your pup can join the fun.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| I don't have a dog, can I still attend? | Yes! Dog Nights of Summer is an adult-only (18+) event and dogs are not required to attend the event. We welcome all adult guests to come enjoy a quieter zoo visit on those select nights. |
| Can I buy a dog ticket at the gate? | No. Dog tickets must be purchased online in advance. Walk-up dog tickets are not available. |
| Are there leash, collar, health, or behavior requirements? | Yes. All dogs must: be on a non-retractable leash no longer than 6 feet, be well-behaved and non-aggressive, be current on vaccinations. Prong, choke, spike or heavy chain collars are NOT allowed. Collar must include an identification tag with owner's contact information. |
| Do I need to complete a waiver? | During online registration, all guests will be required to accept the terms and conditions for attending Dog Nights of Summer. By accepting these terms and conditions, dog owners are confirming that the dog you bring meets all vaccination, health, and behavior requirements. Dogs must be friendly toward people and other dogs, remain under your control at all times, and not exhibit aggressive or disruptive behavior. |
| How many dogs can I bring? | There is a limit of one dog per adult guest for safety reasons. |
| Where can I bring my dog inside the zoo? | Dogs are welcome in designated dog-friendly areas, including both aquariums, lawn spaces, and restrooms. Note: Certain areas will be off-limits to dogs, including goats, puffins, and the Wild Wonders Outdoor Theater. Download the map to see where dogs are welcome. |
| Can my dog ride on the carousel? | No. Dogs are not allowed on the carousel. They are welcome into the carousel building, but may not ride. |
| Am I responsible for cleaning up after my dog? | Yes, all owners are required to pick up after their pets at all times. |
| Are there water stations for dogs? | Absolutely. We’ll have multiple communal water bowls located throughout the zoo. |
| Are service animals allowed at the Zoo on non-Dog Days? | Yes. Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium welcomes guests with disabilities who use service animals as determined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Washington Administrative Code. Guests using service animals are required to check-in at the admission window where you’ll be provided with information to plan your visit to our facilities. |
| Who can I contact for more information? | You may send an email to: [email protected] with further questions. |