One of the hottest tourist destinations in Tacoma, WA is Point Defiance Park. Featuring a staggering 760-acres, the park is home to many attractions. Open daily to visitors, you’ll always find something to explore no matter the time of year.
Walking Trails
Those looking for a walking adventure will find plenty of trails at Point Defiance Park. This collection of trails is collectively referred to as Five Mile Drive. There are five primary pedestrian trails, all which are designated for foot traffic only. Vehicles are only permitted on the inner loop. The longest trail is Square Trail, which is 4.6 miles long.
Owen Beach
Those who love the water will have plenty of fun at Owen Beach. As one of Point Defiance Park’s most popular attractions, it offers plenty of recreational opportunities. Many visitors choose to rent kayaks from the marina for fun on the water. This area features picnic areas, grills, children’s area, and clean public restrooms.
Point Defiance Marina
See what’s biting at Point Defiance Marina. This area of the park is popular for those who love fishing. Feel free to rent a boat or kayak and go fishing for the afternoon. If you own a small boat or watercraft, be sure to inquire about the storage facilities. Bait and other supplies can be purchased on the premises. If you want to become a better fisherman, remember to sign up for one of their instructional courses. The marina is open 365 days a year.
Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium
The zoo and aquarium are popular with guests from all over. Inside the zoo, you will get to see a variety of animal exhibits. Many of the animals on display are native to the Pacific Rim area. The Asian sanctuary is home to Sumatran tigers, Asian elephants, and even leopards. Look at puffins, walruses, and seals at the Rocky Shores habitat. Go see how arctic animals live in the Arctic Tundra habitat. Imagine being able to see polar bears and reindeer in person!
Attached to the zoo is the equally popular aquarium. This venue is divided into the Pacific Seas Aquarium and the South Pacific Aquarium. In the first aquarium, you’ll be able to experience swimming hammerhead sharks, sea turtles, and other Puget Sound sea creatures. The South Pacific Aquarium boasts a wide variety of sharks. You can even pet a stingray! If you have children, be sure to check out the Kids’ Zone.
Fort Nisqually Living History Museum
Experience life in the 19th century at the Fort Nisqually Living History Museum. Instead of viewing photographs and still displays, you’ll get to witness staff members dress up in period clothing and speak in historic dialogue. They will demonstrate life during the era, including how to make food, create tools, and survive life before technology.
After learning about the time, find out if you can handle it yourself. Be sure to try to get to freedom by completing the Escape Fort Nisqually challenge. This escape game inspired challenge will have you solving puzzles and riddles to see if you have what it takes to survive the 19th century and return to the 21st century.
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