Tacoma is one of the Evergreen State’s largest cities, both in population and in size. Still, when you’re there, it’s impossible to miss the massive, sprawling Point Defiance Park in Washington. The park spans 760 acres (to put that in perspective, Central Park’s size is 840 acres), and it has more beauty, views, amenities, and entertainment than any other park in the state. The next time you’re in the area, don’t pass up the chance at a park day.

Point Defiance Park was originally a military reservation in the 1840s.
Point Defiance Park / Facebook
In 1888, President Grover Cleveland authorized its use as a public park.
The park sees an estimated three million visitors every year, both locals and people from out of state.
Point Defiance Park / Facebook
Considering this place has something to offer everyone, it's easy to see why it's so popular.
Point Defiance Park has a Rose Garden, Rhododendron Garden, Japanese Garden, and several beaches and waterfront trails.
Turtleey / Wikipedia
There's even an old-growth forest within the park's limits.
Of course, one of the main and best-known attractions is the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium.
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium / Google
The zoo and aquarium are open all year and host plenty of seasonal celebrations.

Related Stories

You Can Cut Your Own Flowers At The Festive Crescent Valley Lavender Farm In Washington

You Can Cut Your Own Flowers At The Festive Crescent Valley Lavender Farm In Washington

 Here Are The 7 Absolute Best Pumpkin Patches In Washington To Enjoy In 2023

Here Are The 7 Absolute Best Pumpkin Patches In Washington To Enjoy In 2023

 The Underrated Wildlife Park In Washington Where You Can See Wolves

The Underrated Wildlife Park In Washington Where You Can See Wolves
The Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium is the only combined zoo and aquarium in the Pacific Northwest.
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium / Google
The 29-acre zoological park was established in 1905, and it's nationally accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums. This means the animals are treated to the best care.
You could easily spend the entire day at this part of the park alone.
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium / Facebook
The park also boasts miles of hiking trails, from waterfront nature walks to treks through the woods.
Point Defiance Park / Facebook
And if you want to learn more about local history, just head to Fort Nisqually Living History Museum.
Point Defiance Park truly has something for everyone, and it's worth visiting more than once.
Оксана Миргород / Google
Stick around long enough and you might even spot some wildlife like bald eagles or seals.

What’s your favorite thing to see at Point Defiance Park? Feel free to tell us in the comments below — we would love to hear from you! Looking for even more travel inspiration? Be sure to check out our list of the best state parks in Washington. There’s something for everyone on the list!

To catch a virtual glimpse of Point Defiance Park, you can watch the brief footage below:

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

parks in Washington

Beth C. | May 11, 2023

What are the best state parks to visit in Washington?

Washington is a vast state, filled with seemingly endless landscapes to explore. One of the best ways to get to know the state is by visiting any number of state parks. Curious about which to start with? Below, we've listed out some of the very best state parks to visit in Washington:

  • Pearrygin Lake State Park, Winthrop
  • Joemma Beach State Park, Longbranch
  • Curlew Lake State Park, Republic
  • Steamboat Rock State Park, Electric City
  • Ike Kinswa State Park, Silver Creek
  • Flaming Geyser State Park, Auburn
  • Lake Wenatchee State Park, Leavenworth
  • Dosewallips State Park, Brinnon
  • Conconully State Park, Conconully
  • Potlatch State Park, Shelton
  • Wallace Falls State Park, Goldbar
  • Peshastin Pinnacles State Park, Cashmere
  • Saint Edward State Park, Kenmore
  • Larrabee State Park, Bellingham
  • Steptoe Butte State Park, Colfax

 

Learn more about what makes each of these Washington state parks so magnificent!

What are the best trails in Washington state?

Hiking opportunities abound in Washington. Yet it can be overwhelming to narrow down the options; there are just so many trails to choose from! Below we've outlined some of our favorite hiking trails in Washington state:

  • Franklin Falls
  • Bowl and Pitcher Loop Trail, Riverside State Park
  • Wallace Falls
  • Hoh Rain Forest Hall of Mosses
  • Faraway Rock via Reflection Lakes, Mt. Rainier National Park
  • Tolmie Peak Trail, Mt. Rainier National Park
  • Little Huckleberry Trail
  • Hurricane Ridge
  • Second Beach
  • Naches Peak Loop Trail
  • Ebey's Landing Trail
  • Gold Creek Trail

 

Learn more about what makes each of these Washington hikes so spectacular. And, if you're planning an epic hiking adventure, be sure to check out our list of what to bring with you on a hike. It's our Ultimate Packing List!

Related Articles

Explore Washington

Featured Addresses
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, 5400 N Pearl St, Tacoma, WA 98407, USA