Point Defiance Park Is An Inexpensive Road Trip Destination In Washington That's Affordable
A change of scenery is always nice, but sometimes getting away involves a lot of time and money we simply don’t have. Luckily, there are plenty of affordable day trip destinations here in Washington, from our charming small towns to our beautiful state parks. Tacoma’s Point Defiance Park, for example, has something for everyone.
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The park got its start as a military reservation after the Wilkes Expedition visited Puget Sound in the 1840s to map the bays and estuaries. In 1888, President Grover Cleveland authorized its use as a public park.
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From sprawling beaches to nature trails to a zoo and a botanical garden, you'll find it all here.
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Tickets do cost $18 for adults and $14 for children. But that's still pretty affordable considering everything you'll experience.
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The zoo supports animal conservation and care, and the team takes fantastic care of the residents here.
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The gardens are so colorful and peaceful, you'll never want to leave.
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Plus, the gardens recreate the natural habitats of some of the zoo animals.
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In 2019, the park opened Frank Herbert Trail and Dune Peninsula to honor science fiction writer (and Tacoma local) Frank Herbert, known for his Dune novels.
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You'll spot Vashon Island, the Tacoma Narrow's Bridge, Gig Harbor, and Dalco Passage in the distance.
Point Defiance Park is a perfect place to go in Washington when you want to have a beautiful day without breaking the bank.
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Featured Addresses
5400 N Pearl St, Tacoma, WA 98407, USA