Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium Reopens In Tacoma

TACOMA, WA — Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium reopened Thursday, and while zoo goers will still be able to look upon to all the zoo's outdoor enclosures, not everything is the same.

Foremost, the zoo has reopened to only 25 percent capacity, meaning visitors will be required to purchase timed tickets that limit when guests can enter the zoo.

Tickets can be purchased online, and guests will be required to choose a time slot. The zoo is open from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., but the last timed entry is set for 4:30 p.m.

The zoo's website states it's also offering special hours for seniors and guests at high-risk from COVID-19. Each Tuesday from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. will be reserved just for that limited crowd.

While the zoo's outdoor exhibits can still be viewed as usual, several high-density and high-touch areas have been closed temporarily, including drinking fountains, indoor dining areas, and the aquariums. The full list is available on the zoo's website.

Visitors should note the park's main entrance at Pearl Street is closed, and all guests will be required to enter at Mildred Street. Once inside, guests are asked to follow white directional arrows around the zoo.