Washington State: Zoos, Drive-Through Safaris & Aquariums You’ll Love

Woodland Park Zoo – Seattle

Tucked inside Seattle’s lush Woodland Park, this world-class zoo feels like an escape to faraway lands. You’ll wander through lush tropical forests, African savannas, and even a penguin colony that makes you forget you’re in the city. The zoo is beautifully designed with winding paths, interactive areas for kids, and endless educational stops that make learning about wildlife genuinely exciting.

Location: Seattle
Tips: Arrive early to snag parking and beat the crowds. Don’t miss the Zoomazium—a fun indoor nature play area for kids.
Tickets: Around $20–$28 depending on age and season.

Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium – Tacoma

If you want a “two-for-one” experience, this is your spot! Point Defiance combines a full zoo and aquarium within the beautiful Point Defiance Park overlooking Puget Sound. You’ll see tigers, polar bears, sharks, sea otters, and even stingrays you can touch. It’s big enough for a full day but compact enough not to feel overwhelming.

Location: Tacoma
Tips: Wear comfy shoes—there’s plenty to see. The shark dive viewing tunnel is a crowd favorite.
Tickets: $20–$26 (combo admission for zoo and aquarium).

Seattle Aquarium – Seattle Waterfront

Perched right on Pier 59, this ocean-themed treasure is perfect for a rainy-day outing. The Seattle Aquarium shines a spotlight on Pacific Northwest marine life with stunning underwater tunnels, interactive tide pools, and playful harbor seals. The new Ocean Pavilion adds tropical fish and coral reef habitats that make you feel like you’ve been whisked to paradise.

Location: Downtown Seattle Waterfront
Tips: Visit during feeding times for sea otters or octopuses—they’re always entertaining!
Tickets: Around $27 for adults, $20 for kids.

Cougar Mountain Zoo – Issaquah

This smaller, family-run zoo has big heart. With close-up views of tigers, lemurs, reindeer, and more, Cougar Mountain Zoo makes you feel like you’re part of the family. Its focus on endangered species and conservation gives each exhibit deeper meaning, and the staff’s passion is contagious.

Location: Issaquah
Tips: Check for special events like the “Reindeer Festival” in winter—kids love it.
Tickets: About $16–$20.

Northwest Trek Wildlife Park – Eatonville

If you love the idea of a wildlife road trip without leaving the park, this one’s for you. Northwest Trek lets you drive through rolling meadows and forested landscapes while elk, bison, and moose roam freely nearby. You can also hop out for walking trails and animal exhibits featuring bears, bobcats, and cougars.

Location: Eatonville (near Mount Rainier)
Tips: Try the Wild Drive experience in your own car for the ultimate safari vibe. Bring binoculars!
Tickets: $18–$26 depending on season and activity.

Olympic Game Farm – Sequim

Want to feed a buffalo from your car window? Olympic Game Farm makes that dream come true! This legendary drive-through safari on the Olympic Peninsula lets you roll down your window (safely!) to hand out slices of bread to elk, yaks, llamas, and zebras. Many of the animals are retired from film or educational programs, and they’re as friendly as they come.

Location: Sequim
Tips: Do not buy bread- they sell bread before you enter. They make it with special ingredients to keep the animals healthy. —they’ll love you for it. Visit early or late in the day for less traffic.
Tickets: Around $20 per adult vehicle pass.

Bonus: Hidden Animal Gems

• Feline Conservation Foundation (Roslyn): Home to rescued wildcats, focusing on education and conservation.
• Kangaroo Farm (Arlington): Meet and feed kangaroos, wallabies, and other friendly animals—great for kids!
• MaST Center Aquarium (Des Moines): A smaller marine-science aquarium open on weekends, great for learning about local sea life.

Don’t Forget Your Gear

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When you’re out exploring Washington’s wild side, a few essentials make the day even better:
🎒 Daypack – Lightweight and waterproof for snacks, cameras, and sunscreen.
📸 Camera or GoPro – Perfect for capturing giraffes, otters, and family smiles.
🌧 Rain Jacket – Because, well… it’s Washington.
👟 Comfy shoes – You’ll be walking a lot, and your feet will thank you.
🧢 Sun hat & reusable water bottle – Stay cool, hydrated, and eco-friendly.

Final Thoughts

From feeding buffalo in Sequim to watching sea otters twirl in Seattle, Washington’s zoos, aquariums, and wildlife parks offer something magical for everyone. Each stop invites you to connect with the natural world in a new way—reminding us that adventure doesn’t always mean getting lost in the mountains… sometimes it’s just about getting lost in wonder.

So pack a snack, grab your camera, and go wild—because the best stories are written when you Get Outside and Play.

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