Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium A smallish, clean, recently remodeled zoo and aquarium in a rather breathtaking location with Puget Sound as a backdrop. Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is not only one of the top zoos in the country, it is amongst the most beautiful. Nestled on the 29 acres inside the 700-acre Tacoma site, it has a kid's playground that has animal exhibits and an interactive fountain.

Seattle Aquarium Located on the waterfront, next to the Omnidome , this aquarium features exotic fishes, sea mammals and other ocean life. See the sea lions, harbor seals, incredibly cute sea otters and even come face to face with a shark. New exhibits are added often along with special events and outings.

Woodland Park Zoo Woodland Park Zoo is an award-winning zoo and a must visit. Only minutes from busy downtown, the zoo lets you step into an African savanna, an Asian elephant habitat and a tropical rain forest. The zoo also brings special exhibits, which have included monitor dragons, butterflies and other bugs and beasts. Bring a picnic to enjoy on the green lawns of Woodland Park, which surrounds the zoo. You also won't want to miss the nearby Rose Garden .