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Veterans’ Appreciation Days

November 9 - 11, 2024
9:00AM - 3:30PM
U.S. military veterans and active duty members can enjoy the wonder of the Zoo for FREE during Veterans’ Appreciation Days.

Immediate family members receive half-off general admission. Offer valid at Zoo admission window. Offer is not valid on online purchases.

Our Veterans’ Appreciation Days offer is open to all who are serving or have served honorably in the United States armed services. Proof of military service is required.
Want to see more animals on the same day? Visit our sister zoo, Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, during Veterans' Appreciation Days on Nov. 9-11.
Northwest Trek Wildlife Park
Our American red wolves aren’t just beautiful – they’re part of an award-winning program that has saved this iconic species from extinction. Meet the animals during a keeper chat.
Keeper Chats
United Efforts Bring Hope to Orphaned Pacific Walrus Calf in Alaska

Five organizations from around the United States have come together to provide care to an orphaned Pacific walrus calf receiving rehabilitative care at the Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) in Seward, Alaska, in hopes of giving her a second chance at life.  The ASLC is leading the heartfelt and intensive effort to care for the rare orphaned Pacific walrus calf that arrived from Utqiagvik, Alaska, on July 22, 2024. The young female walrus, estimated to be only a few weeks…

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Sea lion pup makes public debut at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium

Guests to Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium can now see Pepper, the California sea lion born June 6, in the Rocky Shores seal and sea lion habitat. “Pepper made her public debut this morning and is fitting right in,” said Curator Jen DeGroot. “In recent weeks, she was gradually introduced to the other seals and sea lions behind the scenes, and they’ve all gotten along beautifully.”  At just two months old, Pepper now weighs 31 pounds and continues to…

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Volunteer Profile: Brittney Polly, Wildlife Champions Assistant

Second graders at Arlington Elementary School got decked out in matching blue coats. There were excited giggles and chatter as they prepared to leave their classroom and venture into their South Tacoma neighborhood park for hands-on learning. “Miss Brittney, can you help me with my jacket?” one child asked. “Me, too,” others chimed in. Miss Brittney is Brittney Polly, and she has been volunteering with the Wildlife Champions program for two years. We thank her for the hard work and…

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Planning Holiday Gifts
How about an experience they'll never forget - up close with animals? Choose from our behind-the-scenes animal experiences now!