Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium
About
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is a wedding venue located in Tacoma, Washington that will create a unique event experience for your special occasion. With sweeping views of Puget Sound, Mount Rainier and the Cascade Mountain Range, this venue provides a picturesque setting that will complement any special occasion.
Facilities and Capacity
The Education Center at Point Defiance is a 3,000-square-foot space that has a private entrance and the option of being split up into three separate rooms. For cozier celebrations you can rent a portion of the space or the entire facility for a total of 175 guests for a large banquet. The Asian Forest Sanctuary is a lush five-acre exhibit complex that offers the perfect space for an outdoor celebration, accommodating 300 total guests. It has six romantic exhibit areas that can be used for a ceremony or seated dinner, overlooking two waterfalls, exotic flowers and a bamboo forest. There are also two viewing pavilions along with the Asian Dayroom that provide a covered space for buffets and partially covered events. The Pacific Rim Plaza has spectacular views of Puget Sound and Mount Rainier and a globe-shaped plaza area that is ideal for outdoor ceremonies. The South Pacific Aquarium is best utilized for intimate gatherings of up to 85 guests, giving you and your guests a total sensory experience. You will be transported to the tropical beaches of the Lagoon Exhibit that is surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows and shark exhibits. The Plaza Cafe can be used for both small and large events, fitting anywhere from 80-120 guests.
The new state-of-the-art Pacific Seas Aquarium, a spectacular and unique venue with stunning art and mesmerizing marine life is now availble for booking. Rent a portion for a more intimate Wedding or the entire facility for a large reception. Get married under the Baja Bay tank and eat dinner with the fish in Northwest Waters. Up to 300 guests can be accommodated in this beautiful Aquarium.
Services Offered
The one-of-a-kind venues offered at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium truly make it a remarkable place for memorable events. You can also delight your guests with a private animal appearance or simply the experience of having the zoo as the background. The experienced staff will provide you with seamless service and exceptional food that will make your day exactly how you envisioned it. Services and rentals include:
- Bridal suite
- Event planning
- Rehearsal
- Setup and cleanup
- Tables and Chairs
- Bar and beverage services
- Glassware, linens and china
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have a site fee for wedding receptions at your venue?
What is the starting site fee for wedding receptions during peak season?
What is the starting site fee for wedding receptions during off-peak season?
Do you have a site fee for wedding ceremonies at your venue?
Which of the following are included in starting site fee?
Which of the following are included in the cost of wedding catering?
What is the starting price per person for bar service?
What is the maximum capacity of your venue?
Describe your venue:
What kind of settings are available?
Which of the following wedding events does your venue service?
What event services do you offer?
What catering services do you offer?
What food and beverage items are available?
What transportation and access is available?
What months are included in your peak season?
What months are included in your off-peak season?
24 Reviews
Write a reviewProfessional Network & Endorsements
2 Endorsements
As a sister facility to NW Trek, I highly recommend this venue and their caterer Lancer.

If your goal is to have a wedding that your guests will remember and talk about for a long, long time, this is your place. Spectacular setting and scenery and an attentive staff. Nothing quite like Point Defiance!
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Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium frequently asked questions
What items and services are included in the starting site fee at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium?
- Bridal Suite
- Chairs
- China
- Flatware
- Glassware
- Linens
- Tables
At Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, what items and services related to wedding catering are included in the cost?
- Server(s)
What are the most important characteristics of Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium in terms of venue type, style and location?
- Historic Building
- Park
- Zoo
What kind of indoor/outdoor options are available at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium for wedding events?
- Indoor
- Covered Outdoor
- Uncovered Outdoor
What kind of wedding events does Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium offer?
- Ceremony
- Reception
What services does Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium offer for wedding events?
- Catering Services
- Clean Up
- Event Planner
- Get Ready Rooms
- Set Up
What percentage of users recommend Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium and which are the most valued aspects of their wedding services?