safari zoo washington state

1423 Ward Rd Sequim, WA 98382

SPRING HOURS:

Open 7 days a week M - Su 9 a.m. to 4p.m.

Open all major holidays except Thanksgiving and Christmas Days .

Have a Question? Call Us! 360-683-4295

Welcome to Olympic Game Farm

 VISITORS PLEASE NOTE: 

• In compliance to U.S.D.A regulation 4.12.4 NO OUTSIDE BREAD PERMITTED . ALL BREAD MUST BE PURCHASED ONSITE.  NO EXCEPTIONS, NO REFUNDS. Food must be provided by the facility. 

Driving tours available 7 days to a week. NO RESERVATIONS OR PRESALE TICKETS. We operate on a first come first serve basis. Plan to arrive no later than 45 minutes before closing time to have enough time to drive through the farm.

Experience Wildlife Up Close & Personal

See animals and experience their world through education and observation. The majority of our animals are wildlife native to the Northwest region. We also have a gift shop and seasonal concessions. Come spend the whole day with us at our farm in Sequim, WA , whether it’s by yourself or with family or friends.

We are dedicated to the welfare and well-being of all animals , and we ensure that they are receiving the highest standard of care while they are with us. You also have the ability to feed them, right from your vehicle. Experience wildlife at your own pace!

Whole wheat bread is available onsite for $4.00 per loaf.

On busier days, Bread sales may have a limit per car per day. No outside bread allowed.

Adults (ages 15+)

Children (ages 6-14), seniors (ages 55+), children (ages 5 & under), visit us today for an educational yet fun experience perfect for all members of the family have a question contact us today at (360) 683-4295 , know before you go, are pets allowed in our vehicle while driving.

Yes, pets are allowed as long as they are kept inside an enclosed vehicle and unable to escape your vehicle. All pets must be on a leash when outside the vehicle in permitted areas.

Are we allowed to bring our own bread?

Effective June 5, 2020 there will be  NO OUTSIDE BREAD PERMITTED . All bread being fed must be purchased onsite from Olympic Game Farm.  No Exceptions . Anyone attempting to sneak in or bring bread in or other food items will be asked to leave with no refunds.

What other types of feed is given to the animals besides bread?

Each animal has a well-balanced diet based on nutritional needs as determined by a veterinary care plan. Animals are fed meat, poultry, fish, nuts, berries, vegetables, fruits, roots, vitamins, minerals, hay, and grain as appropriate based on their species and dietary requirements. These items are fed daily during business hours and after closing. *All outside food donations will be inspected prior to feeding out by OGF personnel

Do the animals come out in all types of weather?

Yes! The animals are accustomed to our Pacific northwest weather and many will come out to visit in the rain. All of the animals have access to weather shelters and privacy areas at all times.

Where do the animals at the Olympic Game Farm come from?

Several of the animals are either rehomed, come as overflow from other licensed facilities, or have been received from other properly licensed individuals.

What kinds of animals will we see during the tour?

We can never guarantee which animals will approach the bus on any given day, however on the driving portion of the tour you will pass llamas, Tibetan yaks, zebras, Kodiak bears, Roosevelt elk, Sika deer and American bison. At the petting zoo there are goats, and in the reptile room there are snakes and other reptiles to visit.

Testimonials

“A friend took me here. It was so much fun. The animals for the most part are definitely not shy… it was a lot of fun though and we had so many laughs. Great place to see. Highly recommend it and cannot wait to go again.” – Misty C.

“Our family’s favorite place! We love to feed the elk and the Bison. Beautiful place for all families.” – Mildred H.

“Great place to take your kids, my grandkids had a blast feeding the animals. Lions, and tigers, and bears, oh my!!! My wife was mesmerized by the eagles. I really enjoyed how much fun we had. Definitely coming back!” – Victor G.

Visitors, please note:

Farm hours for the Spring effective February 19th 2024.

Hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m Monday – Sunday

We ask visitors to arrive  NO LATER  than 45 mins before closing time to ensure entry and have time to fully enjoy the park.   

The Farm, on occasion, does close for inclement snowy weather.  Please be sure to call ahead to speak with a team member and ensure that we are open.  Thank you, stay safe!!

Effective June 5, 2020 In compliance to U.S.D.A federal regulation 4.12.4 NO OUTSIDE BREAD PERMITTED. NO EXCEPTIONS. THIS IS PERMANENTLY IN EFFECT. Bread can be purchased onsite, and we will limit bread purchases as needed and appropriate. Anyone sneaking in and feeding outside bread or other food items will be asked to leave with no refund.

NO RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED. WE OPERATE ON A FIRST COME FIRST SERVE BASIS. TICKETS SALES ARE ONSITE AT THE TICKET OFFICE UPON ARRIVAL (NO ONLINE TICKET SALES) Cash or card payments only, we do not accept Apple Pay.

We are looking forward to your visit!

Make A Donation Today!

Item added to your cart

Safari News

Keep up to date with the most recent safari happenings here, our current hours are 9:00am – 6:00pm for the drive thru and safari village.

Upcoming Events

Day of Discovery - May 6th

Sippin' Safari - July 19th

DreamNight - August 3rd

Learn more about these events here

Bring the Safari Home with You!

Looking for the perfect gift for the animal enthusiast in your life or want to treat yourself? We have some options we think are perfect! Check our our gift shop during your visit and make sure to stop by the animal artwork section!  

Amazon for the Animals

Check out our   Amazon Wishlist   and get a present for your favorite animal.

Baby Update!

• Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
• Opens in a new window.

Washington’s Northwest Trek Wildlife Park Now Offers a Drive-Thru Safari. So We Tried It Out.

Play reindeer games..

As the twin metal gates slid open and the line of SUVs crossed over the cattle guard, I thought of Jurassic Park .

A caravan of vehicles, winding through a primordial sanctuary where herds of immense, ancient creatures grazed? Hold onto your butts. The cars crept along, a line of brake lights going 5 mph through flower stalks as tall as your head. Each driver peered into the woods for a flicker of movement, a change in the light.

And then we were ambushed from all sides—by reindeer.

Caribou, technically. Then bison, Roosevelt elk, mountain goats and bighorn sheep—all grazing on 435 acres of freshly mowed pasture and fern-strewn forest in the shadow of Mount Rainier.

The ungulates are residents of Northwest Trek Wildlife Park (11610 Trek Drive E, Eatonville, Wash., 360-832-6117, nwtrek.org) , funded by the citizens of Pierce County, Wash., about a three-hour drive from Portland.

Typically, the park offers open-air Jeep tours. In late May, it pivoted to motorcades ($80 per vehicle, reservations only; most of July is booked, so aim for August): a dozen cars and trucks, each load of visitors socially distanced, the tour guide piped in over the car stereo.

I'm familiar with drive-thru zoos from a Florida youth misspent at Lion Country Safari. Most states have their own variation on the car safari (Oregon is no exception, with giraffes off I-5 in Douglas County). But the vibe at Northwest Trek is different: more Ansel Adams than Doc Antle, in no small part because the animals are Pacific Northwest species. There's no substitute for the awe inspired by the sight of a herd of elk grazing in the glacial valley of a national park—but we're all making do these days, and watching a bison bull saunter by your car still carried a thrill. (I never did catch a glimpse of a moose, but they're in the compound, too.)

And then there were the caribou. I'd never gotten close to one before, and they were a delight: cow-eyed and molting winter fuzz from their backs and antlers, the tendons in their feet clicking rhythmically as they ambled toward visitors. They wandered between vehicles, sometimes bringing the caravan to a halt by joining the procession themselves. When the year began, I did not expect my first traffic jam to be caused by an arctic deer herd. Finally: a pleasant surprise.

The Vintages Offer Pint-Sized Luxury Living for Your Inner King of the Road If Old MacDonald Had a Winery, It Would Look Like Abbey Road Farm Island and Native American Culture Collide Beautifully in an Unlikely Port Town on the Columbia Lane County Boasts More Covered Bridges Than Any Other West of the Mississippi. We Ranked Them. As One of the Only Safe Ways for the Public to Gather, Newberg's 99W Drive-In Is the Hottest Nightspot in Town With Some Campgrounds Still Closed and the Coronavirus Spreading, I Went Camping in the Only Place That Was a Safe Bet—My Backyard We Found Trails to Six Lesser-Known Cascading Gems That Will Fulfill Your Urge to Get Wet This Summer This One-Room Structure Now Shelters Weary Hikers and Features a Decently Stocked Pantry Florence Has Named a Park After the Legendary 1970 Whale Explosion Support Local Breweries by Drinking on a Recently Reopened Patio, or Take Your Beer to Go Washington's Northwest Trek Wildlife Park Now Offers a Drive-Thru Safari. So We Tried It Out.

Willamette Week’s reporting has concrete impacts that change laws, force action from civic leaders, and drive compromised politicians from public office. Support WW's journalism today.

50 years of Wildlife education

Cougar mountain zoo.

Established in 1972, the primary focus of Cougar Mountain Zoo is on Endangered Species and promoting Conservation Through Education. 

The Cougar Mountain Zoo and Zoological Society of Washington are dedicated to increasing the understanding and appreciation of the Earth’s wildlife and the role of humanity in nature through education, conservation, propagation and exhibition.

Conservation through Education

Established in 1972 the primary focus of the Cougar Mountain Zoo is on endangered species and education. Many of the Zoo animals have been born or raised at the Zoo and have developed a self assured attitude toward humans, enabling visitors to take a deep glimpse into the beauty and mysteries of other life forms.

We consider our visitors as the guardians of our planet and put forth an unprecedented effort to give each visitor the utmost in personal attention and hospitality.

The Animals

Master plan.

The mission of the Cougar Mountain Zoo and Zoological Society of Washington, a non-profit, tax-exempt, charitable 501(c)3 organization, is to increase the understanding and appreciation of the Earth’s irreplaceable wildlife and the role of humanity in nature through education, conservation, propagation and exhibition.

Information

19525 SE 54th Street Issaquah, Washington 98027

[email protected]

Additional links.

©2024 Zoological Society of Washington and Cougar Mountain Zoo.

Woodland Park Zoo

• Directions & Parking
• Maps & Dining
• Today at the Zoo
• Accessibility
• Discounts & Groups
• Community Access Program
• Shop the ZooStore
• Meet the Animals
• African Savanna
• Rhino Conservation
• Australasia
• Butterfly Garden
• Humboldt Penguins
• Name A Red Panda Cub
• Trail of Adaptations
• Tropical Asia
• Tropical Rain Forest
• Endangered Species Breeding
• Endangered Species Act
• Butterflies of the Pacific Northwest
• Western Pond Turtle Recovery Project
• Raptor Ecology of the Shrub Steppe
• Northwest Carnivore Project
• Otter Spotter
• Urban-Wildland Carnivore Project
• Amphibian Monitoring
• Coexisting with Carnivores Materials
• Northwest Carnivore Monitoring
• Washington Wolverine Project
• Olympic Marten Project
• Grizzly Bear Reintroduction
• Tree Kangaroo Conservation Program
• Malayan Tiger Project
• Humboldt Penguin Conservation
• Hutan Orangutan Program
• Gunung Palung Orangutan Conservation Project
• Snow Leopard Trust
• Tanzania Conservation and Research Program
• Lion Landscapes
• International Rhino Foundation
• Goualougo Triangle Ape Project
• Giraffe Conservation Foundation
• Red Panda Network
• Projects in Africa
• Projects in Eurasia
• Projects in the Americas
• Community Conservation
• Hornbill Nest Adoptions
• Frequently Asked Questions
• ECO-CELL Frequently Asked Questions
• Creating Compost
• How It's Made
• Calendar of Events
• Book a Party
• ZooTunes Frequently Asked Questions
• Venue Policies
• Spring Spectacular
• Call of the Wild
• Wild Meet & Greet
• Brew at the Zoo
• WildLanterns FAQ
• Wild at Heart and LionHearts Society Night
• Nightly Activities
• Rose Garden
• Green Story
• Learning & Innovation
• Financial Assistance
• Pond Turtles
• River Otters
• Grizzly Bear
• Registration
• Safety Policy
• Camp Additional Information
• Senior Zoo Walkers
• Early Childhood
• Frquently Asked Questions
• Impact on Students
• Empathy for Wildlife
• Activity Sheets
• Media Resources
• Teacher Packets
• Zoo Careers
• Homeschool Resources
• Up Close Resources
• Wild at Heart Registration
• Cultural Partners
• Reciprocal Zoos and Aquariums
• Corporate Memberships
• Membership FAQ
• Seasonal Special Adoption
• Standard Adoptions
• Digital Adoption
• ZooParent Online Recognition
• Give Monthly
• Planned Giving
• Forests for All
• All for Animals
• Online Recognition
• Corporate Engagement
• MyZoo Magazine
• Volunteer Positions
• Board of Directors
• Executive Leadership Team
• Reports and Finances
• Zoo History
• Auction Donation Requests
• 2021 Press Archive
• 2020 Press Archive
• 2019 Press Archive
• 2018 Press Archive
• 2017 Press Archive
• Donor Stories
• Donor Recognition
• Our Mission

THIS IS HOW WE ZOO

Visit today and help us save wildlife.

Buy tickets online to save time and start your next adventure.

PLAN YOUR VISIT

9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

TICKETS & HOURS

UPCOMING EVENTS

Zoo Highlights

Your support helps save forests for all.

A new home here. A brighter future there.

JOIN OUR MOVEMENT

Help us create the new Forest Trailhead where you can connect with incredible wildlife and join with the local and global communities inspiring this conservation movement.

New exhibit experience coming in 2026

“At the heart of this project is the zoo’s passion and Forests for All’s rallying cry: uniting people around forward-thinking solutions that benefit all living creatures.” Lisa Dabek, Senior Director of the Papua New Guinea Tree Kangaroo Conservation Program

From Our Blog

Everything fabulous in Washington: restaurants, spas, things to do, resorts and more!

• Arts & Culture
• Nightlife & Parties
• Health & Fitness
• Travel & Adventure
• Family & Pets
• Restaurant News
• Featured Restaurants
• Nonprofit News
• Nonprofit of the Month
• Fabulous People
• Fabulous Arizona
• Fabulous California
• Fabulous Nevada
• Fabulous Wisconsin
• Fabulous Iowa

Washington’s Top Zoos and Wildlife Parks

Lions and tigers and bears—oh my! These Washington state zoos have a focus on conservation and educating the public while also giving visitors a front-row view of its furry and feathered friends.

Note: Most zoos are offering modified visitation at this time.

Woodland Park Zoo

Founded in 1899, 92-acre Woodland Park Zoo not only engages its visitors in extraordinary experiences with animals, but it helps to to save animals and their habitats in the wild through more than 35 wildlife conservation projects in the Pacific Northwest and around the globe. The award-winning zoo manages 900 animals representing more than 250 species—the largest number of live animals in Washington.

Northwest Trek Wildlife Park

Northwest Trek Wildlife Park is a nonprofit that promotes conservation, education and recreation through the display of native wildlife—like bobcats, bears, gray wolves, badgers, otters and many more—in their habitats and is home to more than 40 species. The new Wild Drive premier tour allows you to cruise by roaming herds of Roosevelt elk and mountain goats from the comfort and safety of your own car.

Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium

The Northwest’s only combined zoo and aquarium, Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is the sister zoo of Northwest Trek Wildlife Park. The zoo, which welcomes 700,000 visitors a year, just launched a brand‐new way to connect with its animals: Zoo For You. Led by a trained staff member, the experiences take small groups from single households beyond the public areas to feed, groom and learn about animals. Zoo For You guests will also get hands‐on insights into how zookeepers and aquarists care for the animals. Book Zoo For You here .

Cougar Mountain Zoo

Fifteen miles outside of Seattle, Cougar Mountain Zoo, which was founded in 1972, specializes in educating guests on the threatened, endangered and unique species that reside at the zoo. Come for the animals; stay for the views: The zoo is found on the north-facing slope of Cougar Mountain, allowing picture-perfect panoramas of Cascade Mountain range and Lake Sammamish. 

Cat Tales Wildlife Center

Cat Tales Wildlife Center offers a safe and secure home for rescued big cats and various other wildlife. Cat Tales was founded in 1991 as a zoological park; just last year, it shied away from that label in pursuit of being called what is has always been: a nonprofit sanctuary and wildlife rescue.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Email Address *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

What’s New

April 25 to april 27: upper left comedy festival, fabulous people: monica nevi, summer vacation destinations for seattleites, spring festivals in washington state, fabulous people: vanessa dawn, upcoming events, mindfulness meditation and poetry, live music saturday, seattle cherry blossom and japanese cultural festival, gretchen yanover at yellowhawk resort, 34th annual best of the northwest spring show.

Wildlife Park in Arlington, WA

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Curabitur commodo vulputate blandit.

Kangaroo Sales

Wallaby Sales

Trusted company, as a local company, proudly serving arlington, washington and surrounding areas, the outback kangaroo farm is committed to providing excellent services and maintaining our reputation in the area.  , trusted services, when you visit the outback kangaroo farm, you'll be visiting a unique wildlife park that all ages can enjoy. our furry friends can't wait to meet you, our team meets the highest standards in experience and skills. we work hard to ensure our staff are duly trained and remain up to date in the latest trends in the industry.  , business hours, contact info.

Park Experience

Experience the awe and wonder of native Northwest wildlife. Meet bears, bald eagles, river otters and more as you explore our forested walking paths. Play on our nature-inspired Kids’ Trek playground. And discover herds of bison, mountain goats, caribou and other animals during a Wild Drive or Keeper Adventure Tour.

Discovery Tram Tours on our new electric trams are suspended until further notice due to maintenance issues. We continue to offer Wild Drives in guest vehicles and Keeper Adventure Tours in our Jeep so our guests can experience our Free-Roaming Area. Thank you in advance for your patience.

Animal walking paths

Exploring our forest pathways.

• Gaze at grizzlies and black bears as they explore their forested habitats.
• Keep walking to find fluffy foxes and furry wolverines.
• Roam the Cat Loop to spy cougar,
• lynx and bobcats.
• Get up close to otters, raccoons, skunk, beavers and badgers in their underground or underwater habitats at the Forest & Wetlands.
• Climb a rope bridge or a giant tree at our nature-inspired Kids’ Trek playground!
• Discover the world of amphibians and reptiles in our Cheney Discovery Center .

Our Animal Walking Paths are included with your general admission ticket or membership.

Wild Drive - A Premier Experience

Our wild drive – a premier experience.

• Caravan around our 435-acre Free-Roaming Area to see majestic animals from the safety and comfort of your own car.
• Discover herds of Roosevelt elk, caribou, deer and bison. Spot fluffy mountain goats, bighorn sheep and moose.
• Hear a naturalist give a live narrated tour from the front car.
• Bring up to 8 people in your vehicle.

Our Wild Drive is a Premier Tour. It requires reservations and includes access to our Animal Walking Paths and Kids’ Trek nature-inspired playground. 

Keeper Adventure Tour - A Premier Experience

Our keeper adventure tour – a premier experience.

• Ride in our keeper Jeep for an off-road adventure in our 435-acre Free-Roaming Area.
• Get up-close to Roosevelt elk, caribou, deer and bison. Spot fluffy mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and a majestic moose.
• Meet a real keeper, learn about what they do and hear all the stories.

Our Keeper Adventure Tour is a Premier Tour.  It require reservations and includes access to our Animal Walking Paths and Kids’ Trek nature-inspired playground.

Buy a general admission ticket online and save money. Or book a Premier Tour and receive park entry for free.

Download a Spanish map

Upcoming Events

Where are we.

Northwest Trek is located at:

11610 Trek Drive East, Eatonville, WA 98328

• 35 miles from Tacoma; 1 hour drive
• 35 miles from Mt. Rainier; 1 hour drive
• 55 miles from Seattle/Bellevue; 1.5 hour drive

Find all directions here.

Dining & Gifts

Find food here.

• The Forest Café is located just right of the main entrance, offering burgers, chicken tenders, fries, drinks, snacks and kids’ meals. Hours vary depending on the season. Chilly day? Cozy up to our warm gas fireplace.
• The Trek Treats kiosk offers snacks and lunch as you roam the paths. Open seasonally.
• Our sheltered picnic pavilion and meadow tables also offer a tranquil spot to eat.
• Don’t forget your refillable water bottle! Refilling stations and fountains are located around the park.

Gifts Galore

Our gift shop offers a huge selection of artisan-made Pacific Northwest gifts and souvenirs to connect you with animals and the outdoors.

Rentals & Accessibility

Wheelchair & stroller rentals.

A limited number of wheelchairs, electric carts, and single and double strollers are available for rent on a first-come, first-served basis.

Strollers: $10 single/$12 double. Wheelchair: $12 Electric wheelchair: $35 Umbrellas: $6

ADA Accessibility

Northwest Trek is ADA-accessible. Our public buildings, pathways, viewing areas and trams are designed and equipped to accommodate conventional and electric wheelchairs.

Learn more about accessibility at Northwest Trek.

Be Eco-friendly

Help us help the planet..

Here at Northwest Trek we’re working hard to protect the Earth for everyone. Here’s how you can help:

• Avoid idling your car for more than 30 seconds. This helps preserve sea ice for Arctic animals.
• Bring a reusable water bottle – and fill it up at one of our  water stations. You’ll help protect marine animals from plastic pollution.
• Recycle your waste. Recycling bins are next to trash cans – make an Earth-friendly choice!

Safety Rules

• Follow the instructions on all signs.
• Walk at all times.
• Do not touch animals.
• Do not bring skates, skateboards, wheelie-type shoes, scooters or bicycles into the park.
• Pets are not allowed on Park grounds. Read our Service Animal Policy.
• Never leave a pet inside of a parked car.
• Check in all service animals at our admission gate. Only trained and working service animals are allowed.
• Ensure that all minor youths are accompanied by an adult.
• Do not smoke. This includes vape pens and e-cigarettes.
• No open fires or barbecues in the park or parking lot.
• Alcohol may only be purchased and consumed in designated areas.
• No drones or other flying aircraft.
• Wear shoes and shirts at all times.
• Bring a picnic but no recreational equipment, such as net games, frisbees or balls.
• Do not feed the animals,. Do not shout at animals or tap on exhibit windows. Do not drop anything into habitats.
• No balloons. They are very dangerous for the animals.
• The park is ADA-accessible. and designed to accommodate conventional and electric wheelchairs. For the safety of our guests, Segways, gas-powered scooters and adult tricycles are not allowed in the park.

S chreiner F arms

Our ranch contains abundant fresh water springs and wonderful well water, which helps keep the animals healthy. Our animals are not enclosed in tiny pens like a zoo, but roam in spacious wide-open areas.

Our Ranch is open to the public so you can drive through to view the animals.

Please observe the following rules.

We are open from 9 am to dusk

stay in your vehicle

stay on the main road and turn around at the giraffe barn. There is a sign there

yield to farm traffic (tractors, quads and pickups)

do not litter or throw anything out of your vehicle

Antelope / Emu / Ostrich / Other Birds / Buffalo / Camel / Cattle / Muntjac Deer

Reindeer / Donkey / Elk / Giraffe / Llama / Mule / Wallaroo / Yak / Zebra

Home / Branding / Chores / Landscape / Roundup

THE 10 BEST Washington Zoos & Aquariums

Zoos & aquariums in washington.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Pike Place Market
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Point Defiance Park

2. Woodland Park Zoo

3. Seattle Aquarium

4. Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium

5. Port Townsend Marine Science Center

6. Feiro Marine Life Center

7. Cougar Mountain Zoo

8. Wild Felid Advocacy Center of Washington

9. Outback Kangaroo Farm

10. The Reptile Zoo

11. Blue Zoo

12. Marine Life Center

13. Jozee Rooz Indoor Petting Zoo

14. Puget Sound Estuarium

15. Putting Zoo

16. Westport Aquarium

17. Puyallup Fish Hatchery

18. Oak Creek Wildlife Viewing Are

19. Enchanted Farms Duvall

What travelers are saying.

Love, Tabitha

Lifestyle Blog

List of Zoos and Aquariums in Washington

March 2, 2021 Comments : 3

Penguins, tigers, and polar bears oh my! Washington State has many zoos and aquariums to offer and are always a favorite for families. Including my own; we love seeing and learning all about the animals, the activities, the scenery, the walking. It’s all fun!

My family and I love to visit zoos/aquariums, whether we’re going for a couple hours or spending the entire day. We love how quiet and relaxing it is, entertainment for all ages, even if you’ve been numerous times there’s always something different.

We currently have a membership to the Point Defiance Zoo and we visit at least every other week.

LIST OF ZOOS AND AQUARIUMS IN WASHINGTON STATE

There are over six zoos and aquariums across Washington state, something for everyone. The animal lover will be happy at any of the locations, maybe science is your thing, or maybe you’re looking for something to do with your family or friends.

Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium Located: Tacoma Hours: varies by season Prices: varies go online to check out discounts, adult general admission at gate $23, check online for discounts

The only zoo and aquarium in the area, you can easily spend a full day here checking out all the animals and sea life. Picnic areas, great children play area, petting zoo, carousel and they’re opening up a new aquarium this summer that’s going to be amazing.

Northwest Trek Wildlife Park Located: Eatonville Hours: varies by season Prices: adult general admission at the gate $25, check online for discounts Note: Tram Tours are currently closed while they build new ones

NW Trek is an amazing walk through zoo with amazing animals to see, a fun tram ride look for animals see the scenery about an hour long, an amazing children’s playground, and picnic area.

Seattle Aquarium Located: Seattle Hours: daily 9:30am-5pm Prices: varies, adult general admission starting at $25.95

Perfect location right on the water downtown Seattle, great aquarium, family activities, great way to spend a couple hours while in downtown Seattle.

Woodland Park Zoo Located: Seattle Hours: vary with the season Prices: general admission adult $20 Note: There are parking fees.

We love this zoo and could easily spend an entire day here exploring. There’s so much to see and do. All sorts of different animals, interactive fun, wonderful indoor and outdoor children’s area.

Olympic Game Farm Located: Sequim Hours: changes with the season Prices: $15-20 per person, 5 and under free Note: No outside bread, must buy it there

This unique experience drive through safari you get to feed the animals from your car, the game farm has worked exclusively for Walt Disney Studios for 28 years, visit filming locations and meet some animals actors, seasonal walking tour, and petting zoo, picnic area.

Cougar Mountain Zoo Located: Issaquah Hours: varies by season Prices: general admission $16

We have yet to visit this zoo, but will be soon. This zoo has amazing animals and exhibits, interactive fun, encounters, and enjoy your lunch here. Easily spend a whole day at this zoo.

Blue Zoo  Aquarium Located: Spokane Hours: Sunday 11:00 AM-6:00 PM Monday-Saturday 11:00 AM-7:00 PM Prices: adult general admission $15.95

Educate and inspire in a fun, hands-on environment! Touch and feed stingrays, birds and reptiles! Experience sharks, an octopus, clownfish, seahorses, jellyfish and angelfish! Play on multiple water tables and a pirate ship!

SEA Discovery Center Located: Poulsbo Hours: Open Fridays & Saturdays, 11am – 4pm Prices: FREE

At the SEA Discovery Center, we are dedicated to inspiring a deeper sense of understanding and stewardship of the marine environment.

Marine Life Center Located: Bellingham Hours: varies Prices: Free

Free-admission educational center featuring local marine animals & an interactive touch pool.

Bug & Reptile Museum Located: Bremerton Hours: open daily from 10am-5pm Prices: Free

See our cool LIVE bugs, explore bizarre bugs under the microscope, look through glasses that let you see like a bug, and even watch busy ants in our giant 8 foot long Ant Farm! We have the weirdest and most interesting bugs on display for you to see up close. Over 15 kid friendly exhibits to explore.

Wolf Haven International Located: Tenino Hours: advanced reservation only

See some wolves while enjoying a 50-minute guided walking visit of our sanctuary.

Have you visited any of the zoos or aquariums here in Washington or is there one you plan on visiting this year? Let me know in the comments below. We’ve got a few we’ll be visiting this summer with my animal lover! 

You might also enjoy.

August 27, 2022 at 10:15 am

You forgot Cat Tails in Spokane

John "Jack" Regan says

October 7, 2020 at 8:51 pm

Don’t forget to visit The Reptile Zoo in Monroe, WA Tabitha. You and your family will love the fascinating place. I wrote a review of it and posted some photos on my website.

Rachel Teodoro says

April 4, 2018 at 3:49 pm

I’ve been to all of them and they are fabulous!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Let’s Connect

Privacy overview.

Open daily 9am-3:30pm

New at the Zoo

Explore the zoo.

Save money and time. Get your tickets before you visit. Or become a member for previews, discounts and more...

Find Animal Habitats

Plan your day.

We Care for Animals

Watch our zoo.

Baby muskox in habitat

Gibbons calling to each other

Sea otters with treats

Meet Astra & Laerke

Connect With Us

Balzak (pronounced bell’zik) hitting the high notes!🎵 Walruses are among the most vocal of all pinnipeds (seal family). They produce growls, roars, whistles, grunts, barks, and more for communication. A male walrus roar can reach levels of up to 120 decibels, making them one of the loudest sounds produced by marine mammals. So, when a male walrus is feeling vocal, they can make quite a splash with their impressive serenades. 🎶 📹: Keeper Kristyn #aprilfools #walrus #walruses #pointdefiancezoo #zoo #aquarium

Tapirs are known for scent-marking and can spray sticky urine over a 10 foot distance! Our staff have developed an underwear prototype for tapirs, Baku and Yuna. 😂 #AprilFools

Exciting news! 🍿 Our mole rats are starring in Dune: Part Three as new creatures called sabertooth sandmoles. #aprilfools

After a 30-day journey with laser therapy treatment, our resilient Eastern box turtle named Mover has emerged healthier than ever! 🎉 Veterinary staff utilized laser therapy to treat a small area of shell disease. At the end of treatment, Mover`s shell disease resolved. 🐢

Meet Clark, our amazing 23-year-old king vulture, who enjoys spreading his wings and strutting his stuff during a Zoo adventure with keepers Jessie and Alex! 👑🪶 #kingvulture #vulture #birdsofinstagram #pointdefiancezoo #zoo #zooanimals #zooadventures #enrichment

Happy 11th birthday, Sheldon! 🎉 Like all cats, Sheldon loves to lounge around. The 11-year-old serval has a hammock inside he likes to relax in and enjoys lounging in the tall grass outside. In proportion to its body, the serval has the longest legs in the cat family, enabling it to peer over tall vegetation to find prey. 🐾 Sheldon came to Point Defiance Zoo as a kitten and was named after The Big Bang Theory star, as he’s also one unique character: imagine the idiosyncrasies of a house cat amplified exponentially. 😺

Twiggy the seriema strikes a pose while soaking up the spring vibes amidst a backdrop of cherry blossoms during a walk around the Zoo! 🤩🌸 📸: Curator Lacey #seriema #birdsofinstagram #pointdefiancezoo #zoo #pnwspring

Our three rescued sea otters, Moea, Clara and Libby, enjoy the best, restaurant-quality sustainable seafood multiple times a day! 🦦💕 📹: Keeper Kristyn #seaotter #otter #pointdefiancezoo #zoo #aquarium

Zoos in Washington & Aquariums – Where To See Animals (Petting Zoos, Reptiles, Kangaroo Farms & More)!

This post may contain affiliate links and I may be compensated for this post. Please read our disclosure policy here .

Sharing is caring!

Zoos in Washington & Aquariums – Where To See Animals (Petting Zoos, Reptiles, Kangaroo Farms & More)!

My son loved animals growing up, so we made it our mission to hit as many spots that we were able to get him close up with the creatures he loved. We visited zoos in Washington, aquariums, reptile and bug museums, petting zoos, natural habitat spots, and more all over the state (and all over the country). Although we loved to see these spots wherever our travels might take us, we quickly learned how rich our own state was in terms of places to enjoy animals, and the best part is that there is someplace for you to explore regardless of budget.

Do you have an animal lover in your family? If so, there are many places to get up and close to enjoy animals here in Washington. You will find everything from some larger zoos and aquariums, to smaller locations like petting zoos, reptile zoos, Kangaroo farms and more. You will also find that they range in price, starting as low as FREE!

Here are some of our favorite spots to visit, that you may enjoy ,too, if you have animal lovers in your family! Let us know if you have a favorite spot we missed, so we can be sure to share with others.

Zoos in Washington:

Woodland Park Zoo

The Woodland Park Zoo is the largest and most well known zoo in Washington. It has some great parks included within the zoo, as well as many fun animal attractions and a petting zoo  (and a very cool indoor play area for kids). We had a annual membership for many years, and the kids and I never got tired of visiting. There is a food court so you can enjoy either a packed lunch or purchased lunch. They are also part of the reciprocal program, so if you are a member, you can use that membership to get free entrance into other zoos as well.

Find ways to save here. The Entertainment books are also another great way to save on Zoo tickets (buy one get one free coupon is included) or you can find the on Groupon here sometimes too.

Pro Tip – Head to the left when you enter. It seems most folks head to the right, so if you start your zoo adventure going to the left you may avoid some of the crowds.

Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium

This is the second largest zoo in Washington, and also has a recently redone aquarium (which we will share more about below in aquariums). I love this zoo, as it is not as large or crowded as the Woodland Park zoo, and it includes the aquarium. There are peacocks that roam freely, a carousel and fun kids playground, as well as daily shows. My favorite exhibit has always been the polar bears here.

We have a full review of this zoo and aquarium, as well as ways to save here, to plan your visit.

Cougar Mountain Zoo

This is a small zoo located in the Issaquah area. It is not like a typical zoo with larger exhibits, but you will see many of the cats up and much closer than you do at the other two zoos mentioned. One of the pros of this spot is that the crowds are much smaller. You can get up and close to some of the animals (that is one of my kids feeding the animals above – be sure to bring your quarters for the food machines), but it is much smaller then the other zoos in the area. They do have a very popular Reindeer Festival during the holiday times.

Be sure to check out the Springfree Trampoline store nearby too. Kids can jump for free when you visit!

Seattle Aquarium

This is another spot that we used to have an annual membership, as it was just fun to visit then spend the rest of the day down on the Seattle Waterfront having fun. There are great otter exhibits, hands on exhibits for kids to get their hands wet, and seasonal events. My kids favorites have always been the otters and the octopus, but it is a great day of fun, especially if you combine it with everything else there is to explore on the Seattle waterfront.

Be sure to check out our review on Wings Over Washington , which is another attraction near the Aquarium you can check out.

Point Defiance Aquarium

The Point Defiance Zoo recently went through a nice remodel for their aquarium. One of the perks of this spot is that you also get access to the zoo with entry, so it is a great day to both enjoy the zoo and aquarium. We have a full review here .

MAST Center Aquarium

This is a small and free aquarium, open on the weekend. You can read more about it in our review of our South Sound Staycation here and our Seattle Southside guide .

Sea Discovery Center in Poulsbo Washington

The Sea Discovery Center in Poulsbo is on the smaller side, but it is free and you can combine it with a visit to explore Poulsbo at the same time (see our review of a day trip to Poulsbo here) . Kids can touch sea urchins and star fish, as well as explore the beach in a real life habitat too.

Foss Waterway Seaport Museum – Tacoma

Foss Waterway Seaport Museum in Tacoma includes Critter Touch Tanks, where kids can reach in and feel starfish, sea anemone & other sea creatures. You can find ways to get in here for free in our review post here. 

Drive Through Parks to See Animals In Natural Habitats

Northwest Trek

Northwest Trek is a wonderful spot to get out and see animals roaming in their natural habitat. You can take a tram tour throughout the grounds (included with admission) and see lots of different animals. It is such a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the outdoors in a setting where you are bound to see wildlife.

They also have a very cool park for kids to enjoy, and zip lining is available for an extra fee.

Olympic Game Farm Park

The Olympic Game Farm Park is a wonderful spot out in Sequim, that is definitely worth the trip if you love wildlife! This spot is one that you go on a drive through tour in your own car, and are likely to see large animals like bears, cats and more. My kids love this one, as they have seen some pretty large animals roaming about as well as coming up to our vehicle – which is pretty exciting. It includes mostly wildlife that is native to the Northwest, and in addition to the self guided one hour drive through tours, there are seasonal walking tours, and a few spots where you can see animals in their enclosures too.

Bug & Reptile Zoos in Washington

Bug and Reptile Museum in Bremerton

We share a full review of this spot here, but it is a fun (and free) small bug and reptile museum, that offers a scavenger hunt for kids, as well as times that they can get up and close with some of the snakes. My kids love stopping by here, whenever we are heading to the Peninsula. You can find a review of towns to visit in the area here if you want to make a day trip out of this one.

Reptile Zoo in Monroe

This was one of the first reptile zoos we ever visited, years ago when my son was just a pre-schooler. It has grown quite a bit since that time, and is home of the well known Reptile man (you will find him showing off creatures at many local events). You can find discount tickets on Groupon here for this spot .

Petting Farms , Wildlife Centers & Other Animal Parks in the Northwest

The outback kangaroo farm in arlington.

We have a full review of our trip out to this farm here , but we just loved this spot! The kids got to kiss lamas, pet kangaroos, and much more. You pay a small fee to get in, then you go on a group tour to see all the animals.

There are close up interactions with most of them. The experience probably took us just over an hour in total, but you can bring out a picnic and enjoy it on grounds too. We combined our trip with some stops at nearby Snohomish farms to pick our own vegetables, and made a day of it.

Debbie Doolittles Indoor Petting Zoo in Parkland

This spot is not large, but is very interactive. The kids can pet lamas, hold bunny rabbits and snakes, and you can buy a cup of food to feed the animals (in which case they will harass you until you feed them, it is lots of fun).  They have added a sloth, and more up close and personal animal experiences as well. And recently, even added an arcade to their party room. They also offer pony rides during select times. This is another spot that pops up on Groupon from time to time.

Fall City Wallaby Ranch 

Thanks to reader Samantha for the heads up on this cool Wallaby ranch, where you can get up close & personal with the wallabys & kangaroos and learn quite a bit of information from the owner. They do offer group tours with 5 or more people, but if you have smaller groups, it says they will pair you with other people to form a larger group.

Redmond Petting Farm

Right now you can get a discount admission on a private petting farm experience or 4 at the Redmond Petting farm. Find the details on this offer here. 

Wolf Haven is located in Tenino, not too far from Olympia and it is a wildlife sanctuary for displaced wolves born in captivity.  They do offer limited 50 minute tours of the public space of their property to see some of the wolves up close. We had the opportunity to visit for my daughter’s 13th birthday as she loves animals & had requested for her gift to “adopt” an animal, where you can provide money towards the care of a wolf and learn about the wolf as part of the gift. So we went to Wolf Haven so she could see her “adopted” wolf on the tour and it was a great opportunity to see the different breeds of wolves. We learned not only a lot of information about wolves on the tour, but we also learned about the important wolf restoration efforts that are happening in the Northwest as they work to protect the remaining wolves in the wild & their habitat, so it’s a great educational tour.

Tahoma Vista Fiber Mill & Alpaca Farm 

The Tahoma Vista Fiber Mill is located in Yelm & it currently has a Groupon offer available right now. You can get a guided tour for up to 5 people for $26 or a guided tour for up to 10 people for $52.50. This tour is an hour & a half long with a sweet couple who have an Alpaca farm on their property,  as well as a fiber mill in their garage. You will meet, greet & feed the alpacas for 30 minutes & then you will spend the rest of the tour learning about the process of using their wool to turn into fiber & beautiful products. At the end, you can then see all the products they have created in their store. We did this tour with friends with this Groupon offer and had fun meeting the alpacas & learning about the process for creating the beautiful Alpaca wool products.

Cascade Rose Alpacas in Carnation

You can get a deal to visit this farm on Groupon here. The tour of the farm, will provide visitors opportunities to learn about the farm’s alpacas, feed them by hand, and see products made from alpaca fiber. If you’re an Alpaca fan, this is a fun one.

Briscot Farms in Kent 

Opportunities to view pet and feed animals at this spot as well bouncy houses sometimes, smores sometimes and more. Best part is that it is just a $5 admission fee too! Open weekends only.

Kelsey Creek Farm 

This place is free to enter (some things fee based). Kelsey Creek Farm is set back in the Bellevue area with beautiful green hills, and a playground and walking trails. Kids can get up close and pet bunnies, goats, chicken cows and more

Elk & Bighorn Sheep Feeding Station – Oak Creek Wildlife Area

If you are looking for a truly unique experience, watching the feeding of the elk & bighorn sheep during the winter in the White Pass / Naches area of Washington is such a fun close-up view of these animals in the wild.  The feeding stations are located on the eastern side of Mount Rainier, but only accessible by Highway 12 coming from White Pass or Highway 12 north coming out of Yakima & up into Naches.

Farrel-McWhirter Park

Located in Redmond – this park provides free access and their is a kids farm where young and not so young can visit goats, chickens, bunnies, sheep, cows and more!

Fox Hollow Farm  

This one is in Issaquah, and is full of lots to do for little ones and families. You will need to pay to get into Fox Hollow Farms, but if you have younger kids, it is packed full of fun for them. Not only are their animals for the kids to pet, there are also pony rides and some other fun things to do (like John Deer tractor rides – the small ones for kids, not real tractors, inflatables to jump in and more. It is set within the beautiful backdrops of the mountains, and is really a beautiful area. Parking can get congested on the weekends, so get their early. Our favorite time to visit is the Fall, with them have festivities going on to celebrate the season (like a barn with hay you can swing into, corn and more). They do have lots of events and fun happening all year long though (summer is beautiful there too), so if you want to splurge on a fun packed day with the kids, check this spot out! You will want to be sure to get your tickets ahead of time online, as they limit the number of entries and often sell out (meaning no walk ins allowed on those days).

Remlinger Farms

Remlinger Farms is a farm with lots of family entertainment & rides, but they also have a big barn full of farm animals. You’ll see everything from sheep, alpacas, chickens, rabbits, pigs, goats, donkeys & more. Watch for Group0n deals for this farm as it can be a bit pricier to visit since there are so many activities at the farm.

Forrest Park Petting Zoo

As part of the Forrest Park , there is a free petting zoo where you can see animals, chickens and other small farm animals. Enjoy the petting zoo and the park here (including  a spray park)! Find a full review of Forrest Park here to plan your visit.

Malty Produce Markets Petting Zoo

This is a small but free petting zoo you can see and touch the animals up close! here you will find chickens, goats, peacocks, sheep, geese and ducks. Plus, not only can you grab some fresh produce from the stand while you are there, but you can head across the street to enjoy a stroll through Flower World too (one of my families favorite nurseries since I was a young girl). The nursery is enormous, and worth strolling through even if you are not in the market to buy flowers.

Nisqually Wildlife Refuge

For entrance into the park, the cost is $3 for every 4 adults.  Children 16 & under are free. You can also use an Interagency Annual Pass, Senior Pass or Access Pass, as well as a National Park pass (if you have a 4th grader get one for free here) . This spot is not one where you are going to see traditional farm animals, but there is lots of bird watching, and we ran into some snake and turtle sightings too. It is set up on a nice boardwalk, so it is beautiful and relaxing. It is a great stop off  1-5 if you’re on a longer trip and want to get out and stretch your feet.

Rescue River Ranch in Leavenworth

This spot is just outside of Leavenworth, so if you are heading over there for a getaway it could be a fun one to visit. It was the winner of Best Roadside Attraction in 2022’s Best Northwest Escapes viewer poll too! This spot is on the river at a private ranch, and the Sleeping Lady mountain is your backdrop – so it is beautiful. They rescue animals here, so you are also supporting a good cause and getting access to pet and visit with a number of different types of animals through their hour-long guided tours, where you also learn what it takes to care for rescue animals.

Wild Felid Advocacy Center – Shelton

Head out on a guided tour around the Wild Felid Advocacy Center in Washington, led by a professional – Enjoy a tour that is ideal for the older crowd, with conversations that are tailored to adults and mature children – Meet the animals that live here as you learn about their species, individual stories, and how they are cared for

Blue Zoo in Spokane

This is an interactive aquarium, but also includes things like birds and reptiles too. Find more details in this article here.

Cat Tales Wildlife

This is Spokane’s Wildlife Rescue and Eco-Zoo.

Did we miss any of your favorite aquariums or zoos in Washington – or any other spots you love to view animals? Where are your favorite spots to view or interact with animals in Washington?

More articles you might like.

10 Unique Parks In Washington State to Visit!

Get Out Pass Washington – $60 Off (Includes Wild Waves, Family Fun Center & More)!

Weekly list of Fun and Frugal Family Events

You can spend the night in a yurt at an Alpaca Farm just outside of Granite Falls. Beautiful area, probably fun in every season but winter.

This sounds like such a fun idea! I am pretty obsessed with Alpacas right now, so I would totally do this! :) –Jen

Forest Park Animal Farm is “Permanently closed” according to Google. And the Sea Discovery Center I know is Temporarily closed.

Not sure about any of the other places listed here, but I’d check on any of these before going!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Welcome to Thrifty NW Mom! We are based in the greater Seattle / Tacoma area. We are a one-stop resource for ways to save money all around the Pacific Northwest! You’ll find everything from ways to save at the  grocery store ,  online shopping deals ,  free or affordable family events  in the Northwest,  dining discounts ,  frugal DIY tips  and much more!

Recent Posts

Things to do in bellevue on a staycation, black diamond camps – free adventure day, great summer camp + family camp & more, point ruston & ruston way waterfront – fun day trip for families, free easter bunny photos at bass pro & cabelas.

Copyright © 2015 Thrifty Northwest Mom. All Rights Reserved.

• Activities for Kids

14 Wild & Fun Animal Farms & Petting Zoos to Visit Now

Now that spring is here we’ll bet baby animals are on your mind (ours too!). There’s no better place to find your favorite furry, feathered and scaly friends than at a nearby petting farm, zoo or animal sanctuary. So if your kiddos want to see, touch and possibly feed some of the cutest critters around, we’ve got just the spot. Here’s where to find your new animal besties.

Find Your Barnyard Favorites at the Zoo

Woodland park zoo.

Seattle families know Woodland Park Zoo is the place to go to see animals . If you’re looking for a great local petting farm, there’s no better spot to find them than here. Starting May 1, the Family Farm Contact Area will open for the season. Part of the Temperate Forest area, it’s where kids of all ages can see cows, donkeys, chickens, goats, sheep and pigs around the barnyard habitat. They can also enter the petting area and interact with gentle sheep and goats to add a hands-on element to your zoo outing.

Dates: May 1-Sep. 30 Hours: Daily, 10:00 a.m.–noon & 1-4 p.m.; Closed noon-1 p.m.

5500 Phinney Ave. N. Seattle, WA Online: zoo.org

Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium

Head south to find an array of animal experiences, including a year-round petting zoo , when you visit Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium in Tacoma. Just beyond the outdoor playground is where you’ll find the friendly goats, who are all about being fed by hand. Bring quarters so you can get a fistful of pellets. Then it’s up to your wannabe farmers to entice the goats to take a bite (don’t worry, they’re eager eaters who aren’t hard to please). If you’re lucky, you’ll time your visit with one of the zookeeper’s daily Close Encounter chats so your kids can learn more about their new furry best friend. Once the goats have had their fill, or you’ve run out of quarters, head to the Pacific Seas Aquarium  where kids can dip their hands into the icy cold water of the Tidal Touch Zone and make contact with seastars, urchins, anemones and cucumbers.

Good to know: Point Defiance also offers amazing up-close animal encounters for kids , including Groovy Goats, Heroes of Unusual Size and Jammin’ with Jellies .

Insider tip: Put May 7 on your spring calendar, because that’s when the zoo’s budgie feeding experience reopens. Trust us, there’s nothing cuter than giggling toddlers feeding these friendly birds.

Hours: Daily, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

5400 N. Pearl St. Tacoma, WA Online: pdza.org

Visit Animals at Viewing & Petting Farms

Kelsey creek farm.

Bellevue’s favorite urban farm is a family hot spot on a warm spring day. And although parents think the picnic-able fields and wide stroller-friendly paths are the big draw, the kids know it’s all about the animals. Easy-to-follow signs keep the kids learning as they make the rounds on the farm’s self-guided tour around the barns and pens. This is where they can check out chickens, stare down pigs and baa with the best of them. The park is free to wander, and you can find the animals in their pastures from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., year-round, rain or shine. Our favorite part? When your little animal lover needs a change of scenery, head to the playground for some sliding, swinging and jumping before hitting the road.

Insider tip: Be sure to check out Kelsey Creek’s programs if your farm hands want to spend more time with the animals. The farm's super popular Sheep Shearing is just around the corner, and kids can be Busy Beavers this weekend.

Hours: Daily, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

410 130th Pl. S.E. Bellevue, WA Online: bellevuewa.gov

Farrel-McWhirter Park

Fill the picnic basket and pack the kite for a trip to Farrel-McWhirter Park, because you’ll find more than your farm animal faves at this city park in Redmond. It’s a great spot to spend a lazy afternoon when the spring sun is nudging your family outside. The wide-open field is a toddler’s dream. They can keep going and going while you easily keep an eye on them from your peaceful picnic blanket. Then, there are the easily hikeable trails that run through the lush forest on the property. And that’s all before your tiny tot hits the barns to see a favorite barnyard friend. They’re all there—goats, sheep, chickens, bunnies, pigs, ducks, ponies, a cow and donkey—eager for attention from their youngest fans.

Insider tip: Farrel-McWhirter’s family programming has a little something for everyone—crafts, pony rides and even farm storytime. Sign up early, as these popular programs fill up fast.

Hours: Daily, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

19545 N.E. Redmond Rd. Redmond, WA 98053 425-556-2300 Online: redmond.gov

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Produce Market (@theproducemarketatflowerworld)

Maltby Produce Market

Introduce your little animal lovers to goats, sheep, peacocks, ducks and geese and bring home farm-fresh veggies for dinner at the same time when you visit this farm in Snohomish. The animals are on display out back, and although they are fenced in, they’re quite friendly, so expect some fence time when you visit. Make your way up during business hours to spend time with these furry friends.

Hours: Daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

19523 Broadway Ave. Snohomish, WA 360-668-0174 Online: maltbyproducemarkets.com

Visit a Seriously Sweet Animal Sanctuary

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sammamish Animal Sanctuary (@sammamish_animal_sanctuary)

Sammamish Animal Sanctuary

If your kiddos have a soft spot for rescue animals, barnyard dance your way to Second Chance Ranch. Here, kids can pet and snuggle with friendly goats and adorable bunnies, or wander over to meet Amelia, the darling blind calf in her bright red barn. With four acres to roam and dozens of animals to interact with, you and the kids will have lots to do during your two-hour visit. The farm is open by reservation only, so grab a slot as soon as you can. And if you want, you can bring cut carrots, sliced apples and lettuce snacks for your new farm friends. The Sammamish Animal Sanctuary is completely volunteer driven, and 100% of its donations are used to care for and feed the animals.

Good to know: If summer camp is on your radar, SAS still has a few weeks that are open. It’s a great way for kids to be outside, learn about animals and help care for them too. This is the animal sanctuary’s number one fundraiser of the year.

Insider tip: SAS is moving. Plan to visit them at their new location (16515 S.E. May Valley Rd. in Renton) mid-May; they’ll be open at the old location through May 1. The new property will be decked to the nines in a Wild West theme. It’s the closest kids can get to visiting Frontierland at Disneyland without boarding a plane.

Hours: By reservation only

Sammamish Animal Sanctuary 20727 S.E. 24th St. Sammamish, WA Online:  sammamishanimalsanctuary.com

Pasado’s Safe Haven

If visiting the state’s largest animal sanctuary is on your list, Pasado’s Safe Haven is the place to go. For over 25 years, the folks here have been working to end animal cruelty by investigating animal cruelty crimes, providing animal sanctuary and advocating for animal protections. Sanctuary Tours are the way families can interact with the more than 200 rescued animals that live on the property. Learn lots about the friendly pigs, goats, sheep, cows, donkeys, llamas, dogs, alpacas, ducks and chickens during your visit, led by a knowledgeable trained guide. Plan to spend a little over two hours on the farm.

Cost: $15/person; Free, kids under 5

Hours: By appointment

Sultan, WA 360-793-9393 Online: pasadosafehaven.org

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tiny Hearts Homestead (@tinyheartshomestead)

Tiny Hearts Homestead

This rustic rehome sanctuary opened in November of 2019, and it’s been charming visitors ever since. Bring your wild ones for a chance to visit a working farm where the animals you’ll meet are some of the friendliest around. Kids will enjoy following the goats, pigs, donkeys and mini horses around in the field. And if they’re feeling brave, they can see if the alpacas and chickens are hungry. Psst…they may even eat out of your hand. When you visit, please wear clothing you won’t mind getting dirty, especially in springtime when things can get muddy. And you can feel good knowing that your experience cost goes right back to the animals, as farm visits help Brooke keep the animals healthy and cared for.

Insider tip: Take home a dozen farm fresh eggs after you visit. Just remember to ask Brooke ahead of time so she can set some aside for you (if the chickens are laying).

Good to know: Got a little animal lover? Consider hosting a summer birthday party on the farm ($150/hr.). Kids will get as much animal time as they can handle, and you’ve got all the picnic table space you need to set out cake, decorations and presents for a simple and sweet celebration.

Hours: By reservation; usually Fri.-Sun., 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Cost: $25/person

Lake Tapps, WA Online: airbnb.com/experiences

The Fancy Farm

If you ask us the motto at this farm should be come for the pony rides, stay to visit the animals. Farm visits at Fancy Farm are relatively new (it opened in 2020) and everything you'd expect when visiting a working farm that's also a non-profit rescue. It all starts at the gate where parents fill out paperwork and the kids get to play with chicks and ducks. Then it's time to head down to the barn where you'll meet the menagerie of goats, pigs, horses, ducks, chickens, quail, emu and of course the farm dogs and barn cats. Families are free to explore on their own, but don't worry the farmers are always within ear shot to answer questions or help with the animals. Grain is available if goat feeding tops your list, and there are helpful cards placed along the fence that teach kids about the farm animals. 

Insider tip: Planning a birthday party ($150) at the Fancy Farm is super easy. Kids can ride ponies, interact with the animals and be totally free range on the play space. 

Good to know: The Fancy Farm also runs a forest school program that's 100% outdoor and nature-based.

Hours: By appointment only Cost: $10/person; $20/family

Fall City, WA Online: fallcityfancyfarm.com

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Reptile Zoo Monroe WA (@thereptilezoowa)

The Reptile Zoo

Make a date to spend time with a slew of slithery, scaly friends at the Reptile Zoo in Monroe. This rescue facility is dedicated to taking in mistreated animals and giving them a stellar experience as long as they hang around—and that’s saying a lot since some of their rescues can live over 150 years. Plan to visit with 17-year old Basker, the albino alligator; Pete and Re-Pete, the two-headed turtle; and a host of other reptilian faves like snakes, iguanas and tortoises. If you visit during open hours , you’ll get to see all the scaly creatures and pet the tortoise too. But if you're dying to get your hands on a snake or other crawly creature, visit during Close Encounters hours ($3 extra).

Insider tip: Feeding happen on Friday nights . If you want to watch snakes, lizards and alligators eat, call to reserve a spot.

Hours: Mon., Tue., Thu.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m.; Closed Weds. Cost: $9/Adult; $7/Kid (5-17); $6/Toddler (3-4); Free, kids 2 & under

22715 State Route 2 Monroe, WA 360-805-5300 Online: thereptilezoo.org

Indoor Petting Zoos & Other Places to Find Crazy Cool Animals

Vashon llamas.

For a smaller farm experience, ferry over to Vashon and meet the friendly llamas at this family-owned farm. The herd and has been together for nearly 20 years, and the six remaining animals are used to being around kids and families. Owner Kelly loves teaching people about llamas almost as much as she loves introducing people to them. She takes the time to explain llama habits and important safety procedures before leading families into the field where they can pet and feed the small herd. After the animal interaction, it's time to see how llama wool is spun. The whole experience takes anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour. We're big fans of the farm's Parent/Child camp ($50/pair) where a parent and child get llama time for about an hour, and then learn to weave for the next hour. Top it off with farm chores before you head home.

Insider tip: Make your reservation with Kelly a 3-4 days before your trip to make sure you get the spot you want. And if you're able, visit on the weekday when it's not quite as busy.

Hours: By appointment only Cost: $15/Family

26607 Wax Orchard Rd. S.W. Vashon, WA 206-794-1252 Online: vashonllamas.com

Debbie Dolittle’s Petting Zoo

The spring rain won’t spoil your fun at Debbie Dolittle’s indoor petting zoo in Tacoma. The animals here are clean, dry and enjoy interacting with visitors. While Debbie’s place features many farm animals, they also specialize in baby and miniature pets and exotics and work to provide an educational opportunity for kids of all ages. The unexpected flipside to this animal experience is the attached. If your crew tires of animal antics, head over to the Zoocade where you’ll find the flashing lights and ringing bells of a very active family fun center.

Good to know: If cuddling with otters, feeding penguins and hanging with sloths sounds like something your wild bunch would enjoy, check out the Animal Encounters you can book with Debbie Dolittle’s . There’s a two-person minimum, and kids must be at least 5 to participate.

Hours: Fri.-Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.,

120 138th St. S. Tacoma, WA 98444 253-539-5011 Online: indoorpettingzoo.com

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Anja Wordelman (@anjagrows)

Outback Kangaroo Farm

Hop on over to this beyond-the-everyday farm in Arlington. Dedicated to educating the public about some of Australia’s amazingly original animals, this petting farm tips the scales on usual finds. During the 40-minute guided tour, kiddos can interact with and sometimes feed kangaroos, pygmy goats, wallabies, wallaroos, llamas, lemurs, alpacas and more during the 40 minute visit. Be sure to bring your camera to this one. There are plenty of post-worthy photo ops your won’t want to miss.

Dates: Mar.-Oct. Hours: Thu.-Sun., 10 a.m., noon, 2 & 4 p.m.; Closed, Mon.-Wed. Cost: $25/Adult; $15/Kid, 2-12; Free, kids under 2

10030 State Route 530 N.E. Arlington, WA 98223 360-403-7474 Online: outbackkangaroofarm.com

Enchanted Farms

One of the newest petting farm experiences around, Enchanted Farms recently opened to visitors. Alpacas are the focus here, but families can also interact with goats, bunnies, ducks and puppies when they visit. Dress in your farm best because you'll get to do all the things at this working farm. Learn, pet and feed—it's the petting farm trifecta. If you've got older kiddos consider adding on an alpaca walking experience ($25/family). Kids get to halter an animal, walk it around the pasture and pose for pictures too.  

Insider tip: Two things to look forward to at this farm? Birthday parties that are in the works now, and babies lambs arriving in June.

Good to know: A port-a-potty is available at this farm.

Cost: $15/Person (3 & up)

31620 N.E. 129th St. Duvall, WA Online: enchantedfarmsduvall.com

Need some fresh ideas?

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for expert parenting tips and simple solutions that make life instantly better.

By subscribing you agree to Tinybeans Terms and Privacy Policy

Related reads

Why Are Gen Z Kids Covering Their Noses in Family Photos?

Screen Time for Babies Linked to Sensory Differences in Toddlerhood, Study Shows

Kids Shouldn’t Have to Finish Dinner to Get Dessert, Dietitian Explains

The Questions Parents Should Be Asking Their Pediatrician—but Aren’t

6 Better Phrases to Say Instead of ‘Be Careful’ When Kids Are Taking Risks

• your daily dose

• and connection

• Your daily dose

Birds, bees and even plants might act weird during the solar eclipse

A total eclipse isn’t just a spectacle in the sky. When the moon consumes the sun on April 8, day will plunge into twilight, the temperature will drop — and nature will take notice.

Reports abound of unusual animal and plant behavior during eclipses. A swarm of ants carrying food froze until the sun reemerged during an 1851 eclipse in Sweden. A pantry in Massachusetts was “ greatly infested ” with cockroaches just after totality in 1932. Sap flowed more slowly in a 75-year-old beech tree in Belgium in 1999. Orb-weaving spiders started tearing down their webs and North American side-blotched lizards closed their eyes during an eclipse in Mexico in 1991.

Plenty of scientists see eclipses as rare opportunities to bolster anecdotal reports by studying how nature responds — or doesn’t — to a few minutes of dusk in the middle of the day. That’s why teams across the country produced a swarm of studies about plant and animal behavior during the last total eclipse to cut across the United States in 2017.

Some of these scientists found that when the sun vanished, insects, birds and plants seemed to enter into something approaching a nocturnal pattern. Case in point: Scientists in multiple states reported that fireflies started flashing, and a team in Idaho captured two species of voles that are normally active at night.

Bat researchers in Georgia, on the other hand, weren’t convinced that the eclipse had any effect on behavior , though they noticed slightly more bat activity on the night after the eclipse than on previous or subsequent nights. Beetles flew around as normal in South Carolina.

Understanding how eclipses affect nature writ large is nearly impossible. That’s because eclipses don’t follow one of the most basic rules of science: replication . They don’t happen with regularity in the same spot. They vary in length. They happen at different times of day, during different seasons.

“A lot of the things we found in the literature were exactly that — a curiosity. It happens once every so often, so it’s curious, but not generally informative of animal behavior,” said Olav Rueppell, a scientist who studies honeybee biology at the University of Alberta in Canada.

And while an eclipse is an incredible time to observe the natural world, there’s also a potential observer effect: People who might normally be at school, at work or simply distracted are looking and listening closely, and what they see as responses to the eclipse could just be normal behaviors that escape notice on a typical day.

Adam Hartstone-Rose, a professor of biological sciences at North Carolina State University, led a study of how animals reacted to the 2017 eclipse at the Riverbanks Zoo in Columbia, S.C.

“At any given point on Earth, a total eclipse occurs once every 375 years. So it’s not like you’re learning something now you can use again in the future, and that’s certainly true for animals,” Hartstone-Rose said.

“But it’s a unifying event. All of us have this experience together,” he said, adding that during the April eclipse, “we’re all going to be communing with animals and thinking about how they experience it.”

Experimenting with nature

Studies of animal behavior during an eclipse tend to fall into two categories. Some biologists who are near the path of totality will design a study to see how the eclipse affects their favorite organism, whether it be honeybees or chimpanzees . Others try to activate members of the public to take data and make observations all across the path, which the scientists can use to discern broad patterns.

The NASA-backed Eclipse Soundscapes project, for example, will collect audio data and observations from hundreds of people during the April eclipse to repeat, with a bit more rigor, a citizen-science study of animal responses to a 1932 eclipse.

In his team’s 2017 study of zoo animals, Hartstone-Rose had researchers systematically observe 17 species, including baboons, flamingos and Galapagos tortoises.

Most responded to the eerie darkness in some way — whether by starting their bedtime routines, acting anxious or mating. Giraffes that had been munching on lettuce and chewing their cud huddled near their barn or galloped through their exhibit. A Komodo dragon that hadn’t moved in a day raced around its enclosure and climbed up the wall.

Hartstone-Rose is repeating the observations this year at the Fort Worth Zoo in Texas, and he is drafting more than a thousand volunteers across the country to collect records of animal behavior through a project called Solar Eclipse Safari . He’s as interested in the anomalous behavior of animals as he is in learning how observing animals and trying to understand their experience affects humans, perhaps widening their sense of wonder and awe.

One common report is that birds go to roost and go quiet during an eclipse. But when a team of ornithologists from Cornell University made recordings along an old logging road near the town of Corinna, Maine, for the 1963 eclipse, they heard the per-chic-o-ree of a goldfinch in the middle of totality, along with a hermit thrush, a Swainson’s thrush and a veery.

“Perhaps no two lists of birds heard before, during, and after the eclipse would be anywhere near similar,” they wrote in their summary of the observations.

In the 50 minutes before and after totality in 2017, researchers monitoring flying insects and birds via the weather radar network found that the skies went eerily quiet, but there was an intriguing uptick of activity right at totality. The researchers speculated that it might be some kind of insect reacting to the sudden darkness, while the birds possibly grew still due to confusion.

“Some previous research shows that insects react much more immediately to light cues, while birds are more like, ‘What’s going on?’” said Cecilia Nilsson, a biologist at Lund University in Sweden. “Totality only lasts a few minutes, so by the time you’re figuring it out, it’s over.”

For bird lovers, the many uncontrollable variables of an eclipse can be scientific opportunities, too.

One exciting aspect of the 2024 eclipse is that it is happening during the spring, whereas the North American eclipse of 2017 took place very early in the fall migration season, Nilsson said. Many birds, she noted, migrate at night and are often more motivated during the spring migration, so it’s possible that abrupt darkness will have a different effect this time around.

The honeybees

Rueppell, the honeybee scientist, was based in North Carolina during the total eclipse in 2017. He decided with collaborators to try to bring some rigor to previous observations of honeybee behavior.

A crowdsourced compilation of observations from a 1932 total eclipse, for example, included reports of a swarm of 200 bees showing “apprehensiveness” in the minutes before totality. Another observer reported that “as darkness increased the outgoing bees diminished in numbers and the return battalions grew larger.”

Rueppell and colleagues at Clemson University in South Carolina enlisted observers to watch the entrances of hives, counting how many honeybees were exiting and how many were returning from foraging trips before, during and after totality. They made some hives hungrier than others by taking the bees’ honey away before the eclipse, to see if that changed their willingness to forage.

The researchers found that the environmental cues overrode bees’ own internal circadian clocks, with darkness causing them to return to the hive and hunker down. Those findings square with another study that found bees stopped buzzing around flowers during totality. But hives that were stressed by hunger shut down less completely than those that weren’t.

They also conducted a second experiment, putting fluorescent powder on bees and releasing them away from their hives, then measuring how quickly they returned.

Right before totality, they found the bees were returning faster, almost as if they were panicked.

The forests full of trees

Daniel Beverly, a plant ecophysiologist at Indiana University, studied how sagebrush in Wyoming reacted during the 2017 eclipse. A total eclipse last passed over Wyoming in 1918, though it traversed different parts of the state.

“These plants are 60 to 100 years old, and they’ve never seen this midday darkness,” he said. The scientists found that photosynthesis plummeted during totality, then took hours to recover from the shock of the sun reemerging minutes later.

This year Beverly will be measuring ecological responses to the eclipse at a forest in Indiana that is part of a long-term project monitoring carbon, water and energy flux through the ecosystem. Because the Morgan-Monroe State Forest is already the subject of intense scientific scrutiny, scientists can take advantage of existing instruments to measure factors such as carbon flux and water movement in white oak, tulip poplars, sassafras and sugar maples.

Beverly noted that he’s excited to get as much of the data collection automated as possible so he and his team can fully appreciate the brief but wondrous moment of totality.

“It is pretty awesome and life-changing,” Beverly said. “Just the spectacle of it. I don’t know what it does to the human brain.”