2-3 hours seems to be about the average I have seen, but some of the exhibits were closed both times.

Absolutely as long as you are mindful of others and realize you are not the only one trying to take pictures and view the animals.

Personally, if I was bringing that many kids, I would bring a picnic lunch/snacks. Yes, there is a food court, and several smaller stands around the park that are open sporadically, but more consistently over the summer, high volume season. Their prices, like any attraction, are pretty spendy and adds up quickly. The zoo does allow outside food and drinks. No alcohol, and I believe no glass containers. I would definitely stick to soft sided, light weight coolers, or what you can fit into a back pack kind of thing, there is no place to secure your belongings, so you need to keep them with you, and anything heavy is going to be cumbersome. Enjoy!!

Most are open and they will be open Mother’s Day. The Aquariums are most affected but parts of each are open. You’ll still be able to see the highlights of both Aquariums last time I checked, a quick phone call there can confirm this for you. Enjoy.

Hi Andrew, our general daytime admission prices are $17.95 for adults, $16.95 for seniors (age 65+), $13.95 for youth (age 5-12) and $9.95 for tots (age 3-4). Children 2 and under are free. We offer discounts for Pierce County residents and military. You can also get a discount by purchasing tickets online at our website. Zoolights, our evening holiday light program running Nov 25-Jan 1, has different admission prices and those can be seen on our website as well. Thank you and have a wonderful visit!

Hello, According to their website, the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium is open 9:30am to 4:00pm daily, September 26 - October 31. The zoo is open year round, but in the winter the number of days open are reduced.