On Friday, May 25, the historic 1898 Point Defiance Lodge in Tacoma opened as the home of the park's new Visitors Center. For the first time in the park's history, visitors will have a central location to learn all about the park's extensive recreation opportunities, rare natural areas and rich history.
The park also provides free Saturday and Sunday shuttle service to help visitors travel between all of the experiences the park has to offer. The first shuttle departs at 10:10 a.m. from the Visitors Center.
After more than a century, Point Defiance Park remains one of the region's premier outdoor destinations. Over 2 million people travel each year to experience the park's old growth forests, lush gardens, scenic views, public beaches, natural hiking trails and attractions.
To help guests become better acquainted with all that the park has to offer, the Visitors Center will be open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Labor Day weekend. Park guests can tour the interpretive exhibits and learn more about Point Defiance from a park ambassador.
On Saturdays and Sundays, a complimentary accessible shuttle service will help transport visitors between eight destinations throughout the 702-acre park: the waterfront, main picnic ground, Owen Beach, Gig Harbor Viewpoint and Trailhead, Fort Nisqually Living History Museum, Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium and the Native Garden.
To learn more, visit www.DestinationPointDefiance.org.
