Tacoma Nature Center - Tacoma (WA)

5 /5 Jose: We often drive around exploring different parks, and this was our first time coming across this center. We arrived later in the day when it was already closed, but even from the outside, it looked like a really great spot. My son had a blast exploring the area around it, and there was plenty of space for kids to run and play. We’ll definitely be back when the weather is nicer to check out everything the center has to offer. I was especially impressed by the multiple outdoor play areas designed for kids of different ages. There are also some easy trails behind the center, which seem perfect for a relaxed walk or a little outdoor adventure. Overall, I’m really glad we stumbled upon this place. It looks like a fantastic spot for families to enjoy both playtime and nature, and I’m excited to come back and experience it fully when it’s open!

5 /5 Gregory Su: The Tacoma Nature Center, located in Tacoma, Washington, is a natural preserve and educational facility dedicated to promoting environmental awareness and conservation. Here’s a brief history of the center: Origins and Early Development • 1950s - 1960s: The concept of a nature center in Tacoma began to take shape in the mid-20th century. The idea was rooted in the desire to preserve natural spaces within the city and provide an area for environmental education. The area around Snake Lake, a natural wetland, was identified as an ideal location due to its rich biodiversity and proximity to urban areas. • 1971: The Tacoma Nature Center officially opened its doors to the public. The initial development included trails around Snake Lake and educational programs aimed at engaging the community with the natural environment. Expansion and Growth • 1980s - 1990s: Over the next few decades, the center expanded its facilities and programming. The visitor center was established, offering exhibits, a meeting space, and educational resources. The center also began to host a variety of environmental education programs for schools and community groups. • 2008: A significant renovation and expansion project was undertaken, which included upgrading the visitor center, improving accessibility, and enhancing the trail system around Snake Lake. The expansion was part of a broader effort to increase the center’s capacity to serve the community and protect the natural habitat. Present Day • The Tacoma Nature Center is now a well-established facility with a range of programs and activities. It offers nature camps, guided tours, and workshops on topics like native plants, wildlife conservation, and sustainable living. The center also plays a key role in local conservation efforts, particularly concerning the preservation of wetlands and wildlife habitats. • The center is managed by the Metro Parks Tacoma, which continues to invest in the upkeep and improvement of the facilities and natural areas. The Nature Center remains a popular destination for both residents and visitors, providing a peaceful retreat and a space for learning about the natural world. The Tacoma Nature Center’s history reflects the city’s commitment to environmental stewardship and education, ensuring that natural spaces remain an integral part of the community’s fabric.

4 /5 Jay Rush: Very well kept information center with interactive play area for kids. Outdoor play garden with picnic tables. Trail is stroller accessible loop around Snake Lake. Grab a map in the information center, checkout the gift shop, coloring page and indoor scavenger hunt.

5 /5 Coulee DePup: Weve been here so many times over the years - for birthday parties, preschool field trips, playdates, Girl Scouts (the staff teaches a few of the GS badges on the weekends and our troop did their bridging ceremony there), and to walk around the lake. My kids love the playground but theres definitely some blind spots so you need a parent who can climb and move quickly if you have younger kids. The slide there is zippy! But kids absolutely love it. We usually bring lunch. Theres also reptiles on display inside the Center and a small gift shop, and clean bathrooms with a step stool for kids at the sink. The Center hours are a little limited though. Theres a portable toilet in the rear parking lot too. You can walk around the lake, or cut your journey in half by taking the bridge across the middle. If you have kids, take your time and look for signage - the signs change depending on whats happening! Last time we visited there was a giant ant hill right off the trail.