This is certainly one of the best place for family to visit. They recently renovated the entrance, and it's beautiful. They constantly making updates and renovations. The Zoo is clean and stuff are very friendly. They also provide educational classes. Even when it rains, it's a nice alternative to visit as they have many in-door exhibits. In terms of animals there, they have many varieties from lions, snow leopard, baby gorillas, elephants, etc. They charge $5 for parking but finding a spot on street would not be that hard.

We go to the Country Village every now and then. It's mainly out door activities so it is a good alternative place to visit in summer time. Not so much when it's cold and rainy. At the Country Village, you can feed birds and ducks. There is a play park in the back. It's rather small but sufficient for kids to run. Also they have kids-friendly care, they have train tables and other toys.(It gives parents a break.) Note that they don't allow outside food in the cafe.

They have lots of hands on activities even for toddlers such as small pond where small kids can play with water, etc. It's certainly nice when it rains outside. Butterfly garden is another nice place to visit. Kids can see live butterflies up close. They also have iMax theater which is always awesome to see movies. By mid-February, they have Harry Potter exhibition so for those who loves Harry Potter might want to check it out.

My family has been there several times, and we really like the place. One thing I really like is the space and the view to the ocean they have. Comparing to the Woodland Park Zoo, Point Defiance seems to have less animals but not crowded at all. They also have animal shows so make sure to check out the schedule on those. Also, I'd recommend to walk around the Point Defiance Park after you're done with Zoo and Aquarium.

This is one of the well-known tourist spots in Seattle. When you go there, I'd recommend to walk from Westlake Center to the Pike Place Market via Pine street. You'd see many shops along side of the street. In the market, there is not many public bathroom around so be prepared if you have kids. Make sure to check out the 1st store Starbucks. If you love the move, "Sleepless in Seattle", there is a restaurant, Athenian, that appeared in the movie.