Take advantage of the gorgeous Pacific Northwest summers and host your next get-together at one of the South Sound's many outdoor venues.
If your child has a summer birthday, check out the party packages at these Tacoma wild spots.
Tacoma Nature Center
At this nature-themed park, kids can climb in a tree house, slide through a hollow log, hike trails and explore rain gardens. Their Discovery Pond Package includes full-day access to the park, use of the picnic shelter for two-and-a-half hours, and exclusive use of the Discovery Pond play area for one hour. Parties can have up to 30 children ages 3 to 12 or older and to 50 total guests including adults. Outside food and drink are allowed. Call 253.404.3930 to reserve space. 1919 S. Tyler St., Tacoma, metroparkstacoma.org/tacomanaturecenter 
Point Defiance Zoo
Let your party go to animals -- literally. Zoo birthday party packages include 15 admission tickets for kids or adults, use of a party room for 90 minutes, unlimited carousel rides and a visit from an animal ambassador. Parties may have up to 45 guests. Additional zoo tickets can be purchased at discounted rates. Children ages 2 and younger are free. Birthday cake, food, drinks and simple decorations are allowed. Book parties at least two weeks in advance at pdza.org/birthday-parties. 5400 N. Pearl St., Tacoma, pdza.org
Northwest Trek Wildlife Park
Plan an outdoor adventure for your kid's big day complete with 435 acres of forest, wild animals and a nature playground where they can cross a rope bridge, climb in a giant tree trunk and play in a stream. Their birthday party package includes admission to the park for up to 15 guests (kids or adults), 90-minute use of the Kids' Trek Pavilion and reserved seats on a Discovery Tram Tour. Cake, food and drinks may be brought in. Book online at nwtrek.org/birthdayparties. 11610 Trek Dr. E., Eatonville, nwtrek.org
If you're planning a summer FRG event or family party, rent a pavilion at one of these scenic parks and let the outdoor fun begin.
Shoreline Park & Russell Landing
Authorized patrons may rent one of three pavilions at American Lake's Shoreline Park. There's something for everyone at this lakefront park. Guests can swim at the beach, play volleyball, toss horseshoes, climb on the playground or fish from one of the docks. Paddle boats, canoes and kayaks are available for rent.
Russell Landing's recreational pavilion may also be rented for group events. With Summer Cove's beach and a large playground, it's always a hit with families. Picnic tables and grills are available at both sites. Party extras such as bounce houses, interactive inflatables and cotton candy machines can be rented from Northwest Adventure Center. To reserve space, call the Russell Landing Marina at 253.967.2510. 8981 American Lake Ave., Fort Lewis North, jblmmwr.com
Sunnyside Beach Park
A large picnic shelter is available for rent at this beachfront park on the Puget Sound. Amenities include a playground, beach volleyball courts, picnic tables and restrooms. Bounce houses are allowed but must be carried into the park. Food and beverages may be brought in, just no alcohol or glass containers. There is a $5 parking fee per vehicle. Call 253.581.1076 to reserve this picturesque pavilion. 2500 Chambers Creek Rd., Steilacoom, townofsteilacoom.org
Fort Steilacoom Park
Situated on 340 acres of prairie land, this expansive park is home to a fort-themed playground, off-leash dog park, hiking trails and sports fields. Picnic shelters may be rented to enjoy this fun park. Bounce houses, food and drink are allowed. Call the City of Lakewood at 253.983.7835 to reserve space. 8714 87th Ave. SW, Lakewood, cityoflakewood.us