Oregon Zoo

You can explore the zoo at your own pace—or the pace of your children—on a self-guided tour. Alternatively, join a behind the scenes tour that lets you learn more about the zoo’s dynamic exhibits and conservation work. If you want to get to know the animals better, book an animal encounter or head to the “family farm” where you can pet and feed farm animals. Ride the zoo railway to get a different perspective of the zoo’s expansive exhibits and see the highlights of adjacent Washington Park.

• Oregon Zoo is one of the top family activities in Portland—a carousel and ice cream truck add to the appeal.
• The zoo is fully accessible and wheelchairs, electric scooters, and strollers are available for rent.
• You can buy tickets online to avoid waiting in line at the entrance.
• Bring your own picnic lunch or enjoy a meal at one of the zoo’s many restaurants.

The Oregon Zoo is easily accessible by car, light rail (take the blue or red line to the Washington Park station), bike, or on foot. You can also visit the park on a hop-on hop-off trolley tour.

The zoo holds special seasonal events—such as summer concerts, a holiday Zoolights show, and trick-or-treating—throughout the year. On the second Tuesday of the month, it offers discounted admission, but beware that these days are typically the most crowded. Arrive early in the morning to snag parking and beat the crowds.

The Oregon Zoo is home to numerous eateries, making it easy to grab a bite between activities. The Cascade Grill is the zoo’s premier restaurant, offering indoor and outdoor dining overlooking the wildlife—zoo admission not required. Head further into the zoo to enjoy light fare and warm drinks at Portland Roasting Coffee, Coffee Crossing, and AfriCafe. Additional snack stands and food carts offer an array of treats along the way.

No, you do not need to make reservations for the Oregon Zoo, as tickets are available at the entrance. However, reserving in advance is a good idea, as some dates and times sell out. Reservations are also a good idea if you want to attend special events.

It takes at least two hours to walk through the zoo, though it's good to give yourself three or four hours to take your time at different enclosures, stop for a meal at one of the on-site eateries, or attend a feeding or a zookeeper talk.

There's a public parking lot run by the city of Portland right next to the zoo. Parking here is metered and costs $2 per hour or $8 for the whole day. You can pay at a pay station or by using the ParkingKitty mobile app (which levies a small additional service fee).

Yes, you can bring water bottles to the zoo and other non-alcoholic beverages, but glass containers are not allowed. Soft drinks, juice, beer, wine, and bottled water are also available at food-and-beverage outlets. Drinking fountains and water bottle filling stations are situated throughout the zoo.

The best time to visit the Oregon Zoo is first thing in the morning, right after the doors open. There are generally fewer crowds this time, particularly on weekdays during the school year. Check the Oregon Zoo website for a schedule of public feedings and zookeeper talks.

Yes, still and video cameras and cell phone cameras are allowed at the Oregon Zoo. However, if you're a commercial photographer or videographer or plan to use your images or video for commercial purposes, you must contact the Oregon Zoo directly to obtain advance permission.