Frequently Asked Questions

General | Membership | Field Trips and Camps

General

• What does it cost to get into the Oregon Zoo?

• What are the zoo's business hours?

• I want to ride the train. When does it run and how much does it cost?

• How do you get to the Oregon Zoo?

• Is parking free?

• Is RV parking available?

We can usually accommodate RVs in our "oversized vehicle lot," but availability depends on what day you are planning to visit the zoo. The lot is first come/first served.

• How do I pay for/pre-purchase my tickets?

• Do you offer free or discounted admission?

• Do you allow pets?

No. Dogs in general pose a threat to the health and safety of the zoo's animal collection. In addition to violating a captive animal's flight distance they can also transmit various diseases. Some animals are easily spooked by the scent of dogs. There have been incidents of hoofed animals catching a dog's scent and charging barriers, which could cause injury to the zoo animal as well as pose a threat to the public. The only exception to this policy is for guide dogs.

• Do you allow visitors to bring their own food?

Yes. Visitors may bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages in non-glass containers onto zoo grounds.

• Can I bring a camera to the zoo?

Oregon Zoo welcomes visitors with still cameras and video cameras for the recording of zoo images for personal use only. All visitors using such equipment are required to stay in visitor areas and to be considerate of other zoo guests. Unauthorized commercial or promotional photography at Oregon Zoo is prohibited.

• When is ZooLights?

• I want more details about the concert series.

• How do I become a zookeeper?

There are two undergraduate college programs and two graduate level college programs that train people for jobs in zoos. If you are interested in working for a zoo, you can either go to one of the two-year programs (Moorpark College in Southern California or Santa Fe Teaching College in Florida), or get a 4-year degree in one of the life sciences (biology, chemistry, psychology), as well as volunteer/do an internship at a zoo. Getting a zoo position is very competitive and most keepers have a college degree and some volunteer experience before they get their first keeper job.

• How do I get to the Japanese Garden?

If you are looking for some exercise you can walk to it from the zoo, but for an easier trip you can jump on the TriMet Washington Park shuttle, which takes you directly there in a matter of minutes.

• Do you have lions?

Not at present, but we will open the Predators of the Serengeti exhibit in 2009, which will feature lions, cheetahs and African wild dogs.

Membership

• How long will it take to process my membership?

You will receive your membership cards in 3 to 4 weeks. In the meantime, use your membership receipt from web or Zoo purchases, or call 503-220-2493 to request a temporary card.

For gift memberships, the recipient(s) will receive a note within 72 hours that they have been given a gift. Permanent cards will still arrive in 3-4 weeks.

• Can I visit the zoo without my member card?

Yes. With a current membership, simply show your photo ID at a ticket kiosk to have your membership information validated.

•What if I lose my membership card?

Replacement cards are available for a $5 fee. Call 503-220-2493 or stop by the Zoo Reception Office.

•What are the hours for the membership office?

Call 503-220-2493, Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Most membership inquiries can also be handled at Zoo Reception during regular Zoo hours.

• Do members get a discount on food or gift shop purchases?

There are no discounts on food purchases. Members do receive a 10% discount in the gift shops. Special member coupons occasionally appear in the ZooTracks newsletter or eTracks updates during the year.

• I am a member of another zoo. Do I receive free admission to the Oregon Zoo?

We participate in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) reciprocal zoo program. Check www.aza.org/foreveryone/reciprocity for the current list of participating zoos. Members of listed institutions receive free general admission for all members on their membership. No guest passes or vouchers are accepted. The Oregon Zoo offers 50% off to members of Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium and the Widlife Safari in Winston, Oregon.

• Do you have an electronic newsletter?

YES! If you are a current Oregon Zoo member, you should already be receiving eTracks. To update your email address or other contact information in our membership records, please email Oregon Zoo Membership at OZF@oregonzoo.org.

• What is eTracks?

eTracks is the new way for members to receive the latest Zoo information. Each issue will have insider info about the animals and events you love here at the Oregon Zoo. eTracks are sent approximately every 3 weeks. To be added to the email list please, email Oregon Zoo Membership at OZF@oregonzoo.org.

• Are Wednesday night Zoo Tunes tickets available for advance purchase?

Yes and no: A limited number of tickets are available for purchase from TicketsMaster when concert tickets are released on April 18, 2008. The FREE tickets for Plus members will become available the Monday prior to each Wednesday concert at the Zoo Reception Office only. Membership Cards and photo ID are needed to pick up Zoo Tunes concert tickets.

Field Trips and Camps

• What are the field trip rates and/or requirements?

• Do teachers count as chaperones?

Yes, teachers are considered chaperones. 

• Where is the drop off and pick up for zoo campers?

Penguin Campers and early/late care are to be dropped off and picked up at Gate E. All other campers are to be dropped off and picked up at the auxiliary lot, which is located between the Children's Museum and the Forestry Center.