Oregon Zoo FAQs

We are aware of an outdated third-party website (zooregon.org) containing incorrect information. Please refer only to oregonzoo.org for current hours, pricing, and offerings.

FAQs 

Does Oregon Zoo offer free admission on the second Tuesday of each month? 

No. The Oregon Zoo does not offer free admission on the second Tuesday of every month from 1:00 p.m. until closing. 

Does Oregon Zoo offer discounted $5 admission on the second Tuesday of each month?

No. The Oregon Zoo does not offer discounted $5 admission on the second Tuesday of every month. 

Does Oregon Zoo still offer “2-Buck Tuesdays”? 

No. Oregon Zoo does not offer $2 admission, formally known as “2-Buck Tuesdays.” Information on our discounted admission for income-assistance programs can be found on our website. 

Is Oregon Zoo bringing back the summer concert series? 

No. Large-scale concerts are no longer hosted by Oregon Zoo. However, guests looking to enjoy live music, food carts, keeper chats and more are encouraged to attend our summer ZooNights series.  

Does Oregon Zoo offer summer camps? 

No. Oregon Zoo does not offer summer camps. The zoo partners with the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) to offer our wildlife wonderland as a venue for seasonal camp programs. Check out OMSI camps for a complete listing and sign-up information.  

Does Oregon Zoo still offer Zoo Snoozes? 

No. Oregon Zoo no longer offers Zoo Snoozes. Our education team engages with teens and youth in a variety of ways. Visit our website to learn more about these programs.  

Is the ZooDoo compost program still active? 

No. Oregon Zoo no longer offers ZooDoo to the public. Our horticulture team, however, uses zoo-made compost regularly in the gardens and plant beds located throughout the zoo grounds.  

Is photography/filming allowed?  

Guests are welcome to take photos and videos from any public viewing area for personal use. For commercial projects, a location release and fees apply. Contact our communications team to learn more.  

Do you offer private animal encounters? 

We are not offering private or behind-the-scenes animal encounters at this time. View our daily keeper talks and animal activities. 

Is the giraffe feeding deck open? 

The giraffe feeding deck is not currently in operation.  

Can guests bring outside food and beverages into the zoo? 

Yes. Guests may bring outside food and non-alcoholic beverages into the zoo, except when noted otherwise for special events. Please refrain from bringing in glass containers.  

Does Oregon Zoo offer birthday party packages and reservations?  

The Oregon Zoo does not currently offer private birthday party packages. However, a variety of spaces are available to rent for private events. Visit our private events page to learn more.

Does Oregon Zoo offer 21+ events? 

Yes. The Oregon Zoo offers a series of 21+ events throughout the year that allow guests to experience the zoo after hours without daytime crowds or kids. See what is coming up on our events page.  

Can I host the event I am planning at the zoo? 

Yes! With exceptional indoor and outdoor spaces, a dedicated catering partner and a focus on sustainable Northwest cuisine, the Oregon Zoo is an unforgettable location for meetings, picnics, and holiday parties. And with each event, you help us protect endangered species at home and around the world. Learn more on our website.  

Can my company sponsor Oregon Zoo events, programs, etc? 

Yes! There are two ways to partner with the Oregon Zoo: philanthropic giving to support our mission, or marketing sponsorships to align your brand with a beloved community institution. Learn more on our website.  

Does the Oregon Zoo offer internships? 

Yes. The Oregon Zoo offers several internship programs: 

The Zoo Apprenticeship Program, or ZAP, is a multi-year paid apprenticeship program for a diverse cohort of high school-aged youth 15 and older. It includes educational programming, career exploration and connections to nature and wildlife.  Learn more on our website. 

The Oregon Zoo Veterinary Technician Student Program provides recent graduates or current students of an AVMA accredited program with hands-on training in every aspect of being a veterinary technician in the field of zoological medicine. Learn more on our website. 

The Oregon Zoo's Veterinary Preceptorship is a six to eight-week opportunity for last year veterinary students, currently enrolled in a veterinary program and with a strong interest in zoological medicine. Learn more on our website. 

Does the Oregon Zoo offer volunteer opportunities?  

Yes. Oregon Zoo recognizes the value of a strong volunteer program to connect and provide opportunities to our community. Learn more about our volunteer opportunities on our website.  

What is your refund policy?  

General admission ticket sales are final and may not be resold.  

What are prohibited items? 

• Weapons or firearms (except under ORS 166.173(2)(c) and ORS 166.370(3)(d)
• Alcohol and illicit materials
• Remote control devices
• Pets (except service animals)
• Bicycles, riding toys, skates, skate shoes and skateboards
• Balloons, balls and flying toys
• Noise devices  

Do I need to make a reservation to visit as a member? 

Reservations are not required for regular daytime admission if you have a scannable digital membership card and photo ID for named adults. If you are purchasing discounted tickets for anyone not covered by your membership, you will still need to login to your member account online to make advanced ticket reservations.  

Am I eligible for discount tickets? 

Information on our discounted admission for income-assistance programs can be found on our website.  

What is a zoo key? 

A zoo key is a plastic, animal-shaped key that unlocks exclusive, educational messages at designated boxes throughout the zoo. Educational messages are available in English and Spanish. The commemorative key provides a special experience for kids of all ages.  

Zoo keys may be purchased in advance online when reserving daytime admission tickets and picked up at scanning stations, or onsite at the gift shop or carousel.   

How can I pay for a field trip to Oregon Zoo? 

Oregon Zoo field trips can be paid for by debit or credit card, or by school or district check.   

Paying by debit or credit card?  Please use the payment link in the invoice you received by email.  The invoice comes from [email protected] and the link should be under the total cost for your field trip.   

Paying by check?  It will need to be mailed to the Oregon Zoo so that it arrives at least two weeks prior to your field trip visit date.  Please include your order number on or with the check and mail to the following address:  

Oregon Zoo  

Attn: School Groups 

4001 SW Canyon Rd 

Portland, OR 97221 

If you have further questions, please email us at [email protected] and we will do our best to assist you.