Parking alternatives
Consider alternative transportation to the zoo on busy days. Free off-site parking lot and shuttle service may be available.
Free off-site parking and shuttle
10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays through Sept. 6, 2026: Enjoy free off-site parking and shuttle service. Take exit 71 (one exit west of the zoo) and park at 5319 SW Westgate Drive. A free shuttle will take you to and from the zoo entrance.
On other busy days and weekends, parking lots can fill by 10:30 a.m. When that happens, guests will be directed to off-site parking locations to take a free shuttle to the zoo.
Park and ride
Free Park & Ride locations are available, including 8 minutes away and two exits west of the zoo at the Sunset Transit Center. Hundreds of FREE parking spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis. MAX trains arrive and depart from the zoo every 10 minutes or less. TriMet fare is required on MAX
Forest and Washington Park Express Shuttle
Fridays and Saturdays, June 12 to Aug. 22, 2026, FREE Express Shuttle buses will make regular stops in neighborhoods in East, North, and Northeast Portland and the zoo.
MAX light rail
Convenient public transportation is also available via MAX light rail. Take the red or blue line to Washington Park. An elevator at the station will bring you within a few steps of the zoo entrance.
Paid parking
Limited onsite parking is available at the zoo, but spaces fill early on busy days. Vehicles must pay to park.