Skip to main content

Accessibility

The Oregon Zoo is accessible to people of all abilities.

The zoo covers 64 acres along a wooded, south-facing hillside, with about 150 feet of elevation change from its highest points near the main entrance to its lowest points. Most pathways, exhibits, restaurants, restrooms and drinking fountains are ADA accessible.

Pinecone the screech owl

Mobility scooters and wheelchairs 

Wheelchairs and mobility scooter rentals are available at the gift shop on a first-come, first-served basis. View rental rates. For questions, contact [email protected] or call 503.525.4220. If you need additional transportation assistance during your visit, do not hesitate to contact a staff member. 

Public transportation

TriMet serves the zoo via light rail. The Washington Park MAX light rail station is adjacent to the parking lot. The train accommodates wheelchairs and service animals. TriMet's Trip Planner provides route, fare and transfer information to get you from your door to the zoo.

Loading and unloading for guests using wheelchairs

Guests who use wheelchairs may load and unload in a TriMet lift zone. The loading/unloading zone is to the left of the zoo gates, near the gift shop. This location allows guests to unload on the passenger or rear side. If the primary loading/unloading zone is unavailable, guests with passengers in wheelchairs may temporarily use the TriMet bus cutout.

Parking

Accessible spaces are available near the zoo's main entrance, with more marked spaces throughout the lot. A valid DMV Disabled Parking Permit is required, and most spaces in Washington Park are pay-to-park. For more information about parking in Washington Park, please visit explorewashingtonpark.org

Service animals

Service animals are welcome at the zoo. When you arrive, please check in with the staff at the entrance.

Service animal map, policy and procedure 

Train and carousel

The zoo train and carousel are accessible and can accommodate wheelchairs. Please let the station staff know if you are riding with others so you can enjoy the experience together. 

Sensory resources

As a KultureCity Certified Sensory Inclusive Venue, we offer sensory bags to support guests.  Each bag includes noise-canceling headphones, sunglasses, fidget tools, verbal cue cards and weighted lap pads. You can check out a sensory kit at the zoo entrance for free. 

Before your visit, we encourage you to explore the KultureCity website and download the free KultureCity app, where you can view a social story that guides you through what to expect during a trip to the zoo and outlines all available sensory resources.

One-to-one support

A person with a disability who holds a ticket or membership reservation is provided a complimentary ticket for their one-to-one support person. One-to-one support tickets cannot be reserved online. On the visit date, the ticket or membership reservation holder and one-to-one support person can check in with a staff member at the entry to obtain a complimentary ticket matching the ticket holder’s time slot.

Adult changing tables

Adult changing tables are located in the all-user restrooms at Entry Plaza, Elephant Plaza (near Aviary Cafe) and Rainforest Plaza.

First aid

Ask a zoo employee for assistance or call Zoo Public Safety at 503-505-5454.

For questions, comments or accommodations related to ability, please contact [email protected].