Skip to main content
Today's hours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (last entry 5 p.m.)

Visitor policies

The Oregon Zoo is committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive experience for all guests. Zoo management reserves the right to exclude anyone who engages in illegal, inappropriate or offensive conduct. Discrimination, harassment, intimidation or other disruptive behaviors will not be tolerated.

father and daughter viewing lioness

For your safety and the well-being of our animals: Stay on visitor paths, treat animals respectfully, do not feed the animals, and obey all posted warning signs.

The zoo is not responsible for lost, stolen or damaged articles. 

Refunds will not be issued due to inclement weather.

Visitor safety

Rails, moats, rocks, fencing and other barriers between you and the animals are there to protect both you and the animals from harm. Please do not lift children over rails, let them play on rocks, rest them on railings or stick fingers or arms through fences. Do not enter nonpublic areas.

Smoking

To provide a healthy, safe environment for visitors, staff and animals, the zoo prohibits smoking of any type, including vaping and electronic cigarettes (this includes the parking lot and Washington Park). 

Pets

Pets are not allowed on zoo grounds. Service animals are permitted. Please call ahead if you plan to bring a service animal. Please do not leave pets in your vehicle.

Feeding animals

All zoo animals are on a carefully structured diet, and introducing outside food can harm them.  

Respecting animals

Please show respect for the zoo's inhabitants by refraining from banging on windows, throwing objects into exhibits, harassing or teasing the animals.

Attire

Shirt and shoes are required.

Costume guidelines

Adults and children are welcome to dress in costumes for their zoo visit. To ensure an enjoyable experience for everyone, we do not allow full-face masks, weapons, obscenity, or anything that could disturb patrons or animals. Inflatable costumes are prohibited.

Solicitation and promotion

The Oregon Zoo respects the right to free speech and provides designated areas outside the zoo entrance. Canvassing and solicitation are prohibited on zoo grounds. Ticket reselling is not allowed.

Age requirements

Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult on zoo grounds.

Prohibited items

For the health and safety of our guests and animals, the following items are prohibited:

  • weapons or fireworks (except under ORS 166.173(2)(c) and ORS 166.370(3)(d)
  • alcohol or illicit materials
  • remote control devices
  • pets (except service animals)
  • bicycles, riding toys, skates, skate shoes and skateboards
  • balloons, balls and flying toys
  • noise devices