Oregon Zoo
A 64-acre conservation hub in Portland, Oregon, featuring diverse animals from elephants to polar bears, with a focus on education and wildlife protec...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more animal activity
Oregon Zoo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more animal activity
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 64-acre conservation hub in Portland, Oregon, featuring diverse animals from elephants to polar bears, with a focus on education and wildlife protection.
"Easily one of the best zoos in the states. The layout is excellent."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across 64 acres! :athletic_shoe:
💳 Cashless Payments Only
Bring your cards! Kiosks are available to load cash onto a MasterCard for use. :credit_card:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Baby Elephant Arrival
Elephant Lands
Witness the joy of the zoo's newest, adorable baby elephant and its mother. A truly heartwarming sight!
Majestic Big Cats
Predators of the Serengeti
Be mesmerized by the alert and beautiful lionesses and other big cats in their well-maintained habitats.
Zoo Lights Spectacle
Various locations throughout the zoo
Experience the magic of thousands of twinkling lights transforming the zoo into a winter wonderland.
Primate Playtime
Chimpanzee Village & Orangutan Habitat
Watch playful orangutans and other primates swing and interact in their naturalistic enclosures.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit: Timing is Key
Navigating the Oregon Zoo
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across 64 acres! :athletic_shoe:
💳 Cashless Payments Only
Bring your cards! Kiosks are available to load cash onto a MasterCard for use. :credit_card:
🐘 Elephant House is a Must-See
Don't miss the popular elephant exhibits, especially with the new baby! :baby_elephant:
💧 Stay Cool on Hot Days
Look for mist stations around the park to beat the heat. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across 64 acres! :athletic_shoe:
💳 Cashless Payments Only
Bring your cards! Kiosks are available to load cash onto a MasterCard for use. :credit_card:
🐘 Elephant House is a Must-See
Don't miss the popular elephant exhibits, especially with the new baby! :baby_elephant:
💧 Stay Cool on Hot Days
Look for mist stations around the park to beat the heat. :droplet:
🎟️ Book Zoo Lights Early
Tickets for this popular holiday event sell out fast! :ticket:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Oregon Zoo for its diverse animal collection, well-maintained exhibits, and engaging atmosphere, making it feel like a theme park with animals. The recent arrival of a baby elephant has been a major highlight, drawing significant excitement. While the zoo is cashless, most find the experience enjoyable and educational, appreciating the conservation focus and the helpful staff.
"The Oregon Zoo is fascinating. Able to fit hundreds of animals, most I can't even show due to the photo limit, Hundreds of activities, hundreds of buildings, & all in such a small area. It's like a theme park with animals. I loved being able to see & interact with so many of them. Things you can't do anywhere else. The whole point of a zoo is to show animals you can't normally see without traveling the world, & to this zoo takes all of that to heart. I'd highly recommend going here often, becoming a zoo-phile...wait-"
Kzxyo Surname
"Easily one of the best zoos in the states. The layout is excellent. I walked over 3 miles from my parking spot and going through each exhibit, it's definitely a two to three hour per visit kind of place. The volunteers and staff are really kind and helpful. The elephant house is a fan favorite - especially with the arrival of the new baby elephant!"
Hailey Levasa
"The Oregon Zoo is always an amazing place to visit every now and then with the family. There's something special about walking through the exhibits, seeing the animals up close, and enjoying a day surrounded by nature and learning. It's clean, well-kept, and there's plenty to do for both kids and adults. One thing I really appreciate is that they offer discounts for WIC and food stamp (EBT) holders, which makes it more accessible for families. Definitely a great way to spend the day and make some great memories!"
tannermelton1
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Oregon Zoo is conveniently located in Washington Park. Many visitors recommend taking the MAX light rail to the zoo's entrance, as it drops you off right there. Driving is also an option, with parking available, though it can fill up quickly. :train2:
The Oregon Zoo is situated at 4001 SW Canyon Rd, Portland, OR 97221, within Washington Park. :round_pushpin:
Yes, there is parking available at the Oregon Zoo. However, it can fill up quickly, especially on busy days. Arriving early or using public transportation like the MAX light rail is often recommended. :car:
Absolutely! The MAX light rail is a fantastic option, with a station directly at the Oregon Zoo entrance. This is a popular choice for many visitors looking to avoid parking hassles. :bus:
Yes, several TriMet bus lines serve the Washington Park area, providing good access to the Oregon Zoo. Check the TriMet schedule for routes and times that work for you. :bus:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Oregon Zoo ticket prices vary. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date pricing for general admission, special events like Zoo Lights, and any potential discounts. :ticket:
Yes, purchasing Oregon Zoo tickets online in advance is highly recommended. This often saves time and guarantees your entry, especially for popular events like Zoo Lights. :computer:
The Oregon Zoo offers discounts for WIC and EBT holders, making it more accessible for families. Check their website for details on these and other potential discount programs. :moneywithwings:
Oregon Zoo hours can vary seasonally and for special events. Always check the official Oregon Zoo website for the most current operating hours before your visit. :clock1:
Yes, Zoo Lights Portland is a very popular event and requires separate tickets. It's strongly advised to book your Zoo Lights tickets well in advance online, as they often sell out. :sparkles:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Oregon Zoo is home to a diverse range of animals, including elephants, polar bears, big cats, primates, and many more. They focus on conservation and showcasing animals from various regions. :lion: :elephant: :monkey:
Absolutely! The Oregon Zoo is a fantastic family destination with engaging exhibits, opportunities to learn about animals, and plenty of space to explore. The baby elephant is a huge hit with kids. :child: :familywomanwoman_boy:
Most visitors spend 2-3 hours exploring the Oregon Zoo to see most of the exhibits. If you plan to attend special events or take your time at each enclosure, you might need longer. :stopwatch:
Yes, the Oregon Zoo operates on a cashless system for all purchases. You'll need to use credit/debit cards or a loadable MasterCard available at kiosks. :credit_card:
Yes, the Portland Zoo offers various food and beverage options. You can find concessions throughout the zoo, offering snacks and meals to refuel during your visit. :hamburger: :ice_cream:
📸 📸 Photography
The baby elephant, the alert lionesses, playful primates, and the vibrant Zoo Lights displays are all fantastic photo opportunities. The well-designed habitats also make for great shots. :camera:
Yes, personal photography is generally allowed at the Oregon Zoo. However, always be mindful of other visitors and follow any specific signage regarding photography in certain areas. :iphone:
While personal photos are usually fine, professional photography or videography may require special permits. Always check the zoo's official policy if you plan on extensive shoots. :video_camera:
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer lighting for animal photography. During Zoo Lights, the evening offers a magical, illuminated backdrop. :sunrise: :city_sunset:
No, drones are typically not permitted at the Oregon Zoo for safety and animal welfare reasons. Always adhere to the zoo's rules regarding aerial photography. :noentrysign:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The zoo's layout is manageable for little legs, and the availability of mist stations on hot days is a thoughtful touch.Consider purchasing a Portland Zoo pass if you plan on visiting multiple times a year, as it can offer great value. The zoo also provides discounts for WIC and EBT holders, making it an accessible outing for many families.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider packing your own snacks and water to save on food expenses within the zoo. The MAX light rail is an affordable and efficient way to reach the zoo, often cheaper than parking fees. :moneywithwings: :train2:
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
to the majestic big cats.For evening shoots, the Zoo Lights event transforms the zoo into a magical, illuminated landscape, offering unique photographic challenges and rewards.
Always be respectful of other visitors and the animals, and check the zoo's policy on professional photography if you plan on extensive shoots.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Star Attraction: Elephants at the Oregon Zoo
+1 Visitors are thrilled to see the young calf bonding with its mother, Rose-Tu. The zoo emphasizes conservation efforts for Asian elephants, and the exhibit is designed to provide a naturalistic environment for these magnificent creatures. Plan to spend ample time here to witness their interactions and learn about the challenges they face in the wild.Many visitors rave about the elephant house, calling it a fan favorite.
Remember that the zoo is cashless, so ensure you have your cards ready for any purchases, including souvenirs related to your favorite elephants. The excitement around the new calf is palpable, making this a must-see during your visit. :elephant: :baby_elephant:
Experiencing Zoo Lights: A Winter Wonderland
Thousands of colorful bulbs illuminate the pathways and exhibits, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for families and couples. This event typically runs during the holiday season and requires separate admission tickets, which are often in high demand.Visitors often recommend booking Oregon Zoo Lights tickets well in advance, as they can sell out quickly.
The displays are creative and extensive, offering a unique way to experience the zoo after dark. It's a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the festive spirit while supporting the zoo's conservation mission. The event is a highlight for many locals and tourists alike, making it a quintessential Portland holiday activity.Be prepared for crowds during Zoo Lights, as it's a very popular attraction. Dressing warmly is advised, as winter evenings in Portland can be chilly. The illuminated animal habitats and whimsical light sculptures create a truly enchanting experience that's worth planning for. :sparkles: :christmas_tree:
Conservation and Education at the Oregon Zoo
Visitors often appreciate the zoo's commitment to animal welfare and the informative displays about each species' conservation status. Learning about the challenges faced by animals like elephants and polar bears can be a powerful educational experience for all ages. The zoo aims to inspire visitors to become advocates for wildlife protection. :earth_asia: :seedling:
Through interactive exhibits and dedicated staff, the Oregon Zoo provides valuable insights into the importance of biodiversity and the impact of human activities on the natural world. It's a place where fun and learning go hand-in-hand, fostering a deeper connection with the animal kingdom. :book: :magnifyingglasstilted_left:
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit