Oregon Zoo

Oregon Zoo spreads its animal areas across 64 wooded acres in Washington Park. Families can move through habitats featuring elephants, polar bears, penguins, sea otters, primates, lions, giraffes, tigers, and animals of the Pacific Northwest. The current zoo map also identifies the Family Farm, Insect Zoo, wildlife garden, nature play area, sculpture garden, and sandbox.

A train and carousel offer optional breaks from walking, although both require separate tickets and operate on their posted schedules.

This is a large, hilly zoo. The official accessibility page notes about 150 feet of elevation change between the highest and lowest points. Most main paths, exhibits, restaurants, restrooms, and drinking fountains are accessible, but families pushing a stroller should still expect slopes.

Single and double strollers can be rented from the gift shop on a first-come, first-served basis. The current official map identifies a nursing location, and the zoo also lists adult changing tables in all-user restrooms at Entry Plaza, Elephant Plaza, and Rainforest Plaza.

Nonmembers must reserve timed tickets, including free tickets for infants under 2. Visitors can enter up to 30 minutes after the reserved time; later arrivals may have to wait for another opening. Admission is $26 for adults ages 12 and older, $21 for children ages 2 to 11, and free for infants. The zoo is cashless, although free cash-to-card machines are available inside.

Parking is the biggest arrival concern. Washington Park has limited paid parking, and the official site warns that lots may fill by 10:30 AM on busy days. MAX light rail stops beside the entrance, while Sunset Transit Center offers more than 600 free park-and-ride spaces eight minutes away by train. Seasonal off-site parking and free shuttles may also operate.

Allow about three to five hours for a family visit, although the zoo does not publish a standard duration. Most of the day is outdoors, so rain, heat, or cold can affect comfort and animal visibility. Food is available at several cafes and stands, but hours vary by location and season.