On July 1st, the Woodland Park Zoo will re-open after months and months of closure to prevent transmission of COVID-19. The animals have been well-cared for and looked after during the temporary closure, and visitors can expect to see a few new faces as they explore the expansive grounds this summer! After months of nesting, it’s a great time to flock to the Zoo!
Of course, Woodland Park wants to keep all its visitors, and staff, safe and healthy – just like the critters in their care – so there will be a few changes to the grounds, and entry process. Woodland Park wants everyone to have a fun and educational visit, as well as one free of fear from contracting novel coronavirus.
Visitors can expect:
- Entry tickets will be sold for specific, designated entrance times. Tickets can be purchased, now, on-line. Members will also need to reserve specific entry time tickets. Reservations will make it possible for the Zoo to limit the number of visitors on the grounds at any one time, making social distancing easier.
- To enter, visitors will need to use the West Entrance, along Phinney Ave N, and not the South Entrance, nearest to Fremont and N 50th
- All visitors will need to wear face coverings and/or masks, covering their mouth and nostrils. Exceptions will be made for children under the age of two, and those people unable to wear one due to a medical condition.
- Restrooms will be open, with ample hand-washing items available, and will be cleaned and re-stocked more often than previously, and throughout the day. Hand sanitation stations will also be available throughout the park grounds for additional cleanings.
- A one-way path will be designated through the main grounds to allow for more social distance and safety.
- Some indoor areas of the Zoo will be closed at this time, to avoid contamination and congregating. High-touch services, such as vending machines and drinking fountains, will also be closed. There will be food and beverages available for purchase, at newly-redesigned sites around the campus.
- Finally, the Zoo will be participating in contact tracing, to allow notification of visitors should they be unexpectedly exposed to COVID-19. Visitors and members who purchase tickets on-line will have their information retained for this purpose, and those who purchase tickets at the gate will be asked to voluntarily give contact information. All information collected on visitors will be shared with public health officials only if guests are potentially exposed to coronavirus.
Woodland Park Zoo will re-open July 1st, and will be open daily from 9:30a – 6p. Parking is available, for a fee, with maps and costs outlined on the Zoo.org website. In fact, Woodland Park has plenty of information, about exhibits and experiences available, on its website. Find ticket information and all other details visitors will need this summer at www.Zoo.org