Located in Portland’s Washington Park, the Oregon State Zoo is a favorite for Portland families and visitors alike. Parents of younger children love that this zoo is walkable and that the animals are easy to see – plus, there are fun bonus attractions such as the train that takes you around the entire park and zoo! Here are ten tips for making your next visit to the Oregon Zoo the best it can be.
Location:
4001 SW Canyon Road
Portland, Or
503-226-1561
Online: oregonzoo.org
Hours vary based on the season – please see the website for a detailed schedule
Tip #1: Although the Oregon Zoo is very easy to get to via MAX, the $2.00 parking fee may be worth it to load a worn out kiddo straight into the car after a fun day exploring the zoo. But, if you do ride the MAX into Washington Park, your MAX ticket gets you $1.50 off the zoo admission!
Tip #2: Break away from the crowd. Most people take the first path when you enter the zoo, into the Great Northwest, but it’s not necessary to follow along – try going counter-clockwise around the zoo instead!
Tip #3: If you get caught in the rain while visiting, pop into the Aviary that’s located in the Africa exhibit – it’s warm and dry in here and you can check out the fun birds while you wait for the rain to pass.
Tip #4: Don’t miss the petting zoo at the Family Farm (located in the Great Northwest area of the zoo). It’s gigantic and kids can get up close and personal with bunnies, goats, cows, ducks and more. They even have a vegetable garden where children can learn about how we grow the foods we love to eat (or that you love them to eat!). And yes, there are hand-washing stations available.
Tip #5: Despite being a small-ish zoo, it takes a lot of walking to explore the Oregon Zoo. Bring the stroller, even if you don’t usually use one for your kids. You’ll be glad you brought it when their little legs need a break at the end of the day and you still have to walk back to the entrance!
Tip #6: Admission at the Oregon Zoo is only $4.00 per person on the second Tuesday of every month. But, beware – these days, as well as school-holidays, are some of the most crowded.
Tip #7: If you aren’t a member, buy tickets online before you come to the zoo – it will save you a lot of time when you arrive!
Tip #8: The train is super cool and definitely worth the extra cost! There are two options – one takes you on a loop around just the zoo itself and the other takes you outside of the zoo into Washington Park, where you can get off and explore the International Rose Test Garden and Japanese Garden before hopping a ride back to the zoo – perfect for eating lunch in the park! The trains do not operate all year round – check the website for detailed schedules.
Tip #9: There are good food options at the Oregon Zoo – far better than you’d expect. The Cascade Grill, located near the entrance, is the best choice and pretty tasty. You’re also welcome to bring food into the Oregon Zoo, so pack a lunch and snacks, if you prefer. Either way, be sure to bring bottled water for keeping hydrated while walking around!
Tip #10: Keep an eye on the Oregon Zoo website and Facebook page for information about the cool events that they host throughout the year, including zoo lights during the holidays, trick-or-treating at Halloween, summer concerts and more!
Is the Oregon Zoo your family’s favorite spot to explore in Portland? Share your best tips with us in the comments below!
-- Katie Kavulla
