A ZOO FOR ALL

Learn about access at the zoo

ACCESSIBILITY

 

NOTE:
These written and visual resources do not reflect the temporary changes to flow and closures, but may still be useful to guests for planning. Zoomazium is closed until further notice.


Woodland Park Zoo is free of most physical barriers and obstacles. For complete details on sensory considerations, bathrooms, getting involved at the zoo, and more please download the Accessibility Guide. This includes a map describing trail conditions and accessibility features to make your visit as enjoyable as possible.

 

ACCESSIBILITY GUIDE

 

Accessibility Admission

The following quarterly dates will host reserved hours for those with a disability that prevents them from wearing a face covering:


Accessibility Admission Dates


January 27, 2021, 1:00 p.m. - zoo close
April 7, 2021, 1:00 p.m. - zoo close
July 7, 2021, Opening time coming soon - zoo close. (This date may be canceled should safety restrictions be lifted under WA State guidelines.)

The remaining 2021 dates will be scheduled soon!

To offer a better experience for our visitors, we will host accommodation hours on a quarterly basis for those with a disability that prevents them from wearing a mask. Accessibility admission hours are from 1:00 p.m. until the zoo closes.

The zoo will close early at 12:30 p.m. to all general admission ticket holders and member reservation holders. The zoo will re-open at 1:00 p.m. for accessibility hours reserved for people with a disability that prevents them from wearing a mask, and their party members. Reserve accessibility admissions or a member reservation during these designated hours if you or a member of your party is in need of this accommodation.

If you have any questions, please email us at zooinfo@zoo.org.

 


Service Animals

Woodland Park Zoo is responsible for the health and well-being of all of its animals, including many sensitive species. Therefore, there are additional steps to bringing fully-trained service animals on grounds.

Please read the service animal guidelines thoroughly before your visit.

When you arrive, we require that you and your service animal check in at either the Membership Office at the West Entrance, or Ticket windows 3 or 4 at the South Entrance.


Aides, Attendants and Interpreters

One-to-one aides or attendants of guests with disabilities receive complimentary admission with the exception of ticketed events, such as ZooTunes. This includes family members or friends who are serving as an interpreter for Deaf guests or as a guide for blind guests. Please let the ticket office know that you are visiting with a one-to-one attendant to receive their free admission.

If you or a member of your party would like to request a certified interpreter please fill out this form.


Bathrooms

All bathrooms at Woodland Park Zoo have an accessible stall. Family/all gender restrooms are available at several locations, as indicated on the Accessibility Map.

If you or someone in your party are in need of an adult-sized sanitary space for changing or medical needs, please visit Guest Services near the South Entrance or West Entrance. They have a private space with a medical bench that you are welcome to use.

 

Sensory Considerations

NOTE: These written and visual resources do not reflect the temporary changes to flow and closures, but may still be useful to guests for planning. Zoomazium is closed until further notice.

This Sensory Map will guide guests with different sensory needs to a variety of locations around the zoo where they can relax, romp or explore.

Before your visit, use the Whole Zoo Social Story as a helpful guide to familiarize yourself and your child with what you can expect from a visit to Woodland Park Zoo. You may also want to read the Zoomazium Social Story if you plan on spending part of your visit in Zoomazium.


Mobility Equipment Rentals

Guests can rent mobility equipment at Guest Services near the South or West Entrances. Equipment is available on a first-come first-served basis; we apologize that we are unable to accept reservations.

Guests must provide an ID card and payment for the following prices:

  • Wheelchair, non-electric, $10*
  • Electric mobility scooter or ECV, $25**

Items that will not be available to rent at this time include strollers, double strollers, wagons, and handheld items such as binoculars and umbrellas.

*Recipients of EBT/Washington Quest, WIC assistance, and foster and kinship families can receive a 50% discount on wheelchair rentals. Must present verification such as EBT/Washington Quest card, WIC voucher/card or appointment folder, DCYF caregiver authorization form, or foster caregiver ID card or license certificate.

**Conditions: Must leave $200 refundable deposit and valid driver’s license; 18 years and older, or 16 years with parent/guardian permission; 400-pound weight limit.

NURSING AREAS

 

Temporarily Closed

For the health and safety of our guests, including nursing mothers and children, most indoor and high-touch spaces, such as the mother’s/nursing rooms, are closed at this time. Mother’s are welcome to nurse anywhere they feel comfortable.

Accessibility FAQ

 

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How do I use my Community Access Program Ticket?

Will there be Accessible Parking?

Will you still offer a discount and complimentary aide for persons with disabilities?

Can I still request an interpreter or sighted guide?

Do I need to wear a face covering/mask? Can I visit without one? What if I have been vaccinated?

What if I cannot wear a face covering due to medical reasons?

Communicating with people wearing masks is difficult for me, how are you accommodating for people for whom masks are a barrier?

Will Mother’s/Nursing Rooms be available?

Can I still rent mobility equipment?

Will sensory spaces and tools be available?

Who can I contact to help plan my trip?

What if I am unable to do an entire loop on the one-way route?

Which family/all gender restrooms are open? Are all restrooms open?

What changes should I prepare my autistic/sensory sensitive family member for? What rules are different?