Woodland Park Zoo is thrilled to help mobilize people across the Seattle-Tacoma metropolitan area (all of Snohomish, King and Pierce counties) to join the City Nature Challenge – a nature observation event using the iNaturalist app.

Help the Seattle-Tacoma Metropolitan Area (including Everett, Seattle, Bellevue, Tacoma and any place within Snohomish, King and Pierce counties!) show the world how biodiverse our region is by making observations and identifications during the City Nature Challenge. City Nature Challenge typically happens near the end of April each year – so mark your calendar!

When are field trip dates released?

We aim to release field trip dates on a 6-month rolling window. However, there are times when we need to pause our window while we adjust our ticket quantities and prices.

Can I change the time, day, or number of tickets on my order?

Absolutely! We can make adjustments until 24 hours before your arrival. We will not make changes day of. Please email schools@zoo.org to make changes to your order. Please include your order number and the number of student and chaperone tickets you are requesting.

Can I buy tickets at the gate?

Your tickets must be prepurchased to receive the field trip admission rate. You can email schools@zoo.org to adjust your tickets up until 24 hours before you arrive. Tickets purchased on the day of will be at the daily admission rate. We recommend pre-purchasing all field trip tickets.

Can I get a refund for my tickets?

Yes! We will refund your tickets as long as we have at least 24 hours' notice. Send your cancellation or adjustment request to schools@zoo.org. We cannot refund tickets on the day of or after your visit.

Can I pay with a purchase order?

No, we no longer accept purchase orders. If your school or district does not have a purchasing card, please email schools@zoo.org. 

Can students use memberships?

We cannot admit students using memberships without the named adult on the membership in attendance on the field trip.

Is bus reimbursement available? 

Bus reimbursement is available for King County schools that meet the requirements listed on our financial assistance page.

Who is considerered a chaperone?

All adults over the age of 18, this can include educators, teachers, and parents/guardians. Note:Please do not include 1:1 aides/para-educators in your chaperone count. Please contact us for more information on 1:1 aides and chaperone requirements. 

What should we do to prepare for a successful visit?

Please review the zoo rules of conduct with students. Help prepare your chaperones with the Zoo Visit Chaperone Sheet. Don't forget to see which programs and activities are offered during your visit!

Is there space to park a bus at the Zoo? 

There is limited bus space in our parking lot, and we cannot guarantee parking. We can accommodate 6 buses on a first come, first served. Buses are required to pay for parking at the self-serve kiosks.
Bus Driver Info Sheet

Where do we enter the Zoo? 

All field trips enter through our South Entrance located off the Hippo Lot. 

What should I do if my group is running late?

If your group is running late, please call our guest services line (206-548-2604) and let them know your group name and when you expect to arrive.

Do you offer any accommodations for individuals or groups?

Yes, additional information about accommodations can be found here. Please send an email to schools@zoo.org to request an accommodation.

Will there be maps available?

Please preprint your group's maps. You can find maps here.

Is there a place to store our lunches?

We do not have space to store lunches.

What is the cost of parking? 

Parking costs can be found here.