Oregon Zoo

My fiance and I took our four youngest children (4,3,3,1) to the zoo on a surprise adventure. We arrived just after 10am and stayed until 2pm. We rode the zoo train and all of us enjoyed the view on the new Elephant Enclosure. We were kinda bummed that a few of the exhibits are closed. Some of them our favorites. But are also happy to see that the animals are getting good care and new facilities. We decided to purchase a family membership because of how much fun the kids had. We are also planning another trip for our two older kids to see some of the feedings. I highly recommend making the trip to the Oregon Zoo!
5 7 years ago (26-05-2018)

This is a very nice zoo, but it is often under construction for years at a time . When they are upgrading an exhibit the animals housed there are not available for viewing. Really disappointing when the highlight of your trip was going to be the animals they've secluded, such as polar bears. It helps to know that the animals will eventually be better off, but still a bummer. There are still enclosures needing upgrade, so probably gonna keep occurring for several more years. Also, if you go anytime other than peak Summer season, many of the vendors aren't open. You have to walk all over searching for the one vendor with a particular snack available. On the up side, the grounds are well kept, clean and very pretty. Lots of flowers, trees, ferns, landscaping, etc. It provides a nice walk in beautiful surroundings. Also a plus, there are plenty of available restrooms. They're conveniently placed, so you never have to wait long when you or your kids are in need. This Portland location has gotten pretty expensive, especially if you're taking the whole family. One of the best things they're doing is the regular posting online of their animals and young. So enjoyable, makes you want to go back.
3 7 years ago (10-04-2018)

I haven't been to many zoo's in my lifetime, but I would consider the Oregon Zoo very good! There is (usually) a lot to see - from the North West Exhibit, to the newly added (and still expanding) Elephant Lands Exhibit, to the little farm animal "petting zoo" that's always a hit with my daughter. The park is large and although you could see EVERYTHING in one day, easily - if you have the means to enjoy over a couple days, I think that's probably the best! Become a Zoo Member and get unlimited park entry :) One of the unique features of the OR Zoo would be its outdoor lawn/amphitheater. It's big and spacious with lots of green grass to sprawl out on and let you kids run wild...if you will. If you're not into sitting on the grass, there is ample seating in the area surrounding the lawn - benches, picnic tables and bistro tables/chairs if that's more your speed. As with most public attractions, there are a couple of places to buy food and drinks if you forgot to pack snacks, beverages or lunch. Be aware though, you'll pay a premium for even the "simplest" menu items, for instance a hot dog ran me about $5 by itself. In addition to coming to the OR Zoo for the animals, I've attended many Zoo Concerts in the Summer months and also Zoo Lights in the Winter months. Both "supplemental" attractions prove to be added bonuses to an already great attraction. So why only 4 stars.... Well, there are a lot of exhibits that are either under construction or have been removed for one reason or another. I understand that the lack of certain exhibits now means (hopefully) more/better exhibits later - but overall, its sort of a bummer to walk around and read signs of really awesome exhibits that won't be opening for another year or two. Overall, the OR Zoo is a great place for family members of all ages. Wear comfortable shoes and pack some snacks for a relatively inexpensive, full-day experience that every kid that I know, loves and who can't wait to come back!
4 7 years ago (01-05-2018)

This is a popular very clean zoo where animals seen healthy and well cared for. There is a state of the art veterinary clinic/hospital on the grounds for all the animals. The train is cute albeit a fairly short ride. Interactive exhibits are plentiful for children.A great place to spend a day. Summer concerts are great and usually sell out quickly. i recommend you Get here early as parking lot can fill up fast. They got rid of the hippos But the new black rhino exhibit is looking great can’t wait to see how it turns out. Mountain goats bears eagle condors lions Cheetahs elephants ✔️✔️✔️ Train is on a 6 min short loop $4 a person is a bit expensive but if your kid needs a train ride it’s here. Overall it’s a nice place to visit.
5 7 years ago (09-04-2018)

I love the Oregon Zoo! The elephant enclosure has been greatly improved and expanded, which is fantastic! Feeding time for the bats is always entertaining. I also enjoy the Pacific Northwest and African habitats & animals. The zoo seems to be working on remodeling and improving other habitats too, like for the primates. There are also food carts at the zoo now. I would recommend taking the MAX (light rail train) to the zoo, though, because traffic & parking are terrible.
5 7 years ago (06-06-2018)