Woodland Park Zoo: Essential Visitor Rules

Welcome to Woodland Park Zoo, a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts and families alike. Nestled in the heart of Seattle, our zoo is home to over 1,000 animals representing more than 300 species. To ensure a safe, enjoyable, and respectful experience for all visitors and our animal residents, we've established some guidelines that we kindly ask you to follow.

Your cooperation helps us maintain a harmonious environment, promote animal welfare, and preserve the natural habitats we strive to replicate. Let's dive into the key rules and guidelines that will enhance your visit to Woodland Park Zoo.

Respect Our Animal Residents

Our primary mission is to provide exceptional care for our animal residents and contribute to global conservation efforts. Your understanding and cooperation in maintaining a calm and stress-free environment for our animals are greatly appreciated.

To help us achieve this, we ask that you:

Keep a Safe Distance

Please maintain a safe distance from animal exhibits and do not tap on the glass or make loud noises. Sudden movements or loud sounds can startle our animals and cause unnecessary stress.

Remember, our animals' well-being is our top priority. By keeping a respectful distance, you're helping us create a peaceful environment for them to thrive in.

Do Not Feed the Animals

Feeding our animals is strictly prohibited. Our dedicated animal care team provides a balanced and species-appropriate diet for each of our residents. Unauthorized food can be harmful or even deadly to our animals.

If you see someone attempting to feed an animal, please report it to a zoo staff member immediately. Your vigilance helps us maintain a safe and healthy environment for our animal residents.

Safety and Courtesy for All Visitors

Your safety and the safety of others are paramount at Woodland Park Zoo. By following these guidelines, we can ensure a pleasant and secure experience for everyone.

Please keep the following in mind during your visit:

Stay on Designated Paths

To protect our animals, plants, and your safety, please stay on the designated paths and do not enter any off-limits areas. Venturing off-trail can cause damage to our habitats and put you at risk of injury.

Our zoo is designed to be explored from the paths, offering plenty of opportunities to observe and learn about our animal residents. Staying on the designated routes helps us preserve the natural environments we've created for our animals.

Respect Other Visitors

Woodland Park Zoo welcomes visitors from around the world. Let's ensure everyone has a positive experience by being considerate and respectful of one another.

Please be mindful of your surroundings and avoid blocking exhibits or paths. If you're taking photos, be sure to do so safely and without impeding the flow of traffic. Your thoughtfulness helps create a welcoming atmosphere for all our guests.

Proper Disposal of Waste

Help us keep Woodland Park Zoo clean and beautiful by disposing of your waste responsibly. Use the recycling and composting bins provided throughout the zoo, and remember to pick up after yourself and your group.

Our dedicated grounds crew works tirelessly to maintain the zoo's beauty. By following these simple waste management guidelines, you're contributing to our collective efforts to keep Woodland Park Zoo a pristine and inviting space.

Thank you for your cooperation and for being a responsible Woodland Park Zoo visitor. By adhering to these guidelines, you're not only enhancing your experience but also contributing to our mission of saving wildlife and inspiring everyone to make conservation a priority. We look forward to welcoming you to our zoo and sharing our passion for animals and their habitats with you.