Oregon Zoo — Attraction in Portland

This zoo feels intentionally designed to take advantage of Oregon's seasonal weather. It's a shady stroll in the summer time where the pines, maples and other trees of the West hills offer respite for families while exploring the zoo's facilities... This visit we went at the beginning of winter. Expecting at least a chill and a drizzle we wore our fun rain boots and impermeable jackets. The kids could splash in puddles and most viewing areas had some level of cover to park the stroller as to keep it from getting too wet in-between exhibits. The best part of this visit, and it may have been blind luck, but many of the animals were front and center. My daughter was inches away from the Lion on the other side of the glass because they were resting in a dry den with a comfy hay bed. Nora the polar bear was out exploring her new home which was next to the well hearted elephant enclosure. Our timing was perfect as we made a keeper's presentation for some primates and a photo opportunity with the elephants! There are times posted at many of the exhibits declaring when a keeper will come to feed, speak, present, etc... on this cool day coffee was available at the aviary Cafe... Which has elevated views into the neighboring aviary... But I'd recommend strolling through the aviary as you can get quite up close to some beautiful uncommon birds. It's fun to end one's visit with the short train ride that's accompanied with views and a verbal presentation by the conductor. They'll explain that the zoo has its own post mark- so anyone visiting from out of town... Or anyone who enjoys sending themselves post cards as a family keepsake as we do... Then this is your opportunity to get that rare postmark on your postcard! Beware that the gift shop may be out of any given supplies (especially stamps) so I'd recommend loading up your cards with your snack bag or other zoo trip supplies. We embraced the weather, saw some lively animals, made some cute memories with the children and otherwise left feeling very pleased with the visit. A few things of note: tickets are ONLY purchased online. Parking is plentiful but paid by app or kiosk. The zoo is built into the hills so you'll be walking up/down slopes. They do rent strollers or other wheeled assistance. There is a lovely park nearby that home to the breathtaking (free)rose gardens and the (paid entry)Japanese gardens. Enjoy your trip and hope you get to see many of the beautiful animals that the Oregon...

I traveled around the States recently and in almost every state or place I visit, I try to make a stop at the zoo since I love animals. This zoo is one of the best among the ones I have visited so far. The layout of this zoo is amazing, its like a jungle theme, the winding paths and elevation, forestry path, actually giving you the feel of being in a jungle. This is one zoo where you will not miss seeing an animal. They have made it so easy that you don't have to hunt down or walk long to track an animal or it's location. The one way road makes it so much easier hence there are no paper maps given/ needed. We missed the train ride due to lack of time. This zoo needs atleast 4 hours on hand to cover. We saw a bunch of animals like polar bear, cheetah, cougar, elephant, giraffe, tiger, lion etc. This zoo has the best display of the bats. If you like bats then this is the place. I also liked watching condor. Condors are not commonly found. Lots of eatery options but they are all halfway through. So carry a snack with you if you think you are going to need it. Dont forget to take water with you. We still couldn't cover the entire zoo so Kyle on the way back helped us cover and guided through. He was the best. Staff here generally is good. Very friendly and caring. They do not rush you through at all. Try and cover the zoo shop before entering the zoo if you are keen to buy something as they close a bit early than the zoo hours. They have organic cotton animal printed tshirts for boys and men but there is hardly any collection for women. Clothes are expensive compared to the other zoo's though. I still got some. We ended up spending almost 45 mins in the shop which shortened our time for the zoo. There is also one of the oldest carousels towards the exit. The only con about this place is that the glasses (display/cage glass) were very reflective and not clean. I think they should work on it. Also, before visiting, I looked up online on how to buy the tickets and the only way I found was to buy it online but as we wanted to pay in cash, we took our chances and went directly to the zoo. The staff there arranged for the cashier so it was pretty seamless. Ticket rates were $24 for an adult and $19 for a child. The visit was definitely worth it and probably the best medium sized zoo I've been to. It is a must visit if you are...

Beautiful laid out. Begins with the "Journey Begins here" and basically can follow the general path or deviate.

It is set almost in a forest. Lots of greenery, plenty of hand rails, small animal area for children and in another plane, a large sandbox for them.

Lots of variety of large and small creatures. Often sites educate with origin, history and conservation efforts.

We never ever have seen bats, live nor at a zoo...! A treat since coming from California, we have them in our state.

If you plan it right, there are talks delivered by zoo staff throughout the day. Be sure you know the times. We happened to arrive when the Asian elephants were checked (terth, gum, etc) and fed carrots and orher food to motivate them. Had opportunity to ask questions too. The staff was well informed, capable to answer all questions!

There is a carousel (additional fee), food eateries, water bottle dispensers and bathrooms available. We missed riding the train.

One aspect was one day we thought of visiting, while standing there at the gate. Husband found to purchase it online, cell phone, required lots of information. We decided to come back the next day Friday (plus it would give us more time to stroll around, which we truly needed.). The next day, a staff helped my husband purchase it on the zoo computer. He said it was much easier, requiring less unnecessary information to buy tickets.

Be sure to wear comfortable shoes...plenty of walking in some slight inclines and winding paths.

I was impressed young children were well behaved, not screaming or running around. It was a Friday...many other children, especially young ones were in strollers, quiet and not crying making it a lovelier day at the zoo.

We thoroughly enjoyed...