Woodland Park Zoo

Woodland Park Zoo opened in 1899 and covers 92 acres in the Phinney Ridge neighbourhood of north Seattle. It is home to around 900 animals from about 250 species and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The zoo is often credited with pioneering "landscape immersion": in the 1970s it rebuilt its gorilla habitat to recreate a natural setting for both the animals and visitors, an approach later copied by zoos around the world.

The main areas follow climates and regions. The African Savanna shows animals of the African grasslands, and Tropical Rain Forest explores the jungles of South America and Africa. The Living Northwest Trail covers animals of the northern forests, and the Assam Rhino Reserve is home to the zoo's Indian rhino. The Humboldt penguin habitat was rebuilt in 2009 with underwater viewing, which is popular with younger children.

The zoo opens daily from 9:30am. From 8 September 2026 to 30 April 2027 it closes at 4pm, and from 1 May to 6 September 2027 it stays open until 6pm. Hours may change on special event days and holidays, so check the calendar. Tickets are sold online only, and full-price general admission bought at least four days ahead is discounted. The zoo is also part of Seattle CityPASS.

Allow at least half a day; the grounds are large and you will want time to wait at the busier habitats. Mornings, soon after opening, are when many animals are most active. Wear comfortable shoes and bring layers, as much of the visit is outdoors. Children aged 12 and under must stay with a responsible adult, and balloons, bicycles, scooters, drones and alcohol are not allowed. Service animals are welcome, but pets are not.

Several paid car parks surround the zoo, and vehicles with a valid disabled parking placard can park in zoo spaces without charge. There are places to eat and shop inside, and the zoo runs seasonal events such as WildLanterns.

The zoo is set within Woodland Park in north Seattle, and Fremont and Wallingford are a short drive away, so it combines well with lunch in either neighbourhood. General questions can be emailed to the zoo.