News and Stories

The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, which has been closed since March 15, is thrilled to be welcoming guests back starting tomorrow!  New protocols, including the implementation of reserved entry times to limit the number of people coming into the Zoo at one time, have been put in place to provide the safest possible environment for staff, guests, and animals.

“It’s clear that people are ready to come back to the Zoo,” said Cincinnati Zoo director Thane Maynard.  “In fact, all of the available entry times for the first week that we’re open were snatched up by members within hours of making our reopening announcement!  Don’t worry, there are more reserved spots available through the end of June.”

Starting June 17, general admission ticket holders with reservations will also be able to visit.  During the first phase of reopening, to allow room to appropriately distance from other guests, the Zoo’s maximum visitor capacity will be reduced by 50-75%.  All tickets can now be purchased/reserved online in order to manage attendance and provide a touchless transaction.

“We will learn together as we go and will modify protocols based on observations, visitor feedback, and recommendations from state and local officials,” said Maynard. “For now, we feel very comfortable with welcoming a limited number of visitors to enjoy the gardens and outdoor animal habitats. We hope to open indoor spaces and rides later this summer.”

Grab-and-go food offerings will be available with line markers in place to help people stay a zebra length apart! A new mobile food ordering option will allow touchless transactions with food pickup at Hops.

“Face coverings will be required for Zoo employees and recommended for visitors,” said Maynard.  “The more we do to keep each other safe and healthy, the sooner we can welcome more visitors back.”

Visit the Zoo’s Reopening FAQ page for more information about pricing, reservations and entry procedures.