A rhinoceros napping at the Oregon Zoo in Portland

Photos by Cheryl Landes

The Oregon Zoo in Portland reopened to the public on Sunday, July 12, with limitations to protect visitors from COVID-19. Capacity is limited, so reservations are required for members and non-members. Reservations are available up to 10 days in advance and are available online only.

When you make a reservation, it’s like setting up an appointment. You choose the date and time of your visit. The zoo recommends arriving 10 minutes early to check in.

Inside the zoo, the mostly open-air paths are now one-way. Some high-touch and indoor areas are closed, as well as the carousel and train. Extra handwashing and sanitizing stations have been installed throughout the grounds.

Everyone ages 6 and older must wear masks, except for someone who can’t for a medical reason. Others can remove their masks while eating or drinking, when they’re six feet away from people who are not in the same household, and in designated areas.

For updates, check the Oregon Zoo’s website.