Woodland Park Zoo

About

Woodland Park Zoo sits on 92 acres in Seattle's Phinney Ridge neighborhood, offering an immersive experience where animals live in naturalistic habitats rather than traditional cages. Since its founding in 1899, the zoo has been a pioneer in creating environments that mirror the wild, from the tropical rainforest dome to the open African savanna exhibit.

Visitors can explore diverse areas including the Temperate Forest, where you'll spot grizzly bears and gray wolves, and the Australasia section with its wallabies and emus. The Tropical Rain Forest building houses tree kangaroos, pythons, and colorful tropical birds in a warm, humid setting that feels worlds away from the Pacific Northwest. Kids especially love the Zoomazium, an indoor nature play space, and the seasonal butterfly garden where hundreds of butterflies float freely around you.

The zoo's layout follows winding paths through dense plantings, giving it the feel of a botanical garden as much as a wildlife park. Seasonal exhibits and keeper talks happen throughout the day, so there's always something new to catch. The carousel and the Wild Lanterns evening light festival (seasonal) add extra layers of fun beyond the animal exhibits.

For planning purposes, the zoo has two main entrances: the West Entrance off Phinney Avenue N and the South Entrance off N 50th Street. Each has its own parking lot and guest services desk. Food options range from sit-down spots to quick grab-and-go counters scattered across the grounds. Pack layers if you're visiting outside summer, as Seattle weather can shift quickly.

Whether you're a local looking for a relaxed afternoon or a traveler adding it to your Seattle itinerary, Woodland Park Zoo delivers a genuinely enjoyable day out. It's the kind of place where you can take your time, linger at your favorite exhibits, and leave feeling like you've traveled the globe without leaving the city.

Accessibility

Woodland Park Zoo is free of most physical barriers and obstacles, making it a welcoming destination for visitors with mobility needs. The zoo's paved main paths connect all major exhibit areas, though some unpaved side paths can be difficult for wheelchair users, especially in muddy conditions. Visitors should plan routes accordingly or ask staff for guidance on the most accessible paths.

Mobility equipment, including wheelchairs and ECV scooters, is available to rent at Guest Services locations inside the West Entrance and near the ZooStore at the South Entrance. Non-electric wheelchairs and personal electric carts are also available for a fee.

Parking is straightforward for visitors with disabilities. Vehicles displaying a valid accessible parking permit receive free parking at both the West and South lots. Accessible parking spaces are located near the entrance gates.

Caregivers accompanying a guest who needs assistance may enter the zoo free of charge through the Community Access Program. This is a meaningful benefit for families and individuals who rely on support during their visit.

Service animals are permitted on zoo grounds in accordance with ADA guidelines. The zoo's Guest Services team can answer specific questions about exhibit accessibility and help plan your route before you start exploring.

For the most current details on sensory accommodations, accessible restroom locations, and any temporary path closures, contact Woodland Park Zoo's Guest Services directly before your visit. Conditions can change with weather and construction, so checking ahead ensures the smoothest experience.

More accessible places in Washington

• Klondike Gold Rush - Seattle Unit National Historical Park (Seattle)
• The Museum of Flight (Seattle)
• Seattle Art Museum (Seattle)
• Wing Luke Museum (Seattle)
• Chihuly Garden and Glass (Seattle)
• Space Needle (Seattle)