Message from Oregon Zoo
Trek through the tropics amid the sounds of birds, monkeys & other creatures. You're not in West Africa; you?re in Portland at the Oregon Zoo?s African rain forest, home to crocodiles, bats and other denizens of the West African tropics. After you have survived the steamy tropics dry off at the savanna, where giraffes, rhinos & hippos graze. See penguins on the re-created coastline of Peru, polar bears swimming under the Arctic ice, and the great Asian elephants. Closer to home it is the Great Northwest, where mountain goats amble over rocks, and bald eagles and salmon co-exist. The northwest journey ends at the Pacific shores of Stellar Cove, home to sea lions, underwater kelp forests, and sea otters. Looking for more? Just hop on to Trillium Creek Family Farm, and pet heritage goats and sheep. In short travel the world in a span of a few hours.
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Zoo amphitheater hosts popular events like the Wells Fargo Summer Concert series.Key Points
- Concerts all summer long
- Wild Life Live shows
- Meet our baby elephant - Sam
The Inside Scoop
- The Extras - Get the full concert schedule at te zoo's website.
- Save Time - Weekdays are less crowded than weekends, when bus tours unload visitors from near and far.
- Look Good - The front third of the concert lawn is reserved for blankets only. Chairs are allowed in the rear two-thirds of the lawn. As a courtesy to other patrons, low-backed (30 inches maximum height) sand chairs only.
- Parking - Free overflow parking and shuttle bus service is available off the Sylvan exit on Hwy 26.
- When to Go - June through August, the zoo's amphitheater is a popular venue for Rhythm and Zoo concerts 7pm, Wednesdays through Sundays.
- Know Before You Go - No blankets on the lawn until 4pm, and no outside alcohol permitted. Cell phone use is prohibited during performances.
Reviews for Oregon Zoo
I was going to buy a membership until I took my son there the other day. There wasn't really any animals to see. I have been to several zoos and this one was one of the worst. One good thing is that I lost my wallet and everyone was very helpful in getting it back to me.
Posted 09/15/09 | Report Abuse
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Every time I go, there are no animals! All of the exhibits and where are the animals?! And what animals they DO have look miserable. Exhibits are way too small for these animals.
I payed for THAT?! This is the worst zoo I have ever been to. Come one guys, keep up. By the way, those tigers could EASILY escape if they wanted to...
Posted 05/22/09 | Report Abuse
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This is a great zoo. It's not as big as some, but you can really feel the effort they have made to make a great, educational park that houses and treats the animals in the best way possible. It also feels like a zoo on the move--there are lots of plans underway for new exhibits and renovating older exhibits. We bought the family pass (very affordable) and go nearly every weekend in the warm weather.
Posted 09/13/07 | Report Abuse
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This world-class zoo is not only a good place for the animals, but it's a city zoo that's built into a gorgeous woodland park, with hilly terrain and giant trees.
Not all animal species are found at the Oregon zoo. However, the ones that are represented at the zoo are kept in sizable habitats, and seem to be living in relative comfort.
Particularly fun is the lorikeet exhibit, which gives one the ability to feed tropical birds while they sit on your shoulders and wrists. Great photo opportunities there.
The polar bears are always fun, too.
The zoo restaurant is actually very good as well, if not a tad expensive for what you get.
Another nice feature of the zoo is that it shares a parking lot with the Portland Children's Museum.
Posted 11/19/05 | Report Abuse
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A great zoo with great viewing sites! The layout of the zoo flows nicely and if you follow the direction of traffic, you probably won't miss an animal...the zoo has limited food vending areas, for obvious reasons - don't feed the animals - parking is good - you might want to call ahead to see if any school field trips are planned before you go, cuz it can get vey crowded fast!!
Posted 11/14/05 | Report Abuse
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We LOVE the Oregon Zoo! There is so much to do there. They have really expanded in the last few years to include many new exhibits. We really love the Stellar Cove, Eagle Canyon, and the Trillium Creek Family Farm exhibits. We also enjoy the many different events they have scheduled throughout the year, such as the World Animal Festival, Rabit Romp, and the very popular Zoo Lights! My children really enjoy playing in the sandbox located by the Stellar Cove exhibit. I highly recommend buying an annual membership to the Oregon Zoo. It is well worth the money, and you get additional benefits (discounts on train rides, gift shop purchases, etc.). If you purchase a membership at the "plus level", you will also get free admission to all the Summer Wednesday and Thursday night concerts!
Posted 09/21/05 | Report Abuse
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This good is wonderful! So much fun for everyone. My 4 year old has the best time. Now we get to share it with our one year old! This is one of the things that make Portland so specail! If you have not been here you are missing out!
Posted 09/21/05 | Report Abuse
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Located approximately at 500-feet elevation in the West Hills overlooking downtown Portland, and surrounded by a maze of wooded hiking trails, this is a good deal in the city for a family outing. No match for the zoos found in many larger cities, it's more than adequate and the setting is ideal.
Posted 09/04/05 | Report Abuse
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The Oregon Zoo is a great place to visit. There are always good exhibits that come and go, my favorite being the Butterfly exhibit. Our family also really enjoys the zoo lights that they have during the holiday season. It is a one of a kind experience for little kids. They also have great camps and classes for older kids. Another great thing is when you can camp at the zoo, or go to concerts. There is always something unique going on. The Oregon Zoo is also one of the worlds largest elephant breeding facilities. My only complaint is the layout of the zoo. Its not exactly stroller friendly. Personally I prefer using a wagon because then the kids can jump in and out as needed. Try taking the max train to the zoo to save on gas and parking.
Posted 09/04/05 | Report Abuse
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I absolutey love going to this zoo. We usually drive and they have plenty of parking. We've also taken the max before and it was a really easy walk from the max to the zoo entrance. The cost to get in is very reasonable and so is the price of food and drinks. We always take our kids on the zoo train and get off at the Rose Garden to look around there too. It's a nice relaxing ride for the adults who get tired. The animals here are wonderful. Me and the kids never get tired of watching them. This year I plan to go here during the Christmas lights things. I've heard great things about that. This is definately a place to visit if your in the Portland area.
PROS: Beautiful animals, Easy location to get too, fun for the whole family
CONS:
Posted 08/31/05 | Report Abuse
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Oregon Zoo in Portland is one of my favorite outings. This is a very nice, clean zoo with a large variety of animals to see. All of the animals, birds, fish, etc. are in good enclosures with nice areas to view them. All of the animals are great to see, especially the monkeys. There is also a train you pay extra for that goes all around the zoo. At Christmas it is fun as they decorate and light it up for the holidays (dress warm). Highly recommend for an outing!
Posted 08/29/05 | Report Abuse
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The Oregon Zoo has many different animals, including activities that probably aren't available in every zoo. The the bird show is very exciting, where several endangered species fly right over your head! The lorakeet exhibit has tropical birds flying free that will land on your hand, head, and shoulders, especially if you have purchased nectar to feed them! I never get tired of viewing the animals at the Zoo. there is also simultation ride that changes shows every once in awhile. In the summer, they host concerts on the grass where you can take your picnic gear and listen to good music for a decent price!
PROS: Can save money by becoming a member
CONS: they took the lions out years ago.
Posted 08/20/05 | Report Abuse
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The Oregon Zoo is great family fun--it's surrounded by Washington Park, and the wooded areas and landscaping are well-designed for the animal surroundings. Concerts and other special events (like the Christmastime Zoolights) are a lot of fun as well
Posted 08/05/05 | Report Abuse
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I have been to many different zoos all around the world, and this is definitely one of the best I have ever vistied. I love this place!
The original designers did a great job laying out the zoo, and the recent renovations have only improved what was already a great and easy-to-get-around-in zoo. There are lots of exhibits with glass walls that let you get up close and personal with the animals - not only with the sea creatures such as otters and seals, but also the polar bears, penguins and some of the big cats such as the jaguar.
Recent additions such as the Northwest area and the seasonal butterfly exhibit are wonderful, and Lorikeet Landing, where you can feed the colorful birds, is great fun for all ages.
The zoo train is worth a ride sometime too - you can't see the animals from it, but it is a pretty ride and the train is fun, especially for the younger ages.
If you are going to come often, consider getting a family membership - it is very affordable and lets you come as often as you want during the year - a great value for some wonderful entertainment!
Posted 07/29/05 | Report Abuse
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Take advantage of warm summer weather and go to the Zoo. The animals are always entertaining and the staff is very friendly and informative. It is a little expensive so it is better to become a member, or go on the second Tuesday of every month. This is called "2-Buck Tuesday" and the admission is only 2 dollars per person. It is a great deal and a great way to spend the afternoon.
Posted 07/26/05 | Report Abuse
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This zoo is so cute. Its average size ( I think ) it was everything you can imagine. Kids just love this place getting to see all the animals they have there.
They have concession stands and bathrooms located throughout the zoo.
Posted 07/23/05 | Report Abuse
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I have been to many different zoos across the country and the Oregon Zoo is by-far one of the best. The park is clean and it is well-laid out. My daughter really enjoys the lorikeet exhibit. One of the best Christmas gifts you can give someone with children is a Zoo Pass. There are varying packages, but you get a free admission and things like that.
The one con of the Oregon Zoo is the parking. I have been there once where it took us over an hour to find a spot. I recommend taking the Max.
PROS: Great exhibits, good layout
CONS: Parking
Posted 06/27/05 | Report Abuse
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This is really heaven for kids. I take my children there a few times and they absolutely love it. Not only they have fun, it also open their eyes to more things in the world. Instead of taking them to an arcade where they won't learn anything, i rather take them here to see all theese exotic animals. They get to learn a few things or two. I even learn a few things. we were amaze to see Winged Wonder, a place for butterfly. They're so beautiful and really a wonder. I also decided to have my son's birthday party here this year.
Posted 06/27/05 | Report Abuse
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Gotta love walking through the beautiful zoo we have so close at hand. They do a relatively good job keeping up with the animals needs and the publics desires as well. Totally recomend a day at the zoo if your looking for something to do.
Posted 06/13/05 | Report Abuse
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I love this zoo it's lots of fun....the only thing bad is the hills you have to walk up and down. I have been to zoo lights which is really awesome, check it out.
Posted 06/10/05 | Report Abuse
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I went to the Portland Zoo (also called Oregon Zoo) last summer and was extremely surprised. The animals were well-taken care of, and the grounds were very clean. My favorite exhibit is the bat area where hundreds of bats fly around in a glass arena. I even bought a membership I was so pleased.
Posted 06/08/05 | Report Abuse
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A really great place to spend a day! Seasonally, there are different exhibits - - like "Winged Wonders" which is the butterfly exhibit in the summer or Zoo Lights during the holidays. Food costs at the two major dining establishments are pricey - - pack a lunch instead. Don't miss the Simulation Animated Ride which changes every couple months - - it's a blast!
PROS: The Elephant Exhibit is first class
CONS: Long trek up a big hill to get back to the entrance/exit
Posted 06/07/05 | Report Abuse
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The Oregon Zoo just keeps getting better and better. The new exhibts relating to the coastal NW are just fabulous. And the elephant exhibt is one of the best ,if not the best in the world. The down side is the cost. Very spendy for a family on a budget. And parking is not the best. GO EARLY if you don't want to park acres away.
PROS: Wonderful exhibts
CONS: Long walk back to car retracing steps you have already made.
Posted 06/07/05 | Report Abuse
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I love the Oregon Zoo! The place is well-designed, well-laid out, and seems to offer good environments for the animals. The lay out also provides great views for visitors, and I espcially like the glass walls that let you watch the sea lions swim. The views that you can get of the animals are truly breathtaking.
PROS:
CONS: You have to pay extra for parking, on top the price of admissions
Posted 06/06/05 | Report Abuse
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THIS IS ONE OF THE BEST ZOOS I HAVE VISITED. THE EXHIBITS ARE GREAT AND THERE ARE SO MANY ANIMALS TO LOOK AT. BEING A MAN IM MORE IN SPORTS BUT I EVEN ENJOYED THIS ZOO.
Posted 05/25/05 | Report Abuse
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Not everyone is a fan of zoos but the Oregon zoo might change your mind. Not only are the exhibits tastefully done, giving the animals some semblance of natural surrounding , but there are open air concerts in the evening all summer. Kids can also take summer classes here and teachers can bring students at a reduced group rate.
Posted 05/23/05 | Report Abuse
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Latest reviews from Citysearch.
Did you know that in addition to the fantastic family atmosphere and amazing animals the zoo has great food. No not the hot dogs, pizza and popcorn. I mean the food available at the Cascade restaurant at the top by the entrance.
I LOVE the BLT on wheat with seasoned fries. The bacon is PERFECT, the veggies very fresh and their wheat bread is a step up from the usual wheat. Don't miss the seasoned fries, they are $1 more and worth each and every penny.
Don't leave the zoo without eating there. Better yet, you can go there just to eat. The top part of the zoo where the restaurant and gift shop are located are FREE! SERIOUSLY you can go there just for lunch. The price isn't bad either $8 for the best BLT in town is a bargain to me. They have comfy large booths and they are super family friendly.
My whole family loves the food there, we've had soup, salads, burgers etc.... they are all good but the BLT is the best.
Go to the zoo - eat great food.
Pros: So very family friendly - great layout - the animals are amazing
Cons: There is a bit of construction going on making it difficult to see some of your favorite animals - Parking can be a challenge, take MAX!
Posted 09/19/08
The Oregon Zoo is very family oriented. You can truly watch the kids enjoy the wonderful creatures and still be a kid yourself. My family has a pass that allows all five of us to go anytime of the year for free and a discount on food and gifts. Also if you ever get a chance to enjoy the summer concert series at the Zoo they are amazing as well. Also pack your own lunch the food tends to be a little spendy...but take enough cash for an elephant ear!
Pros: Very Family Oriented
Cons: Spending Food
Posted 02/06/08
This place is great! The particular day that I went was the first hot day in spring and we had to wait in line for about 30-40 minutes, but I've been told that the line is usually a short wait. The exhibits were nice and there is lots to do to get your money's worth. Make sure to see the bird exhibit where you can feed them nectar. Fun for young and old alike!
Pros: Great exhibits, Good parking, Inexpensive
Cons: Crowded at peak times
Posted 07/13/03
For kids this is tops! Our family grew up with the zoo. Now it's time for the grandkids.
Pros: Lots to see
Cons: Parking
Posted 12/18/02
Animal magnetism... it rubs off on you. ZooLights is the best place to spend a romantic evening in December.
Pros: unique, beautiful setting, great value
Posted 12/04/02
They can change the name to whatever they like, the zoo will always be the perfect place to spend the day with the family on a nice day. The kids love the exhibits, and the folks get some good exercise! The parking is fairly harsh, but once they finish the light rail the parking will be as plentyful as rain in April. Oh, wait, it's finished and that didn't happen. Hmmm, I guess the bull isn't confined to the zoo... oh well, the zoo is still great!
Posted 12/03/02
Interesting exhibits. Not many animals to see. Layout of the zoo is a little confusing.
Pros: interesting exhibits, parking, price
Cons: not many animals, layout of park
Posted 11/01/02
The only "bad" smell in this zoo is from visitors who are "sour grapes!" We have been to 20-30 zoos and the Oregon Zoo is one of the best ! It keeps getting better! Every zoo does its best with its resources. If you appreciate a zoo for its own uniqueness you'll enjoy your visit! One of our favorite zoos is the Atascadero Zoo in California: small but well kept up - the visitors love it. We went to the National Zoo years ago; it's terribly run down. The Oregon Zoo may not have every animal but so what! We especially loved the Polar Bears swimming in their viewing pool. We went on a hot and crowded day yet the visitors and staff all were enjoying themselves! The train ride is a must!
Very family friendly. Great gift shops. Food for all tastes
Pros: Family Friendly,, great exhibits
Posted 08/23/02
Getting a membership to the zoo was one of the best things I ever did.
A friend of mine and I got the Zoo4TwoPlus memberships for $64 and after about 4 trips, the membership paid for itself.
Now it's pretty much a free day of entertainment. The zoo guides are very informative and we've been compiling a list of the animals with their names. It makes you feel connected.
It's apparent that the zoo administration puts much thought into its exhibits, the comfort of the animals and the entertainment of the public.
Next year we're planning on being volunteers so that we can be a part of it all.
Pros: MAX station, Family-oriented fun, Educational
Cons: Weekend Parking, Can be spendy
Posted 08/22/02
A great treat for animal lovers of all ages, the Oregon Zoo takes pride and effort in the care for all their critters big and small! Priced well, this is a day outing sure to stay in the minds of the little ones for years to come from the live bird shows to the peacock who roams freely over the lush landscape. From the monkeys to the fish, the bats and beloved elephants,Oregon Zoo tops the cake for best attraction in our family. We usually pack our lunches yet end up in the neato restaurant for their animal shaped fries and keepsake animal cups. The walk is a great workout and the information we learn about these animals priceless!
Pros: easy transit, inexpensive, friendly staff
Posted 08/11/02
The animals are given more space and more natural environments at the Oregon Zoo than those at many other large zoos. The zoo has almost all animals that you'd expect at a big zoo, with the exception of camels, lions, and other big cats.
Posted 07/24/02
relaxed, casual friendly atmosphere, not a bad seat on the lawn, good sound system- there's no nicer place to enjoy music on a summer afternoon.
Pros: easy to get to, friendly staff, lovely setting
Cons: crowded, noisy kids
Posted 07/24/02
From Butterflies (in season) to musical performances and endangered animal programs- a visit to the zoo is GREAT. My niece and I especially enjoyed the bird house and yes, the elephants. We wanted to ride the train but it wasnt running that day. The food there is great "fair" food, and they also have a great restraunt. The cost for this is LOW given the value, and we rode the MAX to get there!
Pros: Low Cost, VMAX accessible, Fun and entertaining
Cons: check for Train avail
Posted 07/22/02
Summer concerts at Oregon Zoo are my favorite way to enjoy a summer evening with friends. Good music, pleasant atmosphere, great ticket prices. People complain about the parking, but just take MAX and don't worry about it. There's SmartPark parking downtown, or a park-and-ride at Sunset Transit Center.
Posted 07/18/02
I have been to zoo's all over the west coast and feel the Oregon Zoo is a nice, smaller zoo that is enjoyable. I do find the lay out to be confusing and guests & myself have more than once been turned about in the wrong direction. The concerts are fun, although the sound system is just fair. Nothing too outlandish about the animals on display, has everything you'd like to see. My favorite part is the amount of zookeepers with animals walking around. Seems often and with cool animals. For the size (which I feel is mid to small) it is a great deal financially and hardly too crowded.
Posted 07/11/02
There was more to see and do than we had expected. The Zoo visit was to be a side stop on the way to the coast, but we ended up spending most of the day there. Take the time to ride the train and visit the Rose Garden. The exhibits were many, but the funnest was the bird show at the outside stage. A tip for the show, sit up front and center, you may have an eagle, hawk, or owl brush your head with its wing as it flys by.
Pros: exhibits, parking, close to other sights
Cons: price
Posted 06/21/02