Zoo Boise Reopens Monday, June 22 with New Health and Safety Protocols in Place

June 19, 2020

Zoo Boise is excited to reopen to the public and Friends of Zoo Boise members on Monday, June 22. We appreciate your patience as our team has worked hard behind the scenes to create a safe experience for all our valued visitors, staff and animals.

“We are grateful for the community’s support over the last three months as we worked to keep our employees and animals safe,” said Doug Holloway, Boise Parks and Recreation director. “Our team looks forward to welcoming guests back to the zoo, and although you will notice some changes, please know your health and safety are always our top priority.”

Some new protocols to note when visiting the zoo: 

  • Advance tickets will be required for all visitors, including members. The zoo will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. To reduce lines and allow for physical distancing, we have implemented a timed entry process. All visitors, including members, are required toreserve aticket for a specific time slot to enter the zoo before arrival.  Guests will have to enter in the 30-minute block for which their tickets were purchased on the specific date listed. Refunds will not be available, and all tickets must be purchased online in advance. For tickets please visit: https://zooboise.org/online-ticketing/
  • Prior to entering the zoo, there will be clearly marked waiting lines with markers to promote physical distancing of at least six feet between ticket holders. Please have your pre-purchased tickets either printed off or downloaded to your phone so they may be scanned prior to entering the zoo. Friends of Zoo Boise members, please have your tickets and zoo membership card available. 
  • Once guests enter the zoo, there will be a set, one-way path to walk around the zoo allowing six feet of physical distancing between groups. The one-way path takes approximately two hours to complete. Zoo ambassadors will be stationed along the route to assist and answer any questions you may have. 
  • Please note, there will not be any re-entries into the zoo at this time due to the new guidelines in place.

Some exhibits and activities will not be available when the zoo reopens on Monday, June 22. Notable closures include the Small Animal Kingdom, Penguin Pavilion, Schoolhouse, Bat-House, the zoo carousel and all playground areas. As zoo staff members assess how the new system is working, we will be opening some of these exhibits and activities as we progress, and as health and safety allows.  In addition, there will be no animal encounters at this time due to recommendations in regard to animal safety. This includes the Sloth Bear Encounter, the Giraffe Encounter and the Zoo Farm. 

Unfortunately, due to timing and the nature of the exhibit, the Butterfly in Bloom exhibit will not be open this season. 

Zoo concessions, stroller rentals and an outdoor giftshop will be open with limited operations.  

All zoo restrooms will be open, but please note they are spaced out along the one-way walking route. Water fountains will be turned off, so please plan accordingly. There will be hand sanitizing stations available throughout the zoo. 

Zoo Boise is asking guests to wear masks when they visit but is not requiring them. This recommendation is being made for the health and safety of zoo guests and staff, and all our animals. 

Again, Zoo Boise is excited to welcome visitors back to the zoo and we hope you understand these new measures will continue to be evaluated upon reopening. Thank you for your patience and support. For more information, please call Zoo Boise at (208) 608-7760 or visit the Zoo Boise website. 

Contact: Parks and Recreation Media Relations

(208) 608-7600 | bpr@cityofboise.org

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