Woodland Park Zoo
4.6(23K)google
4.1(1.1K)yelp
OutdoorWildlife Watching
Overview
Universal recognized as a pioneer in developing bioclimatically zoned natural habitats, the historic Woodland Park Zoo covers ninety-two spectacular acres of lush green conservation space in Seattle. The award-winning zoo proudly houses more than one thousand animals spanning three hundred diverse species, beautifully displayed in authentic exhibits like the lush African Savanna and the misty Tropical Rain Forest. Visitors can watch majestic grizzly bears splash in rivers, feed colorful exotic birds, and participate in vital wildlife conservation programs, making it a fantastic destination for educational family fun.
Practical Info
Mon9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Tue9:30 AM– 6:00 PM
Wed9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Thu9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Fri9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Sat9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Sun9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Best TimeApril through October is the premier window for viewing outdoor bioclimatic exhibits. Aim to pass the gates precisely at the 9:30 AM opening; the crisp morning air drives apex mammals like the coastal grizzly bears, jaguar herds, and playful river otters to be highly active across their award-winning naturalistic habitats before afternoon naps set in.
Getting ThereSituated dynamically within the Phinney Ridge neighborhood at 5500 Phinney Ave N. Drive north from downtown Seattle on the WA-99 N express corridor (Aurora Ave) for 10 minutes, take the N 46th St exit, and head north on Phinney Ave N. The zoo provides expansive, structured paid surface parking lots at the West, South, and North portals. King County Metro Bus Route 5 also offers a direct route.
Travel Tips
- The zoo has two non-connected vehicle entrances: use the West Entrance for penguins and rainforest exhibits, or use the South Entrance for immediate access to the African Savanna biome.
- Parking lots are completely cashless; you must execute payment via credit card at the digital pay kiosks or scan the parking signs via smartphone App to avoid immediate city parking citations.
- Most heavy mammals retreat to their private indoor night enclosures for feeding after 3:30 PM, leaving empty outdoor displays; schedule your animal viewing itineraries for early morning or midday.
Reviews
Positive
- Using advanced eco-restoration concepts, the rainforest and savanna exhibits are highly realistic, delivering stunning and authentic visual landscapes.
- The support infrastructure maintenance is flawless; restrooms, trash cans, and water fountains are densely placed with flat accessible ramps ideal for strollers.
- It boasts a fun historic wooden carousel and dedicated indoor children's adventure hubs; live keeper feeding shows are lively and perfect for families.
- The prime location features smooth driving routes, and the zoo provides massive ground parking lots on both its north and south sides with ample hours.
Heads up
- Tickets are pricey, with adult passes near $30 in peak season; riding the carousel or entering specific aviaries costs extra, giving a heavy commercial feel.
- Due to heavy reliance on natural foliage and privacy hiding, animals have immense shielding spaces; you often see only leaves, making it feel overhyped.
- Spanning 92 acres with rolling terrain, the lack of internal electric shuttle carts makes walking the entire layout a brutal punishment for toddlers and seniors.
- Midsummer weekend visitor density explodes; gate check-ins get chaotic, and internal fast food kiosks are overpriced with long lines, lacking peace.