Los Angeles Zoo Reopens to the Public on August 26

After closing its gates on March 13, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Los Angeles Zoo is ready to safely reopen to the general public and its members on Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2020.

During the closure, the Zoo worked on creating a safe, modified reopening experience for its guests that conforms with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health's safety protocols for Zoos that includes limited capacity, timed-ticketed entry, closure of indoor and high-touch spaces,

requirement of face coverings, and supplemental signage throughout the Zoo.

General admission and member reservations will be available today starting at noon at http://www.lazoo.org/reopening.

"By the time we reopen our gates on Aug. 26, the L.A. Zoo will have been closed to our community for an unprecedented 166 days," said Denise M. Verret, CEO & zoo director of the Los Angeles Zoo. "The world has changed over the last several months, and so has your Los Angeles Zoo. You

will notice enhanced protocols and procedures onsite to ensure the health and safety of all guests, staff and animals. We are thrilled to be able to yet again provide our community with an outdoor, enriching experience that connects people with nature and the animals in our care. Welcome back

to the L.A. Zoo!"

What Guests Can Expect:

 Online reservation-based ticketing system for all visitors (including members)

 Limited capacity

 Required face coverings for all Zoo staff and guests (over the age of two years old)

 Enhanced cleaning procedures for high-contact surfaces and restrooms

 Additional Hand sanitizer stations available at various locations throughout the Zoo

 New traffic flows and pathways throughout the Zoo to allow for physical distancing

 Physical distancing reminders, markers, and physical barriers placed throughout the Zoo

(ex: Remember to keep a komodo dragon's length apart!)

 The closure of high touch areas such as Papiano Playpark, the contact yard at the Winnick

Family Children's Zoo, and the Tom Mankiewicz Conservation Carousel

 The closure of indoor and enclosed exhibits

 Temporary suspension of in-person talks, presentations, and events

About the Los Angeles Zoo

Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the landmark Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens, drawing more than 1.8 million visitors each year, is home to a diverse collection of 1,400 animals representing 270 different species, 58 of which are endangered. Its lush grounds on 133 acres feature various plant species from around the world and California including many rare and endangered species. The Zoo is located in Griffith Park at the junction of the Ventura (134) and Golden State (5) freeways. Admission is $22 for adults and $17 for children ages 2 to 12. Starting Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2020, the Zoo will open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. For information, call (323) 644-4200 or visit the L.A. Zoo website at http://www.lazoo.org.