The Kansas City Zoo is open year-round, but because of COVID-19, the zoo has taken several safety precautions. In order to ensure your next visit goes smoothly, please note the following information:
Every person ages 3 and older needs to make a reservation to enter the zoo. To make a reservation, visit theKansas City Zoo. There are a limited number of tickets available each day to comply with the city’s capacity rules. Please wait in your vehicle until your scheduled visit time to prevent congestion at the front gates.
The hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
As of June 29, the city of Kansas City requires masks to be worn in public places where social distancing may not be feasible. At the zoo, this includes all indoor areas, rides and the walking path to the Africa portion of the zoo.
Masks are required for guests ages 5 and up and are strongly encouraged for guests ages 2-4 with close adult supervision. Guests with disabilities or medical conditions that do not allow for face masks to be worn are exempt from this requirement.
To assist with social distancing practices, several attractions at the zoo are currently closed. Helzberg Penguin Plaza, Discovery Barn, Chimpanzee Viewing and Polar Bear Passage are all open to the public. Masks are required in these areas. Pathways around the Africa section of the zoo and Australia and Tiger Trail are one-way traffic. West Africa (across the swinging bridge) is temporarily closed.
Daily activities like animal shows and Zookeeper Chats are temporarily suspended but are available virtually at KansasCityZoo.org.
Africa Tram and the KCZoo Railroad are operating daily at limited capacity. Masks are required on the rides, and the seats are disinfected between rides. All other rides are closed.
While cash is still being accepted, touchless credit card use is strongly encouraged. There will be additional hand sanitizing stations throughout the zoo for your use.
Food and drink stands are open with extra precautions in place. Multiple stations are offering a limited menu. Zoo guests are allowed to bring their own food and drinks into the zoo to enjoy at appropriately spaced picnic tables.
Please practice social distancing by keeping at least 6 feet between you and other guests visiting the zoo.